Cedar Rapids author M.K. Milligan steps into the spotlight with debut novel

Longtime Cedar Rapids resident M.K. Milligan has published her debut novel under her own name, a political allegory titled 'Come One, Come All' that uses a circus setting to explore political themes, according to The Gazette.

Milligan, 58, moved to Cedar Rapids in 2004 from Albuquerque, New Mexico, due to her then-husband's career, and has since called the community home. "I love it here," Milligan said of Cedar Rapids, according to The Gazette. Before publishing 'Come One, Come All' earlier in 2026, Milligan worked a diverse array of jobs, including legal secretary, environmental engineer, medical transcriptionist, and real estate agent.

Writing, however, took a backseat for years. "I didn't have enough faith in myself that I would be able to earn a living as a writer. And so it just went on the back burner," Milligan told The Gazette. In addition to her writing, Milligan serves as the full-time caregiver for her youngest son, who has an intellectual disability. She noted that she is grateful for state resources that allow caregiving to be a paid position, according to The Gazette.

Local readers looking to connect with the author can catch an upcoming appearance in the area. Swamp Fox Bookstore, located at 1375 7th Avenue Suite A in Marion, is scheduled to host a 'Signature Series: M.K. Milligan' author event on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM, according to Swamp Fox Bookstore. Details and author information can also be found on Milligan's website.