Canadian-American author Blair Edward Russell (B.E. Russell) was born on December 16, 1979, in Etobicoke, Ontario, the second son of Bob and Marie Russell. He spent his childhood in Oakville and Bradford, just outside of Toronto, where the quintessential Canadian hockey experience shaped his life. As the son of a former Edmonton Oilers player, hockey was more than just a sport—it was a way of life. Whether lacing up his skates, cheering for the Maple Leafs every Saturday night, or heading out on fishing trips, Blair’s youth was defined by camaraderie, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Summers were spent exploring forests, skateboarding, and playing endless games of street hockey. At 15, he moved near Shelburne, Ontario, to attend The Hockey Training Institute and play Junior ‘A’ hockey with the Shelburne Wolves in the Metro Junior ‘A’ Hockey League.
After hanging up his skates, Blair continued his education at York University in Toronto, graduating in 2007. Soon afterward, he and his wife Ginna moved to Miami, Florida, to begin their life together in the Sunshine State.
Blair’s creativity extends well beyond writing. He’s also an avid oil painter—nowadays focusing on abstract art—a domain name investor, and a successful internet entrepreneur. His passion for angling, especially fly fishing, weaves through his novels, where he blends themes of mystery, light horror, and the great outdoors to create truly immersive stories.
He and Ginna now make their home in South Florida, where he continues to find inspiration in life’s simple yet remarkable moments. In 2019, they spent several days camping and portaging in Ontario’s Algonquin Park. One of their most unforgettable memories from that trip was encountering a massive bull moose on a portage trail—a thrilling brush with nature that remains a favorite story.
To view Blair’s abstract paintings please visit his alternative website her: Abstract Paintings by Blair Russell