Robert E. McDermott, also known as R.E. McDermott, is a successful author with a diverse background in international work and travel. Growing up on the Gulf Coast, he went on to attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and held various positions in shipping, including ship's officer and management. His career took him to many different countries, providing him with a wealth of experiences and the opportunity to meet a wide variety of people. These experiences and encounters have influenced his writing, as he often reworks and fleshes out his acquaintances to create the characters in his popular novels.
Currently, McDermott resides in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife, who also serves as his proofreader. They split their time between a rural retreat in the Tennessee backcountry and a condominium on Old Hickory Lake. This arrangement allows him to focus on his writing, as the retreat has no internet, email, or phone. McDermott is known for his meticulously researched, gritty stories with unmatched realism. He has a talent for creating fallible, relatable protagonists who must rise to the occasion and overcome obstacles in extraordinary circumstances. His debut novel, "Deadly Straits," reflects these qualities and established him as a talented writer in the genre.
In addition to his writing, McDermott operates a marine consultancy in Singapore, where he advises clients on ship construction and operations. This experience, along with his background in the merchant marines, gives him a unique perspective and expertise that he brings to his writing. He is often compared to Tom Clancy for his ability to write realistic, engaging thrillers. Despite his busy schedule, McDermott is dedicated to his craft and continues to write, drawing on his wealth of experiences to create compelling stories.