Picture an Afro-Latino storyteller who swapped the courtroom for the bestseller list—meet Robin Peguero! This Harvard-educated former prosecutor weaves legal thrillers that pulse with authenticity, exploring justice, prejudice, and the messy beauty of human nature. His debut, With Prejudice, has critics raving, proving diverse voices can redefine a genre.
Born to immigrant parents, Peguero’s journey from a cramped New York apartment to Miami’s vibrant streets shaped his unique lens. His knack for storytelling, honed as a homicide prosecutor, now captivates readers with tales that challenge assumptions and spark reflection.
The Making of Robin Peguero
Robin Peguero was born to a Dominican father and Ecuadorian mother, both U.S. Army veterans who met and married in a time when interracial unions were newly legal. Raised in Hialeah, Florida, after his family fled New York’s economic hardships, young Robin found solace in writing. At recess, he scribbled stories in notebooks, later drafting scripts for friends to act out. His Harvard College and Harvard Law School degrees opened doors, but his seven years as a Miami homicide prosecutor fueled his narrative fire. From speechwriting for U.S. senators to investigating domestic terrorism, Peguero’s career is a tapestry of storytelling, law, and advocacy.
Robin Peguero’s Unforgettable Stories
Peguero’s debut, With Prejudice (2022), is a legal thriller that redefines the genre. Set in Miami, it follows a murder trial through the eyes of seven jurors, each carrying biases that shape their verdict. Critics, including Scott Turow, praise its authenticity and twists, calling it a modern 12 Angry Men. The novel dives into prejudice, justice, and the human stories behind the gavel, with no body, weapon, or witnesses to simplify the case.
His sophomore novel, One in the Chamber (2024), shifts to a political thriller set in the U.S. Senate. Described as a “wild, wickedly fun ride” by Shelby Van Pelt, it weaves murder, ambition, and class into a gripping narrative. Peguero’s style—sharp, character-driven, and steeped in real-world grit—draws from his legal expertise and multicultural roots, making every page feel alive. His ability to thread characters across novels creates a shared universe, rewarding loyal readers.
Both works showcase Peguero’s knack for blending courtroom drama with social commentary, exploring race, identity, and power dynamics. His Miami settings burst with ethnic diversity, elevating plots beyond typical thrillers.
Why Robin Peguero Matters
Peguero’s impact lies in his fresh take on legal thrillers, a genre often dominated by predictable narratives. As an Afro-Latino author, he brings underrepresented perspectives to the forefront, challenging stereotypes and enriching the literary landscape. His novels don’t just entertain—they provoke thought about justice and human complexity. Teaching at St. Thomas University’s Benjamin L. Crump College of Law, Peguero shapes future lawyers while inspiring readers to question the system. His rise from immigrant roots to critical acclaim embodies the American dream, proving diverse voices can resonate widely.
- Born: To Dominican and Ecuadorian immigrant parents
- Key Works: With Prejudice (2022), One in the Chamber (2024)
- Education: Harvard College, Harvard Law School
- Notable Role: Former Miami homicide prosecutor
Snag With Prejudice and dive into Robin Peguero’s thrilling world of justice and jaw-dropping twists!