Don Bentley is an American novelist. He is known for the Jack Ryan Jr. novels, which are part of the Tom Clancy universe, and the Matt Drake series of novels. He is currently the writer of the Mitch Rapp series of novels, originally by Vince Flynn.
Early life.
Bentley graduated from Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in electrical and computer engineering. He also graduated from Seton Hill University with a master's degree in fine arts.
Career.
Bentley served as a United States Army Apache helicopter pilot while stationed in South Korea, Germany, and Texas. He also served in Afghanistan. After his military service, he joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a special agent.
Bentley released his debut novel, "Without Sanction", in 2020. Featuring the character Matt Drake, it was based on Bentley's own experiences in the military and the FBI. It was followed by "The Outside Man" (2021), "Hostile Intent" (2022), and "Forgotten War" (2023).
Bentley was approached by Tom Clancy’s longtime editor Tom Colgan about writing the Jack Ryan Jr. series of novels, succeeding Mike Maden. His debut, "Target Acquired", was released in 2021. It was followed by "Zero Hour" (2022), "Flash Point" (2023) and "Weapons Grade" (2023).
Bentley took over for Kyle Mills as the author of the Mitch Rapp series of novels, originally written by Vince Flynn. His debut, "Capture or Kill", was released in 2024. It was followed by "Denied Access" (2025).
Bibliography.
Jack Ryan Jr. series.
Featuring characters created by Tom Clancy
Mitch Rapp series.
Featuring characters created by Vince Flynn