Pat Haddock

A sixth-generation Texan, storytelling is in Pat Haddock’s blood. Those earlier, resilient generations provide stories worth repeating—some embellished with time, but more colorful for the effort. Her work often carries two underlying themes: First, life mirrors attitudes and actions, shaping what boomerangs back. Hence, a positive outlook and generous actions yield a rich life. Second, nobody gets out of this life alive, so have fun muddling through it. With a dual writing personality, she can dish out punishment for wrongdoing in one piece, and frolic through another, as evidenced by published short stories in journals that she has now compiled into her book, Quick Reads.

Until October 2025, she lived in Sherman, Texas with her yorkie-poo, Cody, who was nothing like Petey Pup, an earlier rescue. Dear Aunt Peggy, Emails from Petey Pup is written as if by Petey, a Lhasa mix, in his vernacular. That little rascal tells of his escapades in emails to Pat’s sister, Peggy.

Amelia’s Gift, is for pre-teen girls, or even mature women who wish to reminisce. It’s set in the 1950s and is somewhat modeled after Pat’s experiences in that timeframe. Amelia works through failures and successes as she challenges the norm to save a beloved movie theater from demolition.

Secrets at Muddy Puddle Farm was a real stretch for her to write. She spent two years just researching elements of the story to ensure they were feasible. This story has something for everyone. Murder? Yes. Treasure? Got it. Romance? Maybe. Mass burials? Yup. Justice? You decide.

Pat, now retired and living in Alto Boquete, Panama, juggles two new novels that are underway. She accepts speaking engagements and proofreads other authors’ books. She has explored her family genealogy for over 45 years. She indulges in fun with the lovely folks she has met in Panama and, in her quiet times, she reads, travels, gardens, and explores her new hometown. As proven by her cookbook, Mom Pat’s Favorite Recipes, she loves to cook and concoct new recipes.