How women with (Jerome) Idaho blood in their veins became forces in the larger world. You and my Jerome-bred wife distinguish yourselves with insight and empathy. You see and describe a challenging world brightly and with care for people crushed by conflict and misanthropy. Marilyn knows to humanize office (D.C.) and neighborhood (Lakelands-Kentlands, MD). How I admire both for your caring and your humanity. Maybe you and she should meet.
Half way through It. Goes. So. Fast., have already teared up twice thinking about similar experiences with my now-college-freshman, and have ordered 7 copies to gift to friends.
Just reading the chapter about hearing loss, and don’t know the specifics of yours, but wanted to point you at this fascinating research and Wristband device. On the Tim Ferriss podcast where I heard about it, Dr. Eagleman specifically mentioned it augmenting high frequency sound loss. https://eagleman.com/science/sensory-substitution/. Might not help with headphones, but maybe a little in your kitchen…? <3
Your recent interview with Sec’y Becerra was timely. I’ve been sending him (also AZ US Sen Kelly) updates on how difficult it is to navigate the health care system for the aged and disabled using my wife’s experience with a near-death brain injury. Over 360 days I’ve chronicled nearly every aspect of medical care at every level. Working undercover as an investigative journalist I’ve snooped and scoped and probed people places and things hardly ever accessible through normal news gathering channels. Amazing how open both practitioners, patients and their family members were to share their stories with me. This continues to be an ongoing journey, which started well before my wife’s health crisis. It began with the concept of a documentary in collaboration with electrophysiologist Dr R. Chan in 2021. So, after this unfortunate emergency occurred, others helped me to see this as an opportunity to go where no other chronicler has gone before and uncover what goes on inside the bowels of health care. Boy, did I consume a gut full! From day one it was a struggle just to keep her alive, apply Medicare benefits effectively and survive the descent into the lower intestines of post-acute care. Several others we met on this journey with similar severe brain crises met their demise along the way. What I want the world to know is that, after nearly one year, daily visiting my wife as she was shifted back and forth between seven different facilities, there is a great need for change in health care delivery, not just for the aged and disabled but for every patient.
Incidentally, I am a 71 yr old person of color. My wife nearly died four times from neglect and other indignities. Others, including a judicial officer attributed her survival to my stalwart vigilance in advocating for her (which I owe in part to my acquired journalistic prowess). This experience I am preparing to share within the cinematic documentary, but also via podcast exposes, interviews etc. I have accrued over 1400 hours of audio and visual captures (as they pertain to my wife and those who agreed to speak on/off the record). I suffered physically and financial as I battled forces in the medical industrial complex that want to maintain the status quo. The new model demonstrated in special arrangements I made with some administrators at a major teaching hospital was having great success. But, that was sabotaged. Some petitioned the court to make my wife a ward of the state so they could do whatever the want to her, including hospice. Thats’ when the power of the press proved mighty. I presented just a fraction of the unflattering findings I uncovered to these detractors, letting them know this how I was not interested in confrontation but their cooperation to create a better model for health care delivery that reduces the pain points for all stakeholders. Otherwise, I would join all my findings with other investigative news sources that were already exposing really dastardly stuff hidden in plain sight. I saw it all from the inside and documented it in real time! And for my wife it has been a struggle just to stay alive amidst the low quality of care. I’m exhausted fighting at every turn with Institutional administrators and probate system to let my wife’s case be one that can help effectuate change and she actually live to experience the benefits. She is a Medicare beneficiary, but elements of that system has also been a major part of the problem. That’s why I share this, because, if you are able to convey this example to Secretary Becerra, he may recall her case. Since I know where to look from the inside, perhaps NPR and other reputable news agencies will join us in this full court “press” approach to getting issues of vital public concern the attention they deserve from the people best able to address them effectively, it would be a great personal service and a grand public service. Anyone interested in sharing their story may reply to subject : “To Do No Harm(?)” contactmf4-stories (at) yahoo(.)com
BTW Mary Louise: Please share this with the glorious Tamara Keith (known her passively since 2009) who is often in the presence of President Biden and to Rachel Martin (whose love for verse I so much admire). Biden and Becerra need to know why and how Medicare is being systematically ripped off from within the bowels of the health care supply chain. I’m witnessing this stuff in real time. But they’re coming after me now. The power of the press is my only defense and to save my wife and countless others from the “great crate” and dreaded probate. To all investigative members of the press I say: Let us coalesce to clean up this mess. Thanks for all you do!
I have a daughter and two sons and each of them are now parenting a son and a daughter. I decided to start passing along my copy of It.Goes.So.Fast to my daughter first and as she prepared to give it back, her seven-year old daughter saw the title and as a newly-minted reader, said the words and asked what they meant. When her mother explained, she burst into tears, just sobbing about how sad that was. The truth of that title strikes a chord with everyone and is the core of parenting – hard to believe in the moment but so so true. Even now, at the age of 75, I will go to the store and magically think, “If I buy x,y,z that you like, will you come back home and eat it?” Our job is to raise them to be independent but do they have to take it to heart? Your process and the telling of it sounds like just the right mix of a job very well done. Thank you for the telling.
Thank you for writing this book, It. Goes. So. Fast. A book hard to put down, one chapter drawing me to the next, often till 1 am. I am so grateful for women like yourself, who choose to both parent and be out in the world, doing what you feel called to do. No small feat.
As hard as it is to balance parenting and life work, you are so needed in this world, so dominated still by men. I think that women/mothers have a unique perspective to share and lead on. Most of all, a caring and reverence for life. Human life. All of life.
And thank you for your journalism. Your courage. For digging deep. Asking hard questions. For being in places in the world that so need your voice. You give me hope.
Wishing you all the best, in the weeks and months ahead.
After hearing about It. Goes. So. Fast, on Kelly Corrigan’s podcast, I have been listening to it on my morning runs and drive time. I finished it today (with two minutes to spare before All Things Considered aired). I am a 56 year old, father of two girls (grad student and college freshman). My wife of 31 years and I are officially ’empty nesters’. I lost my mom to cancer during the pandemic. So I connected with your book on many levels. Thank you for sharing your stories and for the vulnerability it took to bring your words to my ears. I especially appreciate that you read your own book for the audio version. I sensed that some of that was difficult, but it makes a difference to this reader to hear it in your voice. All the best to you with the current and coming changes.
I saw the adorable baby shoes and the muddy soccer cleats on the cover and thought, “I’m a big fan of Mary Louise Kelly, but this book probably isn’t for me.” I was mistaken! My brother and I are thirty-somethings and I think our mother is still trying to navigate how to communicate with sons who think and believe differently than her. Now I’m beginning to grasp how bittersweet it is for mothers to let go of the boys that young men used to be.
I’ve also gained insight into conversing with my grandfathers, who both live with hearing loss. Your analogy about the crossword puzzle was so helpful.
One of the greatest gifts my mother’s father has given me is a love for public radio. His car radio would be tuned to AM 920, the main frequency for Purdue University’s NPR station. I’m blessed to live within the signal range of eight NPR frequencies representing four member stations in Indiana and Illinois and proud to be a sustaining member of one.
I look forward to hearing you on All Things Considered every day. You somehow make the news more manageable on days when it defies comprehension.
Yes. You’re that good.
And I must tell you that your book has added a dimension to my relationship with you. As I read it I could hear you speaking your words–like an audiobook that doesn’t need airbuds. It was pure magic. You have created a lively, deeply touching book, and I am so very glad I read it.
Mary Louise Kelly,
Loved all your books and always NPR All Things Considered.
I cried, I laughed, remembered my parenting years! Thank you for sharing your exceptional talents of writing , reporting and learning to live in the moment.
You tell your story and help others with remember theirs. And yes It. Goes. So. Fast. My grandchildren are 9 and 3 yrs old yikes, here we go again…
Looking forward to more books from you.
Eileen
Our father’s lives ended at the same age, 74. I, too, started running because of my father, but not at his prompting. He was diagnosed with high blood pressure at age 50, but he didn’t do anything to help himself. When he came home from work, his falling asleep on the couch we assumed was normal with “a hard day at the office”. As I graduated from high school, I silently vowed “not to become like Dad”. I started to run in college, watched the finish of the Detroit Marathon, and vowed to “try it” in a couple years. I did and Detroit was my 3rd marathon (finished in 2:58). Eight minutes from qualifying for Boston (1980), how could I stop now?
Meantime, I had hoped my running would inspire Dad to walk more with Mom. That did not happen. He was part of “The Greatest Generation”, and they kept so much inside. Almost 10 years after my first marathon, Dad had a mini-stroke while visiting prior to my wedding. Perhaps that was an “early warning”. We had a surprise 70th birthday at a football tailgate party for Dad. I wondered “why 70?”. Age 75 was not in the cards for Dad.
We were happy Mom and Dad were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Just before Christmas 9 months later, Dad was in the hospital for an irregular heartbeat. They had to “stop” Dad’s heart to resync it’s beat. A doctor told my brother Dad would be an excellent candidate for a heart transplant, but his circulatory system was so ravaged by earlier “silent” heart attacks that he probably wouldn’t survive the operation. Just before the following Easter, Dad is again in the hospital. I am with him as a nurse’s aid attempts to turn him to change his underwear. Dad goes into cardiac arrest, and has a DNR (do not resuscitate) order. Code Blue, and no one can do anything to save him, and he’s gone…….at 74.
I did not cry at his funeral, and this bothered me for a few years. Thankfully, I went to a church class on grief, and learned we can “grieve” for someone before they die. I think this was the case with me. While I didn’t cry for my dad, I mourned that our two toddlers (aged 3 and 1) would never know their grandfather.
I quit doing marathons in 1992, after completing 30-some (best time: 2:42). I kept running to stay in shape for another 25 years, but only recently started to seriously bike ride, and love riding with friends in retirement. My long-term goal has not changed, however. Unlike my dad, I want to be around for my grandchildren, and will persevere to do so!
You are loved, Mary Louise! Like my children (now 27 & 25), your sons sound like “best friends”. As parents, we can’t do any more than hope they remain so close! We have a weekly family “conference call”, typically an hour. We four can’t vacation together anymore because of their full-time work and distance, but we can remain close. You can too!
I just finished tour book Bullet. I was listening to one of your npr interviews and it was mentioned. It was really terrific. I got the book plus listened on audio. I have your other 2 and will start today. I also wanted you to know how much I admire your dedication and reporting. Thank you. Fay
I just finished It. Goes. So. Fast. What a wonderful book. It brought back so many memories of when I had teenagers. Beautifully written. It did make me cry. Thanks for writing it.
I just finished reading your book (It Goes So Fast) and I had to write to you. I loved, loved, loved it. You can skip the rest because it is me rambling but I have to write them.
It was the perfect book for me. I’m a huge NPR fan. I would be a journalist in another life. I used to work for our university’s newspaper all through college and grad school but being from Iran I chose the easier path and became a programmer:)) Living here in the US for 20 years now, I live vicariously through my favorite people in NPR and NYTimes.
I am also a mom, I think we probably had our sons around the same age. Because I will be around 50 when he goes to college too. (I’m 45 now , born in the year of the Iranian revolution :))) And the most emotional one for me, your relationship with your dad. I also lost my dad to cancer a couple of years ago. He was also the most knowledgeable person I know. He knew everything, from the ins and outs of the US politics to what each of those abbreviations in your medical test results mean. I was very close to him and always admired him and him passing away so soon was devastating for me. My son is a knowledge nerd too and loves Jeopardy. And my heart aches as he tries so hard to beat the contestants at answering the questions, wishing my dad was here to see him.(There is still more, I run too. Not from childhood like you, I just started when I was 37 and my best has been when I ran a half marathon on the exact day of my 40th birthday. My son also plays soccer. He is an average player but loves soccer and is a Man United fan :)))
I wish I had better words but just wanted to say I felt your book so deeply. I’m sure I will listen to it many, many more times. Thank you for writing it and it was a pleasure to get to know you through it.
Roya
Dear Ms. Kelly,
I was in the audience today at the Harvard Alumni Day today. I found you talk persuasive and moving; especially your emphasis on the role of the journalist as “bearing witness.” I was also pleased that, with one exception, you avoided stirring controversy by taking a partisan position. That one exception, however, I found shocking: your referring to the events of January 6th, 2021 as an “armed insurrection.” From everything I have read and heard there were no arms brought to the Capitol by the protesters, and no one has been charged with holding or using arms or weapons on that date. Also, the only use of arms was by the capitol police officer who shot Ashil Babbitt. (My understanding is that, yes, some protestors brought arms to the DC area, but thought better of the idea of taking them to the Capitol and desisted.) I also have a classmate who was one of the protesters, and who has told me that she also observed no firearms or other weapons. Moreover, on the “insurrection” charge she has told me that 1) the purpose of the demonstration was to protest clear irregularities in the election, not to ‘overturn’ it, and 2), that she has many reasons to believe that there was a significant Antifa agent-provacateur presence that stirred up some in the crowd to invade the Capitol. Why should I believe your ‘witness’ over hers? If, in fact, there were no firearms or weapons at the Capitol that day, why did you state the contrary? Finally, if the job of journalists is “to bear witness,” why did NPR, along with many other sources ignore or actively suppress the news of Hunter Biden’s laptop and the contents thereof? Yours respectfully, Lawrence Franko H ’63 Concord MA.
Ms. Kelly,
I was in the audience today at the Harvard Alumni Day today. I found you talk persuasive and moving; especially your emphasis on the role of the journalist as “bearing witness.” I was also pleased that, with one exception, you avoided stirring controversy by taking a partisan position. That one exception, however, I found shocking: your referring to the events of January 6th, 2021 as an “armed insurrection.” From everything I have read and heard there were no arms brought to the Capitol by the protesters, and no one has been charged with holding or using arms or weapons on that date. Also, the only use of arms was by the capitol police officer who shot Ashil Babbitt. (My understanding is that, yes, some protestors brought arms to the DC area, but thought better of the idea of taking them to the Capitol and desisted.) I also have a classmate who was one of the protesters, and who has told me that she also observed no firearms or other weapons. Moreover, on the “insurrection” charge she has told me that 1) the purpose of the demonstration was to protest clear irregularities in the election, not to ‘overturn’ it, and 2), that she has many reasons to believe that there was a significant Antifa agent-provacateur presence that stirred up some in the crowd to invade the Capitol. Why should I believe your ‘witness’ over hers? If, in fact, there were no firearms or weapons at the Capitol that day, why did you state the contrary? Finally, if the job of journalists is “to bear witness,” why did NPR, along with many other sources ignore or actively suppress the news of Hunter Biden’s laptop and the contents thereof? Yours respectfully, Lawrence Franko H ’63 Concord MA.
Dear Mary Louise,
I have listened to you for years on ATC and always enjoyed your excellent reporting. I just adore the sound of your voice so when I heard a snip of “It Goes So Fast . . ” as an admirer and mother, I knew I had to listen to it. I have enjoyed it more than I expected. I didn’t know you are hearing impaired. Like you, I have been so since my 40’s and I was absolutely blown away by your perfect description of hearing loss, the imperfection of wearing aids, etc. I was on a daily walk while listening and startled some fellow walkers by exclaiming, “Yes, that!, And THAT, THAT, THAT!” I’ve never heard or read this disability described so well and was in tears by the end of the chapter. Thank you so much!
Dear Mary Louise,
I have listened to you for year on ATC and always enjoyed your excellent reporting. I just adore the sound of your voice so when I heard a snip of “It Goes So Fast . . ” as an admirer and mother, I knew I had to listen to it. I have enjoyed it more than I expected. I didn’t know you are hearing impaired. Like you, I have been so since my 40’s and I was absolutely blown away by your perfect description of hearing loss, the imperfection of wearing aids, etc. I was on a daily walk while listening and startled some fellow walkers by exclaiming, “Yes, that!, And THAT, THAT, THAT!” I’ve never heard or read this disability described so well and was in tears by the end of the chapter. Thank you so much!
Thank you for writing so candidly about the trade-offs inherent in parenting when you have a demanding career, Ms. Kelly. As my two youngest enter their final years at home, I will give much more in-depth thought to the choices I make.
When I was a senior in high school and a starting outside hitter on the Varsity volleyball team, my parents missed the regional championship game to take my grandmother whale watching on the California coast. They walked in as I was surrounded by reporters, after the”dog pile” of screaming teammates to celebrate the win, after one of the best games of my high school career. So I relate as a child to the struggles you describe in It. Goes. So. Fast. and many of the comments in this guest book. I was hurt, but not as much as a a parent might think; what mattered, even at the time, was I had played well, I enjoyed close bonds with my teammates, and I loved the game. Looking back now as a mother of three and the busy founder of a consulting firm with the social purpose to empower local organizations to enrich communities and protect the environment, I realize my parents missing the game was inconsequential to both my upbringing and my relationship with my parents, with whom I am very close and who I credit with instilling values which have led to a fulfilling life of public service.
My career requires trade offs, but my own child said it best in their Mother’s Day card, coincidentally the same Mother’s Day my own mother gifted me your book, “Recently I’ve noticed, thought it could just be me, that you’ve been feeling guilty for ‘not being there’ when we were kids. And maybe you weren’t always there physically, but I never once doubted you loved me unconditionally. You were there for us as a role model, I knew I always wanted to be like you when I grew up. A strong woman who worked so hard to make the world a better place and give her children the best childhood she could give them.” I have felt more guilt than I care to admit and second-guessed countless decisions. But I hope my children will benefit as much from what I was able to provide as what I was not, as I worked towards a career I love.
So to all the working mothers out there evaluating trade-offs every day; I wish you peace with your decisions and a deep knowledge that “being there” means so much more than participating in every activity. Be present if your presence brings you and your family joy or if your presence is non-negotiable, like health care. But absolve yourself of guilt if a different decision is right for you and your career. Thank you again, Ms. Kelly, for bringing the complexities of these decisions to the page.
I cried so many times when listening to your book on Audible and even when retelling parts of it to my husband. And now I am planning to order a paper copy to highlight so many perfectly crafted messages. Thank you for writing this book and thank you for your reporting. I admire your integrity and courage. I admire your commitment to your family and your profession. Your boys are so very lucky!
I am also a working mom of three girls (one of them with speech delay and dyslexia). I do not regret working, but at the same time, of course, I regret leaving them when I am on a business trip, or when my work commitments do not allow me to be at their school performances or other activities. So many stories in your book are so relevant to my everyday experiences and interactions! Thank you for sharing a story about meeting another reporter Annie while you were on a leave from work and your reflection on the importance of being comfortable with your own decisions when balancing your role as a Mom and a professional carrier.
I was also very touched by your coverage of Ukraine. I moved to the United States from Ukraine in 1999 and still have many family and friends all over the country. Thank you for your courage to travel to Ukraine, thank you for asking Mike Pompeo about his treatment of ambassador Marie Yovanovitch, thank you for sharing your interviews from Ukraine, thank you for sharing your reflection about a picture of 18 year old boys going to front lines without proper clothing, training, and gear. The world needs to hear these stories. It has been over a year since the invasion, but at times I still just cannot believe that such atrocities could still be happening.
I heard you interviewed by Scott Simon and knew I had to read your latest book. So much of what you said resonated with me. My daughter had played soccer from a young age into college. It was hard to get to all of those games as a working mother and she warned me never to come out on the field if she was injured! As she approached the end of her senior year in high school, I was so struck by the impending changes ahead. At our college orientation for parents, the presenter spoke of the not unusual demise of marriages at this time in the life of a family. Tears were running down my cheeks. I loved how you described never knowing when something precious is happening for the last time and loved to the Robert Bly quote about pain being the cracking of the walls. You captured your experience in such a touching way and your love of your boys and the desire to be with them as much as you could was so genuine. And you made it happen!
I just finished reading It. Goes. So. Fast. (and finished having a good cry.) You are such a wonderful writer! Since I love listening to you on NPR, I could hear your voice in my head as I read. You tell so many sweet, funny, sad, and deeply moving stories in this book. I had to read bits of it at a time because I got so choked up. I wish I’d had a dad who loved me as yours did you. Thank you for sharing him with us. I feel like I got to have a tiny bit of his sweet dad love through you. It heartens me to know there are really great fathers in the world who deeply love their kids and truly want to spend time with them. I like knowing that. I also loved hearing about your sweet mother. Having such a supporting mom makes life feel a lot easier. That really came through in your book. I have a sweet, supportive mom too.
I also loved reading your book because of the many things we have in common. I have 2 sons, 2 years apart and my older one is a James too. I lived in Georgia when they were born but in Athens, not Atlanta. I am just about a year older than you. Your James and my younger son, Michael, are almost the same age. Michael took a gap year which made them both Freshmen in college the same year. Last spring and summer I put together a book-length poetry collection entitled “Beyond Motherhood”. I needed to spend the summer looking back at the journey of motherhood I’d been on for the past 21 years and what it meant to be at the end of one phase of parenting. Many poems in the collection were written over the years but I also wrote a lot of new ones. It was an emotional summer. Writing is a way to process for me and is often very healing. It sounds like it is for you as well. Maybe someday my book will get published and I can share it with you! (Or I’d be happy to share some now if you’d have any interest in reading some poetry. Your book and my collection have so many similar themes.
It was really enjoyable to hear how the journey has gone for you and to know we mothers are all so alike. I hope you and Nick are doing okay. I’ve been a single mom for over half of the years I’ve raised my sons but as you said in your book, that’s a subject for another book. (I have a poetry collection about that too, though a much shorter collection.) I really appreciate the Robert Bly quote you (and your much younger self) shared with us, “The pain is the cracking of the walls as the room grows.” It is a very lovely way to think about the pain. Thank you.
Lastly, thank you for giving me (and clearly lots of other fans of yours) a way to write to you. After such an intimate sharing of your life, I feel like I know you now. It makes me happy to be able to write to you and know you will actually read this. You are certainly a person I wish I could be friends with! Sending you a big hug!
Thank you for your great words! I have lived many of your ‘mother defaults’ and cherish every moment I’ve had with my now-adult children. I swiped away tears and chuckled while reading, but the chapter that grabbed me was “Letting the Silence Play Out.” I am a new (not young) author and experienced the same question from a member of a book talk audience that had everyone chortling and me nodding and smiling, but it’s the voices of my grandchildren giggling and sharing stories I’m afraid of missing, so I’m making my audiologist appointment tomorrow.
Best wishes for all you do.
And if you’re ever looking for a cozy mystery diversion…
I listened to a few minutes of your interview on FRESH AIR and will listen later to the entirety of it. I just didn’t want to lose this impetus to share how wonderful it was to hear you in a non judgemental and more relaxed scenario than your broadcast on All Things. Please know: no one ever asked Daniel Schorr when he was going to step away from his role. I am so tired of female professionals being pressed about their capabilities as they gain wisdom. And please: encourage others Not to have facelifts. Everyone is starting to look like mannequins! But, most of all: you Sound so much better in the relaxed, more thoughtful voice. And We Need That Voice! Wherever Life takes you, there will be listeners!
I have been riveted listening to your new book, It Goes So Fast. As the mother of two sons (now 35 and 39) I relate to your heart expanding as you watch them grow into men. You nailed (for me) descriptions of your aching mother’s heart. Beautiful and profound. Thank you for seizing the moment and leaving this profound piece of legacy.. Your sons must feel the depth of your love and commitment.
I am now into my third act (though it’s taken years to let go of the identify and the sense of worth I experienced in my career as a therapist and life coach). It’s nice over here. I am living from the question, “What would your heart truly love?”
Thank you for the blessing of your book. I love the tone and resonance of your voice. So comforting and grounding.
Hi, So I just saw your segment on WTTW/PBS. I’ve listened to your reports for many years on WBEZ – you do a great job! And, just so you know, this is a WHISTLE for you! 🙂 🙂 You’re a very lovely woman. Hot too! Really!
Hi. I took a break from a career that I loved, and that was just really taking off, to stay at home with my 2 young children. Also my husband required a lot of support for his career (game warden). I ghost write his papers and iron his clothes and have apple sauce in my hair. I homeschool. We also live in a rural, rural part of Florida. I am a self described feminist with a masters degree- how did I even get here!? It just felt right for my family, and I am so happy to be there for all of them. At the same time desperately miss the life I left. I get the same, weird feeling/ cringe you described when I see a former colleague/competitor/women I respect – “living the dream”. I have been out of my field for 7 years now. I don’t know if I can or will go back. I think I can.
Tonight, while I was cooking dinner, my husband called to say he would be home late, late (thats a long ass day in the middle of no-where with no adults to talk to) and I was feeling bitter. I turned on the radio and you were being interviewed about your new book.
It made me feel justified and hopeful at the same time. It was real nice to hear. Thank you for writing it. Xo
Outstanding appearance on Fresh Air today. Remarkably you are as good an interviewee as you are an interviewer.
Keep up the great work. You are an inspiration.
You and Ari make it a privledge to be a local ATC host. Thank you.
Ed Goist, Coordinator and sometimes Local Host of All Things Considered
WYSU-FM
I’ve enjoyed your reporting NPR for many years. It’s clear, crisp, relatable and answers the questions I would want to ask.
I just heard your interview on Fresh Air. Absolutely loved it. The stories were fascinating. The honesty and thoughtfulness was awesome. Please thank your family for sharing you with all of us. Thank you for all you’ve done (and will do) and thank you for your stories about motherhood.
Just heard about your latest book and will be getting it for my wife for Mother’s Day. Our oldest, who attends an all-boys prep school in MA, was the senior striker on the varsity soccer team, which won the MA D1 state championship this past Fall. He’s going off to a great D1 LAC in upstate NY this Summer and I know it’s going to be tough on my wife. She, like you, just celebrated a milestone birthday and she almost lost her dad to a stroke early in the pandemic. So many similarities to your story. Condolences on the loss of your father and congrats on the successful fledging of your nestling. PS we are members of NHPR.
Hi. My name is Kris Zerrillo and in 2002 I lived in Albany with a young lady named Mary Louise Kelly. We were interns for the NYS assembly legislative session. I know that she was named after her mom so this might not be the same girl. I just wanted to say that I was pleasantly surprised to open my iPad and see your name and Mary, if this is you, you were one of the best housemates and I’m thrilled to have learned that you realized the potential I saw in you. If ya don’t remember me or this isn’t you, that’s cool. I’m not lonely or a stalker. Good luck and rock on with your bad self!
I listened to your interview with Scott Simon
with your latest book
August 3 1990 I lost my daughter she suffered horribly she had an immune deficiency
She spent most of herl life in a hospital
Six weeks before her fifth birthday she died
But not in my heart I have tackled this for decades something you said changed my perspective of her loss (paraphrasing) you spoke of your young child of how things/ life would change
I miss my girl 33 years later my heart continues to be empty without her until you spoke of recalling the joy of her time with you
Somehow I feel responsible she would have never suffered if it wasn’t for me and my wife
I get it but what a joy she was the prettiest and most intelligent girl she indured a lot but she always smiled when I came to see her
She was a happy girl despite her condition
If you want to write another book ( cuz I can’t write) I can give you a life short lived and she gave me life
Candace Elaine Hayden
Elaine is my Moms middle name
Just finished reading your interview in The Washington Post. Like you, I’ve been hard-of-hearing for the past 30 years. In my case, it’s from Meniere’s Disease. I’m mostly Deaf now…and I am still a cantor at my local synagogue. Being Deaf doesn’t mean you must give upo what you love best. I’m living proof. In my case, we think it’s muscle memory and visual cues from others in our Shabbat band. But this is not why I write you today. You’re in Washington DC. Home of Gallaudet University. There are people at Gallaudet (Gally) who can teach you, your family and your co-workers American Sign Language (ASL) so you can continue to be part of the conversation. ASL has been a life-changer for me. During interviews, you can ask questions and watch the interpreter to make sure you understand the answers. Captioning on your mobile phone also works…and is a lot easier, but not nearly as satisfying. One of the last times I could hear the radio, you had just finished chewing up and spitting out Mike Pompeo. Not since Noah Adams had I enjoyed an interview that much. Wishing you every success. PS If you get rechargable hearing aids, you don’t need to worry about getting them wet.
I just read an article about your new book addressing hearing loss. I don’t know if you mention it in your book, but there is a wonderful free phone app called Olelo Captioned Calls which transcribes phone conversations. It is a lifesaver for me. I have severe bilateral hearing loss and have been wearing hearing aids since 2008.
I stumbled upon your book The Bullet by accident I purchased it in audiobook for an upcoming trip I thought I would listen to a bit just to make sure it interested me. I loved it and couldn’t stop listening! I finished it before my road trip. Then I downloaded Anonymous Sources and when I arrived at my first destination I sat in my car as I didn’t want to stop listening. Needless to say in less than a week I listened to both of your books, and I can not wait for the next one!
Mary Louise,
Thank you for interviewing Marie Yovanovitch. She has given a major part of her life serving the United States through her career in foreign service. I think it is important for history to document her story, patriotism, courage, and internal strength.
Robert Krieger
You have an amazing gift when interviewing to be able to reach the listener. One morning as I was driving last week when Russia first invaded Ukraine you had an interview with a mother IVANKA GONAK and it really hit me and so I have been following the situation more closely. This interview I was able to relate with coming from the aspect of a mother and wanting to shield your children. I was able for a moment to see past my daily life and have empathy for what she was going through. Have you heard any updates on her family and how they are doing? I think about her and her situation often hoping for the best for them.
I have been listening to you for years experienced many drive through moments with you and other NPR staff members.. You are a spectacular journalist. I am writing you today because of the interview with the social scientist. Wow, right on the money for me. I will soon be 66. I am retiring from law enforcement to live in the Dominican Republic,. I am learning Spanish and Latin dances, Looking forward to playing Jazz guitar, preaching in Spanish and getting married again. I have never been happier or more excited about my future. That guy is right on the money. Its your mind set that makes the difference.
I enjoyed The Bullet very much. It had something I’ve never seen, a character named Fleeman (Gerry Fleeman, the cold case investigator). Fleeman is my maiden name and I’ve never seen it in a book before. Did you know someone with that name in Georgia? There are several there, though they are not related to me. The name is old and has been in the US since the revolution. But it’s pretty unusual. Anyway, I enjoyed that tidbit.
I will check out Anonymous Sources.
Thanks
Joan Fleeman Spiegel
Dear Joan,
Well-spotted! I do indeed know a Fleeman in Georgia — my brother married one. Since the book is very much about brothers, it was fun to throw my brother’s wife’s name in there somewhere. I often use the names of friends and family in my books… as you will when you read Anonymous Sources! The protagonist is named for my favorite people in the world.
Best,
Mary Louise
Hello Ms. Kelly:
I started reading “The Bullet” last night and finished it this morning. I love it even more than “Anonymous Sources,” although that’s a tough choice to make.
I’m a freelance reporter now writing my first mystery. On top of loving your novel, I admire the way you handled so many aspects of your craft.
