Patrick Cottrell’s ‘Afternoon Hours of a Hermit’: A Hilarious and Heart-Wrenching Whodunnit Unveiled
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Renowned author Patrick Cottrell is set to release his latest masterpiece, ‘Afternoon Hours of a Hermit’, in April 2026. The novel promises to captivate readers with a unique blend of mystery, absurdity, and humour. Following the success of his 2017 book ‘Sorry to Disturb the Peace’, Cottrell once again delves deep into themes of grief, loss, and identity, while adding a twisty mystery to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The storyline revolves around Dan Moran, a trans writer and educator based in Brooklyn, who finds himself unexpectedly drawn into the unresolved questions surrounding his late brother’s death. When Dan receives an envelope addressed to the wrong name containing a childhood photo of his deceased brother, he embarks on a journey back to his childhood home. However, his return is not driven by a desire for a family reunion but by a burning need to unravel the mysteries of his past.
Driving around in his brother’s Honda Accord, Dan assumes the role of a detective, searching for clues about his brother’s life and the unidentified women who may have been connected to him. As he navigates through a series of unsettling encounters, Dan grapples with the stark disparity between one’s true self and how they are perceived by others. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of internal turmoil and external confusion, particularly for the trans protagonist navigating the complexities of returning home.
Pulitzer Prize finalist Rita Bullwinkel praises Cottrell’s novel as a “hilarious and heart-wrenching” whodunnit, highlighting the author’s ability to weave together suspense, mystery, and dark humour. Cottrell himself sheds light on the underlying themes of the book, emphasising the exploration of mistaken identities, performances, and the quest for answers in unexpected places. He describes ‘Afternoon Hours of a Hermit’ as a gripping blend of mystery and psychological thriller, infused with elements of absurdity and wit.
Cottrell’s previous novel, ‘Sorry to Disrupt the Peace’, delves into similar themes of loss and self-discovery through the eyes of protagonist Helen Moran. The new book promises to offer readers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative that challenges perceptions and delves into the complexities of human relationships. Scheduled for release on April 21, 2026, ‘Afternoon Hours of a Hermit’ is now available for pre-order, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection and revelation.
As Cottrell ventures into new literary territory with his upcoming release, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate the emotional depth and narrative richness that have become synonymous with his work. With ‘Afternoon Hours of a Hermit’, Cottrell invites readers to explore the intricacies of identity, loss, and the enigmatic nature of human connections, promising an unforgettable reading experience that blends darkness with humour and heartache.