Peter Bowen is a renowned American author, born on January 1, 1945. He has made a significant contribution to the literary world with his works primarily based on western, historical fiction, and mystery genres. Bowen's life has been as varied as his writing styles, having worked as a cowboy, hunting and fishing guide, folk singer, poet, and essayist. These diverse experiences have greatly influenced his storytelling, particularly in creating authentic and engaging characters.
Bowen's fascination with the old West and its tales began at a young age when his family moved to Bozeman, Montana. His paper route took him to a local bar called The Oaks, where he would meet and listen to grizzled cowboys sharing their experiences and stories from the 1870s. This early exposure to the wild west became the foundation for his future fiction, inspiring him to create captivating narratives that reflect the spirit and challenges of that era.
After attending the University of Michigan and the University of Montana, Bowen published his first novel, Yellowstone Kelly, in 1987. This was the beginning of a successful writing career that would lead to the creation of the Gabriel Du Pré series. Du Pré is a mixed-race lawman residing in the fictional town of Toussaint, Montana. Since the introduction of Du Pré in Coyote Wind (1994), Bowen has written thirteen novels following the lawman's adventures and investigations into various mysteries, from cold-blooded murder to the pursuit of rare fossils.
Through his powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions, Bowen successfully transports readers to the modern American West, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the region's beauty, culture, and history. Bowen continues to reside in Livingston, Montana, where he draws inspiration for his writing and contributes to the local literary community.