Step into the suspenseful world of Winnebago County, where small-town secrets unravel in thrilling mysteries! Christine Husom’s Winnebago County series, set in a fictionalized slice of Minnesota’s Wright County, follows Sergeant Corinne 'Corky' Aleckson as she tackles chilling crimes with heart and grit. Blending authentic police procedurals with rich character drama, this series is a hidden gem for mystery lovers craving suspense with a local twist.
From its gripping debut to its layered storytelling, the series hooks readers with its blend of crime-solving, personal relationships, and Minnesota charm. Whether you’re a fan of intricate whodunits or character-driven tales, Winnebago County delivers a cozy yet intense ride through a rural world where danger lurks.
How Winnebago County Began
Christine Husom, a Minnesota native and former Wright County Sheriff’s Department officer, crafted the Winnebago County series from a deeply personal spark. Inspired by the mysterious death of her father, which she reimagined as a potential crime, Husom began writing Murder in Winnebago County in 2008. Her law enforcement background lent authenticity to the series, while her storytelling flair brought the fictional county to life. Halfway through the first book, Husom fell in love with her characters, envisioning a series that would follow Corky and her mentor, Detective Elton 'Smoke' Dawes, through a string of captivating cases.
The Heart of Winnebago County
The series kicks off with Murder in Winnebago County (2008), where Corky investigates a string of apparent suicides that hint at a serial killer targeting criminal justice professionals. In Buried in Wolf Lake (2009), a gruesome discovery—a woman’s dismembered leg—leads Corky and Smoke to hunt a psychopath preying on women with specific traits. An Altar by the River (2010) dives into a chilling cult mystery, while A Death in Lionel’s Woods (2013) explores human trafficking with a shocking twist. With nine books total, the series keeps readers guessing through intricate plots and vivid settings.
Husom’s mysteries blend suspense, romance, and humor, set against the backdrop of rural Minnesota’s lakes and small towns. Themes of justice, loyalty, and personal growth shine through Corky’s journey as a young sergeant balancing her career and relationships. The series’ 'medium-boiled' style—grittier than cozy mysteries but not as hard-edged as noir—offers a perfect balance, with Husom’s insider knowledge ensuring realistic police work. Fans praise the vivid local flavor, from renamed landmarks to the crisp Minnesota winters that set the mood.
Why Winnebago County Resonates
The Winnebago County series stands out for its authentic voice and relatable characters. Husom’s knack for weaving real-life inspirations—like news stories or her sheriff’s department experience—grounds the series in credibility, making each case feel plausible. Readers connect with Corky’s determination and Smoke’s rugged charm, while the evolving dynamics between them add emotional depth. Nominated for Minnesota Book Awards in 2010 and 2012, the series has earned a loyal following among mystery fans, especially in the Midwest, where its local roots resonate deeply.
Its niche appeal as a regional mystery series gives it a unique edge, offering a refreshing alternative to urban thrillers. By focusing on ordinary people caught in extraordinary crimes, Winnebago County captures the heart of small-town life while delivering pulse-pounding suspense. It’s a testament to Husom’s storytelling that fans eagerly await each new installment.
- First Book Published: 2008
- Total Books: 9
- Setting: Fictional Winnebago County, Minnesota
- Awards: Nominated for Minnesota Book Awards (2010, 2012)
Grab Murder in Winnebago County and dive into a world of mystery, heart, and Minnesota magic! Whether you’re solving crimes with Corky or savoring the small-town vibes, this series is your next must-read adventure.