Picture a historian who spins Cold War secrets into page-turning thrillers—meet David Krugler! A Wisconsin native, Krugler is a Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he masterfully blends academic rigor with gripping storytelling. From his scholarly works on Cold War propaganda to his heart-pounding Ellis Voigt spy thriller series, Krugler brings history to life with a flair that captivates readers.
The Making of David Krugler
Born and raised in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, David Krugler’s journey began with a love for history and literature. After earning degrees in English and history from Creighton University, he pursued an M.A. and Ph.D. at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Returning to Wisconsin in 1997, he joined the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where his research trips to Washington, D.C., sparked a passion for the city’s wartime intrigue, shaping both his nonfiction and fiction.
Krugler’s academic career is distinguished, with fellowships from the National Endowment for the Humanities and appearances in documentaries like National Geographic’s American Doomsday. His love for mysteries and art museums, paired with his historian’s eye, fueled his leap into novel-writing, creating a unique blend of fact and fiction.
David Krugler’s Unforgettable Stories
Krugler’s nonfiction works are cornerstones of Cold War scholarship. His debut, The Voice of America and the Domestic Propaganda Battles, 1945-1953 (2000), explores U.S. propaganda efforts during the early Cold War. This Is Only a Test: How Washington, D.C., Prepared for Nuclear War (2006) delves into civil defense strategies, while 1919, The Year of Racial Violence (2014) examines African American resistance to post-WWI mob violence, earning critical acclaim.
In fiction, Krugler shines with his Ellis Voigt series, starting with The Dead Don’t Bleed (2016). Set in 1945 Washington, D.C., this spy thriller follows Naval Intelligence officer Ellis Voigt as he unravels a murder mystery tied to atomic secrets. Its sequel, Rip the Angels from Heaven (2018), takes Voigt to Los Alamos, blending historical accuracy with pulse-pounding suspense. Krugler’s style—rich with 1940s vernacular and intricate plots—evokes wartime paranoia while keeping readers hooked.
His works bridge genres, combining espionage, historical fiction, and mystery. Fans praise his ability to make history vivid, with reviewers calling The Dead Don’t Bleed a “thumping good read” for its twists and immersive setting. Krugler’s meticulous research ensures every detail feels authentic, from D.C.’s cobblestone alleys to the Trinity test site.
Why David Krugler Matters
David Krugler’s impact lies in his ability to make history accessible and thrilling. His nonfiction educates readers on pivotal moments like the Cold War and racial justice, while his novels transport them to the tense streets of wartime America. As a professor, he inspires students and teachers through programs at the Newberry Library and Ashland University, earning him the 2014 Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence at UW-Platteville.
By weaving historical truths into fiction, Krugler invites readers to explore the past through a new lens, making complex events relatable and engaging. His work resonates with history buffs, mystery lovers, and anyone who craves a good story.
- Born: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
- Key Nonfiction: The Voice of America, 1919, The Year of Racial Violence
- Key Fiction: The Dead Don’t Bleed, Rip the Angels from Heaven
- Awards: 2014 Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence, UW-Platteville
Ready to dive into Cold War intrigue? Grab The Dead Don’t Bleed and discover David Krugler’s thrilling world of spies and secrets!