Picture a rugged Scotsman who swapped the battlefield for the bookshelf, weaving tales so vivid you can almost hear the gunfire—meet James Deegan! A former SAS sergeant major with over fifteen years of elite military service, Deegan channels his high-stakes experiences into military thrillers that grip you like a covert mission. His John Carr series, brimming with authenticity, plunges readers into the heart of special forces operations, blending pulse-pounding action with political intrigue.
Born in Edinburgh and raised in the gritty suburb of Niddrie, Deegan’s journey from soldier to storyteller is as thrilling as his novels. With a career spanning two Gulf Wars and covert ops across the globe, he’s now a celebrated author whose work blurs the line between fact and fiction, earning praise from readers and critics alike.
The Making of James Deegan
Growing up in Niddrie, Edinburgh, James Deegan was no stranger to tough streets, but his heart was set on the military from a young age. Inspired by Action Man toys and Commando comics, he joined the Territorial Army before enlisting in the Parachute Regiment at 20. After five years, he tackled the grueling SAS selection process, emerging as one of only 13 survivors from 200 candidates. Deegan’s 17-year SAS career took him to Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Africa, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning him two decorations for gallantry and the title of one of the most operationally experienced SAS men of his era. Retiring as a Regimental Sergeant Major, he turned to writing, using his insider knowledge to craft stories with unmatched realism.
James Deegan’s Unforgettable Stories
Deegan’s debut novel, Once a Pilgrim (2018), introduces John Carr, a former SAS operative haunted by his past. Drawing heavily on Deegan’s undercover work in Northern Ireland, the book follows Carr as he faces a vengeful IRA leader after a deadly encounter during the Troubles. Critics, including Jeffrey Archer, hailed its authenticity, with MI5 officer Tom Marcus calling Deegan a master of military fiction. The sequel, The Angry Sea (2019), ramps up the stakes with a high-octane plot involving the Prime Minister’s daughter and relentless action that keeps readers on edge. Deegan’s style is raw and cinematic, packed with tactical details, unexpected twists, and morally complex characters. His ability to weave real-world SAS procedures into fiction sets him apart, offering a rare glimpse into the world of special forces.
Though his bibliography is concise, Deegan’s focus on quality over quantity shines through. His John Carr series captures the gritty reality of covert operations while exploring themes of loyalty, revenge, and redemption. Fans of Andy McNab and Chris Ryan find Deegan’s work a thrilling evolution of the genre, with Stephen Leather noting he’s “very good” at raising the bar for SAS veteran authors.
Why James Deegan Matters
James Deegan’s impact lies in his ability to humanize the shadowy world of special forces. His novels don’t just entertain—they educate, offering readers a front-row seat to the strategies and sacrifices of elite soldiers. By blending his lived experiences with fiction, Deegan bridges the gap between military history and storytelling, making complex global conflicts accessible and gripping. His work resonates with thriller fans and veterans alike, earning a loyal following and comparisons to genre giants. As a father of four balancing family life with his craft, Deegan’s transition from warrior to writer inspires aspiring authors to draw from their own truths.
- Born: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Key Works: Once a Pilgrim (2018), The Angry Sea (2019)
- Awards: Twice decorated for gallantry (Military Cross)
- Fun Fact: Deegan is the only SAS member to cross into Iraq with a Sabre Troop in both Gulf Wars.
Ready for an adrenaline-fueled adventure? Grab Once a Pilgrim and dive into James Deegan’s heart-pounding military thrillers!