Picture a storyteller who weaves supernatural suspense with the sharp precision of a seasoned journalist—meet Rob Blackwell! This American author and editor-in-chief of American Banker has carved a unique niche, blending urban fantasy with mystery in his gripping Soren Chase series and Sanheim Chronicles. With a knack for unpredictable twists and a career spanning two decades in financial journalism, Blackwell’s tales are as thrilling as his headlines.
From haunted forests to paranormal detective work, Blackwell’s novels captivate readers worldwide, while his journalistic prowess has earned him prestigious awards. Ready to dive into a world where ghosts and grit collide? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this literary powerhouse!
The Making of Rob Blackwell
Born and raised in Great Falls, Virginia, Rob Blackwell’s journey began with a love for storytelling that eventually merged with his passion for uncovering truth. A graduate of the University of Virginia, he kicked off his career as a reporter for the Loudoun Times-Mirror, honing his ability to craft compelling narratives. His early exposure to urban fantasy giants like The Dresden Files and Buffy the Vampire Slayer sparked an obsession with blending horror, humor, and mystery, setting the stage for his fiction debut.
By day, Blackwell climbed the ranks of financial journalism, becoming a respected voice at American Banker. His dual career as a journalist and novelist reflects a rare balance of analytical rigor and creative flair, making him a standout in both worlds.
Rob Blackwell’s Unforgettable Stories
Blackwell’s fiction is a rollercoaster of suspense and supernatural intrigue, with his Soren Chase series leading the charge. The Forest of Forever, the series opener, introduces Soren Chase, a paranormal investigator haunted by a tragic past, as he battles sinister forces in Virginia’s Reapoke woods. Readers praise its “perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and paranormal” and its dizzying twists, likening it to a supernatural Da Vinci Code.
The Sanheim Chronicles, starting with A Soul to Steal, merges Celtic legend with a modern serial killer mystery, earning a spot on USA Today for its “fantastic ending.” Riders on the Storm, his latest novel, boldly fuses urban fantasy with Western grit, following Jules Castle’s quest to rescue her father from supernatural Vipers. Blackwell’s style—marked by vivid characters, noir-inspired heroes, and jaw-dropping plot twists—keeps readers hooked, with many of his works topping Amazon’s Dark Fantasy charts.
His novellas, like Closed at Dark and Carnival of Stone, showcase his ability to pack thrills into shorter formats, often exploring Soren Chase’s backstory or introducing fresh mythical creatures. Blackwell’s knack for weaving mythology, folklore, and detective work creates a universe where every story feels both standalone and deeply interconnected.
Why Rob Blackwell Matters
Rob Blackwell’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres and industries. In urban fantasy, he’s a trailblazer, crafting stories that resonate with fans of Jim Butcher and Charlaine Harris while adding his own spin on paranormal noir. His Soren Chase series has cultivated a loyal following, with readers lauding its emotional depth and inventive world-building. In journalism, his leadership at American Banker has driven award-winning coverage of major financial stories, from the Wells Fargo scandal to Dodd-Frank reforms, earning him the 2017 Neal Award’s Tim White Award for editorial integrity.
Blackwell’s dual legacy inspires aspiring writers and journalists alike, proving that creativity and precision can coexist. His stories invite readers to confront the unknown, while his reporting holds power to account, making him a unique voice in both literature and media.
- Born: Great Falls, Virginia
- Key Works: A Soul to Steal, The Forest of Forever, Riders on the Storm
- Awards: 2017 Neal Award’s Tim White Award, multiple Virginia Press Association awards
- Genres: Urban fantasy, paranormal suspense, mystery
Snag The Forest of Forever and dive into Rob Blackwell’s thrilling world of ghosts, grit, and unforgettable twists!