Picture a Panamanian-born storyteller spinning tales of grit, suspense, and dark humor—meet E.A. Barres! Writing under the pen name of E.A. Aymar, this Anthony Award-nominated thriller author has carved a niche in the crime fiction world with novels like They’re Gone and The Unrepentant. With a knack for weaving complex characters and pulse-pounding plots, Barres brings the shadowy corners of the human psyche to life, all while calling the D.C./MD/VA triangle home.
From his roots in Panama to his role as a literary influencer, Barres’s journey is as captivating as his stories. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this rising star in thriller fiction!
The Making of E.A. Barres
Born in Panama City, Panama, E.A. Barres (aka E.A. Aymar) grew up with a passion for storytelling. Inspired by authors like Megan Abbott and Lawrence Block, he honed his craft during his college years, where his love for suspense and crime fiction took root. After graduating, Barres worked as a receptionist, a job he loathed, which pushed him to pursue writing seriously. His early career included writing short stories and columns, laying the groundwork for his gritty, character-driven novels.
Barres’s Panamanian heritage and experiences in the D.C. area infuse his work with a unique perspective. His transition from aspiring writer to published author wasn’t overnight, but his persistence and sharp storytelling earned him a spot in the competitive thriller genre.
E.A. Barres’s Unforgettable Stories
E.A. Barres’s novels are a masterclass in suspense, blending raw action with psychological depth. His 2019 thriller The Unrepentant, published under his real name E.A. Aymar, follows a woman escaping a dangerous gang, earning critical acclaim and nominations for awards like the Anthony and Foreword Indies. It’s a gritty, fast-paced tale that showcases Barres’s ability to craft flawed yet compelling characters.
In 2020, They’re Gone, released under the Barres pen name, took readers on a thrilling ride. The story of two widows uncovering the dark secrets behind their husbands’ murders was praised by outlets like Publishers Weekly and named one of the best books of 2020 by the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Barres’s style—marked by dark humor, diverse characters, and emotional nuance—shines through, making it a standout in the genre.
Barres also co-edited and contributed to anthologies like The Night of the Flood (2018) and The Swamp Killers (2020), showcasing his versatility. His narratives often explore themes of betrayal, grief, and resilience, set against the backdrop of the D.C. region, which he portrays with vivid authenticity.
Why E.A. Barres Matters
E.A. Barres is more than a thriller writer; he’s a literary force amplifying diverse voices and supporting emerging authors. 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 inclusivity in the genre. His monthly column, “Decisions and Revisions,” in the Washington Independent Review of Books, offers insights into the writing craft, while his D.C. Noir at the Bar series fosters a vibrant crime fiction community.
Barres’s impact lies in his ability to humanize complex characters and tackle tough themes with sensitivity and wit. His work resonates with readers who crave stories that are as thought-provoking as they are thrilling, cementing his place as a vital voice in modern suspense fiction.
- Born: Panama City, Panama
- Key Works: The Unrepentant (2019), They’re Gone (2020), The Night of the Flood (2018), The Swamp Killers (2020)
- Awards: Nominated for Anthony, Foreword Indies, and Readers Favorites
- Fun Fact: Runs D.C.’s Noir at the Bar, a must-attend for crime fiction fans!
Ready to get lost in a world of secrets, suspense, and dark humor? Grab They’re Gone and dive into E.A. Barres’s thrilling universe today!