An Interview with Patricia McConnell PhD About her First Mystery Novel, Away to Me

Internationally renowned applied animal behaviorist, Dr. Patricia McConnell, has embarked on a new literary journey, publishing her first mystery novel, "Away to Me." The highly anticipated book, set within the nuanced and often competitive world of dog trials, has garnered significant attention, particularly among her established readership who have long appreciated her insights into canine behavior and human-animal relationships. The novel’s release was recently highlighted in Episode 51 of "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation," where Dr. McConnell discussed her transition to fiction with hosts Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, offering a unique glimpse into her creative process and the motivations behind her foray into the mystery genre.

From Scientific Authority to Fictional Narrator: Dr. McConnell’s Literary Evolution

Dr. Patricia McConnell, PhD, has cultivated a distinguished career over several decades, earning recognition as a leading voice in applied animal behavior. Her extensive body of work, comprising numerous books, scientific articles, and seminars, has profoundly influenced dog training methodologies and deepened public understanding of canine psychology. Works such as "The Other End of the Leash," which critically examines the human dimension of dog training, and her poignant memoir, "The Education of Will," a narrative of resilience and recovery from trauma, have solidified her reputation for combining scientific rigor with profound empathy. This established background lends particular weight to her shift into fiction, promising readers a narrative infused with authentic behavioral insights and a deep respect for the animal world.

The decision to write a mystery novel stemmed from McConnell’s enduring love for writing, particularly the crafting of vivid narrative scenes that characterized her non-fiction works. As she approached a phase of retirement from client work and university teaching, she sought a new creative outlet. "I love writing my nonfiction books. And some of my favorite parts of writing were the scenes… I love that part," McConnell shared during the interview. Her lifelong appreciation for mystery novels, a genre she describes as one she "adores," provided a natural inclination for her next literary endeavor. What began as a playful exploration, sparked by a singular scene in her mind—a man being shot at a sheepdog trial, which forms the opening of "Away to Me"—evolved into a serious commitment to mastering the craft of fiction writing. This dedication saw her collaborate with fellow author Cat Warren, engaging in a rigorous peer-review process that underscored her meticulous approach to storytelling.

"Away to Me": Unpacking the Canine Mystery

"Away to Me" introduces readers to Maddie McGowan, a mid-40s animal behaviorist living on a secluded small farm, a sanctuary she uses to process a mysterious past in New Mexico. Maddie’s life revolves around her dogs and her hobby of competing in sheepdog trials. Her canine companions include Jack, a sharp but often pushy Border Collie; Bo Peep, her steadfast sheep guarding dog; Clementine, an elderly rescue terrier; and Cisco, a German Shepherd she fosters. These dogs are not mere accessories but fully integrated characters whose personalities and behaviors are central to the narrative, reflecting McConnell’s expertise.

The novel’s setting is meticulously crafted, immersing the reader not only in the intricacies of the dog world but also in the rich natural environment of Maddie’s farm. McConnell intentionally incorporates sensory details—such as birdsong, which she notes is used both for atmospheric effect and as a metaphorical tool—to create an immersive experience. This attention to detail is a hallmark of her writing, ensuring that the setting feels as alive and integral to the story as the characters themselves. The title, "Away to Me," itself carries dual significance, referencing a sheepdog command to move counterclockwise while simultaneously serving as a metaphor for Maddie’s internal conflict—a desire for connection tempered by a need for solitude. Similarly, her farm, "Lonely Owl Farm," subtly reflects Maddie’s solitary yet occasionally lonely nature.

The "No Dog Dies" Mandate and Reader Empathy

One of the most striking decisions in "Away to Me," and a point of discussion during her interview, is Dr. McConnell’s deliberate assurance that no dogs die within the novel’s pages. This choice, initially a point of contention with her editor who felt it might "give away the plot," was a conscious response to a widespread sentiment among readers of animal-centric literature. McConnell explained, "If people think… a dog’s going to die in it, they’re not going to read it." She further reflected on the unique emotional connection humans have with canines, observing, "You can kill off the good guys, you can kill off the bad guys… but you cannot kill off a dog."

This policy directly addresses a common concern among pet owners and animal lovers, many of whom actively seek out books where animal characters are spared traumatic fates. Informal surveys and discussions within pet-owning communities frequently highlight this preference, making McConnell’s explicit guarantee a significant draw for a dedicated readership. It allows readers to engage with the suspense of a mystery without the emotional burden of potential canine tragedy, fostering a sense of safety and trust with the author. This approach not only caters to a specific reader demographic but also subtly underscores the profound value and sanctity of animal life, a core tenet of McConnell’s lifelong work.

