Picture a New York ad man turned master of mystery, crafting puzzles that keep readers up all night—meet John Verdon! This American novelist swapped Manhattan’s hustle for the quiet Catskill Mountains, where he penned his international bestseller, Think of a Number. Known as 'The Puzzle Master,' Verdon’s gripping Dave Gurney series blends brain-teasing plots with deep dives into human nature, earning him fans worldwide.
From his debut novel to his latest thrillers, Verdon’s knack for crafting intricate mysteries has redefined modern crime fiction. Ready to unravel his story? Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this captivating storyteller.
The Making of John Verdon
Born on January 1, 1942, in New York City, John Verdon grew up with a restless spirit, always yearning for something beyond the present. A graduate of Regis High School and Fordham University, he spent nearly three decades in Manhattan’s advertising world, crafting creative campaigns for top agencies. Yet, his heart wasn’t in it. After retiring, Verdon and his wife, Naomi, traded city life for the serene western foothills of the Catskill Mountains. There, he explored new passions, from building Shaker-style furniture to devouring classic detective stories by Arthur Conan Doyle, Ross Macdonald, and Reginald Hill. It was Naomi who sparked his writing journey, suggesting he try his hand at a mystery novel—a challenge that changed his life.
John Verdon’s Unforgettable Stories
Verdon’s debut, Think of a Number (2010), introduced Dave Gurney, a retired NYPD detective whose razor-sharp mind tackles baffling crimes. The novel’s 'impossible crime' premise—a serial killer taunting victims with numbers they can’t resist—hooked readers and critics, earning praise for its cinematic pace and moral depth. Translated into over two dozen languages, it launched the Dave Gurney series, a cornerstone of modern mystery fiction.
Subsequent novels, like Shut Your Eyes Tight (2011), Let the Devil Sleep (2012), and Peter Pan Must Die (2014), deepened Gurney’s world, blending psychological suspense with complex puzzles. White River Burning (2018) tackled social issues like racism and police brutality, showcasing Verdon’s ability to weave timely themes into thrilling narratives. His 2023 release, The Viper, pits Gurney against a chillingly strange murder, proving Verdon’s plots remain as fresh as ever. His style—marked by meticulous plotting, vivid characters, and a knack for 'what if' scenarios—draws comparisons to Sherlock Holmes, with Gurney’s personal struggles adding emotional weight.
Verdon’s novels aren’t just whodunits; they explore truth, morality, and the human psyche. His fascination with the mechanics of crime—constructing a hidden puzzle and slowly revealing it—keeps readers guessing until the final page. Whether it’s a locked-room mystery or a socially charged thriller, Verdon’s stories are as thought-provoking as they are addictive.
Why John Verdon Matters
John Verdon’s impact on mystery fiction lies in his ability to refresh classic tropes while tackling modern complexities. His Dave Gurney series has captivated a global audience, with translations in over 24 languages and critical acclaim for its atmospheric depth and intellectual rigor. Verdon’s shift from advertising to writing mirrors Gurney’s own reinventions, resonating with readers who admire second acts and relentless curiosity. By blending intricate plots with social commentary, he’s carved a niche as a thinker’s mystery writer, influencing the genre’s evolution toward deeper, more reflective storytelling.
Beyond his books, Verdon’s story inspires aspiring writers. His late start in fiction—at age 68 with Think of a Number—proves it’s never too late to chase a dream. Fans and critics alike celebrate his ability to craft novels that are both entertaining and profound, cementing his legacy as a modern master of suspense.
- Born: January 1, 1942, New York City
- Key Works: Think of a Number, Shut Your Eyes Tight, White River Burning, The Viper
- Awards: Nominated for the Nero Award (2015)
Snag Think of a Number and dive into John Verdon’s thrilling world of puzzles and suspense—you won’t put it down!