Earl Emerson

Earl Emerson is a renowned American author, particularly known for his mystery, suspense, and thriller novels. He has written several series and standalone books that have captivated readers for decades. Two of his most popular series are the Thomas Black series and the Mac Fontana series. The Thomas Black series features a private investigator who finds himself in the midst of dangerous and complex cases, while the Mac Fontana series follows a former police officer turned private investigator.

In addition to his work as a novelist, Emerson has an impressive background in the fire department. He served as a lieutenant in the Seattle Fire Department for over 30 years. This experience has greatly influenced his writing, with many of his books featuring characters and storylines related to the fire department. His unique insights and experiences have added depth and authenticity to his thrilling tales.

Emerson's exceptional writing skills have earned him recognition and acclaim in the literary world. In 1986, he was honored with the prestigious Shamus Award for Best Private Eye Novel for his book Vertical Burn. Furthermore, his work was recognized by the Edgar Award with a nomination, demonstrating his significant contributions to the mystery and thriller genres.

Earl Emerson's passion for writing and his diverse background in the fire department have solidified his status as a prominent and celebrated author. His engaging stories and relatable characters have captivated readers and critics alike, leaving a lasting impact on the mystery and thriller genres. He continues to write and inspire aspiring authors, proving his enduring talent and dedication to his craft.
Thomas Black Books
# Title Year
1 The Rainy City 1985
2 Poverty Bay 1985
3 Nervous Laughter 1986
4 Fat Tuesday 1987
5 Deviant Behavior 1988
6 Yellow Dog Party 1991
7 The Portland Laugher 1994
8 The Vanishing Smile 1995
9 The Million-Dollar Tattoo 1996
10 Deception Pass 1997
11 Catfish Cafe 1998
12 Cape Disappointment 2009
13 Monica's Sister 2013
14 Two Miles of Darkness 2015
15 Jackson Street 2017
Mac Fontana Books
# Title Year
1 Black Hearts And Slow Dancing 1988
2 Help Wanted: Orphans Preferred 1990
3 Morons and Madmen 1993
4 Going Crazy In Public 1996
5 The Dead Horse Paint Company 1996
Standalone Novels
# Title Year
1 Fill The World With Phantoms 1979
2 Vertical Burn 2002
3 Into the Inferno 2003
4 Pyro 2004
5 The Smoke Room 2005
6 Firetrap 2006
7 Primal Threat 2008