Picture a storyteller who traded the gritty streets of New York for the quiet hills of New Hampshire, weaving pulse-pounding crime thrillers that keep you up all night—meet David DeLee! A master of suspense, DeLee crafts stories brimming with complex characters and relentless action, most notably through his award-winning Grace deHaviland Bounty Hunter series. His knack for blending real-world grit with heart-racing narratives has earned him a loyal following among crime fiction fans.
With a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a past as a licensed private investigator, DeLee doesn’t just write crime—he’s lived it. His authentic voice and knack for capturing the human side of justice make his novels stand out in a crowded genre. Ready to dive into the world of a bounty hunter chasing danger in Columbus, Ohio? Let’s explore DeLee’s journey and legacy!
The Making of David DeLee
Born and raised in New York, David DeLee’s roots in the bustling city shaped his sharp, street-smart storytelling. After spending eight years in Columbus, Ohio—where his iconic character Grace deHaviland operates—he settled in New Hampshire, trading urban chaos for serene landscapes. His background in Criminal Justice and experience as a private investigator gave him a front-row seat to the complexities of crime, fueling his desire to write stories that feel real. DeLee’s leap into writing wasn’t just a career shift; it was a calling to explore the gray areas of morality and justice through fiction.
David DeLee’s Unforgettable Stories
At the heart of DeLee’s work is the Grace deHaviland Bounty Hunter series, a thrilling saga following a tough-as-nails ex-cop turned bounty hunter in Columbus, Ohio. The series kicks off with Fatal Destiny (2011), where Grace tracks a bail-jumping accountant, only to uncover a deadly web of mob money and hitmen. Praised by Suspense Magazine for its edge-of-your-seat twists, the novel sets the tone for Grace’s relentless pursuit of justice.
Other standout titles include Pin Money (2013), a high-stakes chase involving a dangerous fugitive, and With Intent to Deceive (2014), which pits Grace against her best friend, Sheriff’s Deputy Suzie Jensen, in a race to solve a murder. DeLee’s short stories, like “Bling, Bling” from the Nelson DeMille-edited anthology The Rich and the Dead, showcase his ability to pack big suspense into compact tales. His standalone novel Crystal White (2012) dives into darker territory, earning acclaim for its raw portrayal of human evil. DeLee’s style—gritty, fast-paced, and emotionally layered—blends authentic dialogue with vivid settings, making every story feel like a front-row seat to a crime scene.
Why David DeLee Matters
David DeLee’s impact lies in his ability to humanize the high-stakes world of crime fiction. Grace deHaviland, with her moxie and moral complexity, is a refreshing departure from stereotypical tough-guy heroes, offering a strong female lead who resonates with readers. His work, lauded by outlets like Suspense Magazine and BestThrillers.com, bridges the gap between action-packed thrillers and thoughtful explorations of justice. As a member of the Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers, DeLee’s influence extends to inspiring new voices in the genre.
His stories don’t just entertain—they challenge readers to grapple with the messy realities of right and wrong. By setting his tales in less-glamorous locales like Columbus, Ohio, DeLee proves that gripping drama can unfold anywhere, making his work relatable and grounded.
- Born: New York, USA
- Key Works: Fatal Destiny, Pin Money, With Intent to Deceive, Crystal White
- Awards: 2015 Best Indie Book Award for With Intent to Deceive
- Fun Fact: DeLee’s private investigator experience informs his authentic crime scenes!
Ready to chase bail jumpers with Grace deHaviland? Snag Fatal Destiny and dive into David DeLee’s thrilling world of crime and justice!