WWU alumnus publishes ‘gripping, twisty mystery’ set in Seattle

This week, Darby McDevitt (’98, English) published “The Halter,” a near-future sci-fi noir novel set in Seattle, published by Diversion Books, a division of Simon and Schuster. 

In “The Halter,” Mars is being colonized, virtual addiction has turned deadly, and detective Kennedy Stark (the Halter) is sent to solve the mysterious disappearances of those who melt into the virtual world. 

“When he isn’t working, The Halter is dreaming of a one-way ticket to Mars, where a new colony has been established as a hopeful alternative to an Earth in the early stages of climate collapse,” according to the publisher. 

Publisher’s Weekly called “The Halter” a “gripping, twisty mystery.”

WWU professor of English Kathryn Trueblood remembers McDevitt fondly. “How could I ever forget Darby McDevitt?! He was wicked-smart, creative and inquisitive. He has a rich career as a narrative designer and writer of award-winning video games such as ‘Assassin’s Creed,’ but he never lost that passion for writing,” she said. “I am so thrilled to see him publish ‘The Halter.’ There's nothing quite like holding your first book in your hands."

Follow this link to read an excerpt and for more information about “The Halter.”

Go here to learn about the English Department at WWU.

Frances Badgett covers the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Fine and Performing Arts Communications. Reach out to her with story ideas at badgetf@wwu.edu.