Picture a Canadian storyteller who spins heart-pounding tales of crime and suspense—meet Rick Mofina! This master of thriller novels has captivated readers worldwide with his gritty, authentic narratives, drawing from a 30-year journalism career that took him face-to-face with murderers and Mounties alike. From his debut novel to his latest bestseller, Mofina’s stories are a rollercoaster of twists and human drama.
Born in Belleville, Ontario, Mofina’s love for storytelling sparked early, selling his first short story at just 15. His unique blend of real-world grit and fictional suspense has earned him awards and a global fanbase, making him a standout in crime fiction.
The Making of Rick Mofina
Rick Mofina grew up in a working-class family, where his mother nurtured his passion for writing. By grade school, he was crafting stories, and as a teen, he sold his first piece to a U.S. magazine. After high school, Mofina worked in factories before enrolling at Carleton University, studying journalism, English literature, and American detective fiction. His journalism career began at The Toronto Star and spanned decades, with stints at The Ottawa Citizen and The Calgary Herald. Covering serial killings, armored car heists, and patrols near the Arctic, Mofina’s experiences shaped his raw, realistic writing style.
Rick Mofina’s Unforgettable Stories
Mofina’s debut novel, If Angels Fall (2000), introduced crime reporter Tom Reed and Homicide Inspector Walt Sydowski, kicking off a series praised for its authenticity. The book was a finalist for the Arthur Ellis Award, and its follow-up, Blood of Others, won the award for Best Novel in 2003. His Jason Wade series, starting with The Dying Hour (2005), follows a rookie reporter navigating Seattle’s dark underbelly, earning bestseller status in Canada. The Jack Gannon series, beginning with Vengeance Road, blends global conspiracies with personal stakes, garnering Thriller Award nominations.
Mofina’s style is a masterclass in suspense, weaving intricate plots with emotionally rich characters. His protagonists—often journalists like himself—face moral dilemmas and relentless danger, reflecting his belief that “nobody is ever as bad or as good as people think.” Standalone novels like They Disappeared and Someone Saw Something (2024) showcase his knack for turning everyday scenarios into gripping thrillers, earning praise from icons like Michael Connelly and James Patterson.
With over 30 novels published in nearly 30 countries, Mofina’s work is known for its “heart-pounding thrill ride” pace and meticulous research. His journalism background lends credibility to police procedures and newsroom dynamics, making his stories feel ripped from the headlines.
Why Rick Mofina Matters
Rick Mofina has redefined Canadian crime fiction, bringing a journalist’s eye for detail and a storyteller’s heart to the genre. His ability to craft relatable characters and unpredictable plots has earned him a loyal readership and accolades like the Barry Award and multiple Arthur Ellis Awards. Mofina’s influence extends beyond books, as he actively engages with fans at mystery conferences and inspires aspiring writers through his disciplined approach to storytelling.
His novels resonate because they explore human nature under pressure, from desperate parents to flawed heroes. By blending real-world grit with fictional stakes, Mofina reminds us that danger lurks in the ordinary—and courage does too.
About Rick Mofina
- Born: 1957, Belleville, Ontario, Canada
- Key Works: If Angels Fall, Blood of Others, The Dying Hour, Someone Saw Something
- Awards: Arthur Ellis Award (2003, 2006), Barry Award (2020)
- Fun Fact: His thriller If Angels Fall was illegally translated in Iran!
Snag The Dying Hour or Someone Saw Something and dive into Rick Mofina’s thrilling world of crime and suspense!