Death by Dissertation (Cassandra Sato Mystery #1)

Description

From the sunny shores of Hawaii to the heart of Nebraska, a mystery awaits.

Cassandra Sato’s leap from the tropical paradise of Hawaii to the rustic charm of Nebraska was supposed to be her big career move, not a detour into danger. But at Morton College, where the leaves are barely falling before secrets start piling up, Cassandra’s fresh start is anything but serene.

The sudden death of a deaf student thrusts her into an investigation denser than the Nebraska cornfields. Amidst the swirling autumn leaves, Cassandra finds herself untangling a web of campus intrigue that threatens to derail her career and possibly her life.

Morton College promised a new chapter, but academic chaos reigns. Lance Erickson, a deaf work-study student with secrets of his own, becomes an unlikely ally. Add to the puzzle a sheriff with too many questions, a relentless reporter, a boss who prefers problems to stay buried, and a stalker who thinks he’s Zorro.

Each clue pulls Cassandra deeper into danger and seems to grease the rungs of the academic ladder she’s precariously climbing. Can Cassandra uncover the truth before she slips off the ladder and becomes the next unfortunate headline?

Grab your front-row seat to this masterclass in resilience, academic survival, and sleuthing.

***All paperbacks come signed by Kelly. Include a note in the comments if you want your book inscribed with the recipient’s name.

Listen to the audiobook sample:

 

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Reviews:

“This book would make a great Lifetime movie.” – Di Ta S on Chirp

“Not only does author Kelly Brakenhoff spin a good tale she seems to write from the heart.  This story is engaging and keeps you a bit on the edge of your seat as you watch for clues and try to figure out just what was up.” – Sherry Lynn

“Death by Dissertation is an outstanding foray into university campus politics!” –  Goodreads review

“A fun and interesting read. Even though I’ve worked with deaf interpreters before, I learned a lot while thoroughly enjoying the book. Strongly recommend it, with interesting characters, good plot development, and an enjoyable and accurate portrayal of Nebraska!” –  Victoria on Goodreads

Why Readers Love the Cassandra Sato Mystery Series

These mysteries deliver page-turning suspense, relatable campus drama, and smart, witty storytelling—perfect for fans of academic settings and amateur sleuths. It’s no wonder Publisher’s Weekly called Dead Week ‘a diverting whodunit.’ The Cassandra Sato bundle is a must-read!

Academic Setting with Heart: “There’s been another murder at Morton College, and Vice President of Student Affairs Cassandra Sato is determined to solve the case. Fans of academic mysteries will be drawn in by the energetic campus community at the heart of Dead of Winter Break. A lively cozy read with surprising turns!” – Cynthia Kuhn, Agatha-award-winning author of the Lila Maclean Academic Mysteries

Relatable, Flawed Heroine: “The main character, as an academic and a caring individual, is committed to full inclusion for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing students… An unusually young, very accomplished Asian-American woman starting in a high academic position on a very white Midwestern college campus is definitely going to be an outsider, and the author conveyed that really well.” ~@zonuts on BookBub

Page-Turning Mysteries with Nebraska Charm: “Wow! What a brilliant start to what I hope will be a long series! Kelly Brakenhoff pulled out the cozy stops and wrote a page turner and a half.” – Hilary on Goodreads

Educational Yet Entertaining: “A fun and interesting read… I learned a lot while thoroughly enjoying the book. Strongly recommend it, with interesting characters, good plot development, and an enjoyable and accurate portrayal of Nebraska!” – Victoria on Goodreads

Unique Inclusion of Deaf Culture: “The latest mystery takes a closer look at the deaf community which Brakenhoff highlights through the various ways they’re trying to make life easier on campus. …Humor is woven throughout that gives a lightness to the story and balances out the tension of the mystery. Dead Week is an exciting read that has humor and heart…and an honest inside look at the deaf community.” – Readers’ Favorite, 5-star review