Picture an American storyteller who spins mysteries as vibrant as a sun-soaked beach—meet Rodney Riesel! With a knack for crafting intricate plots set in coastal paradises, Riesel has hooked readers worldwide with his detective-driven tales. His series, featuring sleuths like Jake Stellar and Dan Coast, blend suspense with a breezy charm, making every page a thrilling escape.
From his home in Herkimer, New York, Riesel transformed from a contractor to a prolific mystery author, channeling his love for coastal living into stories that pulse with intrigue. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this captivating writer!
The Making of Rodney Riesel
Rodney Riesel, a long-time resident of Herkimer, New York, lived a grounded life as a husband, father of three, and established contractor before picking up the pen. His passion for literature, particularly mystery novels, simmered beneath the surface, inspired by the allure of coastal settings. In 2012, Riesel took a leap into writing, debuting with Sleeping Dogs Lie, the first in his acclaimed Tales of Dan Coast series. His love for the beach—evident in his vivid settings—became a cornerstone of his storytelling, drawing readers into sunlit worlds of suspense.
Rodney Riesel’s Unforgettable Stories
Riesel’s bibliography, spanning over 60 books across 12 series, showcases his mastery of the mystery genre. His Tales of Dan Coast series, set in the Florida Keys, follows lottery winner turned private detective Dan Coast. The series kicks off with Sleeping Dogs Lie (2012), where Dan, haunted by his wife’s death, unravels a case of a missing boyfriend and faked deaths. The series, now 22 novels strong, blends witty dialogue with high-stakes action.
The Jake Stellar series, set in North Myrtle Beach, introduced detective Jake Stellar in North Murder Beach (2014). Here, Jake tackles a poolside murder with a growing list of suspects, showcasing Riesel’s knack for twisting plots. Another gem, The Man in Room Number Four (2014), launches the Dunquin Cove series, weaving a mysterious stranger’s arrival into a small Maine town. Riesel’s style—fast-paced, character-driven, and laced with sarcasm—respects genre traditions while injecting fresh surprises, earning praise for its clean, engaging prose.
His settings, from Key West to Fernandina Beach, act as vivid backdrops, reflecting his coastal obsession. Characters like Dan and Jake resonate with readers for their relatability and quirks, making each series a fan favorite. With recent releases like One Cold January (2025), Riesel continues to deliver mysteries that keep readers guessing.
Why Rodney Riesel Matters
Rodney Riesel’s impact lies in his ability to craft immersive, accessible mysteries that transport readers to coastal havens. His international following, built through self-publishing via Island Holiday Publishing, speaks to his skill in connecting with audiences. Fans appreciate his clean storytelling—free of excessive profanity—making his books suitable for a wide readership, as noted in reader reviews. By blending traditional mystery tropes with innovative twists, Riesel has carved a niche in contemporary fiction, inspiring aspiring writers to embrace unique settings and bold characters.
His prolific output and dedication to coastal themes have cemented his status as a distinctive voice. As one Amazon reviewer put it, “Rodney Riesel knows how to write an entertaining book!” His stories not only entertain but also evoke the laid-back charm of beachside living, leaving a lasting impression on the genre.
- Key Works: Sleeping Dogs Lie, North Murder Beach, The Man in Room Number Four
- First Book: 2012 (Sleeping Dogs Lie)
- Series Count: 12, including Tales of Dan Coast and Jake Stellar
- Hometown: Herkimer, New York
About Rodney Riesel
Ready for a mystery that feels like a beach getaway? Snag Sleeping Dogs Lie and dive into Rodney Riesel’s thrilling world of coastal suspense!