Nelson DeMille, a literary giant in the thriller and suspense genre, captivated readers with his gripping narratives and unforgettable characters. Best known for the John Corey series, DeMille’s career spanned over four decades, producing more than 30 novels under his own name and pseudonyms like Jack Cannon. His first major success came in 1978 with By the Rivers of Babylon, followed by the wildly popular Plum Island in 1997, which introduced the iconic character John Corey.
Born and raised in Long Island, New York, DeMille’s life was as action-packed as his novels. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning multiple honors, including the Bronze Star. After returning home, he turned his focus to writing, debuting with The Sniper in 1976, the first of the Joe Ryker series.
DeMille’s works have been adapted to screen, including The General’s Daughter, starring John Travolta. His contributions to the genre earned him the prestigious ThrillerMaster award in 2015, cementing his status as a legend. Tributes from authors like Harlan Coben and Brad Meltzer highlight DeMille’s generosity, humor, and mentorship, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and peers alike.