J.J. Cagney writes twisty, atmospheric mysteries and thrillers where every clue is a risk—and every secret comes with a cost. Her award-winning novels feature smart, determined heroines navigating dangerous terrain, both literal and emotional, from New Mexico’s high deserts to Yellowstone’s wild frontiers.
Cagney is best known for the acclaimed Cici Gurule Mysteries, including A Pilgrimage to Death—named one of Kirkus Reviews’ 100 Best Books of 2018, winner of the National Indie Excellence Award, and a Goodreads Best Mysteriesreader favorite. An Artifact of Death was praised as “an exhilarating entry in a thoroughly enjoyable series” (Kirkus Reviews) and recognized as a BookLife Award quarterfinalist. Her work has also earned her recognition as Judge’s Top Pick for both the Claymore and Silver Falchion Awards at Killer Nashville.
Before turning to full-time storytelling, Cagney worked as a literary agent and marketing director for elite athletes, careers that sharpened her instincts for high-stakes drama and character-driven conflict. She now lives in northern New Mexico with her family, two mischievous dogs, and a small but suspiciously well-organized tank of fish.
Cagney’s next thriller, See Jane Run—a gripping cat-and-mouse survival story set deep in Yellowstone—releases August 2026 from City Owl Press.