Dustin Thomason
Dustin Thomason is an American author, screenwriter, and television producer known for blending historical intrigue with suspense. A graduate of Harvard University, he later earned both an M.D. and an MBA from Columbia. He co-authored the bestselling novel The Rule of Four with Ian Caldwell, which spent months on the New York Times bestseller list and sold millions of copies worldwide. Thomason followed up with 12.21, a thriller exploring ancient prophecies and pandemics. In television, he co-created the acclaimed series Castle Rock and has worked on shows like Lie to Me and Manhattan. His work combines intellect, mystery, and storytelling craft.
The Rule of Four by Ian Caldwell is a clever blend of historical mystery and college-life drama, weaving an intricate narrative around a real Renaissance text, the Hypnerotomachia Poliphili. Set at Princeton University, the story follows two roommates, Tom and Paul, who are drawn into the enigmatic world of the ancient tome as they attempt to decipher its secrets. Their pursuit of academic and personal truths intersects with themes of ambition, friendship, and the limits of knowledge. Caldwell's book offers a rich exploration of intellectual curiosity and the tension between modern life and historical discovery, all set against the backdrop of an academic thriller. The novel is both engaging and thought-provoking, though some readers might find the detailed historical references challenging.