Picture a thriller maestro typing at breakneck speed in a sun-soaked Mexican hideaway—meet Russell Blake! A retired real estate developer turned literary powerhouse, Blake has churned out over 60 novels, selling hundreds of thousands of copies with his pulse-pounding tales. Known for his self-published empire and a writing pace that leaves jaws dropped, he’s a thriller titan you’ll want to know.
The Making of Russell Blake
Born Craig Phillip Osso in 1960 in the USA, Blake’s early life is a bit of a mystery—he keeps it private, like a plot twist in one of his novels. After a successful career in real estate, he retired in his early 40s to Baja, Mexico, where boredom and a distaste for endless tequila sparked a new passion: writing. In 2011, he dove into self-publishing, releasing his first thriller, Fatal Exchange, and never looked back.
Blake’s transition from business to books wasn’t smooth—he bombed initially, with his first eight novels barely selling. But by 2012, his relentless output and savvy marketing turned the tide, earning him spots in The Wall Street Journal and The Times. His Mexican backdrop, from Baja’s beaches to mainland jungles, often seeps into his stories, grounding them in vivid, lived-in detail.
Russell Blake’s Unforgettable Stories
Blake’s bibliography is a thriller lover’s dream, with series like JET, Assassin, and BLACK dominating his catalog. The JET series, starting with JET (2012), follows a fierce ex-Mossad operative navigating high-stakes espionage with twists that keep readers glued. Written in just 16 days, it’s a testament to Blake’s lightning-fast process. King of Swords (2012), part of the Assassin series, dives into Mexico’s drug cartels, blending gritty action with intricate plots.
His BLACK series, including BLACK Is The New Black, offers a lighter, noir-infused take, poking fun at high fashion while delivering suspense. Blake also co-authored The Eye of Heaven and The Solomon Curse with Clive Cussler, weaving treasure-hunting adventures that link Vikings to ancient Mexico. His style—fast-paced, cinematic, and packed with flawed, compelling characters—draws comparisons to Jason Bourne and Jack Reacher, but with a distinctly global flair.
Beyond fiction, Blake’s non-fiction shines. An Angel With Fur (2011), a heartfelt animal biography, and Retirement Secrets of Mexico (2020), a practical guide to expat life, showcase his versatility. His satirical How To Sell A Gazillion eBooks In No Time pokes fun at the publishing world, revealing his sharp wit.
Why Russell Blake Matters
Blake’s impact lies in his defiance of traditional publishing. By self-publishing at a frenetic pace—sometimes a novel every five weeks—he’s redefined what’s possible for indie authors. His 435,000+ book sales by 2014, at $5–$6 each with a 70% royalty, prove that volume and quality can coexist. Fans like Ms. Kimn, who’ve torn through his catalog, praise his addictive storytelling, though some wish he’d slow down to savor other authors.
His influence extends to peers like Melissa Foster, whom he inspired to write faster, and his support for initiatives like RABMAD (Read A Book, Make A Difference) shows his commitment to the literary community. Living in Mexico for over 18 years, Blake’s work also bridges cultures, offering readers a thrilling lens on global settings and local nuances.
- Born: 1960, USA
- Key Works: JET, King of Swords, BLACK, The Eye of Heaven
- Fun Fact: Writes 6,000–10,000 words daily on a treadmill desk!
Ready for a wild ride? Snag JET and dive into Russell Blake’s thrilling world of spies, assassins, and non-stop action!