Step into the electrifying world of Department Thirty, where government conspiracies and personal betrayals collide in a pulse-pounding thriller series! Written by B. Kent Anderson under the pen name David Kent, this quartet of novels follows radio journalist Ryan Elder as he unravels a web of secrets that spans over a century of American history. With its gripping plot twists and deep dives into trust and power, Department Thirty is a hidden gem for thriller fans craving suspense with a side of intrigue.
From Oklahoma’s rugged terrain to the shadowy corridors of Washington, D.C., the series hooks readers with its blend of historical conspiracies and modern-day stakes. Whether you’re a fan of espionage, mystery, or heart-stopping action, Department Thirty delivers a thrilling ride that’s hard to put down.
How Department Thirty Began
B. Kent Anderson, a broadcaster and journalist from Oklahoma, crafted Department Thirty under the pseudonym David Kent, drawing on his experience as a former press secretary and media advisor. Inspired by his love for storytelling and Oklahoma’s rich history, Anderson launched the series in 2003 with its titular debut novel. His goal? To weave a tale of government secrets and personal redemption that felt both grounded and exhilarating. The result was a series that hooked readers with its unique blend of local flavor and high-stakes intrigue, earning praise as a bestselling eBook in its debut year.
The Heart of Department Thirty
The series kicks off with Department Thirty (2003), where Ryan Elder’s life is upended by a mysterious letter from his late mother, revealing his parents’ ties to a secretive government agency. As he digs deeper, Ryan uncovers a legacy of deception that threatens national security. The follow-up, The Mesa Conspiracy (2004), introduces Eric Anthony, a single dad entangled with U.S. Marshal Faith Kelly as they chase domestic terrorists linked to Eric’s shadowy past.
The Blackjack Conspiracy (2005), a standout that won the 2006 Oklahoma Book Award for Fiction, follows Faith Kelly as she unravels a conspiracy tied to a historical massacre, with a chilling villain who elevates the stakes. The series concludes with The Triangle Conspiracy (2006), praised for its character depth and fast-paced plot, as Faith faces her most personal case yet. Themes of trust, betrayal, and the cost of power run throughout, set against Oklahoma’s vivid landscapes and D.C.’s political underbelly. Kent’s style—packed with unexpected twists and grounded in historical intrigue—makes each book a page-turner.
Why Department Thirty Resonates
Department Thirty’s blend of conspiracy-laden thrills and relatable characters has earned it a loyal fanbase, particularly among readers who love authors like Tom Clancy or John Grisham. Its Oklahoma roots give it a unique flavor, while its exploration of government secrets taps into timeless fascination with hidden truths. The series’ ability to weave historical events—like a 19th-century massacre—into modern conspiracies keeps it fresh and engaging, even years after its conclusion. Fans on platforms like Amazon praise its action and surprises, with The Triangle Conspiracy often called the series’ peak.
- About Department Thirty
- Publication Years: 2003–2006
- Number of Books: 4
- Award: The Blackjack Conspiracy won the 2006 Oklahoma Book Award for Fiction
Grab Department Thirty and dive into a world of suspense, secrets, and electrifying twists! Whether you’re new to thrillers or a seasoned fan, Ryan Elder’s journey through a maze of conspiracies will keep you hooked from the first page.