Realistic Canine Characters and the Nuances of Human-Animal Bonds

"Away to Me" excels in its portrayal of dogs not as idealized companions but as complex "realized organisms." McConnell leverages her deep understanding of animal behavior to create canine characters that are both endearing and, at times, exasperating, mirroring the authentic experiences of dog ownership. Her ability to depict these nuanced relationships, where a human character like Maddie can feel frustration with her dog’s behavior without resorting to mistreatment, resonated strongly with her interviewers. Kristi Benson lauded this aspect, noting that it allowed readers to acknowledge the realities of dog ownership without fear of witnessing abuse, a common apprehension among positive reinforcement trainers.

McConnell emphasized the importance of realism and "giving ourselves grace" as positive reinforcement trainers. She acknowledged that human frustration is a natural emotion, and her portrayal of Maddie reflects this, making the character more relatable and believable. "I didn’t want to set Maddie up as this sort of paragon of perfection because that just wouldn’t be believable," she stated. This commitment to authenticity extends to the integration of Maddie’s animal behavior cases within the plot. These "secondary characters," often based on McConnell’s own former clients, serve multiple purposes: they illuminate Maddie’s professional life, reveal her character through her interactions and problem-solving, and subtly educate the reader about the challenges and rewards of animal behavior consulting. This ingenious narrative device allows McConnell to weave educational elements into the story without disrupting the flow of the mystery, showcasing the real-world complexities that animal behaviorists navigate beyond the idyllic image of "puppies and daisies."

The Craft of Fiction: A New Challenge

Transitioning from writing non-fiction, where factual accuracy and logical exposition are paramount, to fiction, which demands imaginative world-building and intricate plot construction, presented Dr. McConnell with a new set of challenges. She openly described fiction writing as "much harder than it looks," highlighting the constant choices involved in character development, dialogue, and plot progression. Unlike non-fiction, where the narrative is constrained by reality, fiction offers boundless possibilities, which McConnell found both "wonderful and a nightmare" due to the sheer volume of decisions.

Her writing process for "Away to Me" was iterative and intensive. She admitted to not having a detailed outline from the outset, a common recommendation for mystery writers, which made her initial drafting "inefficient." However, this organic approach allowed her characters, particularly Maddie, to develop dynamically. McConnell likened it to watching a photograph develop in a dark room: "Maddie became like a developing photograph. She just got richer and clearer and more and more colorful." This process underscores her commitment to character authenticity and depth. The emphasis on sensory details, such as the evocative birdsong, was a conscious technique to immerse readers fully in the story’s setting, aligning with her belief that "we are a species of stories" and good storytelling requires engaging all senses.

The Enduring Power of Friendship and a Trilogy on the Horizon

A poignant thread woven throughout "Away to Me" is the exploration of friendship, both human and canine. Maddie’s solitary nature, a consequence of past trauma, is balanced by deep connections with her human friends, George and Dorothy, and especially with her dogs. Jack, her Border Collie, is depicted as one of her "best friends," and her bond with the foster German Shepherd, Cisco, also deepens. McConnell revealed that while she didn’t intentionally set out to write about friendship, its importance to her naturally manifested in the narrative. "What is more important than our connections… to people?" she mused, reflecting on the fundamental human need for social bonds.

Excitingly for readers, Dr. McConnell revealed that "Away to Me" is conceived as the first installment in a trilogy. The subsequent books are tentatively titled "Come By" and "That’ll Do," continuing the theme of sheepdog commands and Maddie’s ongoing journey. Despite acknowledging her age (77), McConnell expressed a vibrant enthusiasm for continuing the series, driven by her profound connection to the characters and the joy of the creative process. She teased future developments in "Come By," promising a continuation of existing relationships alongside the introduction of new characters, including "some interesting men," hinting at potential romantic or dramatic subplots for Maddie. This announcement has been met with enthusiasm, promising a prolonged engagement with Maddie McGowan and her world for her burgeoning readership.

Broader Implications and a Continuing Legacy

Dr. Patricia McConnell’s venture into mystery fiction with "Away to Me" carries significant implications for both the literary world and the broader discourse on human-animal relationships. Her unique position as an acclaimed animal behaviorist lends unparalleled authenticity to her canine characters and the "dog world" she portrays. This novel has the potential to elevate the subgenre of animal-themed mysteries by injecting it with scientific credibility and a deep ethical framework regarding animal welfare, particularly through her "no dog dies" policy.

Furthermore, "Away to Me" serves as a bridge, potentially introducing her vast non-fiction readership to the pleasures of mystery fiction, and conversely, drawing new fiction readers into her established body of work on animal behavior. This cross-pollination of audiences can only further her lifelong mission of fostering understanding and respect between humans and animals. As Dr. McConnell continues to write, her trilogy promises to be a compelling addition to her legacy, demonstrating that passion for storytelling and a profound connection to the animal world know no bounds, irrespective of genre or age.

Away to Me was published on February 24th and is available for purchase wherever books are sold, including Amazon and Bookshop.org, which supports independent bookstores. Dr. McConnell’s website, www.patriciamcconnell.com, offers further details about the book and her work.

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