Picture a Chicago trial attorney spinning gripping tales of World War II courage and mystery—meet Ronald H. Balson! This acclaimed American author, with his knack for blending legal expertise and historical depth, has captivated readers through his bestselling Liam and Catherine series. Balson’s novels, inspired by his global travels and encounters with Holocaust survivors, weave thrilling narratives that honor resilience and uncover hidden stories.
With a career spanning law, education, and literature, Balson brings a unique lens to historical fiction. His work, rich with meticulous research and emotional storytelling, has earned him accolades like the National Jewish Book Award. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the journey of Ronald H. Balson!
The Making of Ronald H. Balson
Born and raised in Chicago, Ronald H. Balson carved a distinguished path as a trial attorney with the firm Stone, Pogrund, and Korey. For over four decades, he navigated complex lawsuits across the U.S. and international venues, including Poland, where he was deeply moved by World War II’s lingering scars. These experiences sparked his literary journey. Before writing, Balson spent 25 years as an adjunct professor of business law at the University of Chicago, honing his ability to distill complex ideas into compelling narratives.
His pivot to writing began in the early 2000s during a telecommunications lawsuit in Poland. Walking streets marked by war memorials and bullet-scarred walls, Balson felt a calling to tell stories of survival and justice. This emotional connection to history became the cornerstone of his novels, blending his legal precision with a passion for storytelling.
Ronald H. Balson’s Unforgettable Stories
Balson’s novels are a masterclass in historical fiction, thriller, and mystery, often centered on the Holocaust and its aftermath. His Liam and Catherine series, featuring private investigator Liam Taggart and lawyer Catherine Lockhart, combines courtroom drama with historical intrigue. Each book is a standalone tale, yet the duo’s dynamic chemistry ties the series together.
Once We Were Brothers (2010), his debut, is an international bestseller exploring two boys divided by the Holocaust—one Jewish, one raised by Nazis. Inspired by Balson’s Polish travels, it’s a poignant legal thriller about justice and redemption. Karolina’s Twins (2016) follows a Holocaust survivor’s quest to uncover a wartime secret, blending mystery with sisterhood and courage. The Girl from Berlin (2018), a National Jewish Book Award winner, delves into a hidden manuscript revealing a forgotten story of love and betrayal. Eli’s Promise (2020) spans decades, tracing a survivor’s search for justice across Nazi-occupied Poland to 1960s Chicago.
Balson’s style is immersive, marked by vivid historical detail and authentic characters. His legal background shines in courtroom scenes, while his travels infuse settings with palpable realism. Themes of resilience, moral courage, and the enduring impact of war resonate, making his books both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Why Ronald H. Balson Matters
Ronald H. Balson’s impact lies in his ability to illuminate lesser-known stories of World War II through a lens of hope and humanity. His novels don’t just entertain—they educate, shedding light on the Holocaust’s personal toll and the strength of survivors. By weaving historical accuracy with gripping narratives, Balson has earned a place among top historical fiction authors, praised by peers like Pam Jenoff for his “meticulous detail” and “unforgettable characters.”
His work resonates globally, with appearances on BBC’s Between the Covers and lectures across the U.S. and beyond. Balson’s ability to bridge his legal career with storytelling has inspired readers to explore history’s untold chapters, ensuring the voices of the past endure.
- Born: Chicago, Illinois
- Key Works: Once We Were Brothers, Karolina’s Twins, The Girl from Berlin, Eli’s Promise
- Awards: National Jewish Book Award (The Girl from Berlin), Finalist for Harper Lee Award (2014)
- Career: Trial attorney, adjunct professor at University of Chicago
Snag Once We Were Brothers and dive into Ronald H. Balson’s thrilling world of historical fiction!