Here’s a list of 15 authors who might appeal to fans of Lee Child:
David Baldacci is known for his gripping thrillers and complex characters. His “John Puller” series, featuring a tough-as-nails military investigator, shares many similarities with Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series.
Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch novels are must-reads for anyone who loves intricate plots and deeply developed characters. Like Child, Connelly is a master of building suspense and creating compelling, lone-wolf protagonists.
James Patterson is famous for his Alex Cross series and Women’s Murder Club. His fast-paced writing style and suspenseful plots make his books hard to put down, much like Child’s novels.
Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp series is centered on a counter-terrorism operative who handles dangerous missions with ease. His books are action-packed and filled with military tactics, similar to what Lee Child fans enjoy.
John Sandford is a novelist who won the Pulitzer Prize. His “Prey” series features the charismatic Lucas Davenport, a detective who tackles the most dangerous criminals with intelligence and a good dose of grit, quite like Jack Reacher.
Brad Thor’s novels, especially the Scot Harvath series, are filled with intense action and espionage. Thor’s knack for international intrigue and high-stakes drama will resonate with fans of Lee Child.
Robert Crais offers a compelling mix of mystery and action in his novels about Private Investigator Elvis Cole. His books have the same fast-paced, engaging style that makes Lee Child’s books so popular.
Daniel Silva’s Gabriel Allon series features a Mossad intelligence officer and art restorer who deals with global threats. Silva’s work combines thrilling espionage with complex plotting, making it a great fit for Lee Child aficionados.
Greg Iles writes atmospheric thrillers set in the American South. His Natchez Burning trilogy, in particular, offers rich, complex narratives with relentless pacing that’s sure to captivate Lee Child fans.
Stephen Hunter’s novels about sniper Bob Lee Swagger are full of firearms expertise and action-packed sequences. Hunter’s attention to detail and knack for suspense make his books a natural choice for Reacher fans.
Harlan Coben’s thrillers often focus on individuals pulled into extraordinary circumstances. His standalone novels and Myron Bolitar series combine human drama with gripping mystery which would appeal to Lee Child’s readers.
Jeffery Deaver is known for his intricate plots and surprise twists. His Lincoln Rhyme series, featuring a quadriplegic detective, offers unexpected thrills that fans of Child’s narrative twists will appreciate.
Mark Greaney’s “Gray Man” series, starring former CIA operative Court Gentry, is packed with high-octane action and international intrigue. Greaney’s mastery of suspense makes his books a great addition to any Reacher fan’s shelf.
Nelson DeMille’s John Corey series, featuring a witty and tough former NYPD detective, contains the same blend of humor, action, and gritty realism that characterizes Lee Child’s work.
Jack Carr, a former Navy SEAL, brings authenticity and expert knowledge to his thrillers. His “James Reece” series, starting with “The Terminal List,” is noted for its action-packed plots and military precision, akin to the thrilling adventures of Jack Reacher.