I'm
glad you stopped by my web site. I can use a break, and one of my favorite
things to do is chat with other book lovers. I have loved reading since I
first picked up a book and
managed
to hold it right-side-up. I used to sneak away with Ellery Queen and Alfred
Hitchcock magazines Dad brought home from the drugstore and read them at
night with a flashlight. I enjoy the kind of book I just can't put down: a
traditional mystery with a puzzle that's got me stumped, or a fast-moving
suspense story that keeps me up way too late. You do, too, or you wouldn't
be here sharing a cup of cyber-coffee with me.
I've dreamed of being a
writer since I was a child, but there always seemed to be something in my
way, like college, marriage, career, and parenthood. Finally the inner voice
screamed so loudly that it was heard over the din of living. I just had to
write about the characters and story that were so vivid in my mind.
It's been years since that decisive moment, and I'm on my way to fulfilling
my dream. There are five books in the PJ Gray series: Gray Matter,
Fire Cracker, Chameleon, Act of Betrayal (written as
Morgan Avery), and the latest, Time of Death. I'm working now on an
exciting paranormal thriller. You can view a book trailer at
The Mortal Path, even though the
book's not sold yet.
I wish I could
convey what a thrill it was see my first book on the store shelf. Even now,
I can hardly believe it when I walk into a store and see my titles there.
My family has been a wonderful source of
support to me. My husband Dennis
has
encouraged me and supported my decision to change careers, and believe me,
it hasn't been easy for him! Our sons Thomas and Timothy are very proud to
have an author in the family.
It's been great to find out that there's a
community of writers I can turn to for support, online and in person.
As I climb the ladder of my writing career, I have been given a hand up by
established authors. In return, I will offer my hand to those coming along
behind me.
Through my involvement in
International Thriller Writers,
Mystery Writers of America,
and the American Crime Writers' League,
I've come in contact with amazingly supportive and talented groups.
Receiving fan letters has been a delightful surprise, and I answer each one
personally. All of these things buoy me up on days when the words won't
come, or the words that do come aren't good enough.
Thanks for visiting, and feel free to stay
awhile. If
you have a seat, one of my cats will be joining you shortly. This one is the
inspiration for PJ Gray's cat Megabite, although she comes from a shelter,
not from a murder victim's apartment.
Come back again soon, and I'll put on a
fresh pot of coffee. Or if you'd prefer, I
can get you a cup of green tea.
Shirley Kennett 
