Picture a British storyteller who swapped covert missions for crafting pulse-pounding thrillers—meet James Becker! A former Royal Navy officer with over 20 years of service, Becker channels his high-stakes experiences into novels that blend ancient mysteries with modern-day intrigue. His Chris Bronson series has hooked readers worldwide, proving that real-world grit makes for unforgettable fiction.
With a knack for weaving historical secrets into fast-paced adventures, Becker’s stories are like treasure hunts you can’t put down. Whether it’s decoding ancient artifacts or dodging deadly cults, his books keep you guessing. Let’s dive into the life, works, and lasting impact of this master of thriller fiction.
The Making of James Becker
Born in Cambridge, England, James Becker—whose real name is Peter Stuart Smith—lived a life of adventure before picking up a pen. His 20-year career in the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm saw him serve during the Falklands War and participate in covert operations in hotspots like Yemen, Russia, and Northern Ireland. A detached retina from aerobatics cut his helicopter piloting short, leading him to Air Traffic Control. After retiring, Becker settled in Andorra, where the absence of income tax and a job offer sparked a new chapter.
His writing journey began in 2003 when a literary agent took a chance on his manuscripts. By 2004, under the pseudonym James Barrington, his first thriller hit shelves. Becker’s military background and passion for ancient and medieval history shaped his unique voice, blending authenticity with imagination.
James Becker’s Unforgettable Stories
Becker’s novels are a thrilling mix of historical mystery, conspiracy, and action, with the Chris Bronson series leading the charge. His debut, The First Apostle (2008), introduces policeman Chris Bronson, who uncovers a trail of clues tied to early Christianity. The novel’s blend of ancient codes and modern danger set the tone for the series, which spans eight books, including The Moses Stone (2009) and The Templar Heresy (2017).
The Hounds of God Trilogy, starting with The Lost Treasure of the Templars (2015), follows antiquarian bookseller Robin Jessop and encryption expert David Mallory as they unravel Templar secrets. Each book, like The Templar Archive (2016), dives into centuries-old conspiracies with meticulous research. Becker’s standalone novels, such as The Titanic Secret (2018), showcase his versatility, weaving espionage into historical events. His style—marked by vivid settings, sharp pacing, and authentic details—draws comparisons to Dan Brown and Clive Cussler.
Writing under pseudonyms like James Barrington for action-adventure and Peter Smith for military history, Becker tailors his storytelling to each genre. His love for history shines through, making complex historical threads accessible and gripping for readers.
Why James Becker Matters
James Becker’s impact lies in his ability to make history thrilling and relevant. His novels don’t just entertain—they invite readers to explore the past through a modern lens, sparking curiosity about ancient mysteries. The Chris Bronson series has earned a loyal following, with translations into multiple languages and bestseller status on platforms like Amazon. Becker’s authentic voice, rooted in his military experience, sets him apart in a crowded genre.
His meticulous research and storytelling have inspired aspiring thriller writers, showing how real-world expertise can elevate fiction. By blending fact and imagination, Becker keeps the historical thriller genre vibrant, proving that the past is never truly buried.
- Pen Names: James Barrington (action-adventure), Peter Smith (military history).
- Key Series: Chris Bronson, Hounds of God Trilogy.
- First Novel: The First Apostle (2008).
- Current Home: Principality of Andorra.
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag The First Apostle and dive into James Becker’s world of historical conspiracies and heart-pounding action!