Patricia McConnell, PhD, Launches Debut Mystery Novel "Away to Me," Delving into the Canine World

Internationally renowned applied animal behaviorist and author Patricia McConnell, PhD, is set to captivate readers with her debut mystery novel, Away to Me, slated for release on February 24, 2026. Marking a significant transition from her highly acclaimed non-fiction works, this new venture plunges into the intricate world of dogs and their human companions, with a compelling mystery at its core. The novel introduces readers to Maddie McGowan, an animal behaviorist whose life on a secluded farm is intertwined with the lives of her beloved canines and the complex dynamics of competitive sheepdog trials.

From Academic Authority to Fictional Narrator: Dr. McConnell’s New Chapter

Dr. Patricia McConnell has long been a foundational figure in the field of applied animal behavior. Her career has been dedicated to enhancing the understanding and relationship between humans and animals, a mission she has pursued through her clinical practice, university teaching, and extensive bibliography. Her influential non-fiction books, such as The Other End of the Leash, revolutionized how many dog owners and professionals approach canine training, emphasizing the human side of the bond and encouraging empathy and scientific understanding. This work, a landmark in animal behavior literature, has been translated into numerous languages and continues to be a cornerstone for positive reinforcement training methodologies. Beyond practical guides, her memoir, The Education of Will, offered a deeply personal and poignant exploration of trauma and healing, both for humans and dogs, showcasing her profound capacity for narrative and emotional resonance.

The decision to venture into fiction, particularly a mystery novel, represents a new chapter for the 77-year-old author. Dr. McConnell acknowledged that her love for writing, especially crafting descriptive scenes and engaging narratives within her non-fiction, naturally led her to explore the realm of storytelling. This shift is not merely a retirement hobby but a deliberate engagement with a different form of artistic expression, allowing her to leverage her deep understanding of animal psychology and human-animal dynamics in a creative, imaginative context. Her reputation as a trusted voice in animal welfare lends a unique gravitas to Away to Me, promising a story that is not only entertaining but also deeply informed by authentic insights into the dog world.

"Away to Me": A Deep Dive into a Canine Mystery

Away to Me is set against the backdrop of competitive sheepdog trials, a niche but passionate world that provides a rich tapestry for a murder mystery. The novel’s plot centers on a shocking event: a man is shot at a sheepdog trial, an incident revealed early in the narrative, even on the book’s flap cover. This immediate plunge into peril sets the stage for protagonist Maddie McGowan, a mid-forties animal behaviorist who lives on a small farm and participates in these trials as a hobby. Maddie’s farm serves as a metaphorical and literal safe house, a refuge from a difficult past in New Mexico that she keeps "close to her vest."

McConnell’s expertise as an animal behaviorist shines through in the novel’s meticulous portrayal of dog behavior and the nuances of the human-animal bond. Maddie, described as a somewhat defensive, slightly pudgy, short woman who uses glasses to appear more serious, is nonetheless absolutely devoted to her dogs. Her canine companions include Jack, a classic smart and pushy Border Collie; Bo Peep, a sheep guarding dog; and Clementine, an elderly rescue terrier. The narrative also introduces Cisco, a fostered German Shepherd, further expanding Maddie’s canine family. This intimate understanding of dogs allows McConnell to craft them not just as pets, but as fully realized characters whose behaviors and personalities drive aspects of the plot and enrich Maddie’s world.

A notable feature of Away to Me, and one that Dr. McConnell staunchly advocated for with her editor, is the explicit assurance that "no dog dies in the making of this novel." This commitment addresses a significant concern for many dog-loving readers who often avoid stories featuring harm to animals. It sets the book apart, signaling a safe space for readers to immerse themselves in a mystery without the emotional distress of canine tragedy. This choice, while initially perceived by her editor as a plot spoiler, is strategically important for McConnell, allowing a broader audience of animal enthusiasts to engage with the story comfortably.

