Lifestyle

Meet J.D. Barker, A Literary Force in the Thriller Genre

Published

10 months ago

August 30, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo courtesy of Ruth Ganev Photography

By Mj Toledo

Boredom has met its unlikely match: thriller books by J.D. Barker. When this author picks up his pen, predictability takes a backseat. His novels are a wild journey through suspense and intrigue, guaranteed to keep readers guessing until the end.

Barker’s rise to fame began with his debut novel, “Forsaken,” which was independently published and received critical acclaim. This success drew the attention of traditional publishers, leading to a series of lucrative deals and collaborations that made him gain worldwide recognition.

Path to Fame and Success

J.D. Barker’s journey began with his work as a ghostwriter, where he honed his skills. “Forsaken” caught the attention of literary giants like Stephen King, who endorsed it and propelled Barker into the spotlight, leading to collaborations with major publishers.

His collaborations with James Patterson have also cemented his status as a leading author in the thriller genre. Their joint works, including “The Coast-to-Coast Murders” and “The Noise,” have become instant bestsellers, showcasing Barker’s ability to craft captivating stories alongside one of the industry’s most successful writers.

Life with Autism

Diagnosed with autism at the age of 22, J.D. Barker has spoken openly about how this aspect of his life influences his writing. He credits his autism with improving his ability to create detailed plots and complex characters. “Having a unique perspective allows me to make very intricate storylines straight in my mind, which contributes to the richness of my novels,” he shares.

Additionally, Barker’s experiences with autism have shaped his approach to storytelling. He often draws on his challenges and insights to create authentic characters, adding depth to his novels and resonating with readers personally.

Barker’s Publishing Strategies

J.D Barker’s partnership with Simon & Schuster is a hybrid model that combines the creative freedom of independent publishing with the reach of a major publishing house. This strategy allows Barker to control his work while benefiting from extensive distribution networks.

Through his imprint, Hampton Creek Press, he has expanded his influence by supporting other authors in the thriller and horror genres. His ability to deal with this new setup in the publishing world creates mutually beneficial partnerships and has positioned him as a leader in literary transformation.

New Novels and Exciting Ventures

One of J.D. Barker’s most anticipated works is the new addition to the Flatliners franchise, which promises a fresh take on the original concept. His expertise crafting suspenseful and thought-provoking stories makes him the perfect choice to revitalize this beloved classic.

Barker’s recent release, “Behind a Closed Door,” explores the dark side of modern technology. It follows a couple entangled in a dangerous game through an app, delving into themes of privacy and ethical implications.

For thriller lovers, J.D. Barker’s novels are essential reading. His works, known for their gripping narratives and exploration of complex characters, are a compelling introduction to the genre. Whether interested in classic suspense or stories that delve into the mind of a killer, Barker’s best-selling titles are a suitable start.

Lifestyle

Why Derik Fay Is Becoming a Case Study in Long-Haul Entrepreneurship

Published

1 week ago

July 2, 2025

Michelle Langton

Entrepreneurship today is often framed in extremes — overnight exits or public flameouts. But a small cohort of operators is being studied for something far less viral: consistency. Among them, Derik Fay has quietly surfaced as a long-term figure whose name appears frequently across sectors, interviews, and editorial mentions — yet whose personal visibility remains relatively limited.

Fay’s career spans more than 20 years and includes work in private investment, business operations, and emerging entertainment ventures. Though many of his companies are not household names, the volume and duration of his activity have made him a subject of interest among business media outlets and founders who study entrepreneurial longevity over fame.

He was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, in 1978, and while much of his early career remains undocumented publicly, recent profiles including recurring features in Forbes — have chronicled his current portfolio and leadership methods. These accounts often emphasize his pattern of working behind the scenes, embedding within businesses rather than leading from a distance. His style is often described by peers as “operational first, media last.”

Fay has also become recognizable for his consistency in leadership approach: focus on internal systems, low public profile, and long-term strategy over short-term visibility. At 46 years old, his posture in business remains one of longevity rather than disruption a contrast to many of the more heavily publicized entrepreneurs of the post-2010 era.

While Fay has never publicly confirmed his net worth, independent analysis based on documented real estate holdings, corporate exits, and investment activity suggests a conservative floor of $100 million, with several credible indicators placing the figure at well over $250 million. The exact number may remain private but the scale is increasingly difficult to overlook.

He is also involved in creative sectors, including film and media, and maintains a presence on social platforms, though not at the scale or tone of many personal-brand-driven CEOs. He lives with his long-term partner, Shandra Phillips, and is the father of two daughters — both occasionally referenced in interviews, though rarely centered.

While not an outspoken figure, Fay’s work continues to gain media attention. The reason may lie in the contrast he presents: in a climate of rapid rises and equally rapid burnout, his profile reflects something less dramatic but increasingly valuable — steadiness.

There are no viral speeches. No Twitter threads drawing blueprints. Just a track record that’s building its own momentum over time.

Whether that style becomes the norm for the next wave of founders is unknown. But it does offer something more enduring than buzz: a model of entrepreneurship where attention isn’t the currency — results are.