Picture a British storyteller who turned personal struggles into pulse-pounding thrillers—meet Ed Grace! Writing under this pen name, Rick Wood has carved a niche in the world of commercial thrillers with his gripping Jay Sullivan series. From a childhood spent scribbling stories to battling mental health challenges, Grace’s journey is as compelling as the high-stakes adventures he crafts.
The Making of Ed Grace
Born and raised in Cheltenham, England, Ed Grace—aka Rick Wood—found solace in writing as a child. Diagnosed with Tourette’s, Bipolar Disorder, and OCD in his youth, he used storytelling as an escape, locking himself away to pen tales that sparked his imagination. This passion carried him to Staffordshire University, where he earned a degree in Scriptwriting in 2011, followed by a Master’s in Creative Writing. Before becoming a full-time author, Grace dabbled in stand-up comedy, performed at the Edinburgh Fringe, and worked as a drama and English teacher across the UK. His diverse experiences shaped the raw, emotional depth of his characters.
Ed Grace’s Unforgettable Stories
Ed Grace is best known for the Jay Sullivan Thrillers, a series that follows a broken ex-assassin grappling with his daughter’s kidnapping and his own demons. The debut, Assassin Down (2019), introduces Sullivan as a once-legendary killer turned alcoholic nomad, delivering non-stop action and gut-wrenching suspense. Its sequel, Kill Them Quickly (2020), dives deeper into Sullivan’s quest for vengeance, blending gritty realism with emotional stakes. Other series entries like The Bars That Hold Me (2020) and Fighting Alone (2024) showcase Grace’s knack for tense, morally complex narratives. Under his real name, Rick Wood, he explores horror and darker thrillers, such as The Sensitives series, revealing his versatility. Grace’s style—fast-paced, raw, and character-driven—hooks readers with its blend of adrenaline and heart.
Grace’s thrillers stand out for their flawed protagonists and high-stakes plots. Sullivan’s struggle with alcoholism and trauma mirrors Grace’s own battles, adding authenticity to the storytelling. Fans praise the series for its relentless pace and unexpected twists, though some note its dark tone can be intense. With six books in the Jay Sullivan series and more under his belt, Grace has built a loyal following among thriller enthusiasts.
Why Ed Grace Matters
Ed Grace’s impact lies in his ability to transform personal adversity into universal stories of resilience. His portrayal of mental health struggles through characters like Jay Sullivan resonates with readers, offering a raw, honest look at human fragility. By balancing commercial appeal with emotional depth, Grace has carved a unique space in the thriller genre, inspiring aspiring writers to embrace their own challenges. His dual career as Rick Wood in horror further showcases his range, making him a multifaceted voice in modern fiction.
- Born: Cheltenham, England
- Key Works: Assassin Down, Kill Them Quickly, The Sensitives (as Rick Wood)
- Genres: Thriller, Horror
- Fun Fact: Grace performed stand-up at the Edinburgh Fringe before turning to novels.
Ready for a thrilling ride? Grab Assassin Down and dive into Ed Grace’s heart-pounding world of suspense!