Tiffany Hanssen Published Debut Novel

The WNYC host released a new book centered on a mob-connected hit man in 1986 Mystic, Iowa.

Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Books

A weathered brick storefront along a quiet, empty small-town road during a golden autumn afternoon. — WNYC host Tiffany Hanssen has released her debut novel, My Name Was Gerry Sass, a thriller set in 1986 Mystic, Iowa. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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WNYC host and Davenport native Tiffany Hanssen has released her debut novel, My Name Was Gerry Sass. The book is set in 1986 Mystic, Iowa, and follows the story of a mob-connected hit man.

Why it matters

The author drew on personal history and a DNA test to build the narrative, opting for an 1980s setting to remove the complications of modern technology. The Iowa backdrop reflects the author's nostalgia after moving from her home state to New York City.

The debut work, My Name Was Gerry Sass, follows the author's career transition from her role as an on-air host at WNYC. Narrative development for the book began during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic.

The players

Tiffany Hanssen

She is an author and on-air host for the New York public radio station WNYC.

The details

Hanssen, who graduated from Davenport West High School in 1987, based the central character on findings from a DNA test. She is currently writing a sequel to the debut novel.

The novel is set in 1986.
Tiffany Hanssen graduated from high school in 1987.
Development of the plot began in 2020.
The author moved to New York City in 2021.
The author will appear at the Iowa City Book Festival on October 24, 2026, at 1 p.m.

Industry Dynamics

This debut fits into the broader trend of authors utilizing the 1980s to simplify plot mechanics by removing contemporary digital technology. It marks the shift of a media professional into the literary world.

Readers in the local area can attend a public appearance by the author in late October 2026. The book is now available for purchase for those interested in the 1980s-era mystery genre.

The takeaway

Authors often look to their own familial discoveries and personal history to anchor their fictional narratives. Implementing a pre-digital setting can be an effective way to streamline complex character-driven plots.