Where can I find info about book content?

There are two pages on this website with information related to content and ratings of the books: MK Content Page. 

How long does it take you to write a book?

Every book is different, so it takes as long as it takes. Generally, it's anywhere from three to six months to write a book, and then it goes through the revision and editing process which can take anywhere from three weeks to six months. I do not believe in the "myth" that a book (short stories excluded) can be written, properly edited, and published within the space of a few weeks. Even if a writer can complete a manuscript in two weeks, proper and detailed editing takes time.

Do you have social media accounts? 

I don't have personal social media accounts, but I do have a few official pages that you can find on the About page. Social media has always been a bit of a struggle for me, but I do my best because I do so enjoy interacting with readers. 

Do you participate in book club discussions or offer free promotional items to book clubs? 

Scheduling can be a bit tricky, but I will do my best to visit with your book club via Skype. At this time, I do not send out free promotional items. Find more information on the Reading Groups page.

Do I have to read series books in order?

While all of the books can be read as stand-alone, the series titles are best read in order. The first three books of the Gallagher series act as more of a trilogy with a secondary story line continuing from book one through book three. The British Agent novels are completely stand-alone, though some readers feel that it's best to read those in order since the characters from book one are also in books two and three. On the McKenna side, the Kyndall Thrillers are completely stand-alone, but again, characters in book one are also in the rest of the series. 

Will there be more Crooked Creek stories?

Yes! There are currently four short stories in the series and there are three additional works planned. This was another series that was not going to be a series, but I had so much fun with the characters that I decided to continue. The next installment will be the continuation of Clara's story, though it was originally going to be an entirely different book, so I have a bit of switching around to do. 

Do you critique books for other authors?

While I have reviewed books in the past, I no longer accept review requests and I'm unable to accept review exchanges. However, I do share recommendations for books I've enjoyed reading. You'll find those in the Reading Room. For a variety of legal reasons, I am unable to accept critique requests. For those interested, I will gladly provide you with the name of a wonderful editor who would be willing to give your manuscript a two-page edit/critique sample. 

Why did you decide to write under two names? 

It's one of those decisions that I'm glad I made, but wouldn't necessarily recommend it. I enjoy writing both historical and contemporary genres, yet I knew the audiences could be quite different. It really is as simple as expectations. I wanted to be sure that readers knew what to expect when picking up one of my books, and the stories under each name are quite different.

Do you always like being a writer?

Oh, yes! Although, there are days when I wish I was not a writer, while at the same time I can't imagine a life now without it. It's not easy work, and takes a tremendous amount of time and emotional resources, but it's also incredibly rewarding. And I daresay, it's quite addicting. 

Have you ever not finished a book?

I have a few half-finished manuscripts that I fully intend to complete when the time is right.

What are you working on now? 

You can always find out about my current works-in-progress on the Coming Next page. It's updated whenever a new book is released or a new project is started.

Will there be more Gallagher books?

Due to reader interest, and my own desire to continue the stories, there are additional books planned for this series, but how many and when is not yet known. Updates will be provided on the blog and this website when those will be available. 

Will there be more British Agent books?

There were originally only three books planned for this series. The first (Alaina Claiborne) was released in 2013, the second (Blackwood Crossing) was released June 2014, and the third book (Clayton's Honor) was released in 2015. Like the Gallagher series, I'm not ready to let go of the characters. Therefore, I have planned for additional installments. Updates will be provided on the blog and this website when those are set for release.

Do you go on book tours or make public appearances? 

Rarely. In full disclosure, large crowds make me very uncomfortable. I handle it fine in the moment, but it's a challenge for me and takes me a few days of serious downtime to recover from the mental exertion. I'm working my way up to participate in one or two events in the future, and will post that news if and when I give it a go. When I tour books, it's online.

What advice would you give to new or struggling authors? 

There are many things I wished I knew before beginning my writing career, and I've shared those thoughts here: Advice to New Writers. The best advice I've ever received can be summed up into three things: Read a lot, write a lot, and don't worry about what any other writer is doing. I'll add my fourth favorite, and that is, you have to put in the work, and a lot of it. If you're not willing to put in the years of hard work, then it's not the profession for you.

What is the order of the Gallagher books?

Book One: Gallagher's Pride

Book Two: Gallagher's Hope

Book Three: Gallagher's Choice

Book Four: An Angel Called Gallagher

Book Five: Journey to Hawk's Peak

Book Six: Wild Montana Winds

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There is also a handy Character Guide for the series.