Picture a Panama-born storyteller who weaves gritty crime thrillers that pulse with dark humor and raw emotion—meet E.A. Aymar! This bestselling author has carved a unique space in the world of crime fiction, blending high-stakes action with deeply human characters. From his acclaimed Dead Trilogy to his advocacy for aspiring writers, Aymar’s journey is as compelling as the stories he tells.
The Making of E.A. Aymar
Born in Panama, E.A. Aymar’s early life as a cultural outsider shaped his perspective, infusing his writing with a keen sense of identity and resilience. After moving to the United States, he studied creative writing and earned a Master’s degree in Literature, laying the groundwork for his storytelling career. Aymar faced years of struggle, balancing his passion for writing with the demands of everyday life, but his determination led him to become a respected voice in crime fiction. His experiences in the diverse DC/MD/VA triangle, where he now lives, inspire the vivid settings and complex characters in his novels.
E.A. Aymar’s Unforgettable Stories
Aymar’s Dead Trilogy, starting with I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead (2013), introduces Tom Starks, a widowed professor turned reluctant avenger. This hard-boiled debut blends revenge with poignant family dynamics, earning praise for its gripping pace. The sequel, You’re As Good As Dead (2015), ramps up the tension with gang warfare and morally complex twins, Lucy and Switch. Aymar’s later works, like The Unrepentant (2019), tackle heavy themes like human trafficking with unflinching courage and sharp wit, following Charlotte Reyes’ fight for survival. His most recent thriller, When She Left (2024), draws comparisons to Elmore Leonard for its humor and sympathetic antiheroes, earning a spot in PEN/Faulkner’s DC Reads program in 2025.
Aymar’s style is a masterclass in balance: gritty action meets dark comedy, and flawed characters grapple with moral dilemmas. His narratives often explore the human cost of violence, reflecting his outsider’s lens on American culture. Whether it’s the streets of Baltimore or the shadows of DC, Aymar’s settings feel alive, grounding his thrilling plots in raw authenticity.
Why E.A. Aymar Matters
Beyond his page-turners, Aymar’s impact lies in his dedication to the literary community. As a former board member of the International Thriller Writers and an active member of Crime Writers of Color and Sisters in Crime, he champions diversity and mentorship. His DC Noir at the Bar series fosters a space for writers to shine, while his newsletter, Crime Fiction Revolution, connects readers with top crime fiction. Aymar’s ability to humanize outsiders in his stories resonates globally, making him a vital voice in modern crime fiction.
- Born: Panama
- Key Works: I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead, You’re As Good As Dead, The Unrepentant, When She Left
- Awards: Multiple Anthony Award nominations
- Fun Fact: Aymar once collaborated with DJ Alkimist, blending stories with music.
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag When She Left and dive into E.A. Aymar’s electrifying world of crime fiction!