Picture a New Mexican storyteller who traded a sheriff’s badge for a pen, crafting crime novels that pulse with the heart of the Southwest—meet Michael McGarrity! Born in 1939, this former deputy sheriff turned acclaimed author has captivated readers with his Kevin Kerney series, blending gritty realism and vivid landscapes into thrilling tales of law and order.
McGarrity’s unique journey from law enforcement to literary stardom sets him apart. His novels, steeped in New Mexico’s rugged beauty, reflect a life spent navigating the complexities of crime and justice, making him a standout voice in crime fiction.
The Making of Michael McGarrity
Born in 1939 in New Mexico, Michael McGarrity’s early life was shaped by the state’s stark landscapes and vibrant culture. After attending the University of New Mexico and earning a BA in English and Psychology from San Jose State University, he pursued a Master’s in clinical social work from the University of Iowa. His career took a dynamic turn when he joined the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department, where he founded the sex crimes unit and earned accolades as Police Officer of the Year in 1987. These experiences, coupled with his work in social services and post-riot prison rehabilitation, fueled his authentic storytelling. In 1996, McGarrity turned to writing full-time, debuting with Tularosa, the first of his beloved Kevin Kerney series.
Michael McGarrity’s Unforgettable Stories
The Kevin Kerney series, spanning 14 novels, is McGarrity’s crown jewel, following the resolute ex-Santa Fe detective as he tackles crimes across New Mexico’s diverse terrain. Tularosa (1996) introduces Kerney, a retired cop drawn back into action to solve a soldier’s disappearance, weaving a conspiracy that crackles with suspense. Serpent Gate (1998) sees Kerney chasing art thieves and murderers from Santa Fe to Mexico, showcasing McGarrity’s knack for intricate plots. Hermit’s Peak (1999) blends personal stakes with a chilling murder investigation, while Residue (2018) shifts focus to Kerney’s son, Clayton Istee, cementing the series’ ensemble dynamic.
McGarrity’s style is a masterclass in authenticity, drawing on his law enforcement background to craft believable characters and procedures. His vivid descriptions of New Mexico’s Tularosa Basin, Lincoln County, and Santa Fe immerse readers in the Southwest’s soul. Beyond crime, he penned the American West Trilogy—Hard Country, Backlands, and The Last Ranch—a prequel tracing the Kerney family from 1875 to the Vietnam War, lauded for its historical depth and sweeping narrative.
Why Michael McGarrity Matters
McGarrity’s impact extends beyond his page-turning novels. His insider’s perspective on law enforcement has earned praise from prosecutors and police, who commend his accuracy. By establishing scholarships like the Hillerman-McGarrity Creative Writing Scholarship at the University of New Mexico and others at Santa Fe Community College and the Institute of American Indian Arts, he’s nurtured new voices in literature. Awards like the 2004 New Mexico Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts and the 2015 Frank Waters Exemplary Literary Achievement Award underscore his influence. McGarrity’s stories preserve New Mexico’s cultural and natural heritage, making him a regional icon and a crime fiction luminary.
- Born: 1939, New Mexico, USA
- Key Works: Tularosa, Serpent Gate, Hermit’s Peak, American West Trilogy
- Awards: 2004 New Mexico Governor’s Award, 2015 Frank Waters Award
Snag Tularosa and dive into Michael McGarrity’s thrilling crime fiction world, where New Mexico’s landscapes and lawmen come alive!