I hope we can expect a third novel from you.
Thanks–
Oh thank you! I’m honored. And cheering you on as you write your own mystery. It’s both really satisfying and really hard, isn’t it? Wishing you much luck and success with your debut novel. And thank you for spurring me back to the keyboard myself!
As a student in college with hearing loss, contemplating acquiring hearing aids, what would be your most preeminent advice? How have they benefited you?
1) Make an appointment with a good audiologist. Does your university health service have a recommendation maybe? This is important to establish a baseline: how advanced is your hearing loss, what kind of hearing loss do you have, is there anything you can do to prevent it getting worse?
2). If they suggest hearing aids, give it a shot. What’s to lose? You no doubt have friends who wear glasses or contact lenses to see; you may need hearing aids to hear; what’s the difference?The new models are pretty small and unobtrusive. They bluetooth with your phone which is a total game changer; I hadn’t been able to properly hear a phone call for years!
How they have benefited me? They have allowed me to continue working in a job I love. They have allowed me to enjoy concerts and theatre and movies… to hear my children laughing in another room… to hear birdsong on my morning walk. To enjoy and fully engage in life, in other words.
After listening to your interview and then reading your biography, I am awestruck. Immediately it brought to mind the words that described The Skipper on Gilligan’s Island – “Brave and Sure”!!!
Me, too. I’ve been going to audiologists for decades and getting those tests, after which they’ve always said that my hearing was perfect. To which I’ve said, “Then why can’t I hear?”
Yes, I can hear the tones. And I can hear the tones when someone is speaking. And as a lifelong professional musician, I can even tell you what those tones are. But I can’t tell you what the words are.
But, then, two years ago, I had sudden total hearing loss in one ear — not the ideal situation for a working musician, arranger and record producer. I sing in a group, and do comedy between songs, which is scary with this much hearing loss. I tried three types of hearing aids, but had to stop using them because all they did was increase the volume, but did not make the sounds clearer; plus the sound was unbearably harsh, even after adjusting the tone, etc.
You are the first person, other than me, whom I’ve heard say that, in the tests, you, also, could hear the tones but not the words. I’ve had to figure out various tricks to continue playing music with people, as well as getting along in life, but, like you, I’ve had much trouble with the masks, plexiglass walls, and people who just don’t speak loudly and/or clearly.
I too just heard the hearing loss episode. I’ve always liked your reporting and stories on NPR but I have a newfound respect, admiration and interest in you knowing this aspect of your existence.
Thank you so much for sharing – truly awesome
I just heard the piece around your hearing loss and I can’t thank you enough for sharing with those of us facing a similar situation as well as to educate those without hearing loss the challenge we have trying to hear them.
This is not my first round of hearing loss as I was predominantly deaf as a chil which wasn’t realized until I started attending 1st grade and they did an auditory test. Similar to what you shared, I did ok when I was facing them as I had learned to read lips and body cues, but when they turned me away I couldn’t hear anything. I had surgery which gave me hearing but now some 40+ years later it’s going away again.
I’ve struggled with what to do, I think mainly fear of what it will be like starting to hear again. I relate to your going to Starbucks and being overcome by the sounds, my experience was hearing silverware dropped.
We have similar stories and in hearing yours (funny), I think it helped me know I’m not alone in my experience.
All this to really say, Thank You for sharing and maybe helping me view the situation differently than I have been.
I’m glad to hear from you, and glad if hearing my story helped you know you are not alone. You are not! I have heard from so many people, of all ages, who wrestle with hearing loss… And so many people who are finding things even harder during Covid. (The double whammy of masks, muffling voices and making it impossible to read lips!)
Please know I am rooting for you and sending support as you navigate these next steps.
I so enjoyed both of your books. Your main characters have unique characteristics that stand out in my mind long after finishing the books. I hope you continue to write fiction, you are very good at it!
And having heard you speak about your hearing loss, perhaps that will be incorporated into your next book?
Ms. Kelly, thank you for your kind reply. As I read more about you, your bravery shows how engaged you are in the world. Your children must be highly enlightened! Navigating the world with deafness can sometimes isolate and cause withdrawal, and it creeps up if you let it. From reading your bio, I doubt that will be an issue for you. Losing hearing post-lingually can make a big difference in the daily adjustments to communication, but you already have a wonderful approach to that. I am curious, have you explored the possible benefits of Cochlear Implants? Hearing folks (I am hearing) sometimes put too much pressure on the deaf to adjust to our world. Keifer was evaluated as a toddler but we decided to preserve the hearing he had at the time. Now as a young adult, Keifer declined them, making the thoughtful decision to continue with speech reading and sign language, saying he is fine as he is. Please keep interviewing, continue to open up the world with your reporting experience, and never back down. I am in awe.
Ms. Kelly, thank you. I congratulate you for your stunning courage in discussing hearing loss. I am grateful to experience your story, albeit through my son, Keifer. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. He is deaf. Most folks cannot fathom the sheer hard work it took for him to achieve that degree through sign language and his unrelenting determination. It’s a truth he’s dealt with all his life. But the consequences became very clear in starting a career, and the rejections began. All of your experiences can be multiplied one hundred fold in Keifer’s life, being a deaf child, gifted in math and academics, yet not fully accepted by either the hearing or the deaf community. Hearing loss is the invisible disability. It is the only disability that brings out anger in others when they confront the difficulty in communication it causes. It’s recognized the moment a puzzled, often angry look comes over the face of someone trying to speak to Keifer. It’s only by his courage and determination that he’s able to rise above the constant confusion and even ridicule by seemingly mature adults, when he does not reply right away. Children are more honest and ask up front, “Why does he talk like a robot?” I commend you for owning up to something that is life-altering, private, and mind rattling to someone who’s livelihood depends on clear communication. You are amazing. When the pandemic is over, I would love to give you a hug. Thank you for shining a light on the realities of hearing loss. And if your contacts might lead to a career leap for a young man who wants nothing more than to help others with his engineering skills, please let me know.
What a thoughtful letter. Your son is lucky to have you as a mom, fighting at his side. He sounds like an amazing young man. My struggles are straightforward in comparison; I am fortunate in that I enjoyed normal hearing through my childhood and early career, and still have some hearing in both ears. But none of this is easy.
Thank you for taking the time to write. Your courage and love shine out from your note. Wishing you and Keifer success; we will all be better off when he is able to deploy his intelligence and skills and work ethic in the world.
Okay. I’d like to respond to your Tweet stating that there’s no evidence of voter fraud. I’m not even gonna waste my time compiling any lists, etc. Instead, let’s focus on the broader issue. Every major news publication is guilty of manipulating information and swaying public opinion. Also, Hollywood entertainment uses years of subversion to change cultural normalcy. Perhaps, this explains why so many people are willing to vote for their own demise. The Far Left media can steer people into any direction which they so-desire.
In addition, the Democrats buy votes using the promise of welfare programs. Plus, catch and release promises BLMers that they can commit crimes with full impunity. So, they’ll vote for the party which renders them ABOVE the law. Plus, let’s not forget the manner in which mainstream media incites hatred against Whitey.
So, this is the broader issue. Can the media control the masses? You bet. Thanks for listening.
Ms. Kelly. I just read your article about the difficulty of using hearing aids when conversing with those who have masks on. I am an Audiologist and there are studies showing that masks reduce the amplification between 2000 and 8000 Hz. Have your audiologist provide an additional program (universal/mask) and increase the gain by 2 steps between the above range and then 2 more steps between 4000 – 8000 Hz.
This is still not perfect, but will certainly help.
Living in Tucson, Arizona and about to order new hearing aids. I have ten year old aids to replace, Arizona Vocational services is helping with the cost, or I would be going without.
My selection is Phonak, Starkey and Oticon behind the ear. A must is to work with the iPhone.
Since most of the companies are international, thought I would ask a friend in Berlin who as I do Usher Syndrome to what he prefers and why? Then I also thought of you and your recent article in the Wall Street Journal. I loved it, relatable! The task of choosing hearing aids and using them is / can be daunting. I am in that place. It would mean a great deal to me if you would share your thoughts on hearing aids. FB NancyKateGrayson
Hearing your voice on NPR near daily gives me a lift that I can keep at it with my own work, dreams and goals. Thank you for sharing about your own hearing loss and life.
Studying the website facts and sales pitches his weekend to make an order next week, was gven short notice. Hurry up and wait with Covid and all. Grateful.
Thank you for writing. I’ve worn both Phonak and Oticon; you are right that bluetooth syncing with the iPhone is hugely helpful. I’m of course not qualified to advise on your personal choice, but a good audiologist should be able to let you try a set for a few days and then bring them back if they’re not the right fit. Good luck as you figure it out, and hope the new pair change your life for the better!
Thank you for the kind reply.
We are set to trial Starkey’s AI series, after much research on my part. My Phonak aids lasted quite a while – 10 years. Yet time to embrace all the technology bells and whistles available. Working with the University of Arizona Hearing Clinic, nice to have a graduate student, and a professor / Dr. of Audiology’s impute this round.
I just read your interview of 11/1/2019 with Ed Norton regarding his movie “Motherless Brooklyn”, which I found most entertaining. In the interview, you (and Mr. Norton) unquestioningly repeat the canard propagated originally by Robert Caro, that Robert Moses deliberately made parkway bridge clearances low just to keep certain minorities from using the parkways (because buses were not able to travel on them due to low bridge clearance), as if this was some diabolical plot cooked up solely by him. This is a false piste! (Another useful French word that might apply in this case).
Au contraire, Parkways were deliberately designed to keep any and all commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, vans and lorries off of them. There were less affluent people of all races and ethnicities living in NYC who did not yet own a car in the 1920’s and ’30’s: for example, recent immigrant poor Italians and east European Jews, and Irish laborers (all three were far larger population groups than blacks in New York City at the time). Was Moses therefore an anti-Semite (though Jewish himself), or rabidly anti-Italian (seems not, he had a close if fiery working relationship with Mayor La Guardia)?
Even now, if you look at NY state’s parkway system (or Connecticut’s for that matter), the low bridge clearance model and the reasons for it are clearly spelled out on their web site. These parkways were created as what was then considered environmentally friendly thruways (with parks around them to allow drivers/families to get out and enjoy nature), not purely commercial arteries. (And for the time, they were truly innovative).
The first of these, and the model for all future parkways, The Bronx River Parkway, was designed and built well before Robert Moses ever laid an inch of roadway and years before he was the Parks and Parkway Commissioner. The design feature of low bridge clearances was established by the architects and engineers who started that first, Bronx River Parkway in 1917 (while Moses was just finishing his PhD and starting his career), and it became the norm for all that followed. Don’t take my word for it, check yourself. Here’s just one cultural historian’s point of view re the Bronx River Parkway as the model for all that followed:
“Established to help clean the polluted Bronx River, this 15.5-mile parkway lays within the 1,155-acre Bronx River Parkway Reservation. The Westchester section of the parkway, built between 1917 and 1925, was the nation’s first limited-access highway; construction of the Bronx section began during the early 1920s with landscape architect Hermann Merkel and field supervisor Gilmore Clarke.
The early automotive era challenged designers to retain traditional aesthetic standards while accommodating the demands of early automobiles. Bronx River Parkway design solutions set precedent across the country. The passages of scenery of open space, woodland, and rocky ledges that characterize the drive and the river are nearly always in sight. As part of this work, seven miles of billboards that previously lined the Bronx River were removed. Engineers Leslie Holleran and Arthur Hayden developed rigid frame bridges, allowing wider spans and thinner profiles, facilitating construction of split grade interchanges.” – Source: The Cultural Landscape Foundation
That era had completely different imperatives than our own, and many different builders were involved, though certainly Moses became the most important of these. Recent architectural historians understand this (see the writings of Professors Hillary Ballon and Kenneth Jackson, NYU and Columbia). So if one accuses Moses of “racism by bridge design”, then we must also include Franklin Roosevelt (Chairman of the Taconic State Parkway when it was built, with exactly the same low clearance features); Wilbur Cross (Governor of Connecticut when the Merritt Parkway was built with exactly the same low clearance features), Governors Al Smith and Herbert Lehman of New York, and practically all of the well known bridge and parkway designers and engineers of the time. Obviously, it must have been one big grand conspiracy! We might also note that “Expressways” and “Highways” have higher clearance bridges, to allow commercial traffic (and are usually much longer – the Taconic, New York’s longest parkway is just over 100 miles, while Interstate 95 goes all the way from Maine to the southern tip of Florida.)
Parkways were simply built for a different purpose, which in its original intent was threefold: 1) “environmental” or what we might term “green”; 2) recreational; and 3) utilitarian. The one thing practically all of them excluded? Commercial vehicles: so automobile drivers and their families would have unhindered views of and access to the surroundings, and cleaner air (no trucks or buses belching out noxious fumes – there were no catalytic converters back then).
So in fact, the builders of the Parkways could be said to be among our earliest environmentalists and democratizers. The Bronx River was polluted and cluttered with billboards before the Parkway builders restored it, and much of Long Island was the playground of the rich before Moses enabled the average working man to get out there, and have a modern, clean beach to go to (Jones Beach) whether by train or car.
Regarding this last point (access to the beach from NYC), it is rarely mentioned that Robert Moses created direct bus lines from the train stop coming out of NYC closest to Jones Beach, with a direct bus connection to Jones Beach from the train terminal. So even if they didn’t own a car to go to the beach via Parkways, low income city dwellers did indeed have access to the beach, which was Moses’ first successful project completed under Governor Al Smith. Yes, the train + bus connection took longer than driving directly to the beach by car. But this fact nonetheless undermines Caro’s charge. Those dedicated bus lines were specifically put there to carry anyone who did not have a car from the closest train terminus to the beach and back, so that families (of any income level) living in NYC could enjoy a day at the beach with a relatively inexpensive train ride and short bus connection. Such buses are still in use today is my understanding, testifying to their utility.
Smith wanted votes: he was not so stupid as to exclude the vast majority of NYC’s voters who as yet may not have owned a car, from the most beautiful new beach then in existence. Otherwise he would not have served as governor for as long as he did. New York City was the largest voting block in the state, and gubernatorial terms were only two years then, so he had to win reelection several times before being nominated in 1928 as the Democratic presidential candidate. In fact, part of the reason he got the nomination was that the people of the time admired the innovative infrastructure that he built in his administration with the collaboration of Robert Moses.
One of the reasons journalism (and Hollywood) is so mistrusted is that with the dawn of the Internet it has become obvious that journalists (plus entertainers, and in fact most of us mere mortals) keep repeating each others’ shibboleths, as if in an echo chamber, instead of doing the basic and very simple work of looking up the facts before making sweeping statements of “truth”.
As we all know, though there are many false “pistes”, verification of a claim such as Caro’s is easier these days with the research tools available on the Internet. This is not to say that Robert Moses did not hold racial and or ethnic prejudices and stereotypes (I believe he did, as did many of his peers, which is not to justify or excuse them). Rather, that in this instance, the “racism by bridge clearance” charge so often repeated by journalists and “experts” is clearly itself biased and a ‘false piste’ allegation by Caro and Knopf against Moses to support Caro’s own disdain for the NYC of the 1960’s and ’70’s, the decaying condition of which he blamed on Moses as a convenient scapegoat, which itself is highly debatable (particularly in light of more recent scholarship on the subject).
Caro wanted to “stick” something sensational on Moses for purposes of selling his book, and it has stuck ever since. I would rather stick to an older rule: “Thou shalt not bear false witness.”
Respectfully, I would suggest you might want to reconsider your point of view on this topic, and ask Mr. Norton to investigate further too; I think what you will both find will surprise and possibly even inspire you. There are plenty of grey areas in this story, take a look at both sides – it’s not all black and white. Also, for anyone interested, please look up Robert Moses’ letter of rebuttal to Caro and his editor Knopf. It’s not too taxing, in spite of his frequent allusions to great poets and writers, and at only about 10 pages packs in a lot. It’s highly entertaining too.
For a more nuanced analysis, Professors Jackson and Ballon provide a salutary counterpoint to Caro’s dim view of the period when modern NYC was built (and considered to be the leading city in the world at the time as a result) – by Moses yes, but also by La Guardia, Roosevelt, Lehman, Al Smith, Langdon Post, and many many others too numerous to cite.
Je vous prie de croire, Madame, à mes sentiments les meilleurs (and I mean that),
I am rereading Anonymous Sources at the moment. I am trying to get my Mary Louise Kelly book fix. Oh how I hope you have plans for another book soon. Your stories are stirring. If you find you have time, I am sure that this Corona Crazy (My son’s word) world would be vastly improved if it had a third Mary Louise Kelly book in it. 😀
.08.03.2020 – 10:30 p.m. ET
Mary Louise,
Not sure you’ll read this; you’ve quite a following, no surprise there. We all like to pitch our 2 pennies in whether in agreement, neutral or we disagree but I hope that you are well and still with NPR.
I had not heard your distinctive voice on my favorite NPR stations in some time and thought perhaps I was just missing your air time and input. Glad to see you are still with the NPR gang and look forward to catching “up with you” on your next delivery of news.
Best regards,
Mark Mansour
Yes – very much still at NPR and on air most afternoons for All Things Considered! We have just launched a new podcast too, called “Consider This.” Would love to hear your feedback if you have the chance to listen.
Have you considered getting a cochlear implant? (Re: your article about hearing loss in a pandemic.) You may want to at least be evaluated by a surgeon who specializes in this field to find out if you are a candidate- there’s a good team at Johns Hopkins, for example. These devices excel at improving speech recognition. The outpatient surgery five years ago was simple with minimal downtime, and I could understand words as soon as the device was activated. I chose Cochlear Americas which streams phone calls directly to the external device via Bluetooth, but all three manufacturers have happy customers. I had severe to profound loss in both ears, and had the surgery on the deafest one. It is no exaggeration to say this was a life-changing decision and I consider these devices to be a true miracle of modern science. Best of success to you if you decide to pursue this solution.
I listen to you regularly on NPR and very much enjoy your interviews. I am writing because I read your article in the WSJ on hearing during the pandemic with hearing loss. I was a prosecutor and then a judge and like you lost much of my hearing in my 40’s. I started wearing hearing aids at 43 but struggled during trials catching responses from jurors during voir dire and even sometimes witnesses and lawyers. I also have become a skilled lip reader over the years but am dying with the mask wearing during the pandemic. Mask wearing is a non negotiable for me too but it wreaks havoc on any kind of meaningful conversation. Thank you for writing your article. Your willingness to continue interviewing and doing stories masks and all reminds me to hang in there with the frustrations.
I read your article in the Wall Street Journal titled “The Pandemic is Even Worse When You Can’t Hear.” I wanted to relate to you that as a scientist, there are hearing remedies outside of conventional hearing aids that will significantly improve hearing, especially in regard to word recognition. For example, Harvard graduate, Jonathan V. Wright, MD at his Tahoma clinic in Renton, Washington applies the hormone aldosterone to deaf patients, and these patients often gain 20 decibels of hearing for an 8-hour period. I am personally deficient in this hormone, and I often apply a single dose in my ears if I need to attend an important meeting.
Second, professor Nakagawa, MD in Japan has done extensive research in improving hearing with the key liver hormone IGF-1. In his clinical double-blind placebo- controlled studies, even the totally deaf have improved hearing of 10 decibels on average. In my own studies, I have found that IGF-1 combined with HGH improves both hearing and word recognition when used every third day. I tried to patent my results, but my patent was rejected due to the fact that the scientist Laron holds a patent from 1999.
More details of my research are found in my book “Stay 40,” available on Amazon and in my lectures at medical meetings. Sincerely, Richard Lippman, Honolulu.
I read your hearing aids article and have a suggestion to eliminate the problem of batteries failing ( always at the worst possible time ). I discovered this solution after wearing hearing aids for about a year.
Each week has 168 hours.
Divided in half equals 84 hours.
So, I change them every 84 hours–Sunday at 8PM and Thursday at 8:00AM.
Have never had a battery fail since I started this method.
Thanks for the great column in WSJ on COVID masks and hearing. All familiar. The only positive thing about having a hearing impairment is having Mr. Magoo moments for a good laugh. Knowing that you have hearing loss gives me even more admiration for your wonderful interview style and results.
Your WSJ article on your hearing issues. Most hearing aid manufacturers offer some sort of auxiliary device for TV listening. If yours doesn’t, Sennheiser makes some wireless earphones that are pretty good. I don’t like to watch stuff with subtitles because I can’t multitask.
Read your article in the WSJ re: masks and hearing impairment an hour or so after struggling through a conversation at the Walmart pharmacy with a pharmacy tech who speaks English as a second language, masks, plexiglass AND loud in-store music. You are so right about how we with even slight hearing impairments are challenged right now!
I recently finished Bullet. I liked it even better than Anonymous Sources. As much as I enjoy your contributions to All Things Considered, I hope you will find time for another book. RE ATC Your interviewing skills are amazing. While not faulting other hosts, sometimes their questions sound scripted. When you are doing an interview it is like listening in on a kitchen table discussion. I can feel your interest, your curiosity, and your empathy. Thanks for making the news come alive.
Oh thank you; that is kind. It took me a while as an interviewer to learn that the best interviews are just conversations… two people curious about each other and the world, and listening – really listening – to what the other has to say.
As for writing more fiction… it will happen. Though I face a distinct challenge these days, in trying to come up with plot twists wilder than the reality we are all currently living through!
Mary Louise, I love hearing your voice and getting your expertise on in NPR. You may remember me from your Lovett days. I will be the president of the Midtown Atlanta Rotary club starting in July, and would love to get you on our program calendar for a date and time convenient for you. Is that a possibility? We are a well educated, culturally diverse, community-minded Club; we meet at the Ansley Golf Club. I look forward to hearing from you. Rocky Ford
Rocky,
It’s good to hear from you. And thank you for this kind invitation. Could you share an email or phone number so we I can be in touch?
(If you reply here, I’ll see it but it will not appear publicly).
Best,
Mary Louise
I’m going to be gauche and make a post not about your books.
I l-o-v-e your voice on NPR. Will literally be still and listen to the news and to how you present the news. I’ve read that NPR utilizes a voice coach for all on-air talent. Well, I can hear that coaching in every anchor. But your presentation has a lilt that is so pleasant to listen to. I imagine I’m not the first person to tell you this. No matter; now I can keep listening knowing I’ve paid due homage.
That’s so nice; thank you. NPR does offer us voice training; some correspondents and hosts do more than others. One of the most helpful tips is not to feel like you need to speak in a “big broadcast voice,” talking AT people. Just imagine one person, ideally one that you like, and speak just with them. The smile comes through in your voice.
Dear Ms Kelly . . . Mary Louise,
I am a long-time NPR listener, and after the Mike Pompeo ‘incident’ I ‘Googled’ you, discovered just how accomplished you are, found this website, and decided to try reading your novels. I borrowed “The Bullet” — in Kindle format — from my public library.
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your story. I loved your main character and shared her sense of disbelief and outrage, as events unfolded. I loved her internal monologue, her ingenuity, and her rather dark sense of humor. Having listened to your voice on the radio for so many years, the book almost became an audiobook narrated in your voice, in my own head 🙂 BTW, if you haven’t produced an audioversion of The Bullet in your voice, you really should!!
When libraries reopen, I will get a copy of Anonymous Sources — doesn’t appear to be available as an e-book 🙁
I hope you keep writing novels in what I am sure is your abundant spare time — I will keep reading them. Thank you as well for your work on NPR . . . Americans, the world, needs these resources right now.
First, let me compliment you on two excellent crime novels, Bullet and Anonymous Sources. You have done nice work here. My wife and I are voracious readers, and especially like women authors. You join a great group.
Second, as an emeritus professor of French (my speciality avant-garde poetry) I feel so much at home with you.
Third, as an Italianophile (gap year in Rome, summer teaching study abroad in Tuscany) I share your sensitivities.
Fourth, I smile smugly at the arrogance we share in the face of pompous administrators. Our lives are so much richer than theirs, and I enjoy sharing it with you through your NPR reporting and your lovely novels.
I would like to commend you on your recent interview with Mike Pompeo. The manner in which you conducted yourself, with both focus and civility, was inspiring—given the zeitgeist that this President and his administration tends to engender. I so appreciate the fact that you never allowed Mr. Pompeo to cause you to lose your composure. I would like to think that I too would display this same kind of moxie in a situation like this, but I highly doubt it. You are my hero! Continued success in your future endeavors. Your new number one fan,
Ms Kelly, how grateful I am to have found a contact forum for you to say that you are my hero! When I heard you stand up to the pompous bully, Mike Pompeo, I thanked God for your civility and courage. As a Child Abuse and Neglect Investigator for 32 yrs, I associate the hostile behavior he exhibited w/ frightened, uneducated people trying to evade and obfuscate the facts. I’m so relieved to see that there are still decent people like yourself not afraid to interview tough persons in positions of power in a search for/expose of the truth.
You are a persistent journalist who acted 100% PROFESSIONALLY in your interview with Pompeo These Trumppanzees are all alike in that they are neo-fascist scum. You, on the other hand, are an all-too rare example of good, go-get-’em journalism who will not throw softball questions, let alone allow these scurrilous criminals get away with lies and evasions. Keep it up! Don’t let them bring you down. I am proud of you!
– Martin in Petaluma, CA
The way Mike Pompeo treated you was despicable. Shame on him.
I had no idea that you were also a novelist. I will add you to my list of books to read at goodreads.com
Good wishes on your continued reporting on this administration!
Dear Sir,
Regarding your recent interview with Marie Louise Kelly. I have the following comment.
Marie Louise Kelly was too much of a professional to say it, but I will. You should take that blank map of yours and stick it up your fat ass. Got it, Fatso?
Sincerely,
George H. Thomas
Fr. Michael J. Kavanaughon January 29, 2020 at 10:01 am
Thank you, Ms. Kelly, for standing up to Secretary of State Pompeo, for exposing his subterfuge, and for being a superb journalist. I have never been prouder to be an NPR / Public Radio supporter. Keep up the good work.
I have always enjoyed listening to you on NPR. I find it very difficult to understand certain people who see something grossly wrong (President Trump) yet decide to follow him blindly. AND if you even question him, on anything, you are labeled as unpatriotic. We are talking about educated people who invested money in their education and cannot even tell right from wrong, good from bad, or good from evil.
Thank you for standing up for morally, decent, honest people. You do this through your actions.
It was a DISGRACE for ALL AMERICAN that the President of the United States said those horrible words to Pompeo. (got her good).
QUESTION AUTHORITY, ALWAYS!
Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for being fearless when faced with the rage of a tyrant. Your courage, and that of your fellow journalists, inspires all of us to be courageous and humble. Please continue to ask difficult questions. Please continue to seek the truth. We are all counting on you and your peers. The entire nation is counting on you and your peers. Be strong!
Ms. Kelly, our democracy depends upon courageous journalists who will press those in power to stand responsible for their words and actions. I salute your courage and integrity. You pressed Secretary of State Pompeo for explanations for his actions to a point where he could no longer confuse the issues with salespitch. We need more journalists like you. Thank you.
Thank you for being great. Often I hear that strong voice of yours and think, not only is she smart, but she doesn’t let anyone off the hook. Pompeo sounded a bit stressed…thanks to you!
I guess he just should have taken a deep breath and answered, instead of blaming the questioner.
I’ve listened to you for years, and I trust your tenacity.
Ms. Kelly, Your interview with Secretary Pompeo was revelatory and masterful. It showed your deepest mettle and most perceptive journalistic skills. I have replayed it many times, while attempting to lift my spirits and reinforce that there are still those among us who will speak truth to power.
It appears that Secretary Pompeo has lost his way. Certainly he has forgotten his core principles and lodestone, the West Point Cadet Honor Code: “A cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do.”
The USMA Honor Code is not only ingrained and integral to every cadet’s training, but is also the basis for life long conduct in service to society, going well beyond Duty, Honor, and Country, as I discovered from reading “Cadet Honor Code & System” by LTC Todd Messitt, Special Assistant to the Commandant for Honor Matters. I have provided a link below to that document.
I wish you much continued success Ms. Kelly, and thank you for continuing to search for the truth.
Behind you 100% Ms. Kelly. I have listened to your interviews for years. You ask tough questions and you don’t let your subjects off the hook but you don’t browbeat them either. Sorry our Sec. of State is so juvenile. Very best to you, and keep up the great work!
PS – didn’t know you were an author. Just found “The Bullet” and “Anonymous Sources” in my library and got on the hold list.
Thank you Mary Louise Kelly and others who stand up for what is right, ask hard questions, maintain ethics and integrity and call on others to do the same. Just wanted you to know that your work matters and you have my support – doubling my NPR contribution!
Jon Sering & Pamela Hartsenon January 27, 2020 at 3:22 pm
Ms. Kelly – We just know you wouldn’t have a problem locating the Ukraine on a map. Our Secretary of State? Another matter. Sorry you were treated in such a disrespectful manner. From your reporting on NPR, your professionalism, and the way you present yourself; my wife and I side with you. We guess since Mike Pompeo’s boss always lies, he feels he can do likewise. We know this won’t slow you down one bit in your standards of investigation. Stay positive and know that so many people are behind you and believe YOU.
Dear Ms. Kelly I am eternally grateful that you exposed this unprofessional disrespectful demeaning
anti feminist arrogant immature out of control, man in an important leadership role.
Thank you for having such guts!
Sincerely,
Susan Ferro
Thank you Mary Louise, for standing up for the truth. I am an immigrant, I appreciate the democracy and truthfulness of America, and I am worried about our country’s future. What kind of message we are sending to our people, especially to our kids, that if you lie, deny and viciously attack, you could always get away.
You were incredibly courageous facing Pompeo, and best of all, you made him lose his cool. You are a hero and backbone of this country!
Thank you for your courage, gravitas, and for the sharp, fair questioning you bring to ATC guests on NPR every day. It’s refreshing to hear when you call power to account. In these times where our national leaders are lying to us, and failing us in so many ways, we need you more than ever. For those who care about true American ideals, you have our support!
Thank you, Mary Louise Kelly, for your honest and thorough reporting. You are professional at all times and your reports on NPR are always knowledgeable, thrilling and worth listening to. Your interview with Secretary Pompeo was above reproach, despite any comments to the contrary. Carry on!
Ms. MLK- For years I have listened to you reporting on NPR from around the world. I have always found you through in your reporting. The particular morning in January 2020, I listened to your interview with US-SoS (Mike P). Before all the controversies came into news, that particular morning I felt that you were pointed and through in asking important questions that I would like SoS to answer to me. BRAVO. I also noticed that SoS seemed frustrated as he had NO answers to specifics you were asking him (like alternate denuclearization plan for Iran). He kept going in circle as he/administration has no alternate plans. He must have just realized that he had walked into a den than other outlets that throws him softball questions. You were professional and to the point. I am going to up my donation to NPR. I am sorry that SoS has created these other controversies and NOT you. MARCH ON MLK AND APPLY THE MAXIMUM PRESSURE!
