Bernadine Cottrell brings warmth, wit, and suspense together in In The Backyard, a mystery novel centred on an 83 year old grandmother whose family visit turns into a search for justice.

The story follows Lillian Wood, a widow, mother, grandmother, and lifelong mystery reader. While visiting her daughter in upstate New York, Lillian steps outside during a storm and notices what she believes is a Halloween decoration near a tree in the backyard. When she tries to move it, she makes a horrifying discovery. It is not a decoration. It is a body.

What begins as a shocking moment quickly develops into a layered investigation involving family secrets, grief, greed, and betrayal. Lillian soon finds herself drawn into the case, using her sharp instincts, years of life experience, and love of mystery stories to help uncover the truth.

Alongside her daughter Elizabeth, Lillian brings humour, compassion, and determination to the investigation. Their bond gives the book its emotional centre, while the small town setting creates a strong sense of intimacy and suspense. Readers are taken through quiet neighbourhoods, local conversations, family kitchens, and hidden places where long buried secrets begin to surface.

One of the most memorable figures in the novel is Rupert, a loyal Pit Bull whose connection to the victim adds tenderness and urgency to the story. Rupert is more than an animal companion. His loyalty helps deepen the mystery and reminds readers of the emotional cost behind the crime.

In The Backyard is ideal for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, senior sleuth fiction, family centred storytelling, small town secrets, and character driven suspense. Cottrell delivers a mystery that is engaging without losing warmth, heartfelt without losing tension, and clever without sacrificing emotional depth.

Through Lillian Wood, Bernadine Cottrell offers readers a heroine who proves courage has no age limit. She is observant, protective, funny, and determined to see justice done. Her story will appeal to mystery fans looking for a fresh heroine, a meaningful case, and a book filled with heart.

About the Author

Bernadine is originally from a large family in Upstate New York. Her mother, an avid reader, found ways for all six of her children to enjoy reading. In Bernadine’s case, books were boring so her mother suggested reading the family’s Collier’s Encyclopedia collection. From A to Z and many yearly updates later, Bernadine found her love for reading and became a great trivia partner. She and her husband now spend their time traveling when they’re not at home with their spoiled Boxer-Staffie mix, Bridget.

Read this book now, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/197195067X

Book Name: In The Backyard

Author Name: Bernadine Cottrell

ISBN Number: 978-1971950679

Kindle Version: Click Here

Paperback Version: Click Here

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