Picture a Milwaukee-born storyteller who turned self-publishing into a global sensation—meet Karen McQuestion! With over three million books sold, this Amazon Charts bestselling author weaves tales of mystery, fantasy, and heartwarming drama that captivate readers of all ages. From her groundbreaking success as one of the first self-published authors to have a novel optioned for film to her knack for crafting unforgettable characters, McQuestion’s journey is as inspiring as her stories.
Born into a world of books and imagination, Karen McQuestion’s rise from a Wisconsin dreamer to a literary pioneer is a tale of grit, talent, and a touch of magic. Let’s dive into her life, her unforgettable stories, and why she’s a name every book lover should know.
The Making of Karen McQuestion
Born on January 16, 1961, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Karen McQuestion grew up as the second of four daughters in the Erickson family. Her childhood wasn’t always rosy, but her love for reading and storytelling bloomed early, shaping her future. After high school, she attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee but left in her third year—parking woes, of all things, derailed her studies. Life threw her into various jobs, marriage to her husband Greg, and raising three children, all while nurturing a dream to write. In 2009, inspired by self-publishing success stories, she took a leap, uploading her novels to Amazon’s Kindle platform, a move that would change her life.
Karen McQuestion’s Unforgettable Stories
Karen McQuestion’s bibliography spans over twenty novels, from adult mysteries to young adult fantasies and children’s adventures, each infused with humor, heart, or a sprinkle of the fantastical. Her breakout novel, A Scattered Life (2010), a poignant tale of friendship and family, caught Hollywood’s eye, becoming one of the first self-published Kindle books optioned for film. The Moonlight Child (2020), a gripping thriller about a mysterious girl spotted in a neighbor’s house, showcases her knack for suspense and emotional depth, earning rave reviews.
Dovetail (2020) blends historical and contemporary narratives, exploring love and loss with her signature character-driven style. For younger readers, the Edgewood series, starting with Edgewood (2012), follows a teen’s fantastical journey, blending sci-fi and adventure. McQuestion’s writing is accessible yet profound, with tightly plotted mysteries and relatable characters that linger long after the final page. Her ability to cross genres while keeping readers hooked has made her a versatile and beloved storyteller.
Why Karen McQuestion Matters
Karen McQuestion’s impact goes beyond her impressive sales. As a self-publishing trailblazer, she proved that independent authors could rival traditional publishing giants. Her success with Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing and AmazonEncore paved the way for countless others, earning her features in the Wall Street Journal, Entertainment Weekly, and NPR. Her stories, rich with emotional resonance and universal themes, connect with readers worldwide, with translations in Germany, Turkey, South Korea, and Poland. Co-hosting the Behind the Book podcast with Tess Thompson, she continues to inspire aspiring writers, sharing insights into the craft and industry.
- Born: January 16, 1961, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Key Works: A Scattered Life, The Moonlight Child, Dovetail, Edgewood series
- Notable: First self-published Kindle author to secure a movie deal
- Fun Fact: Lives in Hartland, Wisconsin, with her family
Ready to get lost in a story that’s equal parts heart and suspense? Snag The Moonlight Child and dive into Karen McQuestion’s captivating world!