Thank you for your courage and spirit as you endeavor to uncover the approved government line on contentious issues. I pray Mr. Pompeo’s conscience begins to whisper to him after your January 24 interview. Continue to lead us toward a better condition and higher level of awareness and thought.
I join a host of others in gratitude for your thorough, ethical and calm reporting. Thank you for preserving civility in the face of bullying by Pompeo. It is so important for women to see you modeling how to stand up and rise above the undercurrents of contempt, fear mongering and falsehood that are rampant now. Bravo!!
Just a note to tell you how how much I appreciate your reporting on NPR, and I’m sorry you have to deal with this nonsense. Please don’t let this make you anything less than the bold, forthright reporter you have always been. Also, I didn’t know you were a novelist! See? You just made a sale! Best, best regards.
Deep respect and admiration for all your work!!! All solidified listening to your Pompeo interview and the abuse you had to endure after. You have a loyal fan in me!!! Wishing you continued success!!!
Thank you Mary Louise Kelly,
for your honest and thorough reporting. It is upsetting to think that a Secretary of State could present himself it such an unprofessional manner. Please know that despite the comments that Mr. Pompeo has asserted, your long standing reputation for the facts speak for themselves. You are respected and valued by the American Public for what you do.
Your poise and even-handedness in the face of an unbelievably difficult and perhaps even scary interview situation was stunning. I can only imagine the stress and agita that even a consummate pro feels downstream of an experience like that one, but know that millions and millions of people stand behind you and applaud you for your incredible journalistic instincts.
Dear Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for your enlightening interview with the Secretary of State. Perhaps unintentionally, you were the light that revealed to the world the cancer of autocratic power and darkness that now reigns in Washington. Keep up the great work!!
Thank you so much for your direct and unflinching interview with Pompous Pompeo. I appreciated your question regarding an apology to Maria Yovanovitch who deserves a thank you for all her foreign service work. I hope other journalists will also push back when presented with inaccurate responses by Trump or his bullying staff members. Your integrity, knowledge and civility are wonderful to hear and see.
Dear Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for your courageous efforts to bring the truth to the American people. In the face of a terrible bully, you stood your ground and yet in your usual fashion, remained completely respectful. You have been, and remain, a mentor to all of us who love this country and are horrified at the damage that is being done to it. Keep up the good work!
I read your interview about your Iran visit just after the general that was killed. What courage! I noted that you were born in Augsburg. I wonder if your Dad was Major Kelly who was the XO of my artillery battalion. I was a new Lt. June through September 1970 and he didn’t think much of me. If that’s your Dad tell him Dynes kept his head down in Vietnam and didn’t mess things up.
Do you have any proof of your comments about the Secretary of state ? or is this more of the fiction you write ? Nothing in the published recorded interview supports your fake new claims and the written story is full of unsupported claims.
I believe in you. In fact, all humans with a claim to sanity and basic decency believe in you. Thank you for your integrity and persistence in asking questions. Keep up the great work. Your listeners salute you and applaud your efforts.
Ms. Kelly –
Thank you for your reporting and through it your service to our nation. I think the Secretary of State is a man under tremendous pressure, in many/most ways due to his own choices. He treated you badly (personally and professionally), and I appreciate you standing up to him.
I am a long time NPR listener and I appreciate your reports and interviews. Regardless of political preferences and belief, I am sorry you were attacked privately and then publicly by Secretary Pompeo.
I just wanted to add my name to your extensive list of strong supporters of your great journalistic work with ATC on NPR. The All Things Considered listeners are well informed and loyal to the program hosts and reporters.
As mentioned by one of the other commenters, Secretary Pompeo graduated First in his Class at West Point (Duty – Honor – Country); served honorably in Germany as a Tank Commander; and after his service commitment, he went on to Harvard Law School. He practiced law for a few years before being elected a US Congressman from Kansas, serving his district with distinction.
BUT… As you were Witness to (Victim of), a Very Different Version of Mike Pompeo since he has Linked his Star to President Trump and become his prime minister of Mischief. How did this Man who started his career at the Top with Honor, become so Corrupted after being in Trump’s presence.
Many journalists, just as you have, want Answers from him and the State Department as to why the Ambassador was fired for No Cause and treated poorly.
I look forward to your response to my comments. Thank you.
I just listened to your interview of Mike Pompeo. Thank you for asking the tough questions that need to be asked and for persisting and not backing down in the face of his complete and utter arrogance. His behavior and lack of respect for you is a disgrace.
Want to commend you for standing up to the bully secretary. Really appreciated your reporting from Iran as well. Thank you for what you do!
Sonny
PS my wife and I also think that you and Pam Shriver sound exactly the same!
I just heard the audio of your interview with Mike Pompeo and although I didn’t know who you were, it was that moment when you rightfully pushed back and held the mirror to his lying face – you restored my faith in the freedom and the power of the press!!! Wherever you were and whatever you were doing I want you to know that my spirit flew to you and humbly kneeled before you and kissed your hand – Thank you for displaying the professional courage and giving dignity to your reporting and profession!
I am now and will always respectfully be your fan.
ps: please advise your reserved colleagues to do more of what you do – it is their JOB and we the people expect them to do it!!
Thank you for your integrity yesterday and today. You are everything I believe a journalist should be and give me great hope that we all have a voice in this bewildering times! And thank you NPR for standing up for what is true and what is right! I am disappointed and ashamed of Mike Pompeo. .
We just heard your interview with the Secretary Of State. 1. You are an inspiration, and we say bravo. 2. We love your work on “ All Things . . .” Actually, we love all our NPR friends. Don’t know what we’d do without you guys. Be well,
A
I’m a big fan and want to commend you for standing up to US secretary of state Mike Pompeo. He is the worst kind of politician and part of the criminal regime that is this administration. You are a hero for standing up to him and reporting thoughtful and true stories. I saw a meme today that stated, “Trump terrified that Pompeo will ask him to identify the USA on a blank map of the world!” Keep doing the great work that makes me so proud of you and NPR!
I just heard your interview of Mike Pompeo and I was flabbergasted that someone who reputedly finished first in his class at West Point could treat someone as smart as you are, so foolishly. For him to test the geographic knowledge and acumen of someone with your educational credentials and background, having been born in Germany as part of an American family, having graduated magna cum laude at Harvard, as well as a graduate degree from Cambridge, and having served as an editor for NPR news and as the current co-host of All Things Considered. It’s amazing that he had the temerity to confront you with a challenge about where in the world The Ukraine is situated, and then to lie about your response as reputedly not knowing the relative location of a country bordering The Black Sea as opposed to one on The Bay of Bengal, he cannot even invent a believable accusation and he has no idea just who you are. This is the Secretary of State that Donald J Trump deserves. A case of the foolish leading the blind. The story solidified your knowledge and reputation. – FJC
I just read a huffpo article about the incident with Pompous (the arrogance of that man) and I just wanted to tell you that you are an RBG level bad ass. Put him in any other job and that little stunt would get him fired, but not in this administration that relies so heavily on rudeness, arrogance, and self-righteousness. I applaud you for reporting the full story and for bringing his atrocious behavior to light. I doubt he would have done this to a man.
I listen to you all the time. Keep fighting the good fight!
Thanks for all that you and your NPR colleagues do to bring the truth to the American people. I believe that fearless reporting like yours will help bring about justice. Thanks for being a light in dark places, and keep up the good and important work.
Thank you for pressing the Secretary of State in such a respectful and straightforward manner. Hopefully the Democratic candidates will follow your lead…or maybe another late entry?
I can not believe what I heard today on the radio…First the whole interview you did with the Sec of State was amazing… you were respectful and you simply did not back down. I would have backed off a dozen times, but you pressed on and rightly so. But the coda to the interview — being called into his “living room office” alone – how scary. And being yelled at by Mike Pompeo is so awful to me on so many levels — to think we have a person who would yell at you like that and use the language that he did is just plain sad… I think these men in this administration are a new low. You are one brave woman, Mary Louise Kelly. I’m thoroughly Inspired by you. Standing up to a powerful man like that and continue to ask pertinent, essential questions and counter his answers with facts, just blew me away. You just kept on coming. I’m a strong woman, and I’ve photographed powerful men — but you are a major badass. I love listening to you and now even more so. Keep teaching us not to back down, just not to cower and quit demanding answers.
I can not believe what I heard today on the radio…First the whole interview you did with the Sec of State was amazing… you were respectful and you simply did not back down. I would have backed off a dozen times, but you pressed on and rightly so. But the coda to the interview — being called into his “living room office” and being yelled at by Mike Pompeo is so awful to me on so many levels — to think we have a person who would yell at you like that and use the language that he did is just plain sad… I think these men in this administration are a new low. You are one brave woman, Mary Louise Kelly. I’m thoroughly Inspired by you. Standing up to a powerful man like that and continue to ask pertinent, essential questions and counter his answers with facts, just blew me away. You just kept on coming. I’m a strong woman, and I’ve photographed powerful men — but you are a major badass. I love listening to you and now even more so. Keep teaching us not to back down, just not to cower and quit demanding answers.
Thank you so much for your persistent and determined interview with Mike Pompeo. I love your BBC style and I hope you and your colleagues continue in this manner. I often listen to BBC news because I find their style of news dissemination so real and truthful. I now feel like I really “ know “ Mike Pompeo in a whole new way! Your courage is inspiring …
Hello from Canada,
I’m going to order my first book of yours. To be honest, I found you when searched hearing loss in my 40’s…read your article in the Washingtonian…and cried. This week I was told officially that I have to go see an audiologist, and I’ll be honest again, I’m terrified.
I read your article and it made me laugh, cry, feel better about facing loss. I’ve been using closed captioning to watch television for years to avoid going to the doctor. So thank you and know that you helped a stranger tremendously. 🌻Kim
I am happy to read this and thrilled if my writing helped in some small way. I’ve been meaning to write again about hearing loss, because I hear often from people touched by that short essay. Please do see a good audiologist so you are informed about your options. I found it all less scary once I had the facts. In fact, you are reminding me to go schedule my annual appointment. Hearing loss can be terrifying and isolating and just annoying. But you will be amazed — really amazed — what a difference hearing aids can make. I’ll be rooting for you.
I listened to your interview this afternoon with Olivia Wilde and how people are calling their childhood friends to reconnect. I wish I could, but my best friend from 7th grade until my senior year in HS died in a car crash when she was 17. I have had intense friendships since then, but they have waned over the years. Perhaps this one would have too, but now it is frozen in time. After 40 years, I will still have dreams where she shows up in my life and explains how she was alive this whole time. But then I wake up and return to reality.
I am sorry for your loss. I imagine such a loss never entirely leaves you. First friendships run so very deep. Thank you for listening, and for taking the time to write.
I am just curious to know if you have plans to release a new book in the near future. As someone who likes to binge read authors who tell great stories, I have been checking your website every so often for the last couple of years. What can I say? I loved Anonymous Sources and The Bullet. I am looking forward to the next story.
So glad you asked! I am writing! The maelstrom of the Washington news cycle (aka my day job) does not make it easy. BUT I wrote a chapter of the next book last night. Will try to add to that this weekend, and then… just keep going. Thanks for sticking with me!
just reading your first book and loving it! I only stopped because my eyes need a rest and wanted to tell you. . can’t wait to finish and get Bullet.
the sexiness is perfect and I love your characters.
I would love to read the book “the bullet” but then in de Dutch version.
I have to wait a long time because a book store says it is available to buy in june 2020
But why take it so very long????
Mary, I met you at your grandmothers funeral last week. I grew up with your father. I bought and read your book Bullit. I couldn’t put it down. I even learned some French words. I really enjoyed it and encourage you to keep writing. Yours Ralph Ruebel
It meant a great deal to my dad that you were there. Thank you. And thank you for reading The Bullet and for your sweet note! I’m delighted you enjoyed it. And yes, I plan to write a third novel so watch this space.
Hi Mary Louise,
I enjoy your reporting on NPR and have enjoyed both your books. But I was dismayed at the end of The Bullet that the crime was left unsolved with the police looking (incorrectly) for a black man. Too often in America, black men have been wrongfully fingered and arrested and convicted of crimes they never committed. Your book is fiction, thankfully, but I wanted to raise this issue since none of your characters mentioned any misgivings. What would your characters Beamer and Caroline do if the police ended up wrongly arresting some innocent black man, in their effort to solve the crime?
Fine interview with David Nevins about the legacy of Steve Bochco, but it was a bit unfair to imply that there was no evolution in the police procedural formal between “Dragnet” and Hill St. Blues”. What about “Naked City”, especially in the 1-hour version? (It went off the air before you and Nevins were born, but can be seen on You Tube, or on DVD.) It portrayed the detectives as humans, not cardboard cut-outs, and gave serious treatment to the problems of the people encountered in police work, and not all issues were tied up neatly in a bow by the end of the hour. Also, you get to see some great NY actors, some at early stages of their careers, and it was filmed on the streets of gritty, pre-gentrified NYC! “Naked City” and “Route 66” were produced by Herbert B. Leonard and many episodes were written by Stirling Silliphant, a highly-creative and independent team.
Hi Mary!
I’m writing you on behalf of our Crime Fiction course at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. We just read and discussed The Bullet in our course and really are curious about the woman who inspired the book. We were curious about whether or not you ever followed up with her and found out her story. Big fans of the book!
I did indeed follow up with her. She’s got an intriguing story–and what appears indeed to be a bullet in her neck–but no idea how it got there. She’s had MRIs and CAT scans that show a slim, tapered metal object lodged near the base of her neck. She has never had surgery around that area, has never been in an unusual accident, has no clandestine past. (Funniest moment of my interview with her: “Have you ever suffered a head injury or amnesia?” “I don’t think so; but how would I remember?”) So long story short, it remains a mystery. Perfect fodder for a novel! And I can only hope that however the bullet got into her neck, it was not so traumatic a chain of events as the history I imagined for Caroline Cashion!
Greetings Ms Kelly,
Wanted to pass along kudos for your interviewing style on ATC. Impressed with your ease in speaking with personalities as diverse as Mary Lou McDonald and Nathaniel Rateliff. You clearly do your homework. If you are unaware, your voice and speaking style is eerily similar to Pam Shriver. Perhaps a case of twin sisters of different mothers!
Mark,
Thanks for this note. I haven’t heard the Pam Shriver comparison. (Although long-lost twin sisters would make for a promising beginning to a novel…!) Appreciate your kind words, and your taking the time to write.
Best,
Mary Louise
Yup…I just Googled you to see your face…was SHOCKED that you didn’t look like Pam! Also, what a pleasant surprise to find out you’re an author in my favorite genre. Great job on ATC!
Thanks for writing two wonderful books. Of the 432 authors I have read and kept track of over the years you are one of the few on my list that are must reads. One of 35 to be exact.
As a rabid do-it-yourselfer I do have one question, and only one, after reading Anonymous Sources: I was wondering what happened to the umbilical cord?
My husband are new-comers to your fan base. Please keep the novels coming! Both were great reads. I agree with many commentators that we need to see more of Alex Smith.
We are in awe of your writing style. Fast paced, great character development, no extraneous descriptive passages. That shows respect for your readers in my opinion.
Judy Schwartz
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed “Anonymous Sources”. It took me less a day to read it–couldn’t put it down. I looked it up because I have enjoyed your reporting for years. I read it because it had a female protagonist ensnared in the intelligence world. It is incredibly difficult to find that, even in this day and age (especially when we know women are so central in the world o counterterrorism).
I am compelled to ask, any advice for another female author who also has novel with a female protagonist working in the world of intelligence? How do you get an agent to believe this can sell?
Delighted to connect with a fellow writer who enjoys creating female characters in the world of espionage! There IS appetite for such works. Another one to check out, if you haven’t already, is RED SPARROW by Jason Mathews. The movie is about to come out, so it will be getting more attention–and I very much enjoyed the novel.
Best of luck, and thanks so, so much–both for reading and for writing.
I loved ‘Anonymous Sources’ and the character of Alex James. PLEASE, could we have more? Also, I listened to the audiobook and Therese Plummer was total perfection!
So glad you enjoyed! Have you read my second book, The Bullet? Alex James makes a cameo appearance. And yes, I would love to write another book with Alex as protagonist (and also a return for Lucien Sly!) Such immensely entertaining characters to write — I still hear their voices in my head, as I move through my daily routines.
Saw Bullet on the new books table in my library and was I intrigued by the short narrative. It was a good read and the twist at the end made it all the better. Madame Aubuchon reminds me of my Aunt Simone who taught French literature and poetry at elite prep schools and several small liberal art colleges in the northeast for 50 years. She also had a small apartment on Rue de la Pompe in 16th arrondissement to recharge her batteries every summer. I stayed there for several summers as a teenager roaming the streets of Paris. My only concern was Ms. Kelly’s describing how men and women interact often with an over the hill preoccupation and stereotypical description of men behaving badly IMHO. Do I believe women have been harassed? Yes, but do we automatically believe every accusation and then summarily dismiss calls for due process. Novels reflect society showing the good, the bad and the ugly. Bullet is no different, but the story line fortunately keeps you there to the end. BTW I attended Georgetown in 60’s, but our Tombs was called the Good Guys on Wisconsin doing “guy” things, but surprised how many women showed up. C’est la vie.
Mary Louise,
I recognized your name from listening to NPR at WABE when looking for a good read at the library. I must say “The Bullet” was quite a story. The last twist was totally unexpected. Having lived most of my life in Atlanta, many trips to Lake Burton, and a dear lifetime friend who lives on Eulalia, I certainly knew the geography of that part of the book.
I have really enjoyed you hosting on Morning Edition. These are tough times and you don’t back down.
Hi, After listening to you on ATC, I had to find your website and learn more. So enjoy your intelligence, insight and probing questions…not to mention your Great Voice! Perfect for radio.
Now that I know more, I will read your novels.
With admiration,
Bridget Smith
THANK YOU, MLK, for your interview just now with the NPR CEO (c. 4:30 p.m. Weds 1 Nov 2017). Thank you for not letting him get away with vague statements; thank you for pressing him. I have been making donations to NPR / my local NPR stations in various cities for the past 40+ years, and ** That Interview** allows me to continue.
Should another such situation occur — and it seems likely that it will — do not let the perpetrator get away with evasive and uninformative answers.
Thank you so much. Not an interview you ever want to have to do. But it needed to be done, and it was a privilege to be able to pose those questions to management, on behalf of all the women at NPR.
What a nice surprise to be able to listen to you each morning on NPR…a big upgrade! I hope this recent responsibilty will not impeed your writing progrss. I wnat to know what and where Alex James is up to these days!!
Thanks for the note! Hosting Morning Edition is a joy. As, of course, is writing novels. The journalism informs the fiction. Never enough hours to get to everything one wants to get to, is there? But I suppose that’s true for us all…
I got attracted to your books after listening to your extended interview on NPR. You were so intelligent and gracious and had some intriguing anfd interesting insights. I just finished “Bullet” (amazing ending!), and was happy to see Alex James back in the mix. I attended Georgetown, 1955-56, and the go-to bar was called the Hilltop. Is that the “Tombs”? Is the Hilltop still active…it would be hard to believe?
I’ve lived in Georgetown since 2001 and never heard of Hilltop, so that may be gone… But if so, the Tombs is a worthy successor. As described in The Bullet, it’s a go-to place for G’town students, parents and professors alike.
Tickled that you caught the Alex James cameo. Once a character gets in your head, it’s hard to stop seeing the world through her eyes… or stop wanting to see her in action on the page.
Dear Mary Louise,
Your books are so fun to read. They are intelligent and exciting. I am certain that there are so many fans (especially me) impatiently waiting for your next beautiful story. I am always glad to hear your voice on NPR, but I hope to see your next book soon. I have read both your books several times. Others cannot compete.
Are you writing? When can we buy it?
With appreciation and respect,
Betty Nutter
Aw, thanks! Really appreciate your note. The current news cycle is tough for writing fiction — hard to find a spare moment, and hard to out-write the extraordinary events unfolding in real life! But I leave tomorrow for a two-week vacation, and am taking my laptop, and aiming to turn out a chapter on the plane there and another on the plane home. Chapter by chapter… eventually they pile up, and you’ve got a book!
Ms. Kelly,
I read your book Anonymous each morning. I’m writing to let you know, in case you didn’t already know, that there is an editing mistake that could be corrected in future reprintings. On page 50, Alex is asking a student on the Cambridge Emmanuel campus to help her find the location of Thomas Carlyle’s House. Alex asks instead if the student knows the location of “John Harvard” ‘s house. (Maybe that’s what you called him in an early draft before you settled on Thomas Carlyle.)
Anyway, this summer I decided to read about your background and other NPR reporters, and after learning of your amazing life story, I decided to read your book.
Good Luck in your career.
Scott Wade
Louisville, Ky
Not a typo! Keep reading — My character, Thom Carlyle, lives in the suite of rooms that John Harvard allegedly used back in the 17th century. True story. I’ve visited them, back when I was a student at Emmanuel College.
Thanks very much for reading, and for writing. Honored that you picked up my book.
I will keep reading. Right now.
I hope in your life you have some way of getting your mind off of the tragic news produced by this presidency. My only Escape right now is your book so I think I better read slowly to make it last.
I would like to recommend to you Shadow of the Silk Road by Colin Thubron, non-fiction that will not put you to sleep after two pages …
I just read both your books. I especially loved Bullet. The suspense was both frightening and intriguing and the relations with family and the side characters equally engaging. I hope you have another book in your sights.
So appreciate this note — I needed it today! That was precisely my goal with the suspense in The Bullet, so I’m delighted to hear it worked for you. And yes, I am writing away on book #3…
I greatly enjoyed both of your books. I think you have the best voice on NPR and in your bio I saw that you had written two books. Last month, I was getting bogged down reading “Our Mutual Friend” and a friend suggested I take a break read something else. So, I got “Anonymous Sources” from the library and read that in a couple of weeks. Then I borrowed “The Bullet” and just finished that yesterday.
They were such fun to read. I liked both, but I think “The Bullet” is a more layered story and the writing is more complex, if you don’t mind me saying. I really did not know what was happening next, and I enjoyed all of the characters. I love your acknowledgements in both books, too. They give insight into what it really takes to write a novel and all of the people who are involved, besides yourself.
I will buy your next book when it comes out. I’m looking forward to it and thank you for writing such great stories!
Russ,
What a lovely note. Thank you for writing, and for reading, and for the feedback.
Writing fiction is like any other endeavor: you learn and (hopefully) improve as you go. We’ll see how that works out going forward; I’m busy now on Book #3! Squeezing it in around my NPR reporting, which is a challenge but also a lot of fun.
Best,
Mary Louise
I’m a seventy-year-old man who discovered some years ago how stimulating a woman’s viewpoint can be. I discovered Diana Gabaldon before her third book was published. I have spent many years, and many attempts since then trying to find an author who could really light me up. Caroline Smith is the one. For the first time in years, I read a book almost non-stop this weekend. It’s now in my wife’s chair, waiting her perusal. WELL DONE!
A few months ago I heard you chatting with Scott Simon on a Saturday. He thoughtfully mentioned that you wrote some books about national security. I decided to read one.
Well, now I’ve read both and they were very good. I hope you write at least one more. Actually, I hope you develop a character and write a lot more.
It was interesting to me to read about female awareness of the male gaze. It”s not always lust, frequently it’s just appreciation of beauty. But, I especially enjoyed your descriptions of female sexual desire. This is almost a total mystery to all male people.
I read that your writing placed a burden on your family and friends. Be grateful, I bet they loved it. .
I gave you a four star rating on Goodreads. I’m looking forward to what you do next. Aloha
Thanks for writing. I am in fact busy writing the next book — an espionage thriller set in London, New York and Moscow (so far — we’ll see where the coming chapters lead to!) Fair point about lust vs. appreciation of beauty.Will keep that in mind as I write this next novel, which features chapters written from both the male and female points of view…
Just finished THE BULLET. Great.
With my somber, whiskery anesthesiologist husband having just died I was more focused than I might have otherwise been on that short vignette as Caroline went into surgery. As it happens it
was my husband’s research over 50 years ago which GOT anesthesiologists to “introduce(d) himself,
explain(ed) his plans to make me comfortable.” Before he showed with clear statistics that a pre-op
visit from the anesthesiologist made a BIG difference in comfort and recovery, even he had not thought so.
Thanks for this small reminder of one of many reasons I am so proud of him.
I am so sorry to read of the loss of your husband. I love the story you share of him. It sounds as if you do have reason to be very proud of him indeed. As a writer, it touches my heart to think that I somehow touched yours.
With warm regards, and deep condolences,
Mary Louise
I don’t send out a regular email — so busy with my day job as an NPR reporter that I try to marshal whatever time remains for writing the next novel. (At work now on nummber three…) But I’m on Twitter if you want to follow along: @NPRKelly
And I’ll update this website as I get closer to completing the next book.
I loved both of your books. I look forward to another stand alone novel with an engaging female protagonist, or for a follow-up with either Alexandra or Caroline.
So glad to hear! I am work on my third novel… Will indeed feature another strong and (hopefully!) engaging female protagonist. This one has a Russia twist. No plans for Alexandra or Caroline to make a cameo appearance… but you never know!
I read your review of “Rogue Heroes”, by Ben Macintyre, that appeared in the 10/16/2016 edition of The Washington Post. Since your review made no mention of it, I was wondering if you were aware of, or possibly had even read, the book entitled “The Phantom Major: The story of David Stirling and the S.A.S Regiment”. It was written and published in 1958 by Virginia Cowles, a British (female) war correspondent, including in North Africa!. While the book is, likely, long out of (hard copy) print , as a teenage I owned and read a paperback version, in later life tracking down and obtaining a hard copy version including dust jacket. I wonder if Mr. Macintyre made any reference to Ms. Cowles book in his new publication. In any case, I thought that you might find this comment of some interest as you follow your own path as a reporter, correspondent and author. Respectfully. -AEG
Thanks for this note. I was not aware of The Phantom Major. Sounds intriguing, as does Virginia Cowles’s own story as a reporter in North Africa during WWII! It’s possible that Macintyre references it; I’ll confess that the version I’m reading from is an advance proof/galley, and footnotes aren’t included. His book springs from access to an SAS archive that had not been previously open to journalists and scholars. I recommend it highly, especially given your interest in this period.
I just finished “The Bullet” and LOVED it. I don’t usually read straight mysteries as I am more tuned in to romantic suspense, but I couldn’t put it down. I have now ordered Anyonymous Sources and can’t wait to read it. I think you have found yourself a new fan. Can’t wait for the next book!
Hooray! Then you will be glad to hear that the reason I just sat down at my computer, and found your note, is that I’ve started work on the next novel. I am having great fun dreaming up the characters…which I HOPE will translate into making them great fun to read!
I just want to say “thank you” for penning “The Bullet”. From the first sentence of the first chapter to the last period. Its wonderful to be drawn in to the story from the outset, transported into her life and then walking along as the story unfolds.
So kind of you to take the time to write — thank you!
That is exactly how I wanted it to feel from the reader’s point of view; that you were walking right along with Caroline as hwe story unfolds. You’ve made my day to let me know that, at least in your case, it worked!
I loved this book. It was like a drug. I was stealing minutes before work, before dinner, before bed time, any free moment, I wanted to read this book. It joyfully held me captive.
Thank you for a great mystery.
All the best,
Roanne
Writing you back with a big smile on my face–thank you! “It was like a drug…” What a wonderful thing to say to an author! Really appreciate your letting me know. Notes like this mean more than you may know.
I came across your book The Bullet in our new library. The title caught my eye and so glad it did. I have not been so engrossed in a book like yours for a long time. Please continue to write your magic. Thank you !
So great to hear this. Thank you. Such a pleasure to hear that I kept you riveted. I’m working on writing a third novel; meanwhile, go tell everyone you know to read The Bullet!
I have never written an author before, and I read 2 -3 books per week, but I wanted you to know how much I enjoyed your book The Bullet. I will keep your name as one to keep an eye on . I will read your other book also. Thank you and your family and friends for sharing a part of you.
Donna
I have question about your name. I remember that years ago, you used the name Mary Louise Clark Kelly on NPR stories. Why did you drop the “Clark”? I have guessed that NPR asked you to, in order to have you use a shorter name. Is that correct, or was there another reason?
I had also assumed that “Clark” was your last name before marriage, and that you chose to use it as a way of saying “This is ALL of who I am.” I liked that! It seemed to indicate your statement of independence as a woman. ( I am a person who has been married for 45 years and who has kept her “childhood” last name).
Different person! You are thinking of my talented NPR colleague, Carol Anne Clark Kelly. We’ve had people confuse us a few times, between sharing a last name and both having double-barreled first names.
I’ve been married 19 years and never took my husband’s last name, although our children are Boyles. Always interesting to hear how women choose to handle the name-change question.
Belatedly chiming in here. I had assumed, like the writer Mitsi above, that you had dropped Clark. Thanks for clearing that up. I decided to check on this before citing you on our cooking blog. It was from a piece you did some while ago that I learned of the wonderful book Yashim Cooks Istanbul.
Regarding surnames, my spouse and I each took the other’s when we married in 1987.
I was very disappointed by your stereotypical description of the librarian— not every librarian wears glasses around HER? neck and “prairie skirts”. Your vision of the professionals is this position is small minded and prejudiced.
Cate,
Thanks for writing. Point taken. My intent was to nod to that stereotype of a librarian, but then allow you to meet the Jessica character, who clearly doesn’t fit it and blows that dated stereotype out of the water. Perhaps I could have done that more elegantly. My intent was certainly NOT to insult librarians, who have helped me and made my work better more times than I can count, from my middle school history project days, to just last week, when I was trying to track down an elusive document on Russia.
Sincere thanks for reading, and for writing, and I hope that you enjoyed the rest of the book.
Best,
Mary Louise
I just finished ANONYMOUS SOURCES and am so excited to discover that you have written another book for me to read. I also could not put the book down – the story just drew me in. Thank you for your books and Alexandra James. I hope my local library has THE BULLET.
Delighted to hear that you enjoyed ANONYMOUS SOURCES. Write and let me know what you think of THE BULLET. You will be happy to learn that–while it is not a sequel–Alex James does make a cameo appearance…
Thanks for the question. I hope the fact that you’re asking means that you enjoyed The Bullet. So, the bad news: I’m not currently planning a sequel. The good news: I am writing, and sketching out my third novel. Will update here when I’m ready to share more!
Hello Mary Louise!
I love, love, LOVE your books! And I especially LOVE that you put them out in LARGE PRINT!! I will be waiting with baited breath for your next one. . .
