Picture a storyteller who spins high-stakes geopolitical thrillers that keep you up all night—meet Scott Matthews! This Oregon-based author has taken the thriller world by storm with his Adam Drake series, blending pulse-pounding action with intricate plots that feel ripped from tomorrow’s headlines. A former lawyer and military man, Matthews crafts stories that resonate with fans of James Bond and Jack Reacher, earning him a loyal following and critical praise.
With a knack for weaving real-world issues into gripping narratives, Matthews has carved out a unique space in the thriller genre. His hero, Adam Drake, a lawyer and ex-Special Forces operator, tackles everything from terrorist plots to deep-state conspiracies, making Matthews a must-read for anyone craving smart, adrenaline-fueled fiction.
The Making of Scott Matthews
Born and raised in the United States, Scott Matthews calls Oregon home, where he lives with his wife. His journey to becoming a thriller author began with a childhood obsession with Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, which sparked a lifelong love for the genre. Matthews studied Journalism and Law at the University of Oregon and served in the Oregon National Guard as a CBR Specialist and later a JAG officer. These experiences shaped his understanding of military and legal worlds, which he channels into his writing.
Before penning his debut novel, Matthews spent years outlining stories, inspired by authors like John MacDonald and Daniel Silva. His transition from law to literature wasn’t a leap but a natural evolution, driven by a desire to craft stories that thrill and provoke thought. His first book, The Assassin’s List, launched the Adam Drake series in 2012, marking the start of a prolific career.
Scott Matthews’s Unforgettable Stories
Matthews’s Adam Drake series, spanning 13 books by 2023, is the cornerstone of his bibliography. The series follows Adam Drake, a lawyer and former Delta Force operator, as he uncovers conspiracies and battles global threats. The Assassin’s List (2012) introduces Drake as he foils a jihadi assassination plot targeting American VIPs. Its fast-paced narrative and vivid characters set the tone for the series, earning widespread acclaim.
Other standout titles include Call It Treason (2015), where Drake exposes a false flag operation tied to a White House traitor, and The Skysage Affair (2021), which pits him against a Chinese espionage plot to steal a futuristic space weapon. Matthews’s style is cinematic, blending gritty action with geopolitical intrigue. His plots often tackle timely issues—terrorism, deep-state corruption, and global power struggles—while maintaining a tight focus on character development.
Matthews’s ability to craft believable heroes and villains, paired with his knack for realistic dialogue, makes his books addictive. Critics praise his meticulous research and world-building, which ground even the most outlandish plots in plausibility. Fans love the series’ relentless pace and Drake’s moral complexity, which adds depth to the action.
Why Scott Matthews Matters
Scott Matthews has made a significant mark on the thriller genre by delivering stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. His Adam Drake series resonates with readers who crave intelligent thrillers that reflect real-world tensions. By tackling issues like terrorism and political corruption, Matthews invites readers to question power structures while keeping them on the edge of their seats.
His growing fan base, built through social media engagement and reader groups, speaks to his ability to connect with audiences. Matthews’s work has been translated into multiple languages, and his books enjoy global readership. As he continues to explore new stories, including potential ventures into other genres, Matthews is poised to leave a lasting legacy in thriller fiction.
- Birthplace: United States
- Key Works: Adam Drake series (13 books, 2012–2023)
- Influences: Ian Fleming, John MacDonald, Daniel Silva
- Hobbies: Wine tasting, fishing, hunting, Formula One racing
Ready for a thrilling ride? Grab The Assassin’s List and dive into Scott Matthews’s electrifying world of espionage and intrigue!