Photo: Ed Benjamin, the creator of Harry Miles and the Bulverde Beat series, masterfully blends action and inspiration in his works.
Ed Benjamin discusses his writing journey, Texas roots, and Air Force influence, revealing how life experiences shape his action-driven stories about resilience, humanity, and overcoming challenges.
Exploring Creativity, Inspiration, And Resilience With Ed Benjamin
Acclaimed author and retired United States Air Force veteran Ed Benjamin is a man whose stories resonate deeply with readers longing for a masterful blend of gripping action, heartfelt human resilience, and vivid storytelling. Known for creating the beloved Harry Miles character, Ed’s works, including Redemption and the Bulverde Beat series, captivate audiences with their authentic portrayal of courage and perseverance.
In an exclusive interview with Reader’s House Magazine, Ed shared his inspirations, writing process, and the profound influence of his Air Force career on his storytelling. While he didn’t serve as a pilot himself, Ed’s 27 years in close proximity to fighter pilots gave him a unique perspective that shines through in his vivid action and suspenseful narratives. “I have always been interested in exploring the ability of people to rise above adversity,” Ed remarked when reflecting on the evolution of Harry Miles, whose character arcs have spanned fighter pilot heroics, struggles with loss, and private detective adventures.
Ed Benjamin’s writing expertly blends action, emotional depth, and inspiration, resonating with readers through authentic and thrilling storytelling.
A proud resident of Bulverde, Texas, Ed brings a rich sense of place to his storytelling through the distinct South Texas setting featured in the Bulverde Beat series. As he puts it, “I live here. Human stories exist everywhere. Why not write about South Texas?”
Sharing his approach to crafting intense action scenes, Ed emphasised three lessons he’s drawn from literary icons like Lee Child and Karin Slaughter. “You need to place yourself in the position of the character you are writing and try to feel what the character is thinking and doing. Then, report their actions. Don’t tell the reader what the character is doing – show them,” he explained.
Ed’s commitment to the craft is undeniable. He thrives in the self-publishing landscape, driven by the freedom it offers to continually revise and perfect his work. “I self-publish. I have the power to change Bulverde Beat: Death on a Texas Highway when I want. It has happened. I am still rewriting it. It may change again,” he revealed.
When asked about his advice to aspiring writers, Ed was resolute. “Write, edit, rewrite, edit, rewrite, edit, rewrite. Then, write some more.” His philosophy speaks to his belief in perseverance, both in storytelling and in life—a theme that underscores much of his work.
Ed’s stories are more than thrilling adventures; they are narratives about humanity’s enduring spirit. Inspired by William Faulkner’s Nobel acceptance speech, Ed affirmed, “My goal is to inspire and to show, when possible, how the human spirit will prevail.”
Whether he’s crafting edge-of-your-seat action sequences or exploring the complexities of his characters, Ed Benjamin continues to exemplify what it means to be a storyteller of both heart and action. Through his publishing ventures, Bulverde Books and Front Porch Press, Ed not only shares his stories but also inspires others to believe in their own creativity.
Ed Benjamin is a true testament to the power of storytelling, reminding us that courage, resilience, and the human spirit can light the way—even in the darkest of times.
