By Suzy's Crew / March 12, 2026

Gun Girl and the Tall Guy, by Maryka Biaggio

Cover for Gun Girl and the Tall Guy

Available now in Paperback and Audio

Maryka Biaggio

Why I wrote “Gun Girl and the Tall Guy,” by Maryka Biaggio, the author

I discovered the story of Celia Cooney in a nonfiction book about notorious women by Elizabeth Mahon. I immediately knew I had to devote a novel to her. Yes, she resorted to crime, but she was gutsy, she had principles, and she was the talk of 1920s Brooklyn.

Applause! Applause!

“A lively, sharply observed tale of love, bad decisions, and the wild hope.”

Pamela Johnson, Writer and Publisher

“Fantastic read! This book has everything — it’s sassy and intense, wild, and furiously funny.”

Kim Blakemore, Author of Women’s Historical Fiction

“Absolutely captivating, enthralling, and insightful!”

Dave Boersema, Author of Nonfiction Books

Talk a Little, Talk a Lot

All great reads, like this one, have themes or ideas, or just hints, for discussion topics in your book club. Here are a few ideas for you:

As the novel begins, who do you find yourself sympathizing with — the Cooneys or Detective Casey? Does this change as you get further into the story?

What is your opinion of Celia’s justification for committing robberies — that she wanted to give their baby a better start in life than she had? Do you think she was being honest about her motive?

What is the difference and similarities do you see between the Cooneys and the Caseys? Would you consider both of them working-class families?

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