Don Bentley

Don Bentley is a New York Times bestselling author known for his work in the thriller genre, drawing on extensive experience in military service, intelligence, and national security. Bentley served as an Army Apache helicopter pilot for 10 years, stationed in South Korea, Germany, and Texas. During his deployment to Afghanistan as a troop commander in support of Operation Enduring Freedom VI, he received the Bronze Star Medal and the Air Medal with V device for valor. After his military service, Bentley worked as an FBI special agent and was a member of the Dallas Office Special Weapons and Tactics team, focusing on foreign intelligence and counterintelligence. He later contributed to companies developing technology for the U.S. Special Operations Community.

Bentley holds a bachelor's degree in electrical and computer engineering from Ohio State University and a master's degree in fine arts from Seton Hill University, where he completed the Writing Popular Fiction MFA program. His debut novel, "Without Sanction," introduced the character Matt Drake and drew on Bentley's background in the military and FBI. The Matt Drake series continued with "The Outside Man," "Hostile Intent," and "Forgotten War."

Bentley was selected to write the Jack Ryan Jr. series of novels, succeeding Mike Maden. His contributions to the Tom Clancy universe include "Tom Clancy: Target Acquired," "Tom Clancy: Zero Hour," "Tom Clancy: Flash Point," and "Tom Clancy: Weapons Grade." He also became the author of the Mitch Rapp series, originally created by Vince Flynn. In "Capture or Kill," Bentley explores the pursuit of Bin Laden and Mitch Rapp's involvement, incorporating his operational knowledge and experience.

Bentley's writing is recognized for its authenticity and detailed depiction of military operations, intelligence work, and counterterrorism. His background as an Apache helicopter pilot and FBI special agent informs his storytelling, providing insight into the realities of national security and the individuals who serve in these roles. Bentley's combination of real-world experience and formal literary training positions him as a significant voice in contemporary thriller fiction.