Picture a Vermont storyteller who swapped White House briefings for novels that weave human drama with nature’s raw power—meet Meg Little Reilly! A former Obama administration official turned novelist, Reilly crafts suspenseful tales set in New England, blending personal relationships with societal challenges. Her stories, like We Are Unprepared, captivate readers with their emotional depth and environmental insight, proving fiction can spark empathy and reflection.
The Making of Meg Little Reilly
Born in Brattleboro, Vermont, Meg Little Reilly’s roots run deep in the Green Mountain State. With a B.A. from the University of Vermont and an M.A. from George Washington University, she kicked off her career in public radio before diving into the high-stakes world of national politics. As a spokesperson for the U.S. Treasury and deputy associate director at the White House Office of Management and Budget under President Obama, she tackled Wall Street reforms and fiscal policy. Yet, her passion for storytelling never faded, and she began writing novels in the early morning hours, fueled by discipline and a touch of insanity.
Meg Little Reilly’s Unforgettable Stories
Reilly’s novels are gripping, emotionally charged, and steeped in the natural world. Her debut, We Are Unprepared (2016), follows a couple fleeing Brooklyn for rural Vermont, only to face a cataclysmic superstorm that fractures their marriage and community. It’s a haunting eco-thriller that explores climate change’s human toll. Everything That Follows (2018), set on Martha’s Vineyard, is a psychological suspense tale about friends grappling with a mysterious death after a boating mishap. The Misfortunes of Family (2020) dives into family dysfunction as a senator’s sons unravel secrets during a filmed reunion. Reilly’s style—rich with vivid settings and moral complexity—reflects her belief that fiction fosters empathy without preaching solutions.
Her work extends beyond novels. As a Forbes contributor and public radio commentator, she explores journalism, civics, and higher education. Currently, she leads the Center for Community News at the University of Vermont, championing student reporting to strengthen local news. Her essays and short stories have appeared in outlets like McSweeney’s, Literary Hub, and the New York Times, showcasing her versatile voice.
Why Meg Little Reilly Matters
Meg Little Reilly’s impact lies in her ability to merge political savvy with storytelling that resonates on a human level. Her novels tackle pressing issues—climate change, family dynamics, and moral dilemmas—while grounding them in relatable characters and lush New England landscapes. By amplifying student journalism and advocating for civic engagement, she’s shaping a more informed society. Her work reminds us that stories can bridge divides, making her a vital voice in contemporary fiction.
- Born: Brattleboro, Vermont
- Key Works: We Are Unprepared, Everything That Follows, The Misfortunes of Family
- Notable Roles: White House official, Forbes contributor, Managing Director at UVM’s Center for Community News
Snag We Are Unprepared and dive into Meg Little Reilly’s thrilling blend of suspense and heart—your next favorite read awaits!