Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of mystery, alternate history, and suspense with a dash of trivia brilliance—meet Brendan DuBois! A master of gripping narratives, DuBois has captivated readers with his award-winning novels and short stories, earning accolades like the Shamus Award and a spot as a Jeopardy! champion. From the chilling alternate history of Resurrection Day to the coastal intrigues of his Lewis Cole series, DuBois’s work is a treasure trove of thrills.
Born and raised in Dover, New Hampshire, DuBois’s storytelling is deeply rooted in his New England upbringing, blending local flavor with universal themes of intrigue and resilience. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this versatile author whose pen has left an indelible mark on mystery and science fiction.
The Making of Brendan DuBois
Brendan Arthur DuBois came of age in the scenic seacoast town of Dover, New Hampshire, where his love for storytelling took root. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire in 1982, he honed his craft as editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, The New Hampshire. His early battle with a rare form of cancer, ependymoma, in his youth shaped his resilience, a trait that echoes in his tenacious characters. After a stint as a newspaper reporter, DuBois turned to fiction, publishing his first short story, “Dark Corridor,” in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine in 1986, marking the start of a prolific career.
Brendan DuBois’s Unforgettable Stories
DuBois’s bibliography is a vibrant mix of mystery, science fiction, and alternate history, with over 17 novels and 150 short stories to his name. His breakout novel, Resurrection Day (1999), is a gripping alternate history thriller imagining a world where the Cuban Missile Crisis sparked nuclear war. This masterpiece earned the Sidewise Award for Best Alternate History, showcasing DuBois’s knack for blending historical what-ifs with suspense. The Lewis Cole series, starting with Dead Sand (1994), follows a retired Department of Defense analyst solving crimes in the fictional Tyler Beach, New Hampshire. With 12 books, including the 2024 release Terminal Surf, the series weaves coastal charm with dark mysteries.
DuBois’s short stories, published in outlets like Playboy and The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, are equally acclaimed. His 1997 story “The Dark Snow” earned a spot in The Best American Mystery Stories of the Century, highlighting his ability to craft compact, powerful tales. Collaborations with James Patterson, including The First Lady and Cross Down, brought his suspense expertise to broader audiences, cementing his versatility. His style—marked by sharp dialogue, intricate plots, and a New England backdrop—makes every story a page-turner.
Why Brendan DuBois Matters
Brendan DuBois’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres, blending the cerebral depth of alternate history with the heart-pounding pace of mystery. His Lewis Cole series has carved a niche in regional crime fiction, offering a vivid portrait of New Hampshire’s seacoast while tackling universal themes like justice and betrayal. His awards—two Shamus Awards, three Edgar nominations, and two Barry Awards—reflect his mastery, while his Jeopardy! win in 2012 showcases the trivia prowess that enriches his research-driven narratives. DuBois’s work inspires readers to explore the intersections of history, mystery, and human resilience.
- Born: 1959 or 1960, Dover, New Hampshire
- Key Works: Resurrection Day, Dead Sand, Terminal Surf
- Awards: Two Shamus Awards, Sidewise Award, three Edgar nominations
- Fun Fact: Jeopardy! champion (2012) and The Chase co-winner
Snag Resurrection Day or dive into the Lewis Cole series to experience Brendan DuBois’s thrilling blend of mystery and history!