Eric Van Lustbader

Eric Van Lustbader, born in 1946, is an American author recognized for his contributions to the thriller and fantasy genres. He has utilized various authorial names throughout his career. Van Lustbader's educational background includes a degree in sociology from Columbia College. Prior to his full-time writing career, he worked within the New York City public school system and in the music industry, notably for Elektra Records and CBS Records.

His early career in music journalism saw him cover prominent artists like Elton John, with whom he developed a personal connection. Van Lustbader also gained recognition for being the first American journalist to foresee Elton John's massive success. His writing career has spanned several series, including the Nicholas Linnear/Ninja Cycle, The Sunset Warrior Cycle, and The Pearl Saga. He also continued the acclaimed Jason Bourne series, with permission from Robert Ludlum's estate. His bibliography includes numerous novels, short stories, and contributions to anthologies.

Born and raised in Greenwich Village, Eric Van Lustbader developed early interests in creative pursuits like art and writing. His childhood environment provided unique experiences, including living near actress Lauren Bacall and engaging in activities like building racers in Washington Square Park with the Carradine brothers. He pursued higher education at Columbia College, earning a degree in sociology. This academic background, combined with his formative years in a culturally rich urban setting, likely influenced his narrative style and thematic explorations in his later works.

Before dedicating himself to writing novels, Van Lustbader had a diverse career path. He worked in education with the New York City public school system, holding licenses for elementary and early childhood education. Additionally, he was involved in the music business, holding positions at Elektra Records and CBS Records. His involvement extended to music journalism, where he wrote for Cashbox magazine. During this period, he covered influential artists and became known for predicting Elton John's future stardom, even touring with the artist and documenting significant musical events. This experience in the dynamic music scene and his early success in journalism likely honed his observational skills and ability to capture cultural moments.

Eric Van Lustbader's prolific writing career is marked by several distinct series that have garnered significant readership. His notable works include the Nicholas Linnear/Ninja Cycle, which established him as a prominent voice in action and espionage fiction. He also authored The Sunset Warrior Cycle and The Pearl Saga, delving into fantasy and adventure themes. A significant undertaking was his continuation of Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne series, a responsibility he assumed with the estate's approval, further cementing his reputation in the thriller genre. His bibliography also encompasses standalone novels and contributions to various anthologies, showcasing his versatility across different narrative structures and themes.