Michael Nava is an American author and attorney best known for his critically acclaimed mystery novels. He was born on July 16, 1954, in Stockton, California. Nava's writing primarily focuses on the gay experience, exploring themes such as identity, sexuality, and social injustice.
As an attorney, Nava specializes in criminal law and civil rights. He received his law degree from Stanford University and has worked on several highly publicized cases pertaining to discrimination and LGBTQ+ rights. Nava's legal background often influences the intricate legal plotlines and richly developed characters in his novels.
Nava's most notable literary achievement is his Henry Rios mystery series. The series features a gay, Mexican-American criminal defense lawyer named Henry Rios. Through Rios' investigations, Nava addresses societal issues ranging from AIDS and homophobia to racial and gender inequality. The novels in the series have been praised for their compelling storytelling, vivid characterizations, and nuanced exploration of the complex intersectionality of various identities.
Beyond his mystery novels, Nava has also contributed to the field of LGBTQ+ literature through essays and short stories. He is considered an important voice in LGBTQ+ literature, having broken new ground in the genre with his realistic portrayals and thought-provoking narratives.
Overall, Michael Nava is an influential American author and attorney known for his significant contributions to LGBTQ+ literature and his compelling mystery novels that tackle issues of social justice, discrimination, and the LGBTQ+ experience.