Justin Scott is a successful American author, known for his work in the thriller, mystery, and naval fiction genres. He has written numerous novels under his own name, as well as using pseudonyms such as Paul Garrison, J.S. Blazer, and Alexander Cole. Scott was born in Manhattan and grew up in Long Island, and was surrounded by literature from a young age as both of his parents were writers. His father, A. Leslie Scott, wrote 250 western novels, while his mother, Lily K. Scott, wrote romance novels and stories. Scott has a sister, Alison Skelton, who is also an author.
Before beginning his writing career, Scott obtained his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in American history. He has had a variety of jobs, including driving boats and trucks, working as a bartender in Hell's Kitchen, and editing an engineering journal. His writing career began in 1973 with the release of his debut book, "Many Happy Returns." He has since written and published a total of 33 books, including 14 under his own name, seven as Paul Garrison, two as J.S. Blazer, and one as Alexander Cole. He is perhaps best known for his Ben Abbott series and his collaboration with Clive Cussler on the Isaac Bell series.
In addition to his work as Justin Scott, he has written modern sea stories and thriller series under the pen name Paul Garrison, based on a Robert Ludlum character. He has been twice nominated for the Edgar Award by the Mystery Writers of America. Scott is a member of the Authors League, The Century Association, and the Adams Round Table. He and his wife, Amber Edwards, a filmmaker turned novelist, live in Connecticut.