Hey there–
So glad you’re enjoying the large print editions! Thank you for writing to let me know. Starting to noodle on the next book. I’ll post updates here as I make progress…
Warmly,
Mary Louise
Hello Mary Louise,
I am from Salzburg, Austria and was not familiar with your name. I bought “the bullet” for my ski-vacation last week and must tell you: I have finished the story in 3 days. Great characters and a plot I could not stop reading. Thank you for that, hope, I can read a new book from you soon.
Best regards from Austria
What a lovely email to receive — thank you! I was born in Augsburg and learned to ski in the mountains near Salzburg, so it’s great fun to imagine you enjoying my book on your ski vacation. I am starting to work on the next one. Meanwhile, have you read my first one? ANONYMOUS SOURCES has different characters and is partly set in London and Cambridge, England.
I loved both books so much. I was really sad to see that The Bullet came out in 2015. I was hoping that another book would be out soon. Mary Louise Kelly- you have definitely made my list of go-to authors when searching for a good book. I might add that I would love to see Alex James in another book (with more than a cameo appearance). I want to know the rest of the story. Thank you for providing me with great entertainment.
Thanks so much! Appreciate both your reading, and taking the time to write. I’m sketching out plans for the next book. And I also would love to see Alex James live to ride another day — she is such an enormously fun character to write! Watch this space…
I bought your book on a whim. I read it in 3 days, then I bought the next one. I can’t put them down. I just looked on your website to find out what others you have written. There were only two. Please keep writing! I simply cannot wait for your next.
That is hands down the best note I’ve received all week. Thank you. I truly appreciate it. And you sound just like my agent, who took me to dinner last week and ordered: Get writing!
Dear Mary Louise,
Just catching up on your website and looking at all your travels. i really enjoyed The Bullet. I
thought Caroline’s actions were entirely in character. I liked the names of all the relatives showing up as the book progressed. I hope you are working on book #3. What will happen to Caroline? Will she be able to live with her guilty little secret?
Hope you book tours take you to Texas soon.
Marie
Thank you! Hearing from readers that they couldn’t stop turning pages is one of the great joys of being a writer. So glad to hear I kept you entertained.
I am turning over several ideas for another novel… Will post updates here on the website as I figure out which one to pursue!
It’s music to a writer’s ears to hear that I left you wanting more! I liked leaving something to the reader’s imagination. I know what **I** think Caroline will do… but as the reader, you now own her as much as I do. And you might have a different view. That said, it would be fun to write a sequel and explore what happens when she returns home, to her old life, to Will, etc. Although not quite sure what catastrophe I will have to dream up to match the craziness of discovering a bullet in her neck, for pure page-turning, dramatic impact!
Mary Louise,
I just finished reading “The Bullet”-wonderful,wonderful,wonderful”!
Since I live south of Atlanta in Peachtree City,Ga.,I loved the city sites
and events you wrote of. My next read will be “Anonymous Sources”.
Many thanks for this book which will enrich my Summer reading!
Eileen Cover
Thanks so much. Great to hear from a fellow Georgian! Glad that you enjoyed the Atlanta chapters. Should you be around on July 25th, I’m giving a talk at the Buckhead Heritage Society.
Ms. Kelly – I just bought your book, THE BULLET, and started reading it today. I was reading along when I came to a part that really shocked me. It was about Eulalia Road in Buckhead!! My husband, Buzz Veal, is from Buckhead and grew up on Eulalia Road!!! I figure you have to be familiar with that area to come up with Eulalia Road!!!! My husband was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital and he and his older brother went to North Fulton High School. His brother, Monte Veal, went to school with a Kenny Kelly. Any relation to you? I have been on that street and you described it so perfectly!!! I am enjoying the book very much and look forward to finishing it……..soon!! I also plan to go back and get ANONYMOUS SOURCES now!!
I lived on Eulalia Road as a little girl, from about 1975-79. Many fond memories of learning to ride a bike on that street, running through sprinklers, neighborhood softball games and BBQs, etc. When was your husband there? I’m not related to a Kenny Kelly that I know of.
Fingers crossed that you enjoy ANONYMOUS SOURCES too.
Thank you for your response! My husband, Buzz Veal, lived at 1036 Eulalia Road from 1942 through 1957…….way before you were there. His parents lived there until 1962 or so and then moved to Conifer Circle (kind of across Peachtree). They were charter members of Wieuca Road Baptist Church…..right there in that area. It was so exciting to see all those familiar places in your book!!! I told his brother about the book and his wife bought The Bullet for him for Father’s Day. Also, I just finished Anonymous Sources and loved it!!! Thank you for the hours of pleasure I got from reading your books!!!
Wonderful book, just couldn’t put it down. It did stretch credibility a tad that Caroline would go from an average law abiding citizen to confronting Ethan with a pistol. It was incredibly risky at best and the evidence against him looked damaging but certainly not air tight. I could envision some other scenarios that you hinted at that might have happened. That said, it unfolded wonderfully and had my attention from start to finish. You are a fantastic writer!
Regards, Jim Peck
Many thanks for the kind words. Caroline’s “blossoming” felt true to me — but as her reader, you own her as much as I do now, so your critique is fair enough! If you haven’t yet checked out my first book, ANONYMOUS SOURCES, you may want to give it a look… A protagonist of an entirely different nature.
Thanks for a great read. The quality of writing, attention to detail, and character development put The Bullet in a class way above a page-turner mystery.
You are so kind to write and let me know. Thank you! I take a lot of time researching, interviewing people, and trying to nail the details. And the character development for The Bullet was fun. I spent nearly as much time on the secondary characters, trying to get them right, as I did on my protagonist, Caroline. Delighted to hear that you could tell, and that it was worth the effort!
I just finished reading The Bullet. I couldn’t put it down once I started it. It is hands down on my top ten list of best reads. Can’t wait to read Anonymous Sources and look forward to your future books as well. I love coming across a wonderful new (to me) author. Thanks!
Just finished The Bullet. Read it in two days, loved it. Felt as if Caroline was speaking directly to me. Just put Anonymous Sources on hold. Going to tell our patrons about Ms. Kelly and the books.
Paula Therrien, Jackson-George County Library System, MS
I just finished reading “The Bullet” !! Wonderful book!! It just sucked me right in from the very beginning! I love books that do that!! Wishing you a very long and prosperous life writing books!!
Completely agree — there is nothing like a book that sucks you in from the very first page. Delighted to hear that you enjoyed that experience with The Bullet. I am in Portland, OR on book tour as I write… doing a reading tomorrow night at the legendary Powell’s book store… And meanwhile having fun noodling over plot twists for the next book. Hope to have something for you before too long!
Wonderful to hear from you! I remember your lovely family well. Gitta took me on a bike ride in the forest near Augsburg, many years ago when I came to stay. And of course Stefan was a favorite houseguest of ours in Atlanta. My parents speak of you all often and with great affection.
I will let you know when the German edition of THE BULLET is published in a few weeks. You can read both and tell me whether they got the translation right!
Thanks. Not planning a sequel — my next novel will likely be another stand-alone. But I am fond of giving cameos to characters from my previous novels. (If you haven’t yet read my first book, you may not have known that the reporter Alexandra James who shows up at Caroline’s door was the protagonist of ANONYMOUS SOURCES…) So, who knows? Caroline and/or some of the other characters from THE BULLET may well make a return appearance!
Great to hear this! In this case, I am absolutely delighted to have kept someone awake all night. A&E has bought the screen rights to The Bullet, so fingers crossed that the movie version will be making its way soon to a screen near you…
I just finished reading The Bullet. Read it in four days while working and traveling to Romania. I read Anonymous Sources after hearing acrerun of your interview with Bob Edwards. You made me want to read it. You grabbed me immediately in both books. I hadn’t reasfvsvbook for plkessure in a while. Awaiting the next one. Keep em coming.
Love this! It is great fun as an author to watch your books travel out into the world, and you might be the first reader to devour them in Romania. (German and Dutch versions will be published soon, but alas, no book deal yet from Bucharest!) I’m working on the next one. Updates to come…
I just finished “The Bullet”. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed it. It is one of the best books that I have read in a while. I heard an interview on NPR about the book and couldn’t wait to get it. I’m looking forward to reading your other book but I’m waiting for it to dry out. I took it out to read in my hot tub. Need I say more. Thank you so much for a wonderful read.
This made me smile. Hope your copy of Anonymous Sources dries out soon so you can continue reading. And thank you for the kind words about The Bullet. A pleasure to know I helped contribute to a happy session of hot tubbing!
Dear Mary Louise… Tammy Wincup (my daughter) gave me a copy of your book “Anonymous Sources” which I loved !! And now, I have just finished “The Bullet.” Thank you so much for these wonderful novels, which brought me hours of pleasure and entertainment. I will wait patiently for your next book.
Best of luck in your writing and my best wishes to you and your family.
How fun to hear from a reader who has enjoyed my books, and a fellow Mary Lou(ise) at that! So glad they brought you pleasure. Your daughter is a dear friend and I like her even more now that I know she is busy handing out copies of my books! I’ll thank her for helping to spread the word — and I am grateful to YOU both for reading, and taking the time to write.
Warm wishes,
Mary Louise
It is so refreshing to see such a talented new writer. I am very discriminating about the authors I read. If the writer does not get my attention within the first chapter or so, forget it. Please write more books your writing is fascinating. And I am looking forward to more books. The Bullet is the first book I have read and am looking forward to Anomymous Sources. An excellent author is rare, you are one of them. Sincerely, J. F. Miller
What a simply lovely note to receive! It means a great deal to a writer, to hear that the work we’ve labored over has brought pleasure to a reader or touched them in some way. So glad to hear this was the case, and thank you for taking a moment to let me know.
Warm regards,
Mary Louise Kelly
A boy’s mother always knows best, as my mom recomended this to me.Having been a columnist for Circus Magazine 72-74 (pre laptops and cells) one can only sympathize
with Alexandra James in her search for the story. In YOUR search you more than succeed. A wonderful story that doesn’t stop pulling you along, intense and timely. I look forward to purchasing your others with great anticipation.
Steve,
What a nice note to receive. Thank you. And please thank your mom for the recommendation! Mothers DO always know best, as I am extremely fond of telling my two boys.
All best,
Mary Louise
I too heard your interview with Bob Edwards. I enjoyed your reporting for NPR and didn’t know you were now authoring fiction! I finished ANONYMOUS SOURCES last night and THE BULLET is waiting for me at the book store! ANONYMOUS was terrific, with fast paced writing around fully developed characters and plot! Can’t wait to start THE BULLET! I hope to see more of Alex in future novels.
Laura,
So appreciate this — thank you for taking the time to write, and for reading! The Bullet is quite different from Anonymous Sources. Still plenty of plot twists, but more of a psychological suspense novel. And another strong female protagonist. Looking forward to hearing what you think!
Warmly,
Mary Louise
I listened to your interviews with Bob Edwards this morning, and have just ordered both of your books.
I will confess that I’m curious to discover how Caroline Cashion managed for so long without a glimpse at her birth certificate…but I will not let that interfere with my enjoyment of her story!
I suppose I think the birth certificate detail is plausible because I never saw my own birth certificate until I was in my 30s… My parents kept it in a file drawer or safe deposit box somewhere. Mine is in German (I was born near Munich), and I don’t think I’ve ever even gotten it translated. Once you’ve got your passport (and let’s say my protagonist’s parents organized that for her when she was a child, and once she had it, she could renew without showing a birth certificate again), what else do you need a birth certificate for?
At any rate, if that’s the only detail that gives you pause, I’ll be a happy author! And thanks so much again, both for buying the books and for writing!
Ms Kelly, I heard your interview on NPR with Bob Edward . It was so refreshing to listen to someone so articulate and knowledgeable. I enjoyed hearing where you had been and what you found there and spoken so clearly without the “uhs” and “duhs” we are so used to hearing from our professional experts. I am not yet familiar with your novels but I will be.
Thank you for your edifying conversation. You must endeavor to stay in the public eye.
Thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure to get to speak at such length about the book with Bob Edwards. Glad you enjoyed the conversation, and do let me know what you think of the book!
All best,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary Louise,
Have ordered “The Bullet”. Can’t wait to read it. I so enjoyed “Anonymous Sources” and plan to read it again while I’m waiting for #2. Great writing and so fun to have it all in the family!! Keep them coming!
Love, Peg
Lovely to hear from you. Not long to wait now – The Bullet will be published next week! I will be making a few West Coast stops on book tour this time, most likely in early May. I’ll keep updating the Events page on this website as the dates firm up. Looking forward to hitting your side of the country!
Hi again,
If you can’t work something out for Seattle, I’ll plan on seeing you in Oregon.
Barnes & Noble has a store in downtown Seattle and one closer to the airport at Southcenter Mall, along with others around Puget Sound. See you soon. Travel safe!
Hugs,
Peg
Thanks Katelyn for writing! Delighted to hear that you liked ANONYMOUS SOURCES. My next book, THE BULLET, is out on March 17th. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Just finished ‘anonymous sources’, what a great first novel – couldn’t put it down! I hope to see more of Alex James in the future, a terrific character. And I can’t wait to read ‘Bullet’.
Ed,
Thank you SO much, both for reading and for writing me. Truly glad you enjoyed it. Alex James was such great fun to write. The Bullet is not a sequel, but you may be glad to learn that Alex does make a cameo appearance… It’s out next month (March 17th); please help me spread the word!
All best wishes,
Mary Louise
Read the ARC of The Bullet over the weekend and loved it! Real characters that I could relate to and a unique situation! I’ve sent an email to your publicist asking if some signed copies would be available for my store – I want to hand sell this book because I know many of my customers would enjoy it just as I did.
Will you be at Bouchercon in Long Beach this year? I will have a table in the book room; also I’m holding many signings at my store. If you are going to be there it would be great if you could drop by and sign books. Anne
So delighted to hear you enjoyed it! Yes, the characters were a hoot to write. I will follow up with my publicist to make sure we get you as many signed copies as you need. And I am planning to hit California on book tour this spring… Not sure yet exactly when/where, but let’s keep in touch. I’d love to swing by for a reading/signing!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
I recently came across “Anonymous Sources” at a playdate/ book swap my friends had organized. I absolutely LOVED it!!! I definitely struggled to put it down. I am anticipating the release of ” The Bullet”.
Thanks so much for letting me know! THE BULLET will be out in March. We just finalized the cover and are working through the final round of copy edits. Not the most fun stage of the publishing process, but essential. Fingers crossed that you’ll have fun reading this next book too, and if so, you can help me spread the word at the next book swap!
All best,
Mary Louise
Enjoyed Anonymous Sources, but your James’ sexual “adventures” turns her into a slut!!! Why do you, and other authors, think sexual activities add to the story; they DON’T.
Glad you enjoyed it. I agree with you that gratuitous sex doesn’t add to a book. But I’m not a prude, either — sex is part of life, why not write about it? Alex sleeps with just one man, and they’re both consenting, unmarried adults. I’m not sure that makes her a slut, but heck, I’ve been married to the same man for 17 years, so what do I know? Thanks for taking the time to write.
Mary, I’m reading your book “Anonymous Sources” and enjoying it thoroughly. I’ve been a journalist, so I’m connecting with your writing style in a big way. Your Alex is a fantastic character–very human.
I look forward to your next book.
Diana,
I am glad to hear this. It is great to hear from fellow journalists who find the reporter/newsroom scenes ring true — as you will know better than most folks whether I got them right! I am the middle of copy-editing my next book (THE BULLET, out next March), and while it is not a sequel, Alex James does make an appearance…
Best,
Mary Louise
Thanks so much, Maureen! You won’t have to wait long. THE BULLET will be published in March. I am in the middle of copy-editing it right now… It is (I hope!) another page turner.
Hello! I just had to write to tell you how much I loved Anonymous Sources. it was fantastic and so nice to read a novel where the reporter is not described as some sort of retched creature that just crawled out from underneath a rock! I was newspaper journalist for more than 10 years and I just loved Alex James. I completely identified her and her thoughts on journalism, newspapers, editors, etc….I just thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down. Thank you so much. I greatly anticipate your next novel!!
Hey Victoria,
Great to hear from a fellow journalist, and so great to hear that Alex rang true for you! I was nervous about having fellow reporters read the newsroom scenes — as you will know better than most whether I got the details right. Alex James was a joy to write… so much so that while my next book isn’t a sequel, I have given her a cameo. It will be out spring 2015 — tentative title is BULLET. Hope you like it!
Congratulations on a fantastic first novel, and to NPR for its initial review. It took my local library quite some time to locate a copy, which came to me from 3 states away, but what a delight to read! Thank you for time well spent! I will be looking forward to your next book.
This is great to hear! So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks both for reading, and for pestering your local library to lay hands on a copy. Fingers crossed they will now decide to invest in a copy of their own!
Best,
Mary Louise
Alexandra James was a delightful character and kept this story alive. Her dazzling red hair and trim legs were perfect for her passion for Italian shoes. She followed leads and as this plot unfolds it was hard to put down. Anxious for your next thriller. Thank you Mary Louise Kelly
Linda,
I love hearing from people who love Alex James. As you may have read in the acknowledgements, she is named for my sons, and thus she holds a special place in my heart.
You will not have to wait too terribly long for my next thriller… It will be out in early 2015. Tentative title: BULLET. It is not a sequel, but Alex James does make a very amusing appearance!
Sincere thanks for taking the time to write.
Best regards,
Mary Louise Kelly
Excellent book!!! I just googled you to see if you have written anymore. Can’t wait for your next one!! This book kept me interested all the way to the last page! Great job!! Especially for a first book!!!!
Christina,
So happy to hear! Yep, ANONYMOUS SOURCES was my first book. I’m scribbling away on Book #2 now. Due to the publisher on March 1st. This next one is more of a psychological/suspense thriller. Wish me luck! Will post more about it soon.
All best,
Mary Louise
Hi Stephanie — Thanks so much for writing! I’m delighted to hear your Book Club may read ANONYMOUS SOURCES in November. Would love to hear what they think. And yes, I think there will be a sequel. I’m in the middle of writing my next book right now — not a sequel, but another thriller with a strong female protagonist — I think you will like it. After that, I would like to return to the adventures of Alex James and Lucien Sly, and see what they get up to next!
Hi Ms. Kelly. I first heard about the book on NPR when you were discussing it with either Diane Rehm or on Fresh Air – can’t remember now. I was intrigued enough to jot title and author for a future trip to book store. I just completed it last night and I LOVED IT! I really liked Alexandra and look forward to her next adventure working in Washington. There HAS to be another book!
So glad to hear and sincere thanks for taking the time to write!
I am indeed working on Book #2 right now. This next one is a suspense thriller but features different characters — and then yes, I think I may well circle back to Alex James. Among other things, I want to see where things may go with both Morrello and Lucien Sly… 🙂
Dear Mary, although you do not know me, (you do know a dear member of my family), I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your book, for its content obviously, and the personal touch from you.
It is a great book and the sad part of it is that it could happen in our country, (by the way, not many people realize that bananas are radioactive).
Mary Louise, I just spent a great summer Saturday reading Anonymous Sources. What fun! Jim and I remember you as the little girl living across the street in student housing at Holden Green–your first experience at Harvard when your dad was in law school. Please greet your mom and dad for us. Those were good days.
Hi Mary Louise,
Got the card about your book release from your Folks, and am so thrilled for you.
Just ordered my copy and can’t wait to read it. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Peg Alastra
A really great thriller. With interesting characters and lots of suspense. I am looking forward to your next one. By the way I noticed that book during your recent interview with Diane Rehm. That inspired me to buy the book the same evening. Klaus Well, Germany.
Anonymous Sources is a brilliant, entertaining book. I couldn’t put it down and hated to finish it. Waiting anxiously for your next publication. Thanks for such a fun reading experience.
Mary Louise, I remember you when you were knee high to a spy and now you’re writing about them. I posted a review on Amazon and Goodreads with 5 stars. A great book, with opportunities to write many more.
Duoc (my wife) and I have tickets for your talk in Atlanta on July 11. We look forward to seeing your mom and dad as well as you and your family.
Harry —
It has been a million years; so nice to hear from you! You are kind to take the time to read and review the book. It has been a great adventure writing and publishing a first novel. So far, so good — Simon & Schuster just told me they’ve ordered up a second print run!
I will look forward to seeing you and Duoc in Atlanta on July 10th — and will tell Mom & Dad you plan to be there.
Warm regards,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise, you did a fantastic job last night at the Atlanta History Center’s Margret Mitchell House. I loved your comments about the writing process and marketing your work. The process answers were exactly what I went through, as well, for my first (and only so far) novel. It is hard work, but very enjoyable. I self published (Ebook in March and paperback in June) and I have been working social media and other marketing avenues since. It is hard to do. Of course my book doesn’t hold a candle to yours and I did not have high expectations.
Anyway, I am sorry we missed you. You were so busy signing books we couldn’t ( a good thing) get near. We did see your Mom, Dad and CJ and that was nice.
Loved the book, loved the speech and I am expecting big things from this book and many more after.
I had no idea you’d written a novel! How fantastic! I’ve just looked up Mercy Row and ordered the paperback. Looking forward to checking it out.
I spotted you in the crowd last night and am sorry we missed each other afterwards. Thank you very much for coming. It meant the world to my family, and to me, to spot so many friends in the audience!
I have to warn you about Mercy Row. There is much, shall we say, crude language in the book. It is a short read of 150 pages. As a reporter I am sure you have heard just about anything I have in the book. 🙂 I wish I had started at your age. I might now be half as good as you are. Keep up the work.
Janine Ron July 1, 2013 at 12:52 pm
Enjoyed the book! Would look forward to a movie as well.
Really enjoyed this book. I can’t remember when I hated to have to put a book down and was anxious to picking it back up. Your interview on NPR had me looking for the book as soon as it was released and it was well worth it. It has an authentic, scary sense of reality. When is the next one?
I heard your interview on NPR. Great press for your book and sold me to where I
was checking daily to download it and am excited that it was available today. Wish I could play hooky from work today and start your book!
Good luck.
Merci à Carole qui m’a envoyé les références de ton livre, Mary Louise, j’ai hâte de le trouver en librairie en France (traduit, bien sûre!) J’ai lu ton parcours professionnel avec grand intérêt et je reconnait bien, dans ta décision de changer de vie, la philosophie de ta famille pour laquelle j’ai toujours eu beaucoup d’admiration et un amical souvenir.
Rémy m’a demandé tes coordonnées.
Au nom de tous, à La Vessoye, je t’adresse notre sincère amitié
Oh là là, ça fait si longtemps depuis que nous avons été en contact! Quelle belle surprise de vous entendre. Je ne savais pas que ma mère avait écrit. Je pense à vous tous souvent, et j’ai dit à mes fils tout sur La Vessoye, et ma merveilleuse famille en France. Et oui – je vous le ferai savoir dès que l’édition française de ANONYMOUS SOURCES apparaît! Vous allez obtenir la première copie!
Je vous embrasse – toute la famille — bien affectueusement,
Mary Louise
Merci Mary Louise pour ta chaleureuse réponse, la nouvelle a fait le tour de la famille qui se réjouit pour toi et ta famille pour la réussite qui ne manquera pas d’arriver!
Je t’embrasse ainsi que toute ta merveilleuse famille
Mary Louise,
I think you are the best kept secret in Buckhead! I know your Mama from St Phllip’s and want to hear all about your fascinating life and read your book. I am getting it for my Kindle.
See you at the Margaret Mitchell House on July 10th.
Waiting on Pins and Needles,
Cornelia Bird
Mary Louise,
Congrats on the upcoming release of Anonymous Sources. I am looking forward to attending a book signing event and then getting the chance to read it.
I was sent an invitation to apply for a copy of this book, by NetGalley and as a relatively new subscriber, I was delighted to be accepted.
‘Anonymous Sources’ sounds like a great premise for a debut novel and I love the website.
You also have a great name by the way, my two favourite nieces are called Kelly and Louise!
It is so unusual for an American to have the name Louise, rather than Lois, we have visited as a family several times and no-one can ever really pronounce Louise correctly.
I would like to wish you every success with the book and my promotional posts will begin shortly.
Yvonne — Thanks so much for your kind note! Mary Louise was my grandmother’s name… She was from Louisiana, where every one seems to have a double-barreled name. Although you are right — you rarely meet a Louise these days.
Happy reading and very much hope you enjoy ANONYMOUS SOURCES!
I have a question regarding a Soviet gentleman named Valerie Youriev who I met 55 yeas ago in Washington DC. I have been trying to find out his bio and have come up short. If you have any suggestions as to where I might check him out, could you please contact me. I have articles which tell more of the story if that would help. Looking forward to hearing from you, Sincerely, Gene youtz
Ms. Kelly: I enjoy listening to you each day you’re on NPR when I’m on my way home from work. Nothing “fake news” about you! I liked the way you interviewed Pompeo. As a career law enforcement investigator, It is obvious he was squirming during the interview, not wanting to truthfully answer your questions. I think the U.S. Public feels the same. I plan to buy your books. Continue your excellent reporting!
How women with (Jerome) Idaho blood in their veins became forces in the larger world. You and my Jerome-bred wife distinguish yourselves with insight and empathy. You see and describe a challenging world brightly and with care for people crushed by conflict and misanthropy. Marilyn knows to humanize office (D.C.) and neighborhood (Lakelands-Kentlands, MD). How I admire both for your caring and your humanity. Maybe you and she should meet.
Half way through It. Goes. So. Fast., have already teared up twice thinking about similar experiences with my now-college-freshman, and have ordered 7 copies to gift to friends.
Just reading the chapter about hearing loss, and don’t know the specifics of yours, but wanted to point you at this fascinating research and Wristband device. On the Tim Ferriss podcast where I heard about it, Dr. Eagleman specifically mentioned it augmenting high frequency sound loss. https://eagleman.com/science/sensory-substitution/. Might not help with headphones, but maybe a little in your kitchen…? <3
Your recent interview with Sec’y Becerra was timely. I’ve been sending him (also AZ US Sen Kelly) updates on how difficult it is to navigate the health care system for the aged and disabled using my wife’s experience with a near-death brain injury. Over 360 days I’ve chronicled nearly every aspect of medical care at every level. Working undercover as an investigative journalist I’ve snooped and scoped and probed people places and things hardly ever accessible through normal news gathering channels. Amazing how open both practitioners, patients and their family members were to share their stories with me. This continues to be an ongoing journey, which started well before my wife’s health crisis. It began with the concept of a documentary in collaboration with electrophysiologist Dr R. Chan in 2021. So, after this unfortunate emergency occurred, others helped me to see this as an opportunity to go where no other chronicler has gone before and uncover what goes on inside the bowels of health care. Boy, did I consume a gut full! From day one it was a struggle just to keep her alive, apply Medicare benefits effectively and survive the descent into the lower intestines of post-acute care. Several others we met on this journey with similar severe brain crises met their demise along the way. What I want the world to know is that, after nearly one year, daily visiting my wife as she was shifted back and forth between seven different facilities, there is a great need for change in health care delivery, not just for the aged and disabled but for every patient.
Incidentally, I am a 71 yr old person of color. My wife nearly died four times from neglect and other indignities. Others, including a judicial officer attributed her survival to my stalwart vigilance in advocating for her (which I owe in part to my acquired journalistic prowess). This experience I am preparing to share within the cinematic documentary, but also via podcast exposes, interviews etc. I have accrued over 1400 hours of audio and visual captures (as they pertain to my wife and those who agreed to speak on/off the record). I suffered physically and financial as I battled forces in the medical industrial complex that want to maintain the status quo. The new model demonstrated in special arrangements I made with some administrators at a major teaching hospital was having great success. But, that was sabotaged. Some petitioned the court to make my wife a ward of the state so they could do whatever the want to her, including hospice. Thats’ when the power of the press proved mighty. I presented just a fraction of the unflattering findings I uncovered to these detractors, letting them know this how I was not interested in confrontation but their cooperation to create a better model for health care delivery that reduces the pain points for all stakeholders. Otherwise, I would join all my findings with other investigative news sources that were already exposing really dastardly stuff hidden in plain sight. I saw it all from the inside and documented it in real time! And for my wife it has been a struggle just to stay alive amidst the low quality of care. I’m exhausted fighting at every turn with Institutional administrators and probate system to let my wife’s case be one that can help effectuate change and she actually live to experience the benefits. She is a Medicare beneficiary, but elements of that system has also been a major part of the problem. That’s why I share this, because, if you are able to convey this example to Secretary Becerra, he may recall her case. Since I know where to look from the inside, perhaps NPR and other reputable news agencies will join us in this full court “press” approach to getting issues of vital public concern the attention they deserve from the people best able to address them effectively, it would be a great personal service and a grand public service. Anyone interested in sharing their story may reply to subject : “To Do No Harm(?)” contactmf4-stories (at) yahoo(.)com
BTW Mary Louise: Please share this with the glorious Tamara Keith (known her passively since 2009) who is often in the presence of President Biden and to Rachel Martin (whose love for verse I so much admire). Biden and Becerra need to know why and how Medicare is being systematically ripped off from within the bowels of the health care supply chain. I’m witnessing this stuff in real time. But they’re coming after me now. The power of the press is my only defense and to save my wife and countless others from the “great crate” and dreaded probate. To all investigative members of the press I say: Let us coalesce to clean up this mess. Thanks for all you do!
I have a daughter and two sons and each of them are now parenting a son and a daughter. I decided to start passing along my copy of It.Goes.So.Fast to my daughter first and as she prepared to give it back, her seven-year old daughter saw the title and as a newly-minted reader, said the words and asked what they meant. When her mother explained, she burst into tears, just sobbing about how sad that was. The truth of that title strikes a chord with everyone and is the core of parenting – hard to believe in the moment but so so true. Even now, at the age of 75, I will go to the store and magically think, “If I buy x,y,z that you like, will you come back home and eat it?” Our job is to raise them to be independent but do they have to take it to heart? Your process and the telling of it sounds like just the right mix of a job very well done. Thank you for the telling.
Mary Louise Kelly,
Thank you for writing this book, It. Goes. So. Fast. A book hard to put down, one chapter drawing me to the next, often till 1 am. I am so grateful for women like yourself, who choose to both parent and be out in the world, doing what you feel called to do. No small feat.
As hard as it is to balance parenting and life work, you are so needed in this world, so dominated still by men. I think that women/mothers have a unique perspective to share and lead on. Most of all, a caring and reverence for life. Human life. All of life.
And thank you for your journalism. Your courage. For digging deep. Asking hard questions. For being in places in the world that so need your voice. You give me hope.
Wishing you all the best, in the weeks and months ahead.
Nancy Francisco
After hearing about It. Goes. So. Fast, on Kelly Corrigan’s podcast, I have been listening to it on my morning runs and drive time. I finished it today (with two minutes to spare before All Things Considered aired). I am a 56 year old, father of two girls (grad student and college freshman). My wife of 31 years and I are officially ’empty nesters’. I lost my mom to cancer during the pandemic. So I connected with your book on many levels. Thank you for sharing your stories and for the vulnerability it took to bring your words to my ears. I especially appreciate that you read your own book for the audio version. I sensed that some of that was difficult, but it makes a difference to this reader to hear it in your voice. All the best to you with the current and coming changes.