Crafting Characters: Humans and Hounds

The development of Maddie McGowan is a testament to McConnell’s dedication to the craft of fiction. Initially, Maddie was conceived with logistical details—mid-40s, living on a farm, an animal behaviorist with specific dog breeds. However, through the iterative process of writing, Maddie evolved into a complex and relatable figure. McConnell described this process as watching a photograph develop in a dark room, where Maddie’s character became "richer and clearer and more and more colorful" with each chapter. This organic character growth ensures that Maddie is not merely a vehicle for the plot but a compelling individual with her own vulnerabilities, strengths, and a profound connection to the natural world and her animals.

The dogs in Away to Me are equally vital to the narrative, portrayed with a realism that only an expert like McConnell could achieve. Jack, Bo Peep, Clementine, and Cisco are distinct personalities, whose interactions with Maddie and each other add depth and authenticity to the story. McConnell highlighted the joy of writing dogs as characters, expressing her deep fondness for them. This extends to depicting the full spectrum of human-dog relationships, including moments of exasperation. As discussed during her interview on "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation," McConnell emphasizes the importance of "giving ourselves grace" as humans interacting with dogs, acknowledging that even positive reinforcement trainers can experience frustration. This realistic portrayal allows for a believable narrative where Maddie can be annoyed by her dog’s behavior without ever compromising the underlying bond of care and respect, a nuance often missed in less informed portrayals.

Furthermore, Away to Me incorporates "dog cases" as secondary characters, drawn from McConnell’s extensive experience with real-life clients. These cases serve multiple purposes: they illuminate Maddie’s professional life as an animal behaviorist, providing a window into the realities of the profession—which often involves addressing serious behavioral issues and human-animal conflicts, far from the idyllic image of "puppies and daisies." These sub-plots not only advance the understanding of Maddie’s character and expertise but also offer readers a fascinating glimpse into the world of applied animal behavior, woven seamlessly into the larger mystery narrative. Notably, characters like "Larry and Darryl and the other brother Darryl" and their dog Harpo, based on actual clients, are so cherished by McConnell that they are confirmed to return in future installments.

The Creative Process: From Idea to Publication

The journey to writing Away to Me was a deeply personal and evolving process for Dr. McConnell. The initial spark came from a vivid scene in her mind: a man being shot at a sheepdog trial. This single image provided the foundation upon which she began to "play at writing fiction" purely for enjoyment. Her passion for reading mysteries and good writing fueled her desire to master the craft of fiction, which she found to be significantly more challenging than non-fiction. McConnell highlighted the difficulty of writing compelling dialogue, developing intricate plots, and making countless choices for every sentence, a freedom that is both exhilarating and daunting.

Her collaborative efforts with fellow author Cat Warren, known for her New York Times bestseller What the Dog Knows, were instrumental in her learning process. They exchanged chapters and discussed their progress monthly, a testament to the shared challenges and rewards of embarking on a new creative endeavor. McConnell admitted to a less structured approach than typically recommended for mystery novels, initially lacking a detailed outline. This led to a slower, more exploratory writing process, where chapters were often rewritten, added, or discarded as the story and characters developed. Despite the inefficiencies, this method allowed for an organic evolution of the narrative and a deep immersion in the creative journey.

A hallmark of McConnell’s writing, carried over from her non-fiction, is her meticulous attention to sensory detail. She deliberately includes elements of sound, scent, and touch alongside visual descriptions to fully immerse the reader in the story’s setting. The evocative use of birdsong, for instance, not only sets the scene but also subtly weaves in metaphors, such as "Lonely Owl Farm" reflecting Maddie’s solitary yet yearning nature. The very title, Away to Me, a command in sheepdog trials, doubles as a metaphor for Maddie’s internal conflict—her desire for connection balanced with a need for solitude. This dedication to word craft and multi-sensory storytelling ensures a rich, engaging reading experience.

