Step into the pulse-pounding world of Peter Ash, where a war veteran’s grit meets heart-stopping suspense! Created by Nick Petrie, the Peter Ash series is a gripping blend of thriller and crime fiction, following a former Marine haunted by PTSD as he battles injustice across America’s rugged landscapes. With a knack for stumbling into danger, Ash’s adventures hook readers with raw emotion and relentless action.
Unlike your typical action hero, Peter Ash carries the scars of war—his 'white static,' a claustrophobic buzz that drives him to the open wilderness. Yet, when duty calls, he dives headfirst into mysteries that test his military-honed skills and unyielding sense of justice. Perfect for fans of Jack Reacher, this series delivers thrills with a soulful twist.
How Peter Ash Began
Nick Petrie, a Milwaukee-based author with a background in carpentry and home inspection, crafted Peter Ash from real-life inspiration. While working, Petrie met veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, their stories of struggle and resilience shaping his vision of a lone wanderer. What started as a mental image of a man hiking down a mountain evolved into Ash—a vigilante hero wrestling with trauma. Petrie’s debut, The Drifter, launched the series in 2016, earning critical acclaim and awards like the ITW Thriller Award.
Petrie’s hands-on experience and MFA in fiction from the University of Washington lent authenticity to Ash’s world. His conversations with veterans infused the series with raw honesty, making it more than just a thriller—it’s a window into the veteran experience, wrapped in electrifying plots.
The Heart of Peter Ash
The series kicks off with The Drifter, where Ash, fresh from self-imposed exile, helps a Marine’s widow and uncovers a suitcase stuffed with cash and explosives. In Burning Bright, he teams up with journalist June Cassidy to outrun a shadowy organization in California’s redwoods. Light It Up sees Ash tackling a hijacking in Denver’s cannabis trade, while The Runaway pits him against a ruthless ex-cop in a deadly chase across Nebraska.
At its core, the series explores trauma, resilience, and the cost of war. Ash’s PTSD, vividly depicted through his 'white static,' grounds the high-octane action in emotional reality. Petrie’s crisp prose and vivid settings—from Milwaukee’s streets to Iceland’s icy expanses—immerse readers in Ash’s restless journey. Themes of redemption and moral ambiguity shine through, as Ash grapples with his warrior instincts while seeking peace.
Compared to Lee Child’s Jack Reacher, Ash stands out for his vulnerability and relatability. His easygoing charm, love for fixing things, and evolving relationships with allies like June and Lewis add depth, making each book a thrilling yet poignant chapter in his growth.
Why Peter Ash Resonates
The Peter Ash series has carved a niche in the thriller genre, lauded for its authentic portrayal of veterans and gripping storytelling. Fans and critics, including Lee Child himself, praise Ash as 'the real deal,' blending Reacher’s toughness with a human edge. With eight books and counting, the series has built a loyal following, resonating with readers who crave action with heart.
Its impact lies in its unflinching look at PTSD and reintegration, offering empathy without preaching. Petrie’s ability to weave contemporary issues—like cyber-tech or legalized cannabis—into suspenseful plots keeps the series fresh, cementing its place as a modern thriller staple.
- First Book Published: 2016 (The Drifter)
- Number of Books: 8 (as of 2025)
- Awards: ITW Thriller Award, Barry Award for Best First Novel
Ready for an adrenaline-fueled ride? Grab The Drifter and dive into Peter Ash’s thrilling world of danger, heart, and redemption!