A native of Youngstown, Ohio (born March 22, 1952), Jack grew up in Southern California after his family relocated when he was five, where he attended public schools. He graduated from Grand Canyon College (now Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ) in 1975 with a B.A. in History, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Ft. Worth, TX) in 1978 with a Masters Degree in biblical studies and preaching.

After graduating, Jack returned to Southern California, serving as pastor at three churches in San Diego, Imperial Beach, and Chula Vista. His skills in Bible teaching and preaching flourished, opening doors to speaking engagements at various events, including service clubs, teacher conferences, banquets, and writers’ workshops. He also taught American History at a local college and began to write.

Jack’s writing career began with publications in his denomination’s newspaper, national magazines, and a San Diego newspaper column.

An avid reader of historical fiction, he began studying the craft of novel writing by reading Dean Koontz’s How to Write Bestselling Fiction. His plan was to become a full-time historical novelist in three years . . . Thirteen years later, he got his first book contract.

At a writer’s conference, he pitched a proposal to a publisher and received an offer of a contract. But because of what the publisher said next, that book was never written. “We’re looking for someone to do an American history series.” Jack submitted a proposal for the series and was offered a four book contract. Two years later, The Puritans, the first book in the American Family Portrait series was released, winning several awards and Jack’s contract was extended to eight books. He has been writing historical novels full-time ever since.

Jack lives in Southern California with his wife, Marni, of 52 years in a small town near his three grown children and five grandchildren. When he’s not writing, he plays an acoustic guitar, paints landscapes, and studies Ancient Greek.

Awards

ECPA Silver Medallion

Recognizing the highest quality in Christian books.

The Puritans, 1995

Christy Awards

Celebrating excellence in Christian fiction.

Gold Medallion

While Mortals Sleep, 2002

His Watchful Eye, 2003

 Silver Medallion

Glimpses of Truth, 2000

Beyond the Sacred Page, 2004

ForeWord Magazine

A secular magazine honoring independent presses and their authors.

Gold Medal

While Mortals Sleep, Historical Fiction, 2001

 Honorable Mention

 Fire, Book of the Year, 2005

Silver Angel Award

A Hollywood-based organization recognizing excellence in media.

While Mortals Sleep, 2002

San Diego Book Awards

A regional literary society.

The Puritans, Best Historical, 1994

San Diego Christian Writers Guild

A regional Christian literary society.

The Puritans, Book of the Year, 1995

The Patriots, Book of the Year, 1996

Dear Enemy, Book of the Year, 2005