Picture a North Dakota storyteller who weaves cosmic thrillers with a spiritual heartbeat—meet Lee W. Brainard! A Bible teacher, former Airborne Ranger, and author of the gripping Planets Shaken series, Brainard crafts science fiction that pulses with faith, science, and human resilience. His unique journey from military service to storytelling makes his work a captivating blend of grit and grace.
Born in 1961, Brainard’s life is a tapestry of diverse experiences that fuel his narratives. With a passion for prophecy and a knack for making complex science accessible, he’s carved a niche in Christian apocalyptic fiction that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The Making of Lee W. Brainard
Lee William Brainard was born in Valley City, North Dakota, and spent his childhood exploring the wilds of Montana. His family moved to Langdon, North Dakota, where he graduated high school in 1979. A pivotal moment came in 1978 when he embraced faith at a charismatic Catholic meeting in Helena, Montana. This spiritual awakening shaped his future, leading him to prioritize Bible teaching over earthly ambitions like mountain climbing or a special ops career. Brainard’s military stint as an Airborne Ranger from 1980 to 1981, coupled with an eclectic career spanning roles like carpenter, truck driver, and Jiffy Lube tech, gave him a grounded perspective that enriches his writing.
His academic pursuits included a year at the University of North Dakota and linguistics training with SIL, but it was his self-directed study of Greek, Hebrew, and biblical prophecy that honed his voice. Living in Harvey, North Dakota, with his wife, Nita, and teaching at Harvey Gospel Chapel, Brainard channels his varied life into stories that resonate with authenticity and urgency.
Lee W. Brainard’s Unforgettable Stories
Brainard’s Planets Shaken series is the cornerstone of his literary legacy, blending hard science with Christian themes. The Rogue (2017), the first volume, introduces a planet-sized comet threatening Mars, sparking a government cover-up and a thrilling chase. Praised as a 2019 Audie Award finalist and Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal winner, it hooks readers with its plausible science and relatable characters. The Rendezvous (2018) ramps up the action, following astronomer Irina’s detention and Ariele’s daring escape to a Montana prepper compound. The Russian Run (2021) escalates the stakes with a risky mission across Siberia, weaving prophecy and geopolitics into a pulse-pounding narrative.
Brainard’s style is a unique fusion: think Tom Clancy meets C.S. Lewis. His scientific rigor, drawn from his fascination with electric universe cosmology and ancient catastrophism, grounds the fiction, while his faith infuses the stories with hope and moral clarity. Fans love the character development—real people facing cosmic stakes—and the clean, thoughtful prose that avoids preachiness. Beyond fiction, Brainard’s nonfiction, like Apostasia in 2 Thess. 2:3, showcases his scholarly side, diving into biblical prophecy with clarity and conviction.
Why Lee W. Brainard Matters
Lee W. Brainard’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres, making science fiction accessible to Christian readers while offering thriller fans a fresh perspective. His Planets Shaken series challenges readers to ponder existential threats—both cosmic and spiritual—while rooting for characters who embody courage and faith. Reviews highlight his knack for blending “true biblical facts with believable fiction,” inspiring reflection on the world’s trajectory. As a Bible teacher, his work extends beyond entertainment, encouraging readers to explore prophecy and resilience in uncertain times.
Though not a household name, Brainard’s dedicated fanbase eagerly awaits more from the Planets Shaken saga, with calls for a fourth book echoing across Amazon reviews. His storytelling proves that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark by staying true to their vision.
- Born: June 22, 1961, Valley City, North Dakota
- Key Works: The Rogue, The Rendezvous, The Russian Run, Apostasia in 2 Thess. 2:3
- Awards: 2019 Audie Award finalist, 2019 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal
- Hobbies: Backpacking, hiking, enjoying coffee and dark chocolate
Snag The Rogue and dive into Lee W. Brainard’s thrilling world of faith-fueled sci-fi adventure!