Dear Mary Louise:
I saw the adorable baby shoes and the muddy soccer cleats on the cover and thought, “I’m a big fan of Mary Louise Kelly, but this book probably isn’t for me.” I was mistaken! My brother and I are thirty-somethings and I think our mother is still trying to navigate how to communicate with sons who think and believe differently than her. Now I’m beginning to grasp how bittersweet it is for mothers to let go of the boys that young men used to be.
I’ve also gained insight into conversing with my grandfathers, who both live with hearing loss. Your analogy about the crossword puzzle was so helpful.
One of the greatest gifts my mother’s father has given me is a love for public radio. His car radio would be tuned to AM 920, the main frequency for Purdue University’s NPR station. I’m blessed to live within the signal range of eight NPR frequencies representing four member stations in Indiana and Illinois and proud to be a sustaining member of one.
Thank you for bearing witness.
I just finished The Bullet and loved it! Please write more like this!
By the way I have read your other two books and they were great as well! Keep up the great writing. Thanks!
I just finished The Bullet and loved it! Please write more like this!
By the way I have read your other two books and they were great as well! Thanks!
I’m reading the ‘turning heads’ chapter and SO reminded of the Amy Rigby song, ‘Invisible.’ I hope you’ve heard it. https://open.spotify.com/track/7gRBuLshpae81H2whUPLFC?si=HZ07iVqjSs2uuRKv_iqcTQ
Loving the book so far!
I look forward to hearing you on All Things Considered every day. You somehow make the news more manageable on days when it defies comprehension.
Yes. You’re that good.
And I must tell you that your book has added a dimension to my relationship with you. As I read it I could hear you speaking your words–like an audiobook that doesn’t need airbuds. It was pure magic. You have created a lively, deeply touching book, and I am so very glad I read it.
Mary Louise Kelly,
Loved all your books and always NPR All Things Considered.
I cried, I laughed, remembered my parenting years! Thank you for sharing your exceptional talents of writing , reporting and learning to live in the moment.
You tell your story and help others with remember theirs. And yes It. Goes. So. Fast. My grandchildren are 9 and 3 yrs old yikes, here we go again…
Looking forward to more books from you.
Eileen
Our father’s lives ended at the same age, 74. I, too, started running because of my father, but not at his prompting. He was diagnosed with high blood pressure at age 50, but he didn’t do anything to help himself. When he came home from work, his falling asleep on the couch we assumed was normal with “a hard day at the office”. As I graduated from high school, I silently vowed “not to become like Dad”. I started to run in college, watched the finish of the Detroit Marathon, and vowed to “try it” in a couple years. I did and Detroit was my 3rd marathon (finished in 2:58). Eight minutes from qualifying for Boston (1980), how could I stop now?
Meantime, I had hoped my running would inspire Dad to walk more with Mom. That did not happen. He was part of “The Greatest Generation”, and they kept so much inside. Almost 10 years after my first marathon, Dad had a mini-stroke while visiting prior to my wedding. Perhaps that was an “early warning”. We had a surprise 70th birthday at a football tailgate party for Dad. I wondered “why 70?”. Age 75 was not in the cards for Dad.
We were happy Mom and Dad were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Just before Christmas 9 months later, Dad was in the hospital for an irregular heartbeat. They had to “stop” Dad’s heart to resync it’s beat. A doctor told my brother Dad would be an excellent candidate for a heart transplant, but his circulatory system was so ravaged by earlier “silent” heart attacks that he probably wouldn’t survive the operation. Just before the following Easter, Dad is again in the hospital. I am with him as a nurse’s aid attempts to turn him to change his underwear. Dad goes into cardiac arrest, and has a DNR (do not resuscitate) order. Code Blue, and no one can do anything to save him, and he’s gone…….at 74.
I did not cry at his funeral, and this bothered me for a few years. Thankfully, I went to a church class on grief, and learned we can “grieve” for someone before they die. I think this was the case with me. While I didn’t cry for my dad, I mourned that our two toddlers (aged 3 and 1) would never know their grandfather.
I quit doing marathons in 1992, after completing 30-some (best time: 2:42). I kept running to stay in shape for another 25 years, but only recently started to seriously bike ride, and love riding with friends in retirement. My long-term goal has not changed, however. Unlike my dad, I want to be around for my grandchildren, and will persevere to do so!
You are loved, Mary Louise! Like my children (now 27 & 25), your sons sound like “best friends”. As parents, we can’t do any more than hope they remain so close! We have a weekly family “conference call”, typically an hour. We four can’t vacation together anymore because of their full-time work and distance, but we can remain close. You can too!
I just finished tour book Bullet. I was listening to one of your npr interviews and it was mentioned. It was really terrific. I got the book plus listened on audio. I have your other 2 and will start today. I also wanted you to know how much I admire your dedication and reporting. Thank you. Fay
I just finished It. Goes. So. Fast. What a wonderful book. It brought back so many memories of when I had teenagers. Beautifully written. It did make me cry. Thanks for writing it.
I just finished reading your book (It Goes So Fast) and I had to write to you. I loved, loved, loved it. You can skip the rest because it is me rambling but I have to write them.
It was the perfect book for me. I’m a huge NPR fan. I would be a journalist in another life. I used to work for our university’s newspaper all through college and grad school but being from Iran I chose the easier path and became a programmer:)) Living here in the US for 20 years now, I live vicariously through my favorite people in NPR and NYTimes.
I am also a mom, I think we probably had our sons around the same age. Because I will be around 50 when he goes to college too. (I’m 45 now , born in the year of the Iranian revolution :))) And the most emotional one for me, your relationship with your dad. I also lost my dad to cancer a couple of years ago. He was also the most knowledgeable person I know. He knew everything, from the ins and outs of the US politics to what each of those abbreviations in your medical test results mean. I was very close to him and always admired him and him passing away so soon was devastating for me. My son is a knowledge nerd too and loves Jeopardy. And my heart aches as he tries so hard to beat the contestants at answering the questions, wishing my dad was here to see him.(There is still more, I run too. Not from childhood like you, I just started when I was 37 and my best has been when I ran a half marathon on the exact day of my 40th birthday. My son also plays soccer. He is an average player but loves soccer and is a Man United fan :)))
I wish I had better words but just wanted to say I felt your book so deeply. I’m sure I will listen to it many, many more times. Thank you for writing it and it was a pleasure to get to know you through it.
Roya
Dear Ms. Kelly,
I was in the audience today at the Harvard Alumni Day today. I found you talk persuasive and moving; especially your emphasis on the role of the journalist as “bearing witness.” I was also pleased that, with one exception, you avoided stirring controversy by taking a partisan position. That one exception, however, I found shocking: your referring to the events of January 6th, 2021 as an “armed insurrection.” From everything I have read and heard there were no arms brought to the Capitol by the protesters, and no one has been charged with holding or using arms or weapons on that date. Also, the only use of arms was by the capitol police officer who shot Ashil Babbitt. (My understanding is that, yes, some protestors brought arms to the DC area, but thought better of the idea of taking them to the Capitol and desisted.) I also have a classmate who was one of the protesters, and who has told me that she also observed no firearms or other weapons. Moreover, on the “insurrection” charge she has told me that 1) the purpose of the demonstration was to protest clear irregularities in the election, not to ‘overturn’ it, and 2), that she has many reasons to believe that there was a significant Antifa agent-provacateur presence that stirred up some in the crowd to invade the Capitol. Why should I believe your ‘witness’ over hers? If, in fact, there were no firearms or weapons at the Capitol that day, why did you state the contrary? Finally, if the job of journalists is “to bear witness,” why did NPR, along with many other sources ignore or actively suppress the news of Hunter Biden’s laptop and the contents thereof? Yours respectfully, Lawrence Franko H ’63 Concord MA.
Ms. Kelly,
I was in the audience today at the Harvard Alumni Day today. I found you talk persuasive and moving; especially your emphasis on the role of the journalist as “bearing witness.” I was also pleased that, with one exception, you avoided stirring controversy by taking a partisan position. That one exception, however, I found shocking: your referring to the events of January 6th, 2021 as an “armed insurrection.” From everything I have read and heard there were no arms brought to the Capitol by the protesters, and no one has been charged with holding or using arms or weapons on that date. Also, the only use of arms was by the capitol police officer who shot Ashil Babbitt. (My understanding is that, yes, some protestors brought arms to the DC area, but thought better of the idea of taking them to the Capitol and desisted.) I also have a classmate who was one of the protesters, and who has told me that she also observed no firearms or other weapons. Moreover, on the “insurrection” charge she has told me that 1) the purpose of the demonstration was to protest clear irregularities in the election, not to ‘overturn’ it, and 2), that she has many reasons to believe that there was a significant Antifa agent-provacateur presence that stirred up some in the crowd to invade the Capitol. Why should I believe your ‘witness’ over hers? If, in fact, there were no firearms or weapons at the Capitol that day, why did you state the contrary? Finally, if the job of journalists is “to bear witness,” why did NPR, along with many other sources ignore or actively suppress the news of Hunter Biden’s laptop and the contents thereof? Yours respectfully, Lawrence Franko H ’63 Concord MA.
Dear Mary Louise,
I have listened to you for years on ATC and always enjoyed your excellent reporting. I just adore the sound of your voice so when I heard a snip of “It Goes So Fast . . ” as an admirer and mother, I knew I had to listen to it. I have enjoyed it more than I expected. I didn’t know you are hearing impaired. Like you, I have been so since my 40’s and I was absolutely blown away by your perfect description of hearing loss, the imperfection of wearing aids, etc. I was on a daily walk while listening and startled some fellow walkers by exclaiming, “Yes, that!, And THAT, THAT, THAT!” I’ve never heard or read this disability described so well and was in tears by the end of the chapter. Thank you so much!
Dear Mary Louise,
I have listened to you for year on ATC and always enjoyed your excellent reporting. I just adore the sound of your voice so when I heard a snip of “It Goes So Fast . . ” as an admirer and mother, I knew I had to listen to it. I have enjoyed it more than I expected. I didn’t know you are hearing impaired. Like you, I have been so since my 40’s and I was absolutely blown away by your perfect description of hearing loss, the imperfection of wearing aids, etc. I was on a daily walk while listening and startled some fellow walkers by exclaiming, “Yes, that!, And THAT, THAT, THAT!” I’ve never heard or read this disability described so well and was in tears by the end of the chapter. Thank you so much!
Loved your book! Amazing to read the complexity of juggling your family life and the work you love. Thanks for a great read!
Thank you for writing so candidly about the trade-offs inherent in parenting when you have a demanding career, Ms. Kelly. As my two youngest enter their final years at home, I will give much more in-depth thought to the choices I make.
When I was a senior in high school and a starting outside hitter on the Varsity volleyball team, my parents missed the regional championship game to take my grandmother whale watching on the California coast. They walked in as I was surrounded by reporters, after the”dog pile” of screaming teammates to celebrate the win, after one of the best games of my high school career. So I relate as a child to the struggles you describe in It. Goes. So. Fast. and many of the comments in this guest book. I was hurt, but not as much as a a parent might think; what mattered, even at the time, was I had played well, I enjoyed close bonds with my teammates, and I loved the game. Looking back now as a mother of three and the busy founder of a consulting firm with the social purpose to empower local organizations to enrich communities and protect the environment, I realize my parents missing the game was inconsequential to both my upbringing and my relationship with my parents, with whom I am very close and who I credit with instilling values which have led to a fulfilling life of public service.
My career requires trade offs, but my own child said it best in their Mother’s Day card, coincidentally the same Mother’s Day my own mother gifted me your book, “Recently I’ve noticed, thought it could just be me, that you’ve been feeling guilty for ‘not being there’ when we were kids. And maybe you weren’t always there physically, but I never once doubted you loved me unconditionally. You were there for us as a role model, I knew I always wanted to be like you when I grew up. A strong woman who worked so hard to make the world a better place and give her children the best childhood she could give them.” I have felt more guilt than I care to admit and second-guessed countless decisions. But I hope my children will benefit as much from what I was able to provide as what I was not, as I worked towards a career I love.
So to all the working mothers out there evaluating trade-offs every day; I wish you peace with your decisions and a deep knowledge that “being there” means so much more than participating in every activity. Be present if your presence brings you and your family joy or if your presence is non-negotiable, like health care. But absolve yourself of guilt if a different decision is right for you and your career. Thank you again, Ms. Kelly, for bringing the complexities of these decisions to the page.
I cried so many times when listening to your book on Audible and even when retelling parts of it to my husband. And now I am planning to order a paper copy to highlight so many perfectly crafted messages. Thank you for writing this book and thank you for your reporting. I admire your integrity and courage. I admire your commitment to your family and your profession. Your boys are so very lucky!
I am also a working mom of three girls (one of them with speech delay and dyslexia). I do not regret working, but at the same time, of course, I regret leaving them when I am on a business trip, or when my work commitments do not allow me to be at their school performances or other activities. So many stories in your book are so relevant to my everyday experiences and interactions! Thank you for sharing a story about meeting another reporter Annie while you were on a leave from work and your reflection on the importance of being comfortable with your own decisions when balancing your role as a Mom and a professional carrier.
I was also very touched by your coverage of Ukraine. I moved to the United States from Ukraine in 1999 and still have many family and friends all over the country. Thank you for your courage to travel to Ukraine, thank you for asking Mike Pompeo about his treatment of ambassador Marie Yovanovitch, thank you for sharing your interviews from Ukraine, thank you for sharing your reflection about a picture of 18 year old boys going to front lines without proper clothing, training, and gear. The world needs to hear these stories. It has been over a year since the invasion, but at times I still just cannot believe that such atrocities could still be happening.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
I heard you interviewed by Scott Simon and knew I had to read your latest book. So much of what you said resonated with me. My daughter had played soccer from a young age into college. It was hard to get to all of those games as a working mother and she warned me never to come out on the field if she was injured! As she approached the end of her senior year in high school, I was so struck by the impending changes ahead. At our college orientation for parents, the presenter spoke of the not unusual demise of marriages at this time in the life of a family. Tears were running down my cheeks. I loved how you described never knowing when something precious is happening for the last time and loved to the Robert Bly quote about pain being the cracking of the walls. You captured your experience in such a touching way and your love of your boys and the desire to be with them as much as you could was so genuine. And you made it happen!
Hi Mary Louise,
I just finished reading It. Goes. So. Fast. (and finished having a good cry.) You are such a wonderful writer! Since I love listening to you on NPR, I could hear your voice in my head as I read. You tell so many sweet, funny, sad, and deeply moving stories in this book. I had to read bits of it at a time because I got so choked up. I wish I’d had a dad who loved me as yours did you. Thank you for sharing him with us. I feel like I got to have a tiny bit of his sweet dad love through you. It heartens me to know there are really great fathers in the world who deeply love their kids and truly want to spend time with them. I like knowing that. I also loved hearing about your sweet mother. Having such a supporting mom makes life feel a lot easier. That really came through in your book. I have a sweet, supportive mom too.
I also loved reading your book because of the many things we have in common. I have 2 sons, 2 years apart and my older one is a James too. I lived in Georgia when they were born but in Athens, not Atlanta. I am just about a year older than you. Your James and my younger son, Michael, are almost the same age. Michael took a gap year which made them both Freshmen in college the same year. Last spring and summer I put together a book-length poetry collection entitled “Beyond Motherhood”. I needed to spend the summer looking back at the journey of motherhood I’d been on for the past 21 years and what it meant to be at the end of one phase of parenting. Many poems in the collection were written over the years but I also wrote a lot of new ones. It was an emotional summer. Writing is a way to process for me and is often very healing. It sounds like it is for you as well. Maybe someday my book will get published and I can share it with you! (Or I’d be happy to share some now if you’d have any interest in reading some poetry. Your book and my collection have so many similar themes.
It was really enjoyable to hear how the journey has gone for you and to know we mothers are all so alike. I hope you and Nick are doing okay. I’ve been a single mom for over half of the years I’ve raised my sons but as you said in your book, that’s a subject for another book. (I have a poetry collection about that too, though a much shorter collection.) I really appreciate the Robert Bly quote you (and your much younger self) shared with us, “The pain is the cracking of the walls as the room grows.” It is a very lovely way to think about the pain. Thank you.
Lastly, thank you for giving me (and clearly lots of other fans of yours) a way to write to you. After such an intimate sharing of your life, I feel like I know you now. It makes me happy to be able to write to you and know you will actually read this. You are certainly a person I wish I could be friends with! Sending you a big hug!
Warmly,
Shelly
Thank you for your great words! I have lived many of your ‘mother defaults’ and cherish every moment I’ve had with my now-adult children. I swiped away tears and chuckled while reading, but the chapter that grabbed me was “Letting the Silence Play Out.” I am a new (not young) author and experienced the same question from a member of a book talk audience that had everyone chortling and me nodding and smiling, but it’s the voices of my grandchildren giggling and sharing stories I’m afraid of missing, so I’m making my audiologist appointment tomorrow.
Best wishes for all you do.
And if you’re ever looking for a cozy mystery diversion…
I listened to a few minutes of your interview on FRESH AIR and will listen later to the entirety of it. I just didn’t want to lose this impetus to share how wonderful it was to hear you in a non judgemental and more relaxed scenario than your broadcast on All Things. Please know: no one ever asked Daniel Schorr when he was going to step away from his role. I am so tired of female professionals being pressed about their capabilities as they gain wisdom. And please: encourage others Not to have facelifts. Everyone is starting to look like mannequins! But, most of all: you Sound so much better in the relaxed, more thoughtful voice. And We Need That Voice! Wherever Life takes you, there will be listeners!
I have been riveted listening to your new book, It Goes So Fast. As the mother of two sons (now 35 and 39) I relate to your heart expanding as you watch them grow into men. You nailed (for me) descriptions of your aching mother’s heart. Beautiful and profound. Thank you for seizing the moment and leaving this profound piece of legacy.. Your sons must feel the depth of your love and commitment.
I am now into my third act (though it’s taken years to let go of the identify and the sense of worth I experienced in my career as a therapist and life coach). It’s nice over here. I am living from the question, “What would your heart truly love?”
Thank you for the blessing of your book. I love the tone and resonance of your voice. So comforting and grounding.
Hi, So I just saw your segment on WTTW/PBS. I’ve listened to your reports for many years on WBEZ – you do a great job! And, just so you know, this is a WHISTLE for you! 🙂 🙂 You’re a very lovely woman. Hot too! Really!
Hi. I took a break from a career that I loved, and that was just really taking off, to stay at home with my 2 young children. Also my husband required a lot of support for his career (game warden). I ghost write his papers and iron his clothes and have apple sauce in my hair. I homeschool. We also live in a rural, rural part of Florida. I am a self described feminist with a masters degree- how did I even get here!? It just felt right for my family, and I am so happy to be there for all of them. At the same time desperately miss the life I left. I get the same, weird feeling/ cringe you described when I see a former colleague/competitor/women I respect – “living the dream”. I have been out of my field for 7 years now. I don’t know if I can or will go back. I think I can.
Tonight, while I was cooking dinner, my husband called to say he would be home late, late (thats a long ass day in the middle of no-where with no adults to talk to) and I was feeling bitter. I turned on the radio and you were being interviewed about your new book.
It made me feel justified and hopeful at the same time. It was real nice to hear. Thank you for writing it. Xo
Outstanding appearance on Fresh Air today. Remarkably you are as good an interviewee as you are an interviewer.
Keep up the great work. You are an inspiration.
You and Ari make it a privledge to be a local ATC host. Thank you.
Ed Goist, Coordinator and sometimes Local Host of All Things Considered
WYSU-FM
I’ve enjoyed your reporting NPR for many years. It’s clear, crisp, relatable and answers the questions I would want to ask.
I just heard your interview on Fresh Air. Absolutely loved it. The stories were fascinating. The honesty and thoughtfulness was awesome. Please thank your family for sharing you with all of us. Thank you for all you’ve done (and will do) and thank you for your stories about motherhood.
Just heard about your latest book and will be getting it for my wife for Mother’s Day. Our oldest, who attends an all-boys prep school in MA, was the senior striker on the varsity soccer team, which won the MA D1 state championship this past Fall. He’s going off to a great D1 LAC in upstate NY this Summer and I know it’s going to be tough on my wife. She, like you, just celebrated a milestone birthday and she almost lost her dad to a stroke early in the pandemic. So many similarities to your story. Condolences on the loss of your father and congrats on the successful fledging of your nestling. PS we are members of NHPR.
Hi. My name is Kris Zerrillo and in 2002 I lived in Albany with a young lady named Mary Louise Kelly. We were interns for the NYS assembly legislative session. I know that she was named after her mom so this might not be the same girl. I just wanted to say that I was pleasantly surprised to open my iPad and see your name and Mary, if this is you, you were one of the best housemates and I’m thrilled to have learned that you realized the potential I saw in you. If ya don’t remember me or this isn’t you, that’s cool. I’m not lonely or a stalker. Good luck and rock on with your bad self!
Hi — That must be a different Mary Louise Kelly. Glad to hear we are out in force in the world! And thank you for taking the time to write.
Best,
Mary Louise Kelly (the other one!)
I listened to your interview with Scott Simon
with your latest book
August 3 1990 I lost my daughter she suffered horribly she had an immune deficiency
She spent most of herl life in a hospital
Six weeks before her fifth birthday she died
But not in my heart I have tackled this for decades something you said changed my perspective of her loss (paraphrasing) you spoke of your young child of how things/ life would change
I miss my girl 33 years later my heart continues to be empty without her until you spoke of recalling the joy of her time with you
Somehow I feel responsible she would have never suffered if it wasn’t for me and my wife
I get it but what a joy she was the prettiest and most intelligent girl she indured a lot but she always smiled when I came to see her
She was a happy girl despite her condition
If you want to write another book ( cuz I can’t write) I can give you a life short lived and she gave me life
Candace Elaine Hayden
Elaine is my Moms middle name
Just finished reading your interview in The Washington Post. Like you, I’ve been hard-of-hearing for the past 30 years. In my case, it’s from Meniere’s Disease. I’m mostly Deaf now…and I am still a cantor at my local synagogue. Being Deaf doesn’t mean you must give upo what you love best. I’m living proof. In my case, we think it’s muscle memory and visual cues from others in our Shabbat band. But this is not why I write you today. You’re in Washington DC. Home of Gallaudet University. There are people at Gallaudet (Gally) who can teach you, your family and your co-workers American Sign Language (ASL) so you can continue to be part of the conversation. ASL has been a life-changer for me. During interviews, you can ask questions and watch the interpreter to make sure you understand the answers. Captioning on your mobile phone also works…and is a lot easier, but not nearly as satisfying. One of the last times I could hear the radio, you had just finished chewing up and spitting out Mike Pompeo. Not since Noah Adams had I enjoyed an interview that much. Wishing you every success. PS If you get rechargable hearing aids, you don’t need to worry about getting them wet.
I just read an article about your new book addressing hearing loss. I don’t know if you mention it in your book, but there is a wonderful free phone app called Olelo Captioned Calls which transcribes phone conversations. It is a lifesaver for me. I have severe bilateral hearing loss and have been wearing hearing aids since 2008.
I stumbled upon your book The Bullet by accident I purchased it in audiobook for an upcoming trip I thought I would listen to a bit just to make sure it interested me. I loved it and couldn’t stop listening! I finished it before my road trip. Then I downloaded Anonymous Sources and when I arrived at my first destination I sat in my car as I didn’t want to stop listening. Needless to say in less than a week I listened to both of your books, and I can not wait for the next one!
Mary Louise,
Thank you for interviewing Marie Yovanovitch. She has given a major part of her life serving the United States through her career in foreign service. I think it is important for history to document her story, patriotism, courage, and internal strength.
Robert Krieger
You have an amazing gift when interviewing to be able to reach the listener. One morning as I was driving last week when Russia first invaded Ukraine you had an interview with a mother IVANKA GONAK and it really hit me and so I have been following the situation more closely. This interview I was able to relate with coming from the aspect of a mother and wanting to shield your children. I was able for a moment to see past my daily life and have empathy for what she was going through. Have you heard any updates on her family and how they are doing? I think about her and her situation often hoping for the best for them.
I have been listening to you for years experienced many drive through moments with you and other NPR staff members.. You are a spectacular journalist. I am writing you today because of the interview with the social scientist. Wow, right on the money for me. I will soon be 66. I am retiring from law enforcement to live in the Dominican Republic,. I am learning Spanish and Latin dances, Looking forward to playing Jazz guitar, preaching in Spanish and getting married again. I have never been happier or more excited about my future. That guy is right on the money. Its your mind set that makes the difference.
Mary Louise,
I enjoyed The Bullet very much. It had something I’ve never seen, a character named Fleeman (Gerry Fleeman, the cold case investigator). Fleeman is my maiden name and I’ve never seen it in a book before. Did you know someone with that name in Georgia? There are several there, though they are not related to me. The name is old and has been in the US since the revolution. But it’s pretty unusual. Anyway, I enjoyed that tidbit.
I will check out Anonymous Sources.
Thanks
Joan Fleeman Spiegel
Dear Joan,
Well-spotted! I do indeed know a Fleeman in Georgia — my brother married one. Since the book is very much about brothers, it was fun to throw my brother’s wife’s name in there somewhere. I often use the names of friends and family in my books… as you will when you read Anonymous Sources! The protagonist is named for my favorite people in the world.
Best,
Mary Louise
Hello Ms. Kelly:
I started reading “The Bullet” last night and finished it this morning. I love it even more than “Anonymous Sources,” although that’s a tough choice to make.
I’m a freelance reporter now writing my first mystery. On top of loving your novel, I admire the way you handled so many aspects of your craft.
I hope we can expect a third novel from you.
Thanks–
Oh thank you! I’m honored. And cheering you on as you write your own mystery. It’s both really satisfying and really hard, isn’t it? Wishing you much luck and success with your debut novel. And thank you for spurring me back to the keyboard myself!
Best,
Mary Louise
As a student in college with hearing loss, contemplating acquiring hearing aids, what would be your most preeminent advice? How have they benefited you?
Thank you for your counsel!
Hi Robert,
My best advice, for what it’s worth, is this:
1) Make an appointment with a good audiologist. Does your university health service have a recommendation maybe? This is important to establish a baseline: how advanced is your hearing loss, what kind of hearing loss do you have, is there anything you can do to prevent it getting worse?
2). If they suggest hearing aids, give it a shot. What’s to lose? You no doubt have friends who wear glasses or contact lenses to see; you may need hearing aids to hear; what’s the difference?The new models are pretty small and unobtrusive. They bluetooth with your phone which is a total game changer; I hadn’t been able to properly hear a phone call for years!
How they have benefited me? They have allowed me to continue working in a job I love. They have allowed me to enjoy concerts and theatre and movies… to hear my children laughing in another room… to hear birdsong on my morning walk. To enjoy and fully engage in life, in other words.
Good luck. I’ll be rooting for you.
Mary Louise
Thank you for the advice!
After listening to your interview and then reading your biography, I am awestruck. Immediately it brought to mind the words that described The Skipper on Gilligan’s Island – “Brave and Sure”!!!
Me, too. I’ve been going to audiologists for decades and getting those tests, after which they’ve always said that my hearing was perfect. To which I’ve said, “Then why can’t I hear?”
Yes, I can hear the tones. And I can hear the tones when someone is speaking. And as a lifelong professional musician, I can even tell you what those tones are. But I can’t tell you what the words are.
But, then, two years ago, I had sudden total hearing loss in one ear — not the ideal situation for a working musician, arranger and record producer. I sing in a group, and do comedy between songs, which is scary with this much hearing loss. I tried three types of hearing aids, but had to stop using them because all they did was increase the volume, but did not make the sounds clearer; plus the sound was unbearably harsh, even after adjusting the tone, etc.
You are the first person, other than me, whom I’ve heard say that, in the tests, you, also, could hear the tones but not the words. I’ve had to figure out various tricks to continue playing music with people, as well as getting along in life, but, like you, I’ve had much trouble with the masks, plexiglass walls, and people who just don’t speak loudly and/or clearly.
Thanks for telling your story.
I too just heard the hearing loss episode. I’ve always liked your reporting and stories on NPR but I have a newfound respect, admiration and interest in you knowing this aspect of your existence.
Thank you so much for sharing – truly awesome
Ms. Kelly.
I just heard the piece around your hearing loss and I can’t thank you enough for sharing with those of us facing a similar situation as well as to educate those without hearing loss the challenge we have trying to hear them.
This is not my first round of hearing loss as I was predominantly deaf as a chil which wasn’t realized until I started attending 1st grade and they did an auditory test. Similar to what you shared, I did ok when I was facing them as I had learned to read lips and body cues, but when they turned me away I couldn’t hear anything. I had surgery which gave me hearing but now some 40+ years later it’s going away again.
I’ve struggled with what to do, I think mainly fear of what it will be like starting to hear again. I relate to your going to Starbucks and being overcome by the sounds, my experience was hearing silverware dropped.
We have similar stories and in hearing yours (funny), I think it helped me know I’m not alone in my experience.
All this to really say, Thank You for sharing and maybe helping me view the situation differently than I have been.
Best wishes, health and happiness to you.
Dear Nena,
I’m glad to hear from you, and glad if hearing my story helped you know you are not alone. You are not! I have heard from so many people, of all ages, who wrestle with hearing loss… And so many people who are finding things even harder during Covid. (The double whammy of masks, muffling voices and making it impossible to read lips!)
Please know I am rooting for you and sending support as you navigate these next steps.
With warmest wishes,
Mary Louise
I so enjoyed both of your books. Your main characters have unique characteristics that stand out in my mind long after finishing the books. I hope you continue to write fiction, you are very good at it!
And having heard you speak about your hearing loss, perhaps that will be incorporated into your next book?
Thank you! That is wonderful to hear the characters have stuck with you; that is any fiction writer’s goal.
And it’s funny, I have been noodling the idea of writing hearing loss into my next novel. Thanks for the prod.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Ms. Kelly, thank you for your kind reply. As I read more about you, your bravery shows how engaged you are in the world. Your children must be highly enlightened! Navigating the world with deafness can sometimes isolate and cause withdrawal, and it creeps up if you let it. From reading your bio, I doubt that will be an issue for you. Losing hearing post-lingually can make a big difference in the daily adjustments to communication, but you already have a wonderful approach to that. I am curious, have you explored the possible benefits of Cochlear Implants? Hearing folks (I am hearing) sometimes put too much pressure on the deaf to adjust to our world. Keifer was evaluated as a toddler but we decided to preserve the hearing he had at the time. Now as a young adult, Keifer declined them, making the thoughtful decision to continue with speech reading and sign language, saying he is fine as he is. Please keep interviewing, continue to open up the world with your reporting experience, and never back down. I am in awe.
