About Me
My Origin Story
Where do I begin? Well, my full name is Brianna Riley MacMahon. I’m a tired Millennial, and my sun sign is Cancer, my moon sign is Aries, and my rising sign is Leo. According to Astrology.com, that means I experience very intense emotions, which definitely seems accurate! (I’m not obsessed with astrology, but I do think it’s a fun tool to learn more about ourselves!)

A Bit of My Personality
I am a very introverted person. I’m happiest in my own company and that of my family and close friends. Also, I am very liberal. I don’t shy away from expressing my political opinions, and my books reflect this. I would definitely consider myself a homebody. I also love to bake, and I’m the sort of person who thinks a dessert menu isn’t complete unless there is a chocolate item on it.


I Love New York! And My Family!
I was born in Connecticut but raised in New York. (And I absolutely love living in New York!) My siblings are my best friends in the entire world, and my parents are the most supportive, loving, and generous people I know. My family members have been there for me through all the ups and downs, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them!

My Education
For undergrad, I attended Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York. I studied history and political science. While at Hartwick, I honed my writing skills by taking courses in creative writing and playwriting. It was at Hartwick that I started developing the idea for what would eventually become the New Caelus Series. All those history and political science classes started to seep into my brain, and in my free time, I jotted down ideas I had about world-building, political systems, and characters. Eventually, this morphed into On the Precipice!
I then went on to attain my master’s in political science from Syracuse University, graduating in the momentous year 2020. (*Insert ominous music.*) And at Syracuse, that was when I started working on The Great Dempseys (the overall series).
Get to Know Me a Little Better!
Frequently Asked Questions
In case any of these popped into your mind…
What are you currently reading?
I have, admittedly, been in a bit of a reading slump. But I recently purchased Lorna Neligan’s book Lost in Lombardy, and I’m looking forward to reading it!
Why should I give your books a try?
Fair question! I know it’s always difficult to go out on a limb with new authors. But I hope my credentials speak for themselves. I’ve won eleven (11) awards for my books thus far, and I’m hoping to win more. Casual readers and professional reviewers alike have praised my books for their world-building, layered storytelling, multifaceted characters, thoughtful social commentary, realistic dialogue, and emotional stakes.
Where is the best place to purchase your books?
My website, of course! Support authors (not Amazon) by buying directly from them whenever you can. Check out the Shop!
What are you currently working on?
I am writing the second book in The Great Dempseys series. Progress has been a bit slower than I’d hoped, but I’ll be sure to update you as I get further along!
Do you have a newsletter?
I do! And mailing list subscribers receive exclusive promos and a behind-the-scenes look at my writing process. Use the subscription form in the footer to join the party!