Picture a sun-soaked South Florida storyteller who crafts heart-pounding adventures that rival Indiana Jones—meet Matthew James! This American author has carved a niche in the thriller world with his electrifying blend of archaeological intrigue and high-octane action. From his debut Blood and Sand to his sprawling Jack Reilly series, James keeps readers glued to the page, proving that adventure never sleeps.
With a knack for weaving history, mystery, and relentless suspense, James has become a go-to for fans of James Rollins and Steve Berry. His novels aren’t just stories—they’re adrenaline-fueled journeys to forgotten ruins and dangerous jungles. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this master of the modern thriller.
The Making of Matthew James
Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, Matthew James wasn’t always a bookworm. It wasn’t until his 11th-grade English teacher handed him MEG by Steve Alten that he caught the reading bug. That spark ignited a passion for storytelling, influenced by cinematic adventures like The Mummy and video games like Uncharted. After years of soaking up action-packed narratives, James turned his love for fast-paced tales into a writing career, adopting the pen name Matthew James to deliver his signature thrillers.
Living just 20 minutes from the beach in South Florida with his wife, three children, a lovable dog, and a dramatic black cat, James channels his vibrant surroundings into his work. His down-to-earth vibe and relentless drive have made him a standout in the indie publishing world, where he’s built a loyal fanbase through sheer storytelling grit.
Matthew James’s Unforgettable Stories
James’s bibliography is a treasure trove of nearly 40 action-packed titles, each brimming with globe-trotting adventure. His debut, Blood and Sand (2015), kicked off the Hank Boyd Adventures, following a slacker archaeologist uncovering deadly secrets in an Algerian ruin. The series, including titles like Mayan Darkness and Babel Found, blends ancient mysteries with pulse-pounding stakes, earning praise for its cinematic flair.
The Jack Reilly Adventures, starting with The Forgotten Fortune (2020), showcase James’s knack for layered characters. Jack, a former Delta Force operative turned archaeological sleuth, hunts for historical treasures while grappling with personal loss. Other standouts include Dark Island (2017), a chilling tale of extinct creatures lurking in Madagascar, and The Blood King (2023), an archaeological thriller steeped in ancient relics. James’s style—fast-paced, vivid, and unapologetically thrilling—draws comparisons to Michael Bay’s explosive storytelling, with plots that twist like a rollercoaster.
Collaborations with USA Today bestselling author David Wood, like Berserk and Skin and Bones, highlight James’s versatility, while his forays into sci-fi and horror, like the Dead Moon series, show his willingness to push boundaries. His novels are standalone-friendly yet richly serialized, making them perfect for casual readers and die-hard fans alike.
Why Matthew James Matters
Matthew James has redefined the archaeological thriller, blending scholarly curiosity with edge-of-your-seat action. His ability to make ancient history feel urgent and alive has earned him a global following, with translations in multiple languages and a strong presence on platforms like Audible. By self-publishing and engaging directly with readers through newsletters and his podcast, A Good B.M., James embodies the modern indie author’s hustle, inspiring aspiring writers to chase their dreams.
His stories resonate because they tap into universal thrills—discovery, danger, and the triumph of the human spirit. Whether it’s Jack Reilly unearthing a Holocaust-era secret or Hank Boyd facing inhuman threats, James’s characters remind us that adventure awaits those bold enough to seek it. His growing influence in the thriller genre signals a legacy that’s only just beginning.
- Born: West Palm Beach, Florida
- Key Works: Blood and Sand, The Forgotten Fortune, Dark Island, The Blood King
- Influences: Indiana Jones, The Mummy, Uncharted
- Podcast: A Good B.M. (Beer, Movies, Books, Music)
Ready for a wild ride? Snag Blood and Sand or The Forgotten Fortune and plunge into Matthew James’s thrilling world of adventure!