Left Hanging (Caught Dead in Wyoming)

A rodeo producer, dead in the bull pen. Accident or murder?

Elizabeth "E.M." Danniher, until recently a top-flight national TV journalist, is regaining her footing after a dizzying demotion to tiny—and entirely foreign to her—Sherman, Wyoming. But her equilibrium faces a major challenge.

The apparently accidental death — under the hooves of rodeo bulls — of a rodeo producer preparing for Sherman’s annual Fourth of July Rodeo catches the attention of Elizabeth and her KWMT-TV colleague Mike Paycik. Not only is it a major story about the region’s biggest event, but it’s being outrageously mishandled by the station’s egocentric anchor.

As Elizabeth and Mike dig, area rancher Thomas Burrell joins the investigation, providing background on suspects — and there are plenty because the victim had many enemies. But Tom has divided loyalties, so Elizabeth doubts his commitment to finding the truth no matter what. Not to mention that both Mike and Tom show an interest in her ... they might be okay with working together in a peculiar triangle, but the points of this geometry is starting to get under her skin.

… From the tip of the rodeo queen’s tiara, to “agricultural byproducts” ground into the arena dust, TV reporter Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher receives a murderous introduction to the world of rodeo.

Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures:

Sign Off

Left Hanging

Shoot First

Last Ditch

Look Live

Back Story

Cold Open

Hot Roll

"While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it's the smart and witty writing that I loved the best." – Diane Chamberlain, bestselling author

"Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page." -- Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author

What people are saying about LEFT HANGING

“This plot drew me right in and never stopped. I kept trying to solve the murder and I still couldn't guess the end. What a great ride.”

“I started laughing on the first page and continued laughing until the end.”

“Loving the world of Cottonwood County, Wyoming!”

“The dialogue was so well written that I could easily imagine the innuendo, tone of voice and facial expression of each character.”

What people are saying about the CAUGHT DEAD IN WYOMING series

“McLinn's mysteries set in Wyoming are addictive. The writing is excellent, the twists and turns keep the brain engaged, and Elizabeth's wry commentary keeps a smile on my face.”

“While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it's the smart and witty writing that I loved the best.” – Diane Chamberlain, bestselling author

“E.M.’s internal monologues are sharp, snappy and often hilarious.”

“Hoping this series lasts forever!”

“McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.”

More cozy mystery from Patricia McLinn:

Secret Sleuth series

Death on the Diversion

Death on Torrid Ave.

Death on Beguiling Way (2019)

Death on Covert Circle (2020)

If you like Patricia’s mysteries, try her romantic suspense:

Proof of Innocence

Price of Innocence (2019)

Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (which includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn spent more than 20 years as an editor at the Washington Post after stints as a sports writer (Rockford, Ill.) and assistant sports editor (Charlotte, N.C.). She received BA and MSJ degrees from Northwestern University.

Now living in Kentucky, McLinn is the author of more than 45 published novels, which are cited by readers and reviewers for wit and vivid characterization. Her books include mysteries, romantic suspense, contemporary romance, historical romance and women’s fiction. They have topped bestseller lists and won numerous regional and national awards.