Picture an American storyteller who trades a child actor’s spotlight for a police badge, only to weave gripping crime thrillers from real-life experience—meet Bernard Schaffer! This Philadelphia-area author, detective, and father of two crafts stories that pulse with authenticity, blending the grit of law enforcement with the thrill of fiction. From his acclaimed Santero and Rein series to westerns and sci-fi, Schaffer’s diverse portfolio captivates readers worldwide.
But Schaffer’s not just about page-turners. His commitment to social good, like founding the Kindle All-Stars to support missing children, makes him a unique voice in contemporary literature. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this multifaceted creator.
The Making of Bernard Schaffer
Born in 1974 in the Philadelphia suburbs, Bernard Schaffer’s early life took a Hollywood turn as a child actor under the name BJ Schaffer. He appeared in TV commercials, a Saturday Night Live skit, and Nickelodeon’s Don’t Just Sit There, earning more at age 10 than his cop father. By 14, the acting gigs faded, and Schaffer pivoted to a ‘normal’ life, eventually joining the police force in 1996. His 20-year law enforcement career, spanning patrol, narcotics, and detective work, shaped his writing with unparalleled insight. Inspired by Stephen King’s On Writing, Schaffer began penning stories, merging his street-smarts with a knack for storytelling.
Bernard Schaffer’s Unforgettable Stories
Schaffer’s writing spans genres, but his Santero and Rein Thriller series stands out for its raw, psychological depth. The Thief of All Light (2018) introduces rookie cop Carrie Santero and her haunted mentor, Jacob Rein, as they hunt an ‘omnikiller’ inspired by infamous serial killers. Its sequels, An Unsettled Grave (2019) and Blood Angel (2020), deepen the duo’s complex bond, earning praise for their gritty authenticity. Schaffer’s police experience shines through, offering readers a visceral look into the minds of both cops and criminals.
Beyond thrillers, Schaffer’s versatility sparkles in westerns like Face of a Snake (2021), part of the Ralph Compton series, blending classic cowboy grit with his signature intensity. His sci-fi Confederation Reborn series and fantasy Tiny Dragons books for kids showcase his range, while non-fiction like Way of the Warrior (2011) offers a candid guide to police life, taught in academies worldwide. Schaffer’s prose is direct, emotionally charged, and steeped in real-world stakes, making every story feel like it could happen tomorrow.
His indie publishing roots also shine through in works like Whitechapel: The Final Stand of Sherlock Holmes, a bold Sherlock pastiche, and short story collections like Women and Other Monsters. Schaffer’s ability to juggle genres while maintaining a distinct voice has earned him a Kindle Top 100 spot and international bestseller status.
Why Bernard Schaffer Matters
Schaffer’s impact lies in his ability to humanize the badge while thrilling readers. His novels, lauded by authors like Lee Child and Lisa Scottoline, resonate with crime fiction fans and law enforcement alike for their unflinching honesty. By founding the Kindle All-Stars, Schaffer channels profits to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, blending literary success with social good. His work with WorldReaders.org and Operation Ebook Drop further amplifies his commitment to literacy and service.
As a second-generation cop and a storyteller, Schaffer bridges worlds—fiction and reality, crime and compassion. His legacy is one of authenticity, proving that the best stories come from those who’ve lived them.
- Born: 1974, Philadelphia area
- Key Works: The Thief of All Light, Way of the Warrior, Face of a Snake
- Awards: Suspense Magazine Best of 2019, Audiobook Reviewers’ Choice
Snag The Thief of All Light and dive into Bernard Schaffer’s heart-pounding crime thrillers today!