Picture an Oklahoma storyteller who turned historical secrets into pulse-pounding thrillers—meet B. Kent Anderson! This award-winning novelist and journalist spent 14 years chasing his dream, battling rejections before his first novel hit shelves in 2003. With a knack for weaving Civil War intrigue into modern suspense, Anderson’s gripping tales, like the Department Thirty series and Cold Glory, have captivated readers and earned accolades.
From small-town roots to literary success, Anderson’s journey is a testament to persistence and the magic of storytelling. Let’s dive into the life and works of this thrilling author whose stories keep us up all night!
The Making of B. Kent Anderson
Born and raised in Madill, Oklahoma, B. Kent Anderson was a dreamer with a microphone in hand by age 15, working as a radio announcer. A graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma, he juggled roles as a broadcaster, symphony orchestra marketer, and features writer for Oklahoma’s Slice Magazine. His early career was a whirlwind of creativity, but writing was his true calling. Despite facing 14 years of rejections, Anderson’s grit kept him going, fueled by a love for history and suspense that would shape his novels.
B. Kent Anderson’s Unforgettable Stories
Anderson’s novels are a masterclass in blending historical mysteries with contemporary thrills. Under the pseudonym David Kent, he launched the Department Thirty series, starting with Department Thirty (2003). This thriller series, featuring agent Faith Kelly, dives into conspiracies with high stakes, earning praise for its fast-paced plots. The Blackjack Conspiracy, part of the series, snagged the 2006 Oklahoma Book Award for Fiction, cementing Anderson’s reputation.
Switching to his real name, Anderson unveiled Cold Glory (2011), the first in a series starring history professor Nick Journey and federal agent Meg Tolman. When a Civil War-era document surfaces in Oklahoma, it sparks a dangerous chase involving a shadowy group plotting a coup. Its sequel, Silver Cross (2012), ties Napoleon III’s secrets to a modern murder, showcasing Anderson’s knack for historical depth. His style—rich with well-drawn characters and meticulous research—appeals to fans of both thrillers and literary fiction, offering twists that linger long after the final page.
Anderson’s work stands out for its Oklahoma flavor and human touch. In Cold Glory, Nick Journey’s struggles as a single father to an autistic son add emotional weight, grounding the high-stakes action. Whether it’s a Civil War conspiracy or a government cover-up, Anderson’s stories are as thought-provoking as they are thrilling.
Why B. Kent Anderson Matters
B. Kent Anderson’s impact lies in his ability to make history feel urgent and alive. His novels don’t just entertain—they spark curiosity about America’s past, from Civil War secrets to modern political intrigue. By rooting his stories in Oklahoma, he’s put the state on the literary map, earning fans who love his blend of local color and global stakes. His perseverance through years of rejection inspires aspiring writers, proving that talent and tenacity can break through.
Awards like the Oklahoma Book Award and multiple Society of Professional Journalists honors reflect his skill, but it’s his storytelling that leaves a lasting mark. Anderson’s work reminds us that history isn’t just in books—it’s a living, breathing force that shapes our world today.
- Born: Madill, Oklahoma
- Key Works: Department Thirty, The Blackjack Conspiracy, Cold Glory, Silver Cross
- Awards: 2006 Oklahoma Book Award for Fiction, multiple Society of Professional Journalists awards
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Cold Glory and dive into B. Kent Anderson’s world of history, suspense, and heart-pounding twists!