The Journey Behind Matthew M. Watkins’ Memphis Moon

The greatest stories stem from real-world experience, and few people have had the kind of in-depth, unique experiences that Matthew M. Watkins has had over the past three decades. 

Watkins is a retired Executive Vice President with over 30 years of leadership experience in the global plastics industry and is a mechanical engineer by training. During his career, he built a distinguished legacy in executive management before retiring. He is now enjoying retirement, splitting his time between Memphis, Tennessee, and Colorado with his wife, Melani, while also being a proud father of six and devoted dog lover. 

Watkins has enjoyed retirement immensely, not only for the time it has allowed him to spend truly enjoying his familial lifestyle, but also for the opportunities it has opened up. He had long been fascinated by historical fiction, but had never had the opportunity to create a work of his own. Now, however, all of that has changed, as Watkins releases his debut novel, Memphis Moon, to the world.

Memphis Moon is a historical thriller that explores courage, resilience, family, and the difficult choices people face during extraordinary times. Through engaging characters and an immersive historical setting, the novel invites readers on a suspenseful journey filled with mystery, sacrifice, and hope.

Watkins details, “I have always been fascinated by history and the stories of ordinary people whose lives were transformed by extraordinary events. I wanted to create a novel that combines historical authenticity with compelling fictional characters and emotional storytelling.”

Set during the American Civil War, Memphis Moon is the story of Virginia "Ginnie" Moon and her sister, Lottie, whose lives intertwine amid mystery, family loyalty, and unexpected challenges. Blending historical inspiration with imaginative storytelling, Watkins’ novel offers readers an engaging journey where suspense, family bonds, and personal resilience take center stage.

Memphis Moon is available internationally in paperback, hardcover, and Kindle editions. The audiobook edition will also be released this summer.