Rainer M. Schröder, born on March 1, 1951, in Germany, was raised in East Berlin and later moved to Düsseldorf. From a young age, he showed a passion for music and entertainment, training as an opera singer and even performing with a German rock group called Union Jack. Despite his musical talents, Schröder also had an academic side, eventually pursuing studies in law, theater & film, and philology at the prestigious University of Cologne.
After completing his education, Schröder delved into various creative pursuits, ultimately finding his niche in writing. He penned his first novel, which would later win him the Buxtehude Bull Award, titled Die Lagune der Galeeren. This marked the beginning of a prolific literary career that would span decades and genres.
Aside from his own name, Schröder also wrote under the pseudonym Ashley Carrington, particularly for his Jessica and Valerie series. This allowed him to explore different themes and styles, showcasing his versatility as a writer.
As Schröder's popularity grew, so did his literary repertoire. He delved into thrillers, historical fiction, plays, and young adult novels, captivating audiences around the world. His work, including the Friedrich-Gerstäcker-Preis-winning Abby Lynn - Verbannt ans Ende der Welt, has sold over six million copies to date, solidifying his status as a bestselling author.
In the early 1980s, Schröder made a life-changing move by settling on a farm in Virginia, USA, with his wife Helga. The couple later divided their time between Florida and Germany, immersing themselves in different cultures and environments that would inspire Schröder's future works.
Known for his eclectic musical tastes, Schröder was a huge fan of the German rock band The Scorpions. He even had the opportunity to accompany the band on several tours and develop close relationships with its members, including lead singer Klaus Meine. In 1980, Schröder published a nonfiction work about The Scorpions, showcasing his admiration for the popular group.
Throughout his career, Rainer M. Schröder has left a lasting impact on the literary world. His storytelling prowess, genre-spanning versatility, and international appeal have established him as a formidable force in the realm of fiction. With numerous awards and millions of books sold, Schröder's legacy continues to inspire aspiring writers and captivate readers worldwide.