Ms. Kelly, thank you. I congratulate you for your stunning courage in discussing hearing loss. I am grateful to experience your story, albeit through my son, Keifer. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. He is deaf. Most folks cannot fathom the sheer hard work it took for him to achieve that degree through sign language and his unrelenting determination. It’s a truth he’s dealt with all his life. But the consequences became very clear in starting a career, and the rejections began. All of your experiences can be multiplied one hundred fold in Keifer’s life, being a deaf child, gifted in math and academics, yet not fully accepted by either the hearing or the deaf community. Hearing loss is the invisible disability. It is the only disability that brings out anger in others when they confront the difficulty in communication it causes. It’s recognized the moment a puzzled, often angry look comes over the face of someone trying to speak to Keifer. It’s only by his courage and determination that he’s able to rise above the constant confusion and even ridicule by seemingly mature adults, when he does not reply right away. Children are more honest and ask up front, “Why does he talk like a robot?” I commend you for owning up to something that is life-altering, private, and mind rattling to someone who’s livelihood depends on clear communication. You are amazing. When the pandemic is over, I would love to give you a hug. Thank you for shining a light on the realities of hearing loss. And if your contacts might lead to a career leap for a young man who wants nothing more than to help others with his engineering skills, please let me know.
Dear Ms. Geers,
What a thoughtful letter. Your son is lucky to have you as a mom, fighting at his side. He sounds like an amazing young man. My struggles are straightforward in comparison; I am fortunate in that I enjoyed normal hearing through my childhood and early career, and still have some hearing in both ears. But none of this is easy.
Thank you for taking the time to write. Your courage and love shine out from your note. Wishing you and Keifer success; we will all be better off when he is able to deploy his intelligence and skills and work ethic in the world.
Sincerely,
Mary Louise
Okay. I’d like to respond to your Tweet stating that there’s no evidence of voter fraud. I’m not even gonna waste my time compiling any lists, etc. Instead, let’s focus on the broader issue. Every major news publication is guilty of manipulating information and swaying public opinion. Also, Hollywood entertainment uses years of subversion to change cultural normalcy. Perhaps, this explains why so many people are willing to vote for their own demise. The Far Left media can steer people into any direction which they so-desire.
In addition, the Democrats buy votes using the promise of welfare programs. Plus, catch and release promises BLMers that they can commit crimes with full impunity. So, they’ll vote for the party which renders them ABOVE the law. Plus, let’s not forget the manner in which mainstream media incites hatred against Whitey.
So, this is the broader issue. Can the media control the masses? You bet. Thanks for listening.
Ms. Kelly. I just read your article about the difficulty of using hearing aids when conversing with those who have masks on. I am an Audiologist and there are studies showing that masks reduce the amplification between 2000 and 8000 Hz. Have your audiologist provide an additional program (universal/mask) and increase the gain by 2 steps between the above range and then 2 more steps between 4000 – 8000 Hz.
This is still not perfect, but will certainly help.
Will ask. Thank you!
Hi Mary Louise.
Living in Tucson, Arizona and about to order new hearing aids. I have ten year old aids to replace, Arizona Vocational services is helping with the cost, or I would be going without.
My selection is Phonak, Starkey and Oticon behind the ear. A must is to work with the iPhone.
Since most of the companies are international, thought I would ask a friend in Berlin who as I do Usher Syndrome to what he prefers and why? Then I also thought of you and your recent article in the Wall Street Journal. I loved it, relatable! The task of choosing hearing aids and using them is / can be daunting. I am in that place. It would mean a great deal to me if you would share your thoughts on hearing aids. FB NancyKateGrayson
Hearing your voice on NPR near daily gives me a lift that I can keep at it with my own work, dreams and goals. Thank you for sharing about your own hearing loss and life.
Studying the website facts and sales pitches his weekend to make an order next week, was gven short notice. Hurry up and wait with Covid and all. Grateful.
Hi there,
Thank you for writing. I’ve worn both Phonak and Oticon; you are right that bluetooth syncing with the iPhone is hugely helpful. I’m of course not qualified to advise on your personal choice, but a good audiologist should be able to let you try a set for a few days and then bring them back if they’re not the right fit. Good luck as you figure it out, and hope the new pair change your life for the better!
Best,
Mary Louise
Thank you for the kind reply.
We are set to trial Starkey’s AI series, after much research on my part. My Phonak aids lasted quite a while – 10 years. Yet time to embrace all the technology bells and whistles available. Working with the University of Arizona Hearing Clinic, nice to have a graduate student, and a professor / Dr. of Audiology’s impute this round.
Best back, Nancy Kate
I just read your interview of 11/1/2019 with Ed Norton regarding his movie “Motherless Brooklyn”, which I found most entertaining. In the interview, you (and Mr. Norton) unquestioningly repeat the canard propagated originally by Robert Caro, that Robert Moses deliberately made parkway bridge clearances low just to keep certain minorities from using the parkways (because buses were not able to travel on them due to low bridge clearance), as if this was some diabolical plot cooked up solely by him. This is a false piste! (Another useful French word that might apply in this case).
Au contraire, Parkways were deliberately designed to keep any and all commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, vans and lorries off of them. There were less affluent people of all races and ethnicities living in NYC who did not yet own a car in the 1920’s and ’30’s: for example, recent immigrant poor Italians and east European Jews, and Irish laborers (all three were far larger population groups than blacks in New York City at the time). Was Moses therefore an anti-Semite (though Jewish himself), or rabidly anti-Italian (seems not, he had a close if fiery working relationship with Mayor La Guardia)?
Even now, if you look at NY state’s parkway system (or Connecticut’s for that matter), the low bridge clearance model and the reasons for it are clearly spelled out on their web site. These parkways were created as what was then considered environmentally friendly thruways (with parks around them to allow drivers/families to get out and enjoy nature), not purely commercial arteries. (And for the time, they were truly innovative).
The first of these, and the model for all future parkways, The Bronx River Parkway, was designed and built well before Robert Moses ever laid an inch of roadway and years before he was the Parks and Parkway Commissioner. The design feature of low bridge clearances was established by the architects and engineers who started that first, Bronx River Parkway in 1917 (while Moses was just finishing his PhD and starting his career), and it became the norm for all that followed. Don’t take my word for it, check yourself. Here’s just one cultural historian’s point of view re the Bronx River Parkway as the model for all that followed:
“Established to help clean the polluted Bronx River, this 15.5-mile parkway lays within the 1,155-acre Bronx River Parkway Reservation. The Westchester section of the parkway, built between 1917 and 1925, was the nation’s first limited-access highway; construction of the Bronx section began during the early 1920s with landscape architect Hermann Merkel and field supervisor Gilmore Clarke.
The early automotive era challenged designers to retain traditional aesthetic standards while accommodating the demands of early automobiles. Bronx River Parkway design solutions set precedent across the country. The passages of scenery of open space, woodland, and rocky ledges that characterize the drive and the river are nearly always in sight. As part of this work, seven miles of billboards that previously lined the Bronx River were removed. Engineers Leslie Holleran and Arthur Hayden developed rigid frame bridges, allowing wider spans and thinner profiles, facilitating construction of split grade interchanges.” – Source: The Cultural Landscape Foundation
That era had completely different imperatives than our own, and many different builders were involved, though certainly Moses became the most important of these. Recent architectural historians understand this (see the writings of Professors Hillary Ballon and Kenneth Jackson, NYU and Columbia). So if one accuses Moses of “racism by bridge design”, then we must also include Franklin Roosevelt (Chairman of the Taconic State Parkway when it was built, with exactly the same low clearance features); Wilbur Cross (Governor of Connecticut when the Merritt Parkway was built with exactly the same low clearance features), Governors Al Smith and Herbert Lehman of New York, and practically all of the well known bridge and parkway designers and engineers of the time. Obviously, it must have been one big grand conspiracy! We might also note that “Expressways” and “Highways” have higher clearance bridges, to allow commercial traffic (and are usually much longer – the Taconic, New York’s longest parkway is just over 100 miles, while Interstate 95 goes all the way from Maine to the southern tip of Florida.)
Parkways were simply built for a different purpose, which in its original intent was threefold: 1) “environmental” or what we might term “green”; 2) recreational; and 3) utilitarian. The one thing practically all of them excluded? Commercial vehicles: so automobile drivers and their families would have unhindered views of and access to the surroundings, and cleaner air (no trucks or buses belching out noxious fumes – there were no catalytic converters back then).
So in fact, the builders of the Parkways could be said to be among our earliest environmentalists and democratizers. The Bronx River was polluted and cluttered with billboards before the Parkway builders restored it, and much of Long Island was the playground of the rich before Moses enabled the average working man to get out there, and have a modern, clean beach to go to (Jones Beach) whether by train or car.
Regarding this last point (access to the beach from NYC), it is rarely mentioned that Robert Moses created direct bus lines from the train stop coming out of NYC closest to Jones Beach, with a direct bus connection to Jones Beach from the train terminal. So even if they didn’t own a car to go to the beach via Parkways, low income city dwellers did indeed have access to the beach, which was Moses’ first successful project completed under Governor Al Smith. Yes, the train + bus connection took longer than driving directly to the beach by car. But this fact nonetheless undermines Caro’s charge. Those dedicated bus lines were specifically put there to carry anyone who did not have a car from the closest train terminus to the beach and back, so that families (of any income level) living in NYC could enjoy a day at the beach with a relatively inexpensive train ride and short bus connection. Such buses are still in use today is my understanding, testifying to their utility.
Smith wanted votes: he was not so stupid as to exclude the vast majority of NYC’s voters who as yet may not have owned a car, from the most beautiful new beach then in existence. Otherwise he would not have served as governor for as long as he did. New York City was the largest voting block in the state, and gubernatorial terms were only two years then, so he had to win reelection several times before being nominated in 1928 as the Democratic presidential candidate. In fact, part of the reason he got the nomination was that the people of the time admired the innovative infrastructure that he built in his administration with the collaboration of Robert Moses.
One of the reasons journalism (and Hollywood) is so mistrusted is that with the dawn of the Internet it has become obvious that journalists (plus entertainers, and in fact most of us mere mortals) keep repeating each others’ shibboleths, as if in an echo chamber, instead of doing the basic and very simple work of looking up the facts before making sweeping statements of “truth”.
As we all know, though there are many false “pistes”, verification of a claim such as Caro’s is easier these days with the research tools available on the Internet. This is not to say that Robert Moses did not hold racial and or ethnic prejudices and stereotypes (I believe he did, as did many of his peers, which is not to justify or excuse them). Rather, that in this instance, the “racism by bridge clearance” charge so often repeated by journalists and “experts” is clearly itself biased and a ‘false piste’ allegation by Caro and Knopf against Moses to support Caro’s own disdain for the NYC of the 1960’s and ’70’s, the decaying condition of which he blamed on Moses as a convenient scapegoat, which itself is highly debatable (particularly in light of more recent scholarship on the subject).
Caro wanted to “stick” something sensational on Moses for purposes of selling his book, and it has stuck ever since. I would rather stick to an older rule: “Thou shalt not bear false witness.”
Respectfully, I would suggest you might want to reconsider your point of view on this topic, and ask Mr. Norton to investigate further too; I think what you will both find will surprise and possibly even inspire you. There are plenty of grey areas in this story, take a look at both sides – it’s not all black and white. Also, for anyone interested, please look up Robert Moses’ letter of rebuttal to Caro and his editor Knopf. It’s not too taxing, in spite of his frequent allusions to great poets and writers, and at only about 10 pages packs in a lot. It’s highly entertaining too.
For a more nuanced analysis, Professors Jackson and Ballon provide a salutary counterpoint to Caro’s dim view of the period when modern NYC was built (and considered to be the leading city in the world at the time as a result) – by Moses yes, but also by La Guardia, Roosevelt, Lehman, Al Smith, Langdon Post, and many many others too numerous to cite.
Je vous prie de croire, Madame, à mes sentiments les meilleurs (and I mean that),
G.M.N.
I am rereading Anonymous Sources at the moment. I am trying to get my Mary Louise Kelly book fix. Oh how I hope you have plans for another book soon. Your stories are stirring. If you find you have time, I am sure that this Corona Crazy (My son’s word) world would be vastly improved if it had a third Mary Louise Kelly book in it. 😀
This made me smile. Working on it!
Best,
Mary Louise
.08.03.2020 – 10:30 p.m. ET
Mary Louise,
Not sure you’ll read this; you’ve quite a following, no surprise there. We all like to pitch our 2 pennies in whether in agreement, neutral or we disagree but I hope that you are well and still with NPR.
I had not heard your distinctive voice on my favorite NPR stations in some time and thought perhaps I was just missing your air time and input. Glad to see you are still with the NPR gang and look forward to catching “up with you” on your next delivery of news.
Best regards,
Mark Mansour
Hi there,
Yes – very much still at NPR and on air most afternoons for All Things Considered! We have just launched a new podcast too, called “Consider This.” Would love to hear your feedback if you have the chance to listen.
All best,
Mary Louise
Have you considered getting a cochlear implant? (Re: your article about hearing loss in a pandemic.) You may want to at least be evaluated by a surgeon who specializes in this field to find out if you are a candidate- there’s a good team at Johns Hopkins, for example. These devices excel at improving speech recognition. The outpatient surgery five years ago was simple with minimal downtime, and I could understand words as soon as the device was activated. I chose Cochlear Americas which streams phone calls directly to the external device via Bluetooth, but all three manufacturers have happy customers. I had severe to profound loss in both ears, and had the surgery on the deafest one. It is no exaggeration to say this was a life-changing decision and I consider these devices to be a true miracle of modern science. Best of success to you if you decide to pursue this solution.
Mary Louise:
I listen to you regularly on NPR and very much enjoy your interviews. I am writing because I read your article in the WSJ on hearing during the pandemic with hearing loss. I was a prosecutor and then a judge and like you lost much of my hearing in my 40’s. I started wearing hearing aids at 43 but struggled during trials catching responses from jurors during voir dire and even sometimes witnesses and lawyers. I also have become a skilled lip reader over the years but am dying with the mask wearing during the pandemic. Mask wearing is a non negotiable for me too but it wreaks havoc on any kind of meaningful conversation. Thank you for writing your article. Your willingness to continue interviewing and doing stories masks and all reminds me to hang in there with the frustrations.
I read your article in the Wall Street Journal titled “The Pandemic is Even Worse When You Can’t Hear.” I wanted to relate to you that as a scientist, there are hearing remedies outside of conventional hearing aids that will significantly improve hearing, especially in regard to word recognition. For example, Harvard graduate, Jonathan V. Wright, MD at his Tahoma clinic in Renton, Washington applies the hormone aldosterone to deaf patients, and these patients often gain 20 decibels of hearing for an 8-hour period. I am personally deficient in this hormone, and I often apply a single dose in my ears if I need to attend an important meeting.
Second, professor Nakagawa, MD in Japan has done extensive research in improving hearing with the key liver hormone IGF-1. In his clinical double-blind placebo- controlled studies, even the totally deaf have improved hearing of 10 decibels on average. In my own studies, I have found that IGF-1 combined with HGH improves both hearing and word recognition when used every third day. I tried to patent my results, but my patent was rejected due to the fact that the scientist Laron holds a patent from 1999.
More details of my research are found in my book “Stay 40,” available on Amazon and in my lectures at medical meetings. Sincerely, Richard Lippman, Honolulu.
I read your hearing aids article and have a suggestion to eliminate the problem of batteries failing ( always at the worst possible time ). I discovered this solution after wearing hearing aids for about a year.
Each week has 168 hours.
Divided in half equals 84 hours.
So, I change them every 84 hours–Sunday at 8PM and Thursday at 8:00AM.
Have never had a battery fail since I started this method.
Try it.
I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Let me know if it works for you.
Thanks for the great column in WSJ on COVID masks and hearing. All familiar. The only positive thing about having a hearing impairment is having Mr. Magoo moments for a good laugh. Knowing that you have hearing loss gives me even more admiration for your wonderful interview style and results.
Your WSJ article on your hearing issues. Most hearing aid manufacturers offer some sort of auxiliary device for TV listening. If yours doesn’t, Sennheiser makes some wireless earphones that are pretty good. I don’t like to watch stuff with subtitles because I can’t multitask.
Read your article in the WSJ re: masks and hearing impairment an hour or so after struggling through a conversation at the Walmart pharmacy with a pharmacy tech who speaks English as a second language, masks, plexiglass AND loud in-store music. You are so right about how we with even slight hearing impairments are challenged right now!
I recently finished Bullet. I liked it even better than Anonymous Sources. As much as I enjoy your contributions to All Things Considered, I hope you will find time for another book. RE ATC Your interviewing skills are amazing. While not faulting other hosts, sometimes their questions sound scripted. When you are doing an interview it is like listening in on a kitchen table discussion. I can feel your interest, your curiosity, and your empathy. Thanks for making the news come alive.
Oh thank you; that is kind. It took me a while as an interviewer to learn that the best interviews are just conversations… two people curious about each other and the world, and listening – really listening – to what the other has to say.
As for writing more fiction… it will happen. Though I face a distinct challenge these days, in trying to come up with plot twists wilder than the reality we are all currently living through!
Best,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise, I love hearing your voice and getting your expertise on in NPR. You may remember me from your Lovett days. I will be the president of the Midtown Atlanta Rotary club starting in July, and would love to get you on our program calendar for a date and time convenient for you. Is that a possibility? We are a well educated, culturally diverse, community-minded Club; we meet at the Ansley Golf Club. I look forward to hearing from you. Rocky Ford
Rocky,
It’s good to hear from you. And thank you for this kind invitation. Could you share an email or phone number so we I can be in touch?
(If you reply here, I’ll see it but it will not appear publicly).
Best,
Mary Louise
I’m going to be gauche and make a post not about your books.
I l-o-v-e your voice on NPR. Will literally be still and listen to the news and to how you present the news. I’ve read that NPR utilizes a voice coach for all on-air talent. Well, I can hear that coaching in every anchor. But your presentation has a lilt that is so pleasant to listen to. I imagine I’m not the first person to tell you this. No matter; now I can keep listening knowing I’ve paid due homage.
Anthony,
That’s so nice; thank you. NPR does offer us voice training; some correspondents and hosts do more than others. One of the most helpful tips is not to feel like you need to speak in a “big broadcast voice,” talking AT people. Just imagine one person, ideally one that you like, and speak just with them. The smile comes through in your voice.
All best,
Mary Louise
Dear Ms Kelly . . . Mary Louise,
I am a long-time NPR listener, and after the Mike Pompeo ‘incident’ I ‘Googled’ you, discovered just how accomplished you are, found this website, and decided to try reading your novels. I borrowed “The Bullet” — in Kindle format — from my public library.
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your story. I loved your main character and shared her sense of disbelief and outrage, as events unfolded. I loved her internal monologue, her ingenuity, and her rather dark sense of humor. Having listened to your voice on the radio for so many years, the book almost became an audiobook narrated in your voice, in my own head 🙂 BTW, if you haven’t produced an audioversion of The Bullet in your voice, you really should!!
When libraries reopen, I will get a copy of Anonymous Sources — doesn’t appear to be available as an e-book 🙁
I hope you keep writing novels in what I am sure is your abundant spare time — I will keep reading them. Thank you as well for your work on NPR . . . Americans, the world, needs these resources right now.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Kroon
Seattle, WA
Jennifer,
Delighted to hear you enjoyed — and hope I helped you pass a few pleasant hours in these uncertain times.
While I am all in favor of supporting our libraries when they re-open, I add here the link to Anonymous Sources, which is indeed available as an e-book. Happy reading!
https://www.amazon.com/Sources-Mary-Louise-Kelly-ebook/dp/B00A25FCRO/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1584730232&sr=1-1
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
First, let me compliment you on two excellent crime novels, Bullet and Anonymous Sources. You have done nice work here. My wife and I are voracious readers, and especially like women authors. You join a great group.
Second, as an emeritus professor of French (my speciality avant-garde poetry) I feel so much at home with you.
Third, as an Italianophile (gap year in Rome, summer teaching study abroad in Tuscany) I share your sensitivities.
Fourth, I smile smugly at the arrogance we share in the face of pompous administrators. Our lives are so much richer than theirs, and I enjoy sharing it with you through your NPR reporting and your lovely novels.
Best wishes,
David Seaman
Dear Ms. Kelly,
I would like to commend you on your recent interview with Mike Pompeo. The manner in which you conducted yourself, with both focus and civility, was inspiring—given the zeitgeist that this President and his administration tends to engender. I so appreciate the fact that you never allowed Mr. Pompeo to cause you to lose your composure. I would like to think that I too would display this same kind of moxie in a situation like this, but I highly doubt it. You are my hero! Continued success in your future endeavors. Your new number one fan,
Galahad Garza
Ms Kelly, how grateful I am to have found a contact forum for you to say that you are my hero! When I heard you stand up to the pompous bully, Mike Pompeo, I thanked God for your civility and courage. As a Child Abuse and Neglect Investigator for 32 yrs, I associate the hostile behavior he exhibited w/ frightened, uneducated people trying to evade and obfuscate the facts. I’m so relieved to see that there are still decent people like yourself not afraid to interview tough persons in positions of power in a search for/expose of the truth.
Dear Mary Louise,
You are a persistent journalist who acted 100% PROFESSIONALLY in your interview with Pompeo These Trumppanzees are all alike in that they are neo-fascist scum. You, on the other hand, are an all-too rare example of good, go-get-’em journalism who will not throw softball questions, let alone allow these scurrilous criminals get away with lies and evasions. Keep it up! Don’t let them bring you down. I am proud of you!
– Martin in Petaluma, CA
I really can’t top George Thomas’s comment except to suggest maybe passing that blank map to his boss after extracting the map.
The way Mike Pompeo treated you was despicable. Shame on him.
I had no idea that you were also a novelist. I will add you to my list of books to read at goodreads.com
Good wishes on your continued reporting on this administration!
I sent the following letter to SOS Mike Pompeo:
Dear Sir,
Regarding your recent interview with Marie Louise Kelly. I have the following comment.
Marie Louise Kelly was too much of a professional to say it, but I will. You should take that blank map of yours and stick it up your fat ass. Got it, Fatso?
Sincerely,
George H. Thomas
Keep up the good work Ms. Kelly
Good for you, Mary Louise. Enjoy listening to you on ATC and recent interviews.
Thank you, Ms. Kelly, for standing up to Secretary of State Pompeo, for exposing his subterfuge, and for being a superb journalist. I have never been prouder to be an NPR / Public Radio supporter. Keep up the good work.
Ms. Kelly,
I have always enjoyed listening to you on NPR. I find it very difficult to understand certain people who see something grossly wrong (President Trump) yet decide to follow him blindly. AND if you even question him, on anything, you are labeled as unpatriotic. We are talking about educated people who invested money in their education and cannot even tell right from wrong, good from bad, or good from evil.
Thank you for standing up for morally, decent, honest people. You do this through your actions.
It was a DISGRACE for ALL AMERICAN that the President of the United States said those horrible words to Pompeo. (got her good).
QUESTION AUTHORITY, ALWAYS!
Peace and Love from Boston, MA
Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for being fearless when faced with the rage of a tyrant. Your courage, and that of your fellow journalists, inspires all of us to be courageous and humble. Please continue to ask difficult questions. Please continue to seek the truth. We are all counting on you and your peers. The entire nation is counting on you and your peers. Be strong!
totally behind you all the way! you are strong, smart woman and we need more like you!
Becky
Ms. Kelly – It is a shame that politicians are allowed to bully a reporter for doing her job. Thanks for putting forth an enlightening interview.
Thank you for your pursuit of the TRUTH!!!
You are awesome!! Keep it up! THANK YOU!!!!!
Ms. Kelly, our democracy depends upon courageous journalists who will press those in power to stand responsible for their words and actions. I salute your courage and integrity. You pressed Secretary of State Pompeo for explanations for his actions to a point where he could no longer confuse the issues with salespitch. We need more journalists like you. Thank you.
Hi Mary Louise:
Thank you for being great. Often I hear that strong voice of yours and think, not only is she smart, but she doesn’t let anyone off the hook. Pompeo sounded a bit stressed…thanks to you!
I guess he just should have taken a deep breath and answered, instead of blaming the questioner.
I’ve listened to you for years, and I trust your tenacity.
Ms. Kelly, Your interview with Secretary Pompeo was revelatory and masterful. It showed your deepest mettle and most perceptive journalistic skills. I have replayed it many times, while attempting to lift my spirits and reinforce that there are still those among us who will speak truth to power.
It appears that Secretary Pompeo has lost his way. Certainly he has forgotten his core principles and lodestone, the West Point Cadet Honor Code: “A cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do.”
The USMA Honor Code is not only ingrained and integral to every cadet’s training, but is also the basis for life long conduct in service to society, going well beyond Duty, Honor, and Country, as I discovered from reading “Cadet Honor Code & System” by LTC Todd Messitt, Special Assistant to the Commandant for Honor Matters. I have provided a link below to that document.
I wish you much continued success Ms. Kelly, and thank you for continuing to search for the truth.
Thank you, Ms. Kelly. Your interview with Mr. Pompeo was wonderful. I look forward to more reporting from you.
YES, THANK YOU MS. KELLY. YOU ARE A GREAT WRITER,
SPEAKER AND A LADY. YOU THINK LIKE A POET. ALL THE BEST,
VICTORIA LYNNE HEIM, POET
Behind you 100% Ms. Kelly. I have listened to your interviews for years. You ask tough questions and you don’t let your subjects off the hook but you don’t browbeat them either. Sorry our Sec. of State is so juvenile. Very best to you, and keep up the great work!
PS – didn’t know you were an author. Just found “The Bullet” and “Anonymous Sources” in my library and got on the hold list.
Thank you Mary Louise Kelly and others who stand up for what is right, ask hard questions, maintain ethics and integrity and call on others to do the same. Just wanted you to know that your work matters and you have my support – doubling my NPR contribution!
Ms. Kelly – We just know you wouldn’t have a problem locating the Ukraine on a map. Our Secretary of State? Another matter. Sorry you were treated in such a disrespectful manner. From your reporting on NPR, your professionalism, and the way you present yourself; my wife and I side with you. We guess since Mike Pompeo’s boss always lies, he feels he can do likewise. We know this won’t slow you down one bit in your standards of investigation. Stay positive and know that so many people are behind you and believe YOU.
Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for your excellent conduct and reporting in the “Pompeo Affair.” I will now sign off to donate to NPR.
Dear Ms. Kelly I am eternally grateful that you exposed this unprofessional disrespectful demeaning
anti feminist arrogant immature out of control, man in an important leadership role.
Thank you for having such guts!
Sincerely,
Susan Ferro
Thank you Mary Louise, for standing up for the truth. I am an immigrant, I appreciate the democracy and truthfulness of America, and I am worried about our country’s future. What kind of message we are sending to our people, especially to our kids, that if you lie, deny and viciously attack, you could always get away.
You were incredibly courageous facing Pompeo, and best of all, you made him lose his cool. You are a hero and backbone of this country!
Mary Louise,
Thank you for your courage, gravitas, and for the sharp, fair questioning you bring to ATC guests on NPR every day. It’s refreshing to hear when you call power to account. In these times where our national leaders are lying to us, and failing us in so many ways, we need you more than ever. For those who care about true American ideals, you have our support!
Thank you, Mary Louise Kelly, for your honest and thorough reporting. You are professional at all times and your reports on NPR are always knowledgeable, thrilling and worth listening to. Your interview with Secretary Pompeo was above reproach, despite any comments to the contrary. Carry on!
Ms. MLK- For years I have listened to you reporting on NPR from around the world. I have always found you through in your reporting. The particular morning in January 2020, I listened to your interview with US-SoS (Mike P). Before all the controversies came into news, that particular morning I felt that you were pointed and through in asking important questions that I would like SoS to answer to me. BRAVO. I also noticed that SoS seemed frustrated as he had NO answers to specifics you were asking him (like alternate denuclearization plan for Iran). He kept going in circle as he/administration has no alternate plans. He must have just realized that he had walked into a den than other outlets that throws him softball questions. You were professional and to the point. I am going to up my donation to NPR. I am sorry that SoS has created these other controversies and NOT you. MARCH ON MLK AND APPLY THE MAXIMUM PRESSURE!
You are a true Rock Star.
I hope you know you are well loved and appreciated.
From long time NPR listeners.
Thank you for your courage and spirit as you endeavor to uncover the approved government line on contentious issues. I pray Mr. Pompeo’s conscience begins to whisper to him after your January 24 interview. Continue to lead us toward a better condition and higher level of awareness and thought.
You’re one heck of a reporter.
I join a host of others in gratitude for your thorough, ethical and calm reporting. Thank you for preserving civility in the face of bullying by Pompeo. It is so important for women to see you modeling how to stand up and rise above the undercurrents of contempt, fear mongering and falsehood that are rampant now. Bravo!!
Just a note to tell you how how much I appreciate your reporting on NPR, and I’m sorry you have to deal with this nonsense. Please don’t let this make you anything less than the bold, forthright reporter you have always been. Also, I didn’t know you were a novelist! See? You just made a sale! Best, best regards.
Ms Mary Louise Kelly:
Deep respect and admiration for all your work!!! All solidified listening to your Pompeo interview and the abuse you had to endure after. You have a loyal fan in me!!! Wishing you continued success!!!
Thank you Mary Louise Kelly,
for your honest and thorough reporting. It is upsetting to think that a Secretary of State could present himself it such an unprofessional manner. Please know that despite the comments that Mr. Pompeo has asserted, your long standing reputation for the facts speak for themselves. You are respected and valued by the American Public for what you do.
Dear Mary Louise –
Your poise and even-handedness in the face of an unbelievably difficult and perhaps even scary interview situation was stunning. I can only imagine the stress and agita that even a consummate pro feels downstream of an experience like that one, but know that millions and millions of people stand behind you and applaud you for your incredible journalistic instincts.
With gratitude,
Billy Straus – Putney, Vermont
Dear Ms. Kelly,
You are, simply put, a hero.
Thank you!
Dear Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for your enlightening interview with the Secretary of State. Perhaps unintentionally, you were the light that revealed to the world the cancer of autocratic power and darkness that now reigns in Washington. Keep up the great work!!
Thank you so much for your direct and unflinching interview with Pompous Pompeo. I appreciated your question regarding an apology to Maria Yovanovitch who deserves a thank you for all her foreign service work. I hope other journalists will also push back when presented with inaccurate responses by Trump or his bullying staff members. Your integrity, knowledge and civility are wonderful to hear and see.
Dear Ms. Kelly,
Thank you for your courageous efforts to bring the truth to the American people. In the face of a terrible bully, you stood your ground and yet in your usual fashion, remained completely respectful. You have been, and remain, a mentor to all of us who love this country and are horrified at the damage that is being done to it. Keep up the good work!
