Winner of numerous awards, including "Best Thriller," bestselling author James Houston Turner is known for his Aleksandr Talanov series of spy novels. Talanov the fictional character was inspired by the actual KGB agent who once leaked word out of Moscow that James was on a KGB watchlist for his smuggling activities behind the old Iron Curtain.

A native of Kansas, James Houston Turner has been writing since he was ten. He holds a bachelor's degree from Baker University and a master's degree from the University of Houston (Clear Lake).

James is also a cancer survivor after doctors removed a tumor the size of an orange from his face. "I was told if I lived eighteen months I would probably live to be one hundred. That was in 1991, so I am happy to report I am well on my way toward that goal. These experiences influenced my storytelling, whether in magazines, novels, or, now, in film. My stories are 'overcomer stories,' because that's what I've had to do, and is why I want my stories to leave people with the same hope and faith that strengthened me." After nearly twenty years in Australia, James and his wife, Wendy, now live in Austin, Texas.