Picture a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist turned novelist, weaving tales of mystery and aviation with a sharp wit—meet David Freed! From gritty newsrooms to the cockpit of his own plane, Freed’s unique journey has fueled the thrilling Cordell Logan mystery series, a standout in crime fiction that blends suspense, humor, and heart.
Born on an Air Force base in Georgia, Freed’s life is as dynamic as his stories. His knack for storytelling, honed through decades of investigative journalism, brings authenticity to every page. Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced mysteries or just love a good character-driven tale, Freed’s work is a must-read.
The Making of David Freed
Born December 4, 1954, in Albany, Georgia, David Freed grew up in Colorado, the son of a street cop. After earning a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University in 1976, he dove into journalism, cutting his teeth at the Colorado Springs Sun and Rocky Mountain News. His career soared at The Los Angeles Times, where he covered criminal justice and military affairs, reporting from war zones like Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm. In 1993, he shared a Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Reporting for coverage of the Rodney King riots, a testament to his skill in capturing high-stakes stories.
Freed’s pivot to fiction was no accident. A licensed pilot with a 2002 Cirrus SR20, his passion for aviation, combined with his journalism grit and a stint in the intelligence community, shaped his unique voice. This blend of real-world experience and storytelling flair set the stage for his literary career.
David Freed’s Unforgettable Stories
Freed’s Cordell Logan mystery series is his crown jewel, featuring a sardonic flight instructor and ex-military assassin navigating complex crimes. The series kicks off with Flat Spin (2012), where Logan investigates the murder of his ex-wife’s husband, blending aviation thrills with sharp dialogue. Fangs Out (2013) sees Logan unraveling a defense contractor’s dark secrets, while Voodoo Ridge (2014) takes him to the Sierra Nevada Mountains to hunt for a crashed plane’s mysterious cargo.
Freed’s writing style is a masterclass in balance: taut suspense, witty banter, and vivid settings that feel ripped from his own experiences. His protagonist, Cordell Logan, is a flawed yet relatable hero—part Buddhist wannabe, part tough-as-nails operator—whose humor echoes Raymond Chandler’s Philip Marlowe. The latest in the series, Deep Fury (2024), has Logan probing the murder of a former Air Force wingman, cementing Freed’s knack for fresh, gripping plots.
Critics praise Freed’s ability to weave aviation authenticity into page-turning mysteries. His novels, now published by Blackstone Publishing, resonate with readers who crave smart, character-driven crime fiction that doesn’t skimp on action or heart.
Why David Freed Matters
David Freed’s impact lies in his ability to elevate the mystery genre with authenticity and depth. His journalism background brings a reporter’s eye for detail, while his aviation expertise adds a rare layer of realism to the genre. The Cordell Logan series has carved a niche for readers who love cerebral yet accessible thrillers, earning praise from outlets like Booklist and the Associated Press for its wit and pacing.
Beyond his novels, Freed’s career as a screenwriter and educator—he teaches creative writing at Harvard Extension School—has inspired aspiring writers. His stories remind us that truth can be as thrilling as fiction, making him a unique voice in contemporary literature.
About David Freed
- Born: December 4, 1954, in Albany, Georgia
- Key Works: Flat Spin, Fangs Out, Voodoo Ridge, Deep Fury
- Awards: Shared 1993 Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Reporting
- Fun Fact: He’s an instrument-rated pilot who owns a Cirrus SR20!
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Flat Spin and dive into David Freed’s witty, high-flying world of mystery!