Cold Open (Caught Dead in Wyoming mystery series, Book 7‪)‬

Open house to murder

Elizabeth Danniher finds house hunting in Cottonwood County, Wyoming difficult, but deadly? That she never expected. In television, a cold open rolls before the credits, pitching the viewer into the news story. That’s how Elizabeth and her cohorts feel after she finds a body in a house for sale.


A victim with a hidden history, few suspects, and the sheriff’s department not happy having Elizabeth as the closest thing they have to a witness. Mike, Diana, Tom, and the rest jump in to dig in.


Elizabeth has her own problems, including a trip back east to wrest her belongings from storage and the clutches of her ex. And the question of whether the cold will ever end…


Cold Open, Book 7 of USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn's Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery with humor and a touch of romance.


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


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

Reaction Shot

Body Brace

Cross Talk

Air Ready

Holiday Bullets

Cue Up


"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 readers 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.”


"I love the whole series Caught Dead in Wyoming. The writing is witty and sharp; the story is gripping; and the characters are so realistic. Even the supporting characters are fully defined and interesting. What I didn’t expect was a renewed appreciation given by this “inside” view of the world of journalism. With all the current focus on Fake News, I loved being reminded of how vital news people are to our society. E.M. Danniher changes her community and certain individuals –  for the better – due to her dogged pursuit of truth and justice."


"I confess to being addicted to this series and characters. I LIKE them . I wish they were real."


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


"A terrific series with a western flair.  . . . Great characters that you would want as your friends. Smart, funny, but not perfect." 


“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 mystery from Patricia McLinn

Secret Sleuth series

Death on the Diversion

Death on Torrid Avenue

Death on Beguiling Way

Death on Covert Circle

Death on Shady Bridge

Death on Carrion Lane

Death on ZigZag Trail

Death on Puzzle Place


The Innocence Trilogy

Proof of Innocence

Price of Innocence

Premise of Innocence


About the Author

Patricia McLinn is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 60 published novels 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 awards.

She has spoken about writing from London to Melbourne, Australia, to Washington, D.C., including being a guest speaker at the Smithsonian.

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 loves to hear from readers through her website and social media.