Latest Novels by Karen Hagestad Cacy

Writing a novel is often described as a marathon, but for me, it has been more of an expedition through the shadows of international politics and the misty shorelines of California. My work as an author is driven by a fascination with “Coastal Noir” and the complex, often unseen machinery of global power. If you are looking for stories where atmospheric settings meet high-stakes tension, here is a look at the worlds I have built across my latest titles.

The Gritty Allure of Coastal Noir

My most recent release, “Murder at Pebble Beach,” takes readers to the iconic landscape of Carmel and Pebble Beach. While these locations are often associated with luxury and serene beauty, I see them as the perfect backdrop for something much darker.

In this novel, the salt air and rugged cliffs hide a chilling reality. The story follows a retired Los Angeles police officer who finds himself pulled out of the quiet life and into the hunt for a serial killer. Adding to the tension is the presence of a psychic whose visions complicate the investigation as much as they aid it. This book captures the essence of “Coastal Noir”—it is moody, psychological, and deeply rooted in the unique atmosphere of the Northern California coast.

Geopolitical Thrillers and the “Deep State”

Beyond the coast, my writing delves into the labyrinthine world of espionage and political maneuvering. In “The President’s Assassin,” the focus shifts to the corridors of power in Washington, D.C., and far-flung locales like northern Japan and Middleburg, Virginia.

The protagonist, David Kelly, isn’t your typical action hero; he is a high-level bureaucrat within the “Deep State” who unwittingly finds himself entangled in a plot to assassinate the President of the United States. Writing this story allowed me to explore the terrifying idea of how a person built for stability and order reacts when the foundations of their country begin to crumble from the inside out.

Similarly, my work in “Return to Ismailia” continues this exploration of international mystery. These stories are designed for readers who enjoy piecing together complex puzzles where the stakes are nothing less than global security.


What’s Next?

The writing process never truly stops. Whether I am researching the precise details of a Middle Eastern thriller or capturing the quiet, predatory grace of a great blue heron in a coastal scene, the goal is always the same: to keep the reader guessing until the very last page.

I am currently preparing new manuscripts for upcoming literary competitions and expanding my reach through platforms like Amazon, IngramSpark, and Goodreads. To everyone who has picked up a copy of my books or followed my journey through interviews on programs like “Author, Author!”, thank you for being part of this literary adventure. Stay tuned—there are many more mysteries yet to be solved.