I read your interview about your Iran visit just after the general that was killed. What courage! I noted that you were born in Augsburg. I wonder if your Dad was Major Kelly who was the XO of my artillery battalion. I was a new Lt. June through September 1970 and he didn’t think much of me. If that’s your Dad tell him Dynes kept his head down in Vietnam and didn’t mess things up.
i
Do you have any proof of your comments about the Secretary of state ? or is this more of the fiction you write ? Nothing in the published recorded interview supports your fake new claims and the written story is full of unsupported claims.
Thanks for writing. Written emails supporting my account have been discussed here, here and here. All best.
I believe in you. In fact, all humans with a claim to sanity and basic decency believe in you. Thank you for your integrity and persistence in asking questions. Keep up the great work. Your listeners salute you and applaud your efforts.
Ms. Kelly –
Thank you for your reporting and through it your service to our nation. I think the Secretary of State is a man under tremendous pressure, in many/most ways due to his own choices. He treated you badly (personally and professionally), and I appreciate you standing up to him.
Sincerely –
Whit Wheeler
Dear Ms Kelly
I am a long time NPR listener and I appreciate your reports and interviews. Regardless of political preferences and belief, I am sorry you were attacked privately and then publicly by Secretary Pompeo.
Dear Mary Louise:
I just wanted to add my name to your extensive list of strong supporters of your great journalistic work with ATC on NPR. The All Things Considered listeners are well informed and loyal to the program hosts and reporters.
As mentioned by one of the other commenters, Secretary Pompeo graduated First in his Class at West Point (Duty – Honor – Country); served honorably in Germany as a Tank Commander; and after his service commitment, he went on to Harvard Law School. He practiced law for a few years before being elected a US Congressman from Kansas, serving his district with distinction.
BUT… As you were Witness to (Victim of), a Very Different Version of Mike Pompeo since he has Linked his Star to President Trump and become his prime minister of Mischief. How did this Man who started his career at the Top with Honor, become so Corrupted after being in Trump’s presence.
Many journalists, just as you have, want Answers from him and the State Department as to why the Ambassador was fired for No Cause and treated poorly.
I look forward to your response to my comments. Thank you.
Ms. Kelly, stay strong and true to your profession. You are doing us and democracy a great service.
I just listened to your interview of Mike Pompeo. Thank you for asking the tough questions that need to be asked and for persisting and not backing down in the face of his complete and utter arrogance. His behavior and lack of respect for you is a disgrace.
Want to commend you for standing up to the bully secretary. Really appreciated your reporting from Iran as well. Thank you for what you do!
Sonny
Want to commend you for standing up to the bully secretary. Really appreciated your reporting from Iran as well. Thank you for what you do!
Sonny
PS my wife and I also think that you and Pam Shriver sound exactly the same!
Ms. Kelly,
I just heard the audio of your interview with Mike Pompeo and although I didn’t know who you were, it was that moment when you rightfully pushed back and held the mirror to his lying face – you restored my faith in the freedom and the power of the press!!! Wherever you were and whatever you were doing I want you to know that my spirit flew to you and humbly kneeled before you and kissed your hand – Thank you for displaying the professional courage and giving dignity to your reporting and profession!
I am now and will always respectfully be your fan.
ps: please advise your reserved colleagues to do more of what you do – it is their JOB and we the people expect them to do it!!
Sincerely,
Geoffrey Reed
Thank you for your integrity yesterday and today. You are everything I believe a journalist should be and give me great hope that we all have a voice in this bewildering times! And thank you NPR for standing up for what is true and what is right! I am disappointed and ashamed of Mike Pompeo. .
Looking forward to reading your books!
All the best,
Darcy Hovard
We just heard your interview with the Secretary Of State. 1. You are an inspiration, and we say bravo. 2. We love your work on “ All Things . . .” Actually, we love all our NPR friends. Don’t know what we’d do without you guys. Be well,
A
Great job standing up to bullies. Best of luck.
Ms. Kelly,
I’m a big fan and want to commend you for standing up to US secretary of state Mike Pompeo. He is the worst kind of politician and part of the criminal regime that is this administration. You are a hero for standing up to him and reporting thoughtful and true stories. I saw a meme today that stated, “Trump terrified that Pompeo will ask him to identify the USA on a blank map of the world!” Keep doing the great work that makes me so proud of you and NPR!
Best,
Allan D. Nelson
I just heard your interview of Mike Pompeo and I was flabbergasted that someone who reputedly finished first in his class at West Point could treat someone as smart as you are, so foolishly. For him to test the geographic knowledge and acumen of someone with your educational credentials and background, having been born in Germany as part of an American family, having graduated magna cum laude at Harvard, as well as a graduate degree from Cambridge, and having served as an editor for NPR news and as the current co-host of All Things Considered. It’s amazing that he had the temerity to confront you with a challenge about where in the world The Ukraine is situated, and then to lie about your response as reputedly not knowing the relative location of a country bordering The Black Sea as opposed to one on The Bay of Bengal, he cannot even invent a believable accusation and he has no idea just who you are. This is the Secretary of State that Donald J Trump deserves. A case of the foolish leading the blind. The story solidified your knowledge and reputation. – FJC
Thank you for being what a reporter is expected to be; someone who helps us hear and understand the truth of our times.
I just read a huffpo article about the incident with Pompous (the arrogance of that man) and I just wanted to tell you that you are an RBG level bad ass. Put him in any other job and that little stunt would get him fired, but not in this administration that relies so heavily on rudeness, arrogance, and self-righteousness. I applaud you for reporting the full story and for bringing his atrocious behavior to light. I doubt he would have done this to a man.
I listen to you all the time. Keep fighting the good fight!
Thanks for all that you and your NPR colleagues do to bring the truth to the American people. I believe that fearless reporting like yours will help bring about justice. Thanks for being a light in dark places, and keep up the good and important work.
Thank you for pressing the Secretary of State in such a respectful and straightforward manner. Hopefully the Democratic candidates will follow your lead…or maybe another late entry?
I can not believe what I heard today on the radio…First the whole interview you did with the Sec of State was amazing… you were respectful and you simply did not back down. I would have backed off a dozen times, but you pressed on and rightly so. But the coda to the interview — being called into his “living room office” alone – how scary. And being yelled at by Mike Pompeo is so awful to me on so many levels — to think we have a person who would yell at you like that and use the language that he did is just plain sad… I think these men in this administration are a new low. You are one brave woman, Mary Louise Kelly. I’m thoroughly Inspired by you. Standing up to a powerful man like that and continue to ask pertinent, essential questions and counter his answers with facts, just blew me away. You just kept on coming. I’m a strong woman, and I’ve photographed powerful men — but you are a major badass. I love listening to you and now even more so. Keep teaching us not to back down, just not to cower and quit demanding answers.
I can not believe what I heard today on the radio…First the whole interview you did with the Sec of State was amazing… you were respectful and you simply did not back down. I would have backed off a dozen times, but you pressed on and rightly so. But the coda to the interview — being called into his “living room office” and being yelled at by Mike Pompeo is so awful to me on so many levels — to think we have a person who would yell at you like that and use the language that he did is just plain sad… I think these men in this administration are a new low. You are one brave woman, Mary Louise Kelly. I’m thoroughly Inspired by you. Standing up to a powerful man like that and continue to ask pertinent, essential questions and counter his answers with facts, just blew me away. You just kept on coming. I’m a strong woman, and I’ve photographed powerful men — but you are a major badass. I love listening to you and now even more so. Keep teaching us not to back down, just not to cower and quit demanding answers.
MLK,
Read both of your books. Who knew!! Bravo Zulu…..
GWIII
Thank you so much for your persistent and determined interview with Mike Pompeo. I love your BBC style and I hope you and your colleagues continue in this manner. I often listen to BBC news because I find their style of news dissemination so real and truthful. I now feel like I really “ know “ Mike Pompeo in a whole new way! Your courage is inspiring …
Hello from Canada,
I’m going to order my first book of yours. To be honest, I found you when searched hearing loss in my 40’s…read your article in the Washingtonian…and cried. This week I was told officially that I have to go see an audiologist, and I’ll be honest again, I’m terrified.
I read your article and it made me laugh, cry, feel better about facing loss. I’ve been using closed captioning to watch television for years to avoid going to the doctor. So thank you and know that you helped a stranger tremendously. 🌻Kim
Kim,
I am happy to read this and thrilled if my writing helped in some small way. I’ve been meaning to write again about hearing loss, because I hear often from people touched by that short essay. Please do see a good audiologist so you are informed about your options. I found it all less scary once I had the facts. In fact, you are reminding me to go schedule my annual appointment. Hearing loss can be terrifying and isolating and just annoying. But you will be amazed — really amazed — what a difference hearing aids can make. I’ll be rooting for you.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
I listened to your interview this afternoon with Olivia Wilde and how people are calling their childhood friends to reconnect. I wish I could, but my best friend from 7th grade until my senior year in HS died in a car crash when she was 17. I have had intense friendships since then, but they have waned over the years. Perhaps this one would have too, but now it is frozen in time. After 40 years, I will still have dreams where she shows up in my life and explains how she was alive this whole time. But then I wake up and return to reality.
I am sorry for your loss. I imagine such a loss never entirely leaves you. First friendships run so very deep. Thank you for listening, and for taking the time to write.
Sincerely,
Mary Louise
I am just curious to know if you have plans to release a new book in the near future. As someone who likes to binge read authors who tell great stories, I have been checking your website every so often for the last couple of years. What can I say? I loved Anonymous Sources and The Bullet. I am looking forward to the next story.
So glad you asked! I am writing! The maelstrom of the Washington news cycle (aka my day job) does not make it easy. BUT I wrote a chapter of the next book last night. Will try to add to that this weekend, and then… just keep going. Thanks for sticking with me!
just reading your first book and loving it! I only stopped because my eyes need a rest and wanted to tell you. . can’t wait to finish and get Bullet.
the sexiness is perfect and I love your characters.
Thank you and so glad you enjoyed it! Hope you love The Bullet just as much.
All best,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary,
I would love to read the book “the bullet” but then in de Dutch version.
I have to wait a long time because a book store says it is available to buy in june 2020
But why take it so very long????
Greetings and love,
Petra
Hi Petra,
That is strange because the Dutch version should be out already.
I’ll ask the contact for my international editions to check–could you provide the name of the bookstore?
All best,
Mary Louise
Mary, I met you at your grandmothers funeral last week. I grew up with your father. I bought and read your book Bullit. I couldn’t put it down. I even learned some French words. I really enjoyed it and encourage you to keep writing. Yours Ralph Ruebel
Ralph,
It meant a great deal to my dad that you were there. Thank you. And thank you for reading The Bullet and for your sweet note! I’m delighted you enjoyed it. And yes, I plan to write a third novel so watch this space.
Best,
Mary Louise
You ended your newscast with a beautiful scripture, I believe from Malachi or Micah, could you share what chapter and verses, blessings to you!
Thanks for listening. It was a letter from George Washington to the Hebrew congregation of Newport, Rhode Island. Here is the link to our NPR story: https://www.npr.org/2018/10/29/661879768/340-words-of-reassurance-from-george-washington-to-an-american-hebrew-congregati
Hi Mary Louise,
I enjoy your reporting on NPR and have enjoyed both your books. But I was dismayed at the end of The Bullet that the crime was left unsolved with the police looking (incorrectly) for a black man. Too often in America, black men have been wrongfully fingered and arrested and convicted of crimes they never committed. Your book is fiction, thankfully, but I wanted to raise this issue since none of your characters mentioned any misgivings. What would your characters Beamer and Caroline do if the police ended up wrongly arresting some innocent black man, in their effort to solve the crime?
Thanks for thinking about this,
Virginia
Fine interview with David Nevins about the legacy of Steve Bochco, but it was a bit unfair to imply that there was no evolution in the police procedural formal between “Dragnet” and Hill St. Blues”. What about “Naked City”, especially in the 1-hour version? (It went off the air before you and Nevins were born, but can be seen on You Tube, or on DVD.) It portrayed the detectives as humans, not cardboard cut-outs, and gave serious treatment to the problems of the people encountered in police work, and not all issues were tied up neatly in a bow by the end of the hour. Also, you get to see some great NY actors, some at early stages of their careers, and it was filmed on the streets of gritty, pre-gentrified NYC! “Naked City” and “Route 66” were produced by Herbert B. Leonard and many episodes were written by Stirling Silliphant, a highly-creative and independent team.
Hi Mary!
I’m writing you on behalf of our Crime Fiction course at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. We just read and discussed The Bullet in our course and really are curious about the woman who inspired the book. We were curious about whether or not you ever followed up with her and found out her story. Big fans of the book!
Thanks in advance!
Great question!
I did indeed follow up with her. She’s got an intriguing story–and what appears indeed to be a bullet in her neck–but no idea how it got there. She’s had MRIs and CAT scans that show a slim, tapered metal object lodged near the base of her neck. She has never had surgery around that area, has never been in an unusual accident, has no clandestine past. (Funniest moment of my interview with her: “Have you ever suffered a head injury or amnesia?” “I don’t think so; but how would I remember?”) So long story short, it remains a mystery. Perfect fodder for a novel! And I can only hope that however the bullet got into her neck, it was not so traumatic a chain of events as the history I imagined for Caroline Cashion!
Best,
Mary Louise
Greetings Ms Kelly,
Wanted to pass along kudos for your interviewing style on ATC. Impressed with your ease in speaking with personalities as diverse as Mary Lou McDonald and Nathaniel Rateliff. You clearly do your homework. If you are unaware, your voice and speaking style is eerily similar to Pam Shriver. Perhaps a case of twin sisters of different mothers!
Mark,
Thanks for this note. I haven’t heard the Pam Shriver comparison. (Although long-lost twin sisters would make for a promising beginning to a novel…!) Appreciate your kind words, and your taking the time to write.
Best,
Mary Louise
Yup…I just Googled you to see your face…was SHOCKED that you didn’t look like Pam! Also, what a pleasant surprise to find out you’re an author in my favorite genre. Great job on ATC!
Hi Mary Louise,
Thanks for writing two wonderful books. Of the 432 authors I have read and kept track of over the years you are one of the few on my list that are must reads. One of 35 to be exact.
As a rabid do-it-yourselfer I do have one question, and only one, after reading Anonymous Sources: I was wondering what happened to the umbilical cord?
My husband are new-comers to your fan base. Please keep the novels coming! Both were great reads. I agree with many commentators that we need to see more of Alex Smith.
We are in awe of your writing style. Fast paced, great character development, no extraneous descriptive passages. That shows respect for your readers in my opinion.
Judy Schwartz
Judy,
Thanks so much!
Best,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary Louise!
Miss you and Alex James in print. Anything you can tell me to allay my anxiety?!
At least we have you an NPR. Thank goodness!
Ms. Kelly-
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed “Anonymous Sources”. It took me less a day to read it–couldn’t put it down. I looked it up because I have enjoyed your reporting for years. I read it because it had a female protagonist ensnared in the intelligence world. It is incredibly difficult to find that, even in this day and age (especially when we know women are so central in the world o counterterrorism).
I am compelled to ask, any advice for another female author who also has novel with a female protagonist working in the world of intelligence? How do you get an agent to believe this can sell?
Thank you and, please, keep writing!
Tracey,
Delighted to connect with a fellow writer who enjoys creating female characters in the world of espionage! There IS appetite for such works. Another one to check out, if you haven’t already, is RED SPARROW by Jason Mathews. The movie is about to come out, so it will be getting more attention–and I very much enjoyed the novel.
Best of luck, and thanks so, so much–both for reading and for writing.
Mary Louise
I loved ‘Anonymous Sources’ and the character of Alex James. PLEASE, could we have more? Also, I listened to the audiobook and Therese Plummer was total perfection!
So glad you enjoyed! Have you read my second book, The Bullet? Alex James makes a cameo appearance. And yes, I would love to write another book with Alex as protagonist (and also a return for Lucien Sly!) Such immensely entertaining characters to write — I still hear their voices in my head, as I move through my daily routines.
All best,
Mary Louise
Saw Bullet on the new books table in my library and was I intrigued by the short narrative. It was a good read and the twist at the end made it all the better. Madame Aubuchon reminds me of my Aunt Simone who taught French literature and poetry at elite prep schools and several small liberal art colleges in the northeast for 50 years. She also had a small apartment on Rue de la Pompe in 16th arrondissement to recharge her batteries every summer. I stayed there for several summers as a teenager roaming the streets of Paris. My only concern was Ms. Kelly’s describing how men and women interact often with an over the hill preoccupation and stereotypical description of men behaving badly IMHO. Do I believe women have been harassed? Yes, but do we automatically believe every accusation and then summarily dismiss calls for due process. Novels reflect society showing the good, the bad and the ugly. Bullet is no different, but the story line fortunately keeps you there to the end. BTW I attended Georgetown in 60’s, but our Tombs was called the Good Guys on Wisconsin doing “guy” things, but surprised how many women showed up. C’est la vie.
Mary Louise,
I recognized your name from listening to NPR at WABE when looking for a good read at the library. I must say “The Bullet” was quite a story. The last twist was totally unexpected. Having lived most of my life in Atlanta, many trips to Lake Burton, and a dear lifetime friend who lives on Eulalia, I certainly knew the geography of that part of the book.
I have really enjoyed you hosting on Morning Edition. These are tough times and you don’t back down.
Thank you. So glad that last twist took you by surprise!
And always good to hear from someone who knows all those Georgia haunts so well–
Best,
Mary Louise
Hi, After listening to you on ATC, I had to find your website and learn more. So enjoy your intelligence, insight and probing questions…not to mention your Great Voice! Perfect for radio.
Now that I know more, I will read your novels.
With admiration,
Bridget Smith
Thank you — for listening, and for reading!
Mary Louise,
I caught with the CEO of NPR today. I am so impressed with the direct approach. No softballs. Good for you!
Thank you.
THANK YOU, MLK, for your interview just now with the NPR CEO (c. 4:30 p.m. Weds 1 Nov 2017). Thank you for not letting him get away with vague statements; thank you for pressing him. I have been making donations to NPR / my local NPR stations in various cities for the past 40+ years, and ** That Interview** allows me to continue.
Should another such situation occur — and it seems likely that it will — do not let the perpetrator get away with evasive and uninformative answers.
Keep up the good work.
Thank you again.
Thank you so much. Not an interview you ever want to have to do. But it needed to be done, and it was a privilege to be able to pose those questions to management, on behalf of all the women at NPR.
Best,
Mary Louise
Good Morning Mary Louise!
What a nice surprise to be able to listen to you each morning on NPR…a big upgrade! I hope this recent responsibilty will not impeed your writing progrss. I wnat to know what and where Alex James is up to these days!!
Good luck!
Doc Porter
Thanks for the note! Hosting Morning Edition is a joy. As, of course, is writing novels. The journalism informs the fiction. Never enough hours to get to everything one wants to get to, is there? But I suppose that’s true for us all…
Best,
Mary Louise
Ms. Kelly!
I got attracted to your books after listening to your extended interview on NPR. You were so intelligent and gracious and had some intriguing anfd interesting insights. I just finished “Bullet” (amazing ending!), and was happy to see Alex James back in the mix. I attended Georgetown, 1955-56, and the go-to bar was called the Hilltop. Is that the “Tombs”? Is the Hilltop still active…it would be hard to believe?
Keep writing; I will keep buying, I promise!
Doc Porter
Dear Doc Porter,
I’ve lived in Georgetown since 2001 and never heard of Hilltop, so that may be gone… But if so, the Tombs is a worthy successor. As described in The Bullet, it’s a go-to place for G’town students, parents and professors alike.
Tickled that you caught the Alex James cameo. Once a character gets in your head, it’s hard to stop seeing the world through her eyes… or stop wanting to see her in action on the page.
Warm regards,
Mary Louise
Dear Mary Louise,
Your books are so fun to read. They are intelligent and exciting. I am certain that there are so many fans (especially me) impatiently waiting for your next beautiful story. I am always glad to hear your voice on NPR, but I hope to see your next book soon. I have read both your books several times. Others cannot compete.
Are you writing? When can we buy it?
With appreciation and respect,
Betty Nutter
Dear Betty,
Aw, thanks! Really appreciate your note. The current news cycle is tough for writing fiction — hard to find a spare moment, and hard to out-write the extraordinary events unfolding in real life! But I leave tomorrow for a two-week vacation, and am taking my laptop, and aiming to turn out a chapter on the plane there and another on the plane home. Chapter by chapter… eventually they pile up, and you’ve got a book!
Thank for writing, and also for listening on NPR.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Ms. Kelly,
I read your book Anonymous each morning. I’m writing to let you know, in case you didn’t already know, that there is an editing mistake that could be corrected in future reprintings. On page 50, Alex is asking a student on the Cambridge Emmanuel campus to help her find the location of Thomas Carlyle’s House. Alex asks instead if the student knows the location of “John Harvard” ‘s house. (Maybe that’s what you called him in an early draft before you settled on Thomas Carlyle.)
Anyway, this summer I decided to read about your background and other NPR reporters, and after learning of your amazing life story, I decided to read your book.
Good Luck in your career.
Scott Wade
Louisville, Ky
Hi Scott,
Not a typo! Keep reading — My character, Thom Carlyle, lives in the suite of rooms that John Harvard allegedly used back in the 17th century. True story. I’ve visited them, back when I was a student at Emmanuel College.
Thanks very much for reading, and for writing. Honored that you picked up my book.
All best,
Mary Louise
I will keep reading. Right now.
I hope in your life you have some way of getting your mind off of the tragic news produced by this presidency. My only Escape right now is your book so I think I better read slowly to make it last.
I would like to recommend to you Shadow of the Silk Road by Colin Thubron, non-fiction that will not put you to sleep after two pages …
I just read both your books. I especially loved Bullet. The suspense was both frightening and intriguing and the relations with family and the side characters equally engaging. I hope you have another book in your sights.
Dear Jane,
So appreciate this note — I needed it today! That was precisely my goal with the suspense in The Bullet, so I’m delighted to hear it worked for you. And yes, I am writing away on book #3…
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise,
I greatly enjoyed both of your books. I think you have the best voice on NPR and in your bio I saw that you had written two books. Last month, I was getting bogged down reading “Our Mutual Friend” and a friend suggested I take a break read something else. So, I got “Anonymous Sources” from the library and read that in a couple of weeks. Then I borrowed “The Bullet” and just finished that yesterday.
They were such fun to read. I liked both, but I think “The Bullet” is a more layered story and the writing is more complex, if you don’t mind me saying. I really did not know what was happening next, and I enjoyed all of the characters. I love your acknowledgements in both books, too. They give insight into what it really takes to write a novel and all of the people who are involved, besides yourself.
I will buy your next book when it comes out. I’m looking forward to it and thank you for writing such great stories!
Russ Torrisi
Russ,
What a lovely note. Thank you for writing, and for reading, and for the feedback.
Writing fiction is like any other endeavor: you learn and (hopefully) improve as you go. We’ll see how that works out going forward; I’m busy now on Book #3! Squeezing it in around my NPR reporting, which is a challenge but also a lot of fun.
Best,
Mary Louise
Love your style!
I’m a seventy-year-old man who discovered some years ago how stimulating a woman’s viewpoint can be. I discovered Diana Gabaldon before her third book was published. I have spent many years, and many attempts since then trying to find an author who could really light me up. Caroline Smith is the one. For the first time in years, I read a book almost non-stop this weekend. It’s now in my wife’s chair, waiting her perusal. WELL DONE!
Delighted to hear this! Hope your wife enjoys reading.
All best,
Mary Louise
Hello,
A few months ago I heard you chatting with Scott Simon on a Saturday. He thoughtfully mentioned that you wrote some books about national security. I decided to read one.
Well, now I’ve read both and they were very good. I hope you write at least one more. Actually, I hope you develop a character and write a lot more.
It was interesting to me to read about female awareness of the male gaze. It”s not always lust, frequently it’s just appreciation of beauty. But, I especially enjoyed your descriptions of female sexual desire. This is almost a total mystery to all male people.
I read that your writing placed a burden on your family and friends. Be grateful, I bet they loved it. .
I gave you a four star rating on Goodreads. I’m looking forward to what you do next. Aloha
Robert,
Thanks for writing. I am in fact busy writing the next book — an espionage thriller set in London, New York and Moscow (so far — we’ll see where the coming chapters lead to!) Fair point about lust vs. appreciation of beauty.Will keep that in mind as I write this next novel, which features chapters written from both the male and female points of view…
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Great to hear you’re writing another book. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Just finished THE BULLET. Great.
With my somber, whiskery anesthesiologist husband having just died I was more focused than I might have otherwise been on that short vignette as Caroline went into surgery. As it happens it
was my husband’s research over 50 years ago which GOT anesthesiologists to “introduce(d) himself,
explain(ed) his plans to make me comfortable.” Before he showed with clear statistics that a pre-op
visit from the anesthesiologist made a BIG difference in comfort and recovery, even he had not thought so.
Thanks for this small reminder of one of many reasons I am so proud of him.
Ellen,
I am so sorry to read of the loss of your husband. I love the story you share of him. It sounds as if you do have reason to be very proud of him indeed. As a writer, it touches my heart to think that I somehow touched yours.
With warm regards, and deep condolences,
Mary Louise
Reading bullet right now. I’m hooked. Do you have an email list? I’d love to be kept up to date with your books.
Jenn,
Thank you! Appreciate this note.
I don’t send out a regular email — so busy with my day job as an NPR reporter that I try to marshal whatever time remains for writing the next novel. (At work now on nummber three…) But I’m on Twitter if you want to follow along: @NPRKelly
And I’ll update this website as I get closer to completing the next book.
Best,
Mary Louise
I loved both of your books. I look forward to another stand alone novel with an engaging female protagonist, or for a follow-up with either Alexandra or Caroline.
Kristin,
So glad to hear! I am work on my third novel… Will indeed feature another strong and (hopefully!) engaging female protagonist. This one has a Russia twist. No plans for Alexandra or Caroline to make a cameo appearance… but you never know!
Best,
Mary Louise
I read your review of “Rogue Heroes”, by Ben Macintyre, that appeared in the 10/16/2016 edition of The Washington Post. Since your review made no mention of it, I was wondering if you were aware of, or possibly had even read, the book entitled “The Phantom Major: The story of David Stirling and the S.A.S Regiment”. It was written and published in 1958 by Virginia Cowles, a British (female) war correspondent, including in North Africa!. While the book is, likely, long out of (hard copy) print , as a teenage I owned and read a paperback version, in later life tracking down and obtaining a hard copy version including dust jacket. I wonder if Mr. Macintyre made any reference to Ms. Cowles book in his new publication. In any case, I thought that you might find this comment of some interest as you follow your own path as a reporter, correspondent and author. Respectfully. -AEG
Thanks for this note. I was not aware of The Phantom Major. Sounds intriguing, as does Virginia Cowles’s own story as a reporter in North Africa during WWII! It’s possible that Macintyre references it; I’ll confess that the version I’m reading from is an advance proof/galley, and footnotes aren’t included. His book springs from access to an SAS archive that had not been previously open to journalists and scholars. I recommend it highly, especially given your interest in this period.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
I just finished “The Bullet” and LOVED it. I don’t usually read straight mysteries as I am more tuned in to romantic suspense, but I couldn’t put it down. I have now ordered Anyonymous Sources and can’t wait to read it. I think you have found yourself a new fan. Can’t wait for the next book!
Dear Ruth Ann,
Hooray! Then you will be glad to hear that the reason I just sat down at my computer, and found your note, is that I’ve started work on the next novel. I am having great fun dreaming up the characters…which I HOPE will translate into making them great fun to read!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary
I just want to say “thank you” for penning “The Bullet”. From the first sentence of the first chapter to the last period. Its wonderful to be drawn in to the story from the outset, transported into her life and then walking along as the story unfolds.
Sincereley
Charles Houser
Charles,
So kind of you to take the time to write — thank you!
That is exactly how I wanted it to feel from the reader’s point of view; that you were walking right along with Caroline as hwe story unfolds. You’ve made my day to let me know that, at least in your case, it worked!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
I loved this book. It was like a drug. I was stealing minutes before work, before dinner, before bed time, any free moment, I wanted to read this book. It joyfully held me captive.
Thank you for a great mystery.
All the best,
Roanne
Writing you back with a big smile on my face–thank you! “It was like a drug…” What a wonderful thing to say to an author! Really appreciate your letting me know. Notes like this mean more than you may know.
Warmly,
Mary Louise
Waiting for the movie.
Me too! Watch this space…
I came across your book The Bullet in our new library. The title caught my eye and so glad it did. I have not been so engrossed in a book like yours for a long time. Please continue to write your magic. Thank you !
So great to hear this. Thank you. Such a pleasure to hear that I kept you riveted. I’m working on writing a third novel; meanwhile, go tell everyone you know to read The Bullet!
Best,
Mary Louise
I have never written an author before, and I read 2 -3 books per week, but I wanted you to know how much I enjoyed your book The Bullet. I will keep your name as one to keep an eye on . I will read your other book also. Thank you and your family and friends for sharing a part of you.
Donna
Thank you! Both for reading, and for taking the time to write. So appreciate it.
Best,
Mary Louise
I have question about your name. I remember that years ago, you used the name Mary Louise Clark Kelly on NPR stories. Why did you drop the “Clark”? I have guessed that NPR asked you to, in order to have you use a shorter name. Is that correct, or was there another reason?
I had also assumed that “Clark” was your last name before marriage, and that you chose to use it as a way of saying “This is ALL of who I am.” I liked that! It seemed to indicate your statement of independence as a woman. ( I am a person who has been married for 45 years and who has kept her “childhood” last name).
Thank you for your response.
Different person! You are thinking of my talented NPR colleague, Carol Anne Clark Kelly. We’ve had people confuse us a few times, between sharing a last name and both having double-barreled first names.
I’ve been married 19 years and never took my husband’s last name, although our children are Boyles. Always interesting to hear how women choose to handle the name-change question.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Belatedly chiming in here. I had assumed, like the writer Mitsi above, that you had dropped Clark. Thanks for clearing that up. I decided to check on this before citing you on our cooking blog. It was from a piece you did some while ago that I learned of the wonderful book Yashim Cooks Istanbul.
Regarding surnames, my spouse and I each took the other’s when we married in 1987.
I was very disappointed by your stereotypical description of the librarian— not every librarian wears glasses around HER? neck and “prairie skirts”. Your vision of the professionals is this position is small minded and prejudiced.
Cate,
Thanks for writing. Point taken. My intent was to nod to that stereotype of a librarian, but then allow you to meet the Jessica character, who clearly doesn’t fit it and blows that dated stereotype out of the water. Perhaps I could have done that more elegantly. My intent was certainly NOT to insult librarians, who have helped me and made my work better more times than I can count, from my middle school history project days, to just last week, when I was trying to track down an elusive document on Russia.
