Picture a globe-trotting storyteller whose spy thrillers keep you glued to the page—meet Andrew Kaplan! Born in Brooklyn in 1941, Kaplan’s life is as thrilling as his novels, blending military service, journalism, and international intrigue into a career that’s made him a master of espionage fiction. With his Scorpion and Homeland series topping bestseller charts and translated into 22 languages, Kaplan’s knack for crafting heart-pounding tales has earned him comparisons to Robert Ludlum.
From the deserts of the Middle East to the shadowy corridors of the CIA, Kaplan’s novels draw from his own remarkable experiences, delivering authenticity that hooks readers worldwide. Ready to dive into his world of spies and secrets?
The Making of Andrew Kaplan
Andrew Kaplan’s journey to becoming a bestselling author reads like a prequel to one of his own novels. Born on May 18, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, he attended Stuyvesant High School and Brooklyn College before serving in the U.S. Army. His thirst for adventure led him to Europe and Africa, where he worked as a freelance journalist and war correspondent for the International Herald Tribune in Paris. Kaplan’s military service didn’t end with the U.S.—he also served in the Israeli Army during the 1967 Six-Day War, adding a layer of real-world grit to his storytelling. As a student leader in Israel, he helped establish Ben Gurion University and even kickstarted the Israeli Olympic fencing team. After earning degrees from Tel Aviv University and an MBA from Oregon State, Kaplan ventured into technology business, but his true calling was writing.
Andrew Kaplan’s Unforgettable Stories
Kaplan’s novels are a masterclass in espionage, blending meticulous research with pulse-pounding action. His Scorpion series, featuring the ex-CIA operative codenamed Scorpion, is a fan favorite. In Scorpion Betrayal, Scorpion chases a terrorist known as ‘the Palestinian’ across Europe, unraveling a chilling plot. Scorpion Winter takes readers to Ukraine, where political intrigue threatens global stability, while Scorpion Deception pits Scorpion against an Iranian mastermind in a race to prevent war. These books, praised by Suspense Magazine for surpassing Robert Ludlum, showcase Kaplan’s ability to weave complex plots with vivid settings.
Equally compelling is Kaplan’s Homeland series, official prequels to the hit TV show. Homeland: Carrie’s Run follows CIA officer Carrie Mathison on a mission in Damascus, revealing her backstory with gripping intensity. Its sequel, Homeland: Saul’s Game, won the 2015 Scribe Award for Best Tie-In Novel. Kaplan’s standalone novels, like the New York Times bestseller Dragonfire and War of the Raven—named one of the 100 best WWII books by the American Library Association—highlight his versatility. His writing, rich with cultural nuance and insider knowledge, reflects his deep research and fluency in Arabic and Hebrew.
Why Andrew Kaplan Matters
Andrew Kaplan’s impact on the spy thriller genre is undeniable. His novels, translated into over 22 languages and selling millions, have captivated readers with their authenticity and relentless pacing. By drawing on his experiences as a journalist, soldier, and businessman, Kaplan brings a rare depth to his characters and settings, making the world of espionage feel vividly real. His work on the James Bond film GoldenEye and his contributions to the Homeland TV series further cement his influence in storytelling. For fans of Daniel Silva or Vince Flynn, Kaplan’s books are a must-read, offering a thrilling escape grounded in real-world expertise.
- Born: May 18, 1941, Brooklyn, New York
- Key Works: Scorpion series, Homeland series, Dragonfire, War of the Raven
- Awards: 2015 Scribe Award for Homeland: Saul’s Game, Global eBook Gold Award for Blue Madagascar
- Notable Fact: Served in both U.S. and Israeli armies
Snag Scorpion Betrayal or Homeland: Carrie’s Run and dive into Andrew Kaplan’s electrifying world of spies and secrets!