"The Pawsitive Post in Conversation": An Exclusive Interview

The launch of Away to Me was highlighted by an insightful interview on Episode 51 of "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation," hosted by Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson. Both hosts, respected figures in the animal welfare and training communities, provided a knowledgeable platform for Dr. McConnell to discuss her new novel. The interview provided key insights into the book’s themes, characters, and the author’s motivations. Todd and Benson expressed their excitement for the novel, particularly given their shared love for dogs and mysteries, and their appreciation for the author’s commitment to portraying dogs ethically.

During the podcast, McConnell elaborated on her transition to fiction, emphasizing her love for writing and the desire to remain creatively active in retirement. She shared the anecdote about her editor’s initial apprehension regarding the "no dog dies" pledge, underscoring the unique ethical considerations she brought to the genre. The discussion also delved into the nuanced portrayal of human-dog relationships, where Maddie’s occasional exasperation with her dogs is depicted realistically without condoning mistreatment, aligning with the principles of positive reinforcement that McConnell champions. This nuanced approach resonated deeply with the hosts, who recognized the importance of such realistic portrayals for trainers and dog owners alike. The interview also touched upon the immersive quality of the book, praising McConnell’s ability to create a vivid setting using sensory details, a deliberate choice by the author to enhance reader engagement.

A Planned Trilogy: Expanding the "Away to Me" Universe

Perhaps the most exciting revelation from the interview for fans is Dr. McConnell’s announcement that Away to Me is the first installment in a planned trilogy. The subsequent novels are tentatively titled Come By and That’ll Do, both terms derived from sheepdog commands, further embedding the canine world into the very fabric of the series. Come By refers to sending a sheepdog clockwise, while That’ll Do signifies the dog’s work is complete and it should return. These titles suggest a narrative arc that continues to explore themes of direction, purpose, and resolution within Maddie McGowan’s evolving story.

Despite her age, Dr. McConnell expressed her eagerness to continue writing, noting that she already has several chapters written for Come By. This commitment to a multi-book series from an author of her stature is a testament to her enduring passion for storytelling and her belief in the characters she has created. The upcoming books promise to expand on existing relationships, with Maddie’s beloved dogs and human friends continuing their journeys. Additionally, McConnell teased the introduction of new characters, including "some interesting men," hinting at potential romantic or significant personal developments for Maddie in the sequels. This expansion of Maddie’s world ensures that readers will have the opportunity to delve deeper into her life, her relationships, and the ongoing mysteries that unfold around her farm and the sheepdog community.

Broader Impact and Literary Significance

Patricia McConnell’s foray into fiction with Away to Me carries significant implications for both the mystery genre and the broader landscape of animal-themed literature. Her established credibility as an animal behaviorist brings an unparalleled level of authenticity to the portrayal of dogs and their interactions, setting a high bar for accuracy and ethical representation in animal-centric narratives. This novel is poised to appeal not only to her existing readership of dog enthusiasts and professionals but also to a wider audience of mystery lovers seeking engaging, well-crafted stories.

The decision to explicitly state that "no dog dies" taps into a growing market for "cozy mysteries" or genre fiction that prioritizes emotional safety for animal lovers, a segment of readers often underserved by mainstream thrillers. This approach fosters a loyal readership that values both compelling plots and compassionate storytelling. Furthermore, the novel’s immersive setting in the world of sheepdog trials offers a unique cultural backdrop, educating readers about a fascinating subculture while entertaining them with a gripping mystery.

Dr. McConnell’s transition highlights the power of storytelling as a means to convey complex ideas and foster empathy. By weaving her scientific understanding into a fictional narrative, she has the potential to reach an audience that might not typically engage with non-fiction animal behavior texts, thereby subtly promoting a deeper appreciation for animal welfare and the human-animal bond. The support for independent bookstores through platforms like Bookshop.org, as noted in the original article, also underscores a commitment to the literary community and sustainable practices within the publishing industry. Away to Me stands as a testament to an author’s evolving creative journey, promising a series that is both intellectually rich and emotionally resonant, a significant addition to the contemporary literary scene.