Sincere thanks for reading, and for writing, and I hope that you enjoyed the rest of the book.
Best,
Mary Louise
I just finished ANONYMOUS SOURCES and am so excited to discover that you have written another book for me to read. I also could not put the book down – the story just drew me in. Thank you for your books and Alexandra James. I hope my local library has THE BULLET.
Delighted to hear that you enjoyed ANONYMOUS SOURCES. Write and let me know what you think of THE BULLET. You will be happy to learn that–while it is not a sequel–Alex James does make a cameo appearance…
Best,
Mary Louise
Just finished The Bullet. Wondering if, and when, there will be a sequel.
Jack,
Thanks for the question. I hope the fact that you’re asking means that you enjoyed The Bullet. So, the bad news: I’m not currently planning a sequel. The good news: I am writing, and sketching out my third novel. Will update here when I’m ready to share more!
Best,
Mary Louise
Hello Mary Louise!
I love, love, LOVE your books! And I especially LOVE that you put them out in LARGE PRINT!! I will be waiting with baited breath for your next one. . .
Hey there–
So glad you’re enjoying the large print editions! Thank you for writing to let me know. Starting to noodle on the next book. I’ll post updates here as I make progress…
Warmly,
Mary Louise
Hello Mary Louise,
I am from Salzburg, Austria and was not familiar with your name. I bought “the bullet” for my ski-vacation last week and must tell you: I have finished the story in 3 days. Great characters and a plot I could not stop reading. Thank you for that, hope, I can read a new book from you soon.
Best regards from Austria
Werner
What a lovely email to receive — thank you! I was born in Augsburg and learned to ski in the mountains near Salzburg, so it’s great fun to imagine you enjoying my book on your ski vacation. I am starting to work on the next one. Meanwhile, have you read my first one? ANONYMOUS SOURCES has different characters and is partly set in London and Cambridge, England.
Thank you for writing.
All best wishes,
Mary Louise
I loved both books so much. I was really sad to see that The Bullet came out in 2015. I was hoping that another book would be out soon. Mary Louise Kelly- you have definitely made my list of go-to authors when searching for a good book. I might add that I would love to see Alex James in another book (with more than a cameo appearance). I want to know the rest of the story. Thank you for providing me with great entertainment.
Sammi,
Thanks so much! Appreciate both your reading, and taking the time to write. I’m sketching out plans for the next book. And I also would love to see Alex James live to ride another day — she is such an enormously fun character to write! Watch this space…
Best,
Mary Louise
I bought your book on a whim. I read it in 3 days, then I bought the next one. I can’t put them down. I just looked on your website to find out what others you have written. There were only two. Please keep writing! I simply cannot wait for your next.
Julie,
That is hands down the best note I’ve received all week. Thank you. I truly appreciate it. And you sound just like my agent, who took me to dinner last week and ordered: Get writing!
Best,
Mary Louise
Dear Mary Louise,
Just catching up on your website and looking at all your travels. i really enjoyed The Bullet. I
thought Caroline’s actions were entirely in character. I liked the names of all the relatives showing up as the book progressed. I hope you are working on book #3. What will happen to Caroline? Will she be able to live with her guilty little secret?
Hope you book tours take you to Texas soon.
Marie
Just finished reading The Bullet. Excellent, fast moving and, above all,
intelligent.
Vaclav Taborsky, Toronto
Really appreciate it. Thanks for reading, and for taking the time to write.
All best wishes,
Mary Louise
I’ve read both of your books–page turners and so hard to put down. Please, please tell me you are starting a third sometime soon?
Thank you! Hearing from readers that they couldn’t stop turning pages is one of the great joys of being a writer. So glad to hear I kept you entertained.
I am turning over several ideas for another novel… Will post updates here on the website as I figure out which one to pursue!
Warm wishes,
Mary Louise
Just finished reading The Bullet, but it left me wanting more. What was Caroline’s decision? What happened with her and Will. Did enjoy it though.
Helen,
It’s music to a writer’s ears to hear that I left you wanting more! I liked leaving something to the reader’s imagination. I know what **I** think Caroline will do… but as the reader, you now own her as much as I do. And you might have a different view. That said, it would be fun to write a sequel and explore what happens when she returns home, to her old life, to Will, etc. Although not quite sure what catastrophe I will have to dream up to match the craziness of discovering a bullet in her neck, for pure page-turning, dramatic impact!
All best,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise,
I just finished reading “The Bullet”-wonderful,wonderful,wonderful”!
Since I live south of Atlanta in Peachtree City,Ga.,I loved the city sites
and events you wrote of. My next read will be “Anonymous Sources”.
Many thanks for this book which will enrich my Summer reading!
Eileen Cover
Eileen,
Thanks so much. Great to hear from a fellow Georgian! Glad that you enjoyed the Atlanta chapters. Should you be around on July 25th, I’m giving a talk at the Buckhead Heritage Society.
Details here: http://www.buckheadheritage.com/events/mary_louise_kelly
Do come join us!
Best,
Mary Louise
Ms. Kelly – I just bought your book, THE BULLET, and started reading it today. I was reading along when I came to a part that really shocked me. It was about Eulalia Road in Buckhead!! My husband, Buzz Veal, is from Buckhead and grew up on Eulalia Road!!! I figure you have to be familiar with that area to come up with Eulalia Road!!!! My husband was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital and he and his older brother went to North Fulton High School. His brother, Monte Veal, went to school with a Kenny Kelly. Any relation to you? I have been on that street and you described it so perfectly!!! I am enjoying the book very much and look forward to finishing it……..soon!! I also plan to go back and get ANONYMOUS SOURCES now!!
Best to you!
Dell Veal
Hi Dell,
I lived on Eulalia Road as a little girl, from about 1975-79. Many fond memories of learning to ride a bike on that street, running through sprinklers, neighborhood softball games and BBQs, etc. When was your husband there? I’m not related to a Kenny Kelly that I know of.
Fingers crossed that you enjoy ANONYMOUS SOURCES too.
Best,
Mary Louise
Thank you for your response! My husband, Buzz Veal, lived at 1036 Eulalia Road from 1942 through 1957…….way before you were there. His parents lived there until 1962 or so and then moved to Conifer Circle (kind of across Peachtree). They were charter members of Wieuca Road Baptist Church…..right there in that area. It was so exciting to see all those familiar places in your book!!! I told his brother about the book and his wife bought The Bullet for him for Father’s Day. Also, I just finished Anonymous Sources and loved it!!! Thank you for the hours of pleasure I got from reading your books!!!
Awaiting your next book,
Dell
Wonderful book, just couldn’t put it down. It did stretch credibility a tad that Caroline would go from an average law abiding citizen to confronting Ethan with a pistol. It was incredibly risky at best and the evidence against him looked damaging but certainly not air tight. I could envision some other scenarios that you hinted at that might have happened. That said, it unfolded wonderfully and had my attention from start to finish. You are a fantastic writer!
Regards, Jim Peck
Jim,
Many thanks for the kind words. Caroline’s “blossoming” felt true to me — but as her reader, you own her as much as I do now, so your critique is fair enough! If you haven’t yet checked out my first book, ANONYMOUS SOURCES, you may want to give it a look… A protagonist of an entirely different nature.
All best,
Mary Louise
Thanks for a great read. The quality of writing, attention to detail, and character development put The Bullet in a class way above a page-turner mystery.
Anne,
You are so kind to write and let me know. Thank you! I take a lot of time researching, interviewing people, and trying to nail the details. And the character development for The Bullet was fun. I spent nearly as much time on the secondary characters, trying to get them right, as I did on my protagonist, Caroline. Delighted to hear that you could tell, and that it was worth the effort!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
I just finished reading The Bullet. I couldn’t put it down once I started it. It is hands down on my top ten list of best reads. Can’t wait to read Anonymous Sources and look forward to your future books as well. I love coming across a wonderful new (to me) author. Thanks!
Betsy,
Thanks for letting me know! Hope you enjoy Anonymous Sources as much as The Bullet. I’ve had such fun writing them both. Happy summer reading!
Warmly,
Mary Louise
Just finished The Bullet. Read it in two days, loved it. Felt as if Caroline was speaking directly to me. Just put Anonymous Sources on hold. Going to tell our patrons about Ms. Kelly and the books.
Paula Therrien, Jackson-George County Library System, MS
I just finished reading “The Bullet” !! Wonderful book!! It just sucked me right in from the very beginning! I love books that do that!! Wishing you a very long and prosperous life writing books!!
Linda,
Completely agree — there is nothing like a book that sucks you in from the very first page. Delighted to hear that you enjoyed that experience with The Bullet. I am in Portland, OR on book tour as I write… doing a reading tomorrow night at the legendary Powell’s book store… And meanwhile having fun noodling over plot twists for the next book. Hope to have something for you before too long!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Vitus,
Wonderful to hear from you! I remember your lovely family well. Gitta took me on a bike ride in the forest near Augsburg, many years ago when I came to stay. And of course Stefan was a favorite houseguest of ours in Atlanta. My parents speak of you all often and with great affection.
I will let you know when the German edition of THE BULLET is published in a few weeks. You can read both and tell me whether they got the translation right!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Just finished reading “The Bullet”, it was a pleasure to read. Could not put it down!!! Will there be a sequel?
Thanks. Not planning a sequel — my next novel will likely be another stand-alone. But I am fond of giving cameos to characters from my previous novels. (If you haven’t yet read my first book, you may not have known that the reporter Alexandra James who shows up at Caroline’s door was the protagonist of ANONYMOUS SOURCES…) So, who knows? Caroline and/or some of the other characters from THE BULLET may well make a return appearance!
Best,
Mary Louise
Just finished reading “The Bullet”. What a great book. It kept me up all night…read it from start to finished.
Such an unusual concept… I agree it would make such a wonderful movie.
Please keep them coming.
Kat,
Great to hear this! In this case, I am absolutely delighted to have kept someone awake all night. A&E has bought the screen rights to The Bullet, so fingers crossed that the movie version will be making its way soon to a screen near you…
All best,
Mary Louise
I just finished reading The Bullet. Read it in four days while working and traveling to Romania. I read Anonymous Sources after hearing acrerun of your interview with Bob Edwards. You made me want to read it. You grabbed me immediately in both books. I hadn’t reasfvsvbook for plkessure in a while. Awaiting the next one. Keep em coming.
Peter,
Love this! It is great fun as an author to watch your books travel out into the world, and you might be the first reader to devour them in Romania. (German and Dutch versions will be published soon, but alas, no book deal yet from Bucharest!) I’m working on the next one. Updates to come…
Best regards,
Mary Louise
I just finished “The Bullet”. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed it. It is one of the best books that I have read in a while. I heard an interview on NPR about the book and couldn’t wait to get it. I’m looking forward to reading your other book but I’m waiting for it to dry out. I took it out to read in my hot tub. Need I say more. Thank you so much for a wonderful read.
Rae,
This made me smile. Hope your copy of Anonymous Sources dries out soon so you can continue reading. And thank you for the kind words about The Bullet. A pleasure to know I helped contribute to a happy session of hot tubbing!
Best,
Mary Louise
Dear Mary Louise… Tammy Wincup (my daughter) gave me a copy of your book “Anonymous Sources” which I loved !! And now, I have just finished “The Bullet.” Thank you so much for these wonderful novels, which brought me hours of pleasure and entertainment. I will wait patiently for your next book.
Best of luck in your writing and my best wishes to you and your family.
Mary Lou Mank
How fun to hear from a reader who has enjoyed my books, and a fellow Mary Lou(ise) at that! So glad they brought you pleasure. Your daughter is a dear friend and I like her even more now that I know she is busy handing out copies of my books! I’ll thank her for helping to spread the word — and I am grateful to YOU both for reading, and taking the time to write.
Warm wishes,
Mary Louise
It is so refreshing to see such a talented new writer. I am very discriminating about the authors I read. If the writer does not get my attention within the first chapter or so, forget it. Please write more books your writing is fascinating. And I am looking forward to more books. The Bullet is the first book I have read and am looking forward to Anomymous Sources. An excellent author is rare, you are one of them. Sincerely, J. F. Miller
What a simply lovely note to receive! It means a great deal to a writer, to hear that the work we’ve labored over has brought pleasure to a reader or touched them in some way. So glad to hear this was the case, and thank you for taking a moment to let me know.
Warm regards,
Mary Louise Kelly
A boy’s mother always knows best, as my mom recomended this to me.Having been a columnist for Circus Magazine 72-74 (pre laptops and cells) one can only sympathize
with Alexandra James in her search for the story. In YOUR search you more than succeed. A wonderful story that doesn’t stop pulling you along, intense and timely. I look forward to purchasing your others with great anticipation.
Steve,
What a nice note to receive. Thank you. And please thank your mom for the recommendation! Mothers DO always know best, as I am extremely fond of telling my two boys.
All best,
Mary Louise
I too heard your interview with Bob Edwards. I enjoyed your reporting for NPR and didn’t know you were now authoring fiction! I finished ANONYMOUS SOURCES last night and THE BULLET is waiting for me at the book store! ANONYMOUS was terrific, with fast paced writing around fully developed characters and plot! Can’t wait to start THE BULLET! I hope to see more of Alex in future novels.
Regards,
Laura
Laura,
So appreciate this — thank you for taking the time to write, and for reading! The Bullet is quite different from Anonymous Sources. Still plenty of plot twists, but more of a psychological suspense novel. And another strong female protagonist. Looking forward to hearing what you think!
Warmly,
Mary Louise
I listened to your interviews with Bob Edwards this morning, and have just ordered both of your books.
I will confess that I’m curious to discover how Caroline Cashion managed for so long without a glimpse at her birth certificate…but I will not let that interfere with my enjoyment of her story!
Leslie,
Thanks for the note!
I suppose I think the birth certificate detail is plausible because I never saw my own birth certificate until I was in my 30s… My parents kept it in a file drawer or safe deposit box somewhere. Mine is in German (I was born near Munich), and I don’t think I’ve ever even gotten it translated. Once you’ve got your passport (and let’s say my protagonist’s parents organized that for her when she was a child, and once she had it, she could renew without showing a birth certificate again), what else do you need a birth certificate for?
At any rate, if that’s the only detail that gives you pause, I’ll be a happy author! And thanks so much again, both for buying the books and for writing!
All best,
Mary Louise
Ms Kelly, I heard your interview on NPR with Bob Edward . It was so refreshing to listen to someone so articulate and knowledgeable. I enjoyed hearing where you had been and what you found there and spoken so clearly without the “uhs” and “duhs” we are so used to hearing from our professional experts. I am not yet familiar with your novels but I will be.
Thank you for your edifying conversation. You must endeavor to stay in the public eye.
A grateful fan,
Tom Earls
Sturbridge, MA
Thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure to get to speak at such length about the book with Bob Edwards. Glad you enjoyed the conversation, and do let me know what you think of the book!
All best,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary Louise,
Have ordered “The Bullet”. Can’t wait to read it. I so enjoyed “Anonymous Sources” and plan to read it again while I’m waiting for #2. Great writing and so fun to have it all in the family!! Keep them coming!
Love, Peg
Hi Peg,
Lovely to hear from you. Not long to wait now – The Bullet will be published next week! I will be making a few West Coast stops on book tour this time, most likely in early May. I’ll keep updating the Events page on this website as the dates firm up. Looking forward to hitting your side of the country!
All my best,
Mary Louise
Hi again,
If you can’t work something out for Seattle, I’ll plan on seeing you in Oregon.
Barnes & Noble has a store in downtown Seattle and one closer to the airport at Southcenter Mall, along with others around Puget Sound. See you soon. Travel safe!
Hugs,
Peg
Peg,
I’m coming to Seattle! I’ll be reading and signing at Elliott Bay Book Co. on Monday, May 11th at 7pm. Hope to see you there!
Mary Louise
LOVE your writing, can’t wait to read more!!
Thanks Katelyn for writing! Delighted to hear that you liked ANONYMOUS SOURCES. My next book, THE BULLET, is out on March 17th. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Just finished ‘anonymous sources’, what a great first novel – couldn’t put it down! I hope to see more of Alex James in the future, a terrific character. And I can’t wait to read ‘Bullet’.
Ed,
Thank you SO much, both for reading and for writing me. Truly glad you enjoyed it. Alex James was such great fun to write. The Bullet is not a sequel, but you may be glad to learn that Alex does make a cameo appearance… It’s out next month (March 17th); please help me spread the word!
All best wishes,
Mary Louise
Read the ARC of The Bullet over the weekend and loved it! Real characters that I could relate to and a unique situation! I’ve sent an email to your publicist asking if some signed copies would be available for my store – I want to hand sell this book because I know many of my customers would enjoy it just as I did.
Will you be at Bouchercon in Long Beach this year? I will have a table in the book room; also I’m holding many signings at my store. If you are going to be there it would be great if you could drop by and sign books. Anne
Anne,
So delighted to hear you enjoyed it! Yes, the characters were a hoot to write. I will follow up with my publicist to make sure we get you as many signed copies as you need. And I am planning to hit California on book tour this spring… Not sure yet exactly when/where, but let’s keep in touch. I’d love to swing by for a reading/signing!
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise: Would love to see whenever you are in the area. My website will give you all the info you need. Best, Anne
I recently came across “Anonymous Sources” at a playdate/ book swap my friends had organized. I absolutely LOVED it!!! I definitely struggled to put it down. I am anticipating the release of ” The Bullet”.
Thanks so much for letting me know! THE BULLET will be out in March. We just finalized the cover and are working through the final round of copy edits. Not the most fun stage of the publishing process, but essential. Fingers crossed that you’ll have fun reading this next book too, and if so, you can help me spread the word at the next book swap!
All best,
Mary Louise
Hey Kaileigh,
Letting you know that the pub date for my second book, THE BULLET, is set for March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Enjoyed Anonymous Sources, but your James’ sexual “adventures” turns her into a slut!!! Why do you, and other authors, think sexual activities add to the story; they DON’T.
Glad you enjoyed it. I agree with you that gratuitous sex doesn’t add to a book. But I’m not a prude, either — sex is part of life, why not write about it? Alex sleeps with just one man, and they’re both consenting, unmarried adults. I’m not sure that makes her a slut, but heck, I’ve been married to the same man for 17 years, so what do I know? Thanks for taking the time to write.
“Alex sleeps with just one man, and they’re both consenting, unmarried adults.”
God considers fornication, an abomination to Him. [1 Corinthians 6:9-10]
In “real” life, this unrepentant sin will result in eternal separation from God, i.e. Hell!!!
Are “we” teaching readers there are no consequences for unrepentant sins??
the book was a great story. when will bullet be out. mike
Many thanks, Mike! THE BULLET is out in March. Book signing dates to come, watch this space…
Mike,
Letting you know that we finally have a pub date for THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Mary, I’m reading your book “Anonymous Sources” and enjoying it thoroughly. I’ve been a journalist, so I’m connecting with your writing style in a big way. Your Alex is a fantastic character–very human.
I look forward to your next book.
Diana,
I am glad to hear this. It is great to hear from fellow journalists who find the reporter/newsroom scenes ring true — as you will know better than most folks whether I got them right! I am the middle of copy-editing my next book (THE BULLET, out next March), and while it is not a sequel, Alex James does make an appearance…
Best,
Mary Louise
Diana,
Following up to let you know that we finally have a pub date for THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Awesome read. I cannot wait for your next book.
Thanks so much, Maureen! You won’t have to wait long. THE BULLET will be published in March. I am in the middle of copy-editing it right now… It is (I hope!) another page turner.
Maureen,
Following up to let you know that we finally have a pub date for THE BULLET! It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Hello! I just had to write to tell you how much I loved Anonymous Sources. it was fantastic and so nice to read a novel where the reporter is not described as some sort of retched creature that just crawled out from underneath a rock! I was newspaper journalist for more than 10 years and I just loved Alex James. I completely identified her and her thoughts on journalism, newspapers, editors, etc….I just thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down. Thank you so much. I greatly anticipate your next novel!!
Hey Victoria,
Great to hear from a fellow journalist, and so great to hear that Alex rang true for you! I was nervous about having fellow reporters read the newsroom scenes — as you will know better than most whether I got the details right. Alex James was a joy to write… so much so that while my next book isn’t a sequel, I have given her a cameo. It will be out spring 2015 — tentative title is BULLET. Hope you like it!
Victoria,
Following up to let you know that we finally have a pub date for THE BULLET! It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Congratulations on a fantastic first novel, and to NPR for its initial review. It took my local library quite some time to locate a copy, which came to me from 3 states away, but what a delight to read! Thank you for time well spent! I will be looking forward to your next book.
This is great to hear! So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks both for reading, and for pestering your local library to lay hands on a copy. Fingers crossed they will now decide to invest in a copy of their own!
Best,
Mary Louise
Fabienne,
Following up to let you know that we finally have a pub date for THE BULLET! It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Alexandra James was a delightful character and kept this story alive. Her dazzling red hair and trim legs were perfect for her passion for Italian shoes. She followed leads and as this plot unfolds it was hard to put down. Anxious for your next thriller. Thank you Mary Louise Kelly
Linda,
I love hearing from people who love Alex James. As you may have read in the acknowledgements, she is named for my sons, and thus she holds a special place in my heart.
You will not have to wait too terribly long for my next thriller… It will be out in early 2015. Tentative title: BULLET. It is not a sequel, but Alex James does make a very amusing appearance!
Sincere thanks for taking the time to write.
Best regards,
Mary Louise Kelly
Linda,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Excellent book!!! I just googled you to see if you have written anymore. Can’t wait for your next one!! This book kept me interested all the way to the last page! Great job!! Especially for a first book!!!!
Christina,
So happy to hear! Yep, ANONYMOUS SOURCES was my first book. I’m scribbling away on Book #2 now. Due to the publisher on March 1st. This next one is more of a psychological/suspense thriller. Wish me luck! Will post more about it soon.
All best,
Mary Louise
Christina,
Following up to let you know that we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Hi Ms. Kelly – I LOVED the book. I hope there will be a sequel. It will be my selection for November’s book club.
Hi Stephanie — Thanks so much for writing! I’m delighted to hear your Book Club may read ANONYMOUS SOURCES in November. Would love to hear what they think. And yes, I think there will be a sequel. I’m in the middle of writing my next book right now — not a sequel, but another thriller with a strong female protagonist — I think you will like it. After that, I would like to return to the adventures of Alex James and Lucien Sly, and see what they get up to next!
Stephanie,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Hi Ms. Kelly. I first heard about the book on NPR when you were discussing it with either Diane Rehm or on Fresh Air – can’t remember now. I was intrigued enough to jot title and author for a future trip to book store. I just completed it last night and I LOVED IT! I really liked Alexandra and look forward to her next adventure working in Washington. There HAS to be another book!
So glad to hear and sincere thanks for taking the time to write!
I am indeed working on Book #2 right now. This next one is a suspense thriller but features different characters — and then yes, I think I may well circle back to Alex James. Among other things, I want to see where things may go with both Morrello and Lucien Sly… 🙂
Leighlee,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll please! … we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Dear Mary, although you do not know me, (you do know a dear member of my family), I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your book, for its content obviously, and the personal touch from you.
It is a great book and the sad part of it is that it could happen in our country, (by the way, not many people realize that bananas are radioactive).
Once again, thank you, and keep writing.
OK, you must reveal: which dear member of your family do I know?
Mary Louise, I just spent a great summer Saturday reading Anonymous Sources. What fun! Jim and I remember you as the little girl living across the street in student housing at Holden Green–your first experience at Harvard when your dad was in law school. Please greet your mom and dad for us. Those were good days.
Mary,
I will tell them! What fun to hear from a Holden Green neighbor. Those were indeed good days.
Best regards,
Mary Louise
Hi Mary Louise,
Got the card about your book release from your Folks, and am so thrilled for you.
Just ordered my copy and can’t wait to read it. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Peg Alastra
Peg,
You are so kind to take the time to write. It is wonderful to hear from you. Hope you enjoy the book. Happy reading!
Mary Louise
A really great thriller. With interesting characters and lots of suspense. I am looking forward to your next one. By the way I noticed that book during your recent interview with Diane Rehm. That inspired me to buy the book the same evening. Klaus Well, Germany.
Klaus,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Anonymous Sources is a brilliant, entertaining book. I couldn’t put it down and hated to finish it. Waiting anxiously for your next publication. Thanks for such a fun reading experience.
Betty,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise, I remember you when you were knee high to a spy and now you’re writing about them. I posted a review on Amazon and Goodreads with 5 stars. A great book, with opportunities to write many more.
Duoc (my wife) and I have tickets for your talk in Atlanta on July 11. We look forward to seeing your mom and dad as well as you and your family.
Did I say 11th. I meant 10th of July
Harry —
It has been a million years; so nice to hear from you! You are kind to take the time to read and review the book. It has been a great adventure writing and publishing a first novel. So far, so good — Simon & Schuster just told me they’ve ordered up a second print run!
I will look forward to seeing you and Duoc in Atlanta on July 10th — and will tell Mom & Dad you plan to be there.
Warm regards,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise, you did a fantastic job last night at the Atlanta History Center’s Margret Mitchell House. I loved your comments about the writing process and marketing your work. The process answers were exactly what I went through, as well, for my first (and only so far) novel. It is hard work, but very enjoyable. I self published (Ebook in March and paperback in June) and I have been working social media and other marketing avenues since. It is hard to do. Of course my book doesn’t hold a candle to yours and I did not have high expectations.
Anyway, I am sorry we missed you. You were so busy signing books we couldn’t ( a good thing) get near. We did see your Mom, Dad and CJ and that was nice.
Loved the book, loved the speech and I am expecting big things from this book and many more after.
Harry
Harry,
I had no idea you’d written a novel! How fantastic! I’ve just looked up Mercy Row and ordered the paperback. Looking forward to checking it out.
I spotted you in the crowd last night and am sorry we missed each other afterwards. Thank you very much for coming. It meant the world to my family, and to me, to spot so many friends in the audience!
Best,
Mary Louise
I have to warn you about Mercy Row. There is much, shall we say, crude language in the book. It is a short read of 150 pages. As a reporter I am sure you have heard just about anything I have in the book. 🙂 I wish I had started at your age. I might now be half as good as you are. Keep up the work.
Enjoyed the book! Would look forward to a movie as well.
Janine,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Really enjoyed this book. I can’t remember when I hated to have to put a book down and was anxious to picking it back up. Your interview on NPR had me looking for the book as soon as it was released and it was well worth it. It has an authentic, scary sense of reality. When is the next one?
I am so glad! It makes my day to hear from readers who can’t put the book down. As for a second book… I am writing away… Watch this space!
Mary,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
I heard your interview on NPR. Great press for your book and sold me to where I
was checking daily to download it and am excited that it was available today. Wish I could play hooky from work today and start your book!
Good luck.
Gail,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
Merci à Carole qui m’a envoyé les références de ton livre, Mary Louise, j’ai hâte de le trouver en librairie en France (traduit, bien sûre!) J’ai lu ton parcours professionnel avec grand intérêt et je reconnait bien, dans ta décision de changer de vie, la philosophie de ta famille pour laquelle j’ai toujours eu beaucoup d’admiration et un amical souvenir.
Rémy m’a demandé tes coordonnées.
Au nom de tous, à La Vessoye, je t’adresse notre sincère amitié
Oh là là, ça fait si longtemps depuis que nous avons été en contact! Quelle belle surprise de vous entendre. Je ne savais pas que ma mère avait écrit. Je pense à vous tous souvent, et j’ai dit à mes fils tout sur La Vessoye, et ma merveilleuse famille en France. Et oui – je vous le ferai savoir dès que l’édition française de ANONYMOUS SOURCES apparaît! Vous allez obtenir la première copie!
Je vous embrasse – toute la famille — bien affectueusement,
Mary Louise
Merci Mary Louise pour ta chaleureuse réponse, la nouvelle a fait le tour de la famille qui se réjouit pour toi et ta famille pour la réussite qui ne manquera pas d’arriver!
Je t’embrasse ainsi que toute ta merveilleuse famille
Mary Louise,
I think you are the best kept secret in Buckhead! I know your Mama from St Phllip’s and want to hear all about your fascinating life and read your book. I am getting it for my Kindle.
See you at the Margaret Mitchell House on July 10th.
Waiting on Pins and Needles,
Cornelia Bird
Cornelia, you are so sweet! Many thanks for ordering, and I will look forward to meeting you in person on July 10th!
Warmly,
Mary Louise
Mary Louise,
Congrats on the upcoming release of Anonymous Sources. I am looking forward to attending a book signing event and then getting the chance to read it.
Warm regards,
Laura
Hi Mary Louise,
I was sent an invitation to apply for a copy of this book, by NetGalley and as a relatively new subscriber, I was delighted to be accepted.
‘Anonymous Sources’ sounds like a great premise for a debut novel and I love the website.
You also have a great name by the way, my two favourite nieces are called Kelly and Louise!
It is so unusual for an American to have the name Louise, rather than Lois, we have visited as a family several times and no-one can ever really pronounce Louise correctly.
I would like to wish you every success with the book and my promotional posts will begin shortly.
Yvonne
Yvonne — Thanks so much for your kind note! Mary Louise was my grandmother’s name… She was from Louisiana, where every one seems to have a double-barreled name. Although you are right — you rarely meet a Louise these days.
Happy reading and very much hope you enjoy ANONYMOUS SOURCES!
All best,
Mary Louise
Yvonne,
Following up to let you know that… drum roll, please!… we have a pub date for my second book, THE BULLET. It’s out on March 17th. It should be in your local bookstore then, or you can pre-order here:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Bullet-Mary-Louise-Kelly/dp/1476769818/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420928025&sr=8-2
Thanks again both for reading, and for taking the time to write.
And happy New Year!
Best wishes,
Mary Louise
I’ve heard several agents are covertly trying to get the movie rights for this book.
I heard from anonymous sources that this book is great. Can’t wait to read it in June!
Will, you have great sources! Mark your calendar for July 10 — book party and reading in Atlanta!
Great looking site!
I have a question regarding a Soviet gentleman named Valerie Youriev who I met 55 yeas ago in Washington DC. I have been trying to find out his bio and have come up short. If you have any suggestions as to where I might check him out, could you please contact me. I have articles which tell more of the story if that would help. Looking forward to hearing from you, Sincerely, Gene youtz
Afraid this is out of my lane of expertise. But I wish you well, and wish you luck–
Best,
Mary Louise
Ms. Kelly: I enjoy listening to you each day you’re on NPR when I’m on my way home from work. Nothing “fake news” about you! I liked the way you interviewed Pompeo. As a career law enforcement investigator, It is obvious he was squirming during the interview, not wanting to truthfully answer your questions. I think the U.S. Public feels the same. I plan to buy your books. Continue your excellent reporting!