Picture a storyteller who soared through the skies as a USAF pilot, defied a cancer diagnosis, and now crafts heart-pounding thrillers that keep readers glued to the page—meet Richard Bard! Born in Munich, Germany, to American parents, Bard’s life is a testament to resilience and reinvention, channeling his high-flying adventures and personal triumphs into the electrifying Brainrush series. His novels blend cutting-edge science, relentless action, and deep emotional stakes, making him a standout in the thriller genre.
From the cockpit to the keyboard, Bard’s journey is as thrilling as his stories. His unique perspective as a cancer survivor and former pilot infuses his work with authenticity and a zest for second chances, captivating fans worldwide with tales that pulse with suspense and soul.
The Making of Richard Bard
Born in Munich to American parents, Richard Bard followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the United States Air Force as a pilot. His world shifted dramatically when a cancer diagnosis cut his military career short, with doctors giving him mere months to live. Defying the odds, Bard not only survived but thrived, earning a management degree from the University of Notre Dame and leading three successful security technology companies. This tenacity and diverse background laid the foundation for his writing career, which began in 2010 with his debut novel, Brainrush. His experiences as a pilot and survivor shaped his ability to craft characters who face impossible odds with courage and loyalty.
Richard Bard’s Unforgettable Stories
Bard’s Brainrush series is a high-octane blend of science fiction, suspense, and action, centered on Jake Bronson, a former pilot gifted with extraordinary mental abilities after a freak accident. The first book, Brainrush (2010), follows Jake’s battle against a terrorist mastermind, earning praise from Publishers Weekly as ‘terrifically entertaining’ and securing the Wall Street Journal’s #1 Action/Adventure slot for self-published works. Its sequel, The Enemy of My Enemy (2011), became Amazon’s #1 Top Rated Mystery/Thriller, maintaining top rankings for ten months. Beyond Judgment (2013) deepens Jake’s journey with amnesia and new threats, while Brainchild (2014) and Smoke & Mirrors (2014) explore cybernetic life-extension and global conspiracies. Bard’s style is cinematic, with vivid settings—from Venice’s canals to South China’s jungles—and themes of family, loyalty, and second chances that resonate deeply.
His later works, like No Refuge (2017) and Against All Odds (2017), conclude the series with gripping stakes, pitting Jake and his son Alex against terror-driven cataclysms. Bard’s ability to weave complex plots with emotional depth makes his novels ideal for fans of Michael Crichton, Clive Cussler, and Vince Flynn. His screenwriting efforts, including a table read for Brainrush at the American Film Institute, hint at a future on the big screen.
Why Richard Bard Matters
Richard Bard’s impact lies in his ability to transform personal adversity into universal stories of resilience. His Brainrush series, with over 2,000 five-star Amazon reviews, has captivated a global audience, blending cutting-edge science with human struggles. As a cancer survivor, Bard inspires readers to embrace life fully, while his military background lends authenticity to his action-packed narratives. His exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas—such as the implications of brain-enhancing technology—pushes the thriller genre forward, sparking thought as much as adrenaline.
Living in Redondo Beach, California, with his wife, Bard remains in excellent health, continuing to write stories that thrill and uplift. His legacy is one of courage, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to storytelling that entertains and enlightens.
- Birthplace: Munich, Germany
- Key Works: Brainrush, The Enemy of My Enemy, Beyond Judgment, Brainchild
- Notable Recognition: Wall Street Journal #1 Action/Adventure (Brainrush, 2011)
Ready to dive into a world of pulse-pounding suspense? Snag Brainrush and experience Richard Bard’s thrilling blend of action and heart!