James Alexander Craig Thom (May 26, 1933 – January 30, 2023) was an acclaimed American author, celebrated for his contributions to the Western genre and colonial American history. His works stand out for their historical accuracy, a testament to Thom's dedication to exhaustive research.

After serving in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, Thom pursued further education, earning a BA in Journalism from Butler University in 1961. He went on to teach journalism at Indiana University and contributed his expertise to The Saturday Evening Post. Thom's literary journey was enriched by his fifth wife, Dark Rain Thom, a member of the Shawnee United Remnant Band until its dissolution. The couple resided in the serene Indiana hill country near Bloomington, drawing inspiration from the landscapes that surrounded them.