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When I developed the character of Kevin Kerney, I wanted to put on the page a fully-drawn individual who would run counter to the trend of quirky or emotionally damaged protagonists in mystery fiction. Kerney carries his scars and emotional baggage well, and has a strong moral fiber which rarely takes him over the edge. He is a man who knows the difference between right and wrong and practices his profession with a sense of ethics, responsibility, and pride.   While he's strong-willed and persistent, he is neither overly macho or flashy.

Born on a ranch in the Tularosa Basin in south central New Mexico, Kerney has long dreamt of returning to his roots, which was taken away from his parents  when the military expanded White Sands Missile Range, a high-security weapons  testing facility.

A college educated, decorated veteran of Vietnam, Kerney's life took a different turn when he entered law enforcement after military service, advancing through the ranks to chief of detectives in the Santa Fe Police Department until a gunfight with a drug dealer forced him into a painful, unhappy medical retirement.

Through a unique situation and his reputation as a seasoned gifted investigator, Kerney is brought back into the profession he loves, as he tracks the mysterious disappearance of his godson in the debut novel "Tularosa."  Kerney's return to law enforcement serves as a springboard for further adventures as he is tapped by other agencies to take on difficult, complex criminal cases.

A loner by disposition, Kerney reveals himself slowly to others. But when he does connect with people his friendships run strong and deep.  Intelligent, articulate, and wise in the ways of the criminal mind, Kerney is a man women appreciate, men respect, and enemies should never take for granted.  I like to think he's the kind of man you'd want to ride along with, have at your side in time of trouble, or spend at day with in some remote, beautiful part of New Mexico.

He's a man who knows the land and loves it, thrives in the rich mix of the Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, and cherishes the vibrant history of his home state.

Knowledgeable and thoughtful, Kerney is both sophisticated and earthy. I hope you find him a worthy trail partner.  He comes out of the chute riding hard.

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