Picture an Oklahoma storyteller who traded courtrooms for gripping legal thrillers—meet William Bernhardt! With over ten million books sold, this former trial lawyer has woven tales of justice and suspense that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Best known for his Ben Kincaid series, Bernhardt blends legal expertise with heart-pounding drama, making him a standout in contemporary American fiction.
Bernhardt’s journey from law to literature is as compelling as his novels. His knack for storytelling, paired with a passion for mentoring aspiring writers, has cemented his legacy as both a master of the courtroom thriller and a champion of new voices in publishing.
The Making of William Bernhardt
Born in Oklahoma in 1960, William Bernhardt grew up with a love for stories, submitting his first poem to Highlights magazine at age eleven—only to receive his first of many rejection letters. Undeterred, he pursued a law degree from the University of Oklahoma, practicing as a trial lawyer for nine years. His courtroom experiences, coupled with a desire to help the underprivileged through pro bono work, shaped his storytelling. By 1991, Bernhardt left law to focus on writing, launching his career with Primary Justice, the first in his iconic Ben Kincaid series.
William Bernhardt’s Unforgettable Stories
Bernhardt’s novels are a masterclass in legal suspense, blending razor-sharp dialogue, intricate plots, and real-world issues. His Ben Kincaid series, spanning nineteen books, follows an idealistic Tulsa attorney navigating moral dilemmas and high-stakes cases. Primary Justice introduces Kincaid’s fight for justice in a gritty legal world, while Naked Justice tackles prejudice and courtroom ethics with emotional depth.
Beyond Kincaid, Bernhardt’s versatility shines in works like Nemesis: The Final Case of Eliot Ness, a historical thriller exploring Cleveland’s unsolved serial killer mystery, and Splitsville, a contemporary legal drama featuring attorney Kenzi Rivera. His writing style—fast-paced, character-driven, and socially conscious—has earned praise as “the American equivalent of P.G. Wodehouse and John Mortimer.” Bernhardt’s ability to weave trending societal issues, like justice reform and inequality, into thrilling narratives keeps his work timeless and relevant.
His non-fiction Red Sneaker series, including Story Structure, offers practical advice for writers, reflecting his commitment to craft. Whether penning poetry, plays, or young adult novels, Bernhardt’s storytelling is always grounded in human truths and legal intrigue.
Why William Bernhardt Matters
William Bernhardt’s impact extends far beyond his bestselling novels. With over sixty books, he’s shaped the legal thriller genre, earning accolades like the H. Louise Cobb Distinguished Author Award and the Southern Writers Guild’s Gold Medal. His focus on justice and societal issues resonates with readers, offering both entertainment and reflection on American culture.
As founder of the Red Sneaker Writers Center and Balkan Press, Bernhardt has mentored dozens of authors, with over forty securing major publishing deals. His WriterCon conference and workshops foster a supportive community for aspiring writers, proving his dedication to nurturing talent. Bernhardt’s multifaceted career—spanning novels, poetry, and even a Jeopardy! championship—has earned him the title “Oklahoma’s Renaissance Man.”
- Born: 1960, Oklahoma
- Key Works: Primary Justice, Naked Justice, Nemesis, Splitsville
- Awards: H. Louise Cobb Distinguished Author Award, Southern Writers Guild’s Gold Medal
- Fun Fact: He’s jumped out of a plane at 10,000 feet!
Ready to dive into a world of legal drama and suspense? Grab Primary Justice and discover why William Bernhardt’s stories are impossible to put down!