Picture two Navy veterans spinning high-octane thrillers that pulse with international intrigue—meet Alex Ryan, the pseudonym for the dynamic writing duo Jeffrey Wilson and Brian Andrews! Known for their heart-pounding Nick Foley series, they weave military authenticity, medical science, and personal drama into stories that keep readers up all night.
With Wilson’s experience as a combat surgeon and Andrews’ as a nuclear submarine officer, Alex Ryan’s novels are a masterclass in blending gritty realism with edge-of-your-seat suspense. Their unique backgrounds fuel tales that resonate with fans of Tom Clancy and Brad Thor, making Alex Ryan a standout in the thriller genre.
The Making of Alex Ryan
Jeffrey Wilson and Brian Andrews didn’t start as writers—they began as warriors. Wilson, a vascular surgeon, served multiple deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan supporting U.S. Navy SEALs, witnessing the chaos and courage that shape their stories. Andrews, a psychology graduate from Vanderbilt, commanded operations aboard a 688-class nuclear submarine, navigating high-stakes missions beneath the waves. Their military roots instilled discipline and a knack for authentic detail, which they channeled into writing when they teamed up as Alex Ryan.
Their partnership began with a shared passion for storytelling and a desire to craft thrillers that felt real. Drawing on their Navy experiences, they adopted the Alex Ryan pseudonym to pen novels that marry tactical precision with human emotion, launching their literary journey with the Nick Foley series in 2016.
Alex Ryan’s Unforgettable Stories
The Nick Foley series, starting with Beijing Red (2016), introduces ex-Navy SEAL Nick Foley, a haunted hero battling PTSD while uncovering a bioterrorism plot in rural China. Teaming up with brilliant Chinese CDC microbiologist Dr. Dazhong “Dash” Chen, Foley races against time to thwart a global catastrophe. Critics praised its fast-paced action and chillingly plausible science, earning a Kirkus starred review for its “tense biothriller” vibes.
The sequel, Hong Kong Black (2017), dives deeper into Foley’s world, tackling a macabre conspiracy involving illegally harvested organs and a missing CIA operative. This installment amps up the stakes with a centuries-old plot tied to China’s First Emperor, blending ancient lore with modern espionage. Readers lauded its “slam-bang adventure” and Ian Fleming-worthy twists, per Mystery Scene Magazine.
Alex Ryan’s style is a cocktail of meticulous research, vivid action, and emotional depth. Their military and medical expertise shines through in detailed combat scenes and cutting-edge biotech, while Foley’s personal struggles—haunted by a tragic mission—add heart. The duo’s ability to craft strong, intelligent female characters like Dash Chen sets them apart, making their thrillers both thrilling and relatable.
Why Alex Ryan Matters
Alex Ryan’s impact lies in their ability to ground fantastical plots in real-world stakes. By drawing on their Navy service, Wilson and Andrews offer a window into the sacrifices and split-second decisions of military life, resonating with readers who crave authenticity. Their Nick Foley series has carved a niche in the thriller genre, appealing to fans of special-ops tales and medical mysteries alike.
Beyond their books, the duo’s collaborative spirit—honed through years of high-pressure service—has inspired aspiring writers. Their work under other pen names, like Andrews & Wilson, includes bestsellers like the Tier One series, showing their versatility and staying power in a competitive field.
- Key Works: Beijing Red (2016), Hong Kong Black (2017)
- Genres: Thriller, Espionage, Military Fiction
- Notable Praise: Kirkus starred review for Beijing Red
Snag Beijing Red and dive into Alex Ryan’s pulse-pounding world of spies, science, and suspense!