Johnny Shaw is a distinguished American author, best known for his crime fiction novels. He was born and raised on the California-Mexico border, specifically in Calexico-Mexicali, which serves as the setting for his acclaimed Jimmy Veeder series. Shaw's writing is characterized by tightly knit and taut thrillers, filled with mystery, suspense, and hard-boiled action. He has a knack for incorporating social-realism into his work, often reflecting his keen interest in politics.
Shaw is the author of several successful novels, including the Jimmy Veeder Fiasco series, which comprises of 'Dove Season' and 'Plaster City.' His novel 'Big Maria' won the Anthony Award for best adventure novel. In addition to these, he has written 'The Upper Hand,' a heist novel, and 'Floodgate,' a crime extravaganza. Shaw's shorter works have been featured in various magazines and anthologies, including Thuglit, Crime Factory, Shotgun Honey, and Plots with Guns.
Shaw received his MFA in Screenwriting from UCLA and has had his screenplays optioned, sold, and produced. He is also an experienced writing teacher, having taught both online and in person for over a decade. He has taught at Santa Barbara City College, UC Santa Barbara, LitReactor, and various writing conferences. Shaw currently resides in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, artist Roxanne Patruznick.
In addition to his writing, Shaw is the creator and editor of the fiction magazine Blood & Tacos, which has expanded to include a phone app, a podcast, and a book imprint. He was also the former owner of the Los Angeles bookshop, Johnny's Used Books. Shaw's online presence includes his Twitter account, where he can be found at @BloodandTacos.