Brian Freeman Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Brian Freeman books in order, from the very first to the latest, so you won’t miss anything!

Brian Freeman is an award-winning author best known for his gripping psychological thrillers and complex, emotionally rich characters. Born on March 28, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, Freeman has always had a deep fascination with crime fiction and the darker corners of the human mind. Today, he is widely recognized as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary suspense fiction.

But Brian Freeman didn’t start his career as a writer right away. In fact, before he fully embraced the world of storytelling, he spent several years working in marketing and public relations for an international law firm. His background in corporate communication might seem far from the twisted plots and dark emotions of his novels, but it taught him how to understand people — their fears, their secrets, and the stories they try to hide. This unique perspective has shaped his writing style, allowing him to build multi-layered characters with raw, believable emotions.

Brian often describes his books as being about “the hidden intimate motives that draw people across some terrible lines.” And that’s exactly what his stories explore. His novels dive into the minds of his characters, peeling back the layers to reveal what drives someone to lie, betray, or even kill. Yet, they are not just about crime — they are also about human vulnerability, broken trust, love, loss, and survival.

Freeman’s passion for crime fiction started at a young age. He often credits his grandmother, a devoted reader of mysteries, for passing on that love. Another key figure in his journey was his eighth-grade teacher, who saw potential in Brian’s writing early on. That teacher encouraged him to focus on storytelling, giving him special time to write while the rest of the class worked on other tasks. This support lit the spark that would one day become a full-time career.

His debut novel, Immoral, was published in 2005 and immediately caught the attention of readers and critics alike. The book introduced the world to Jonathan Stride, a haunted police lieutenant working in Duluth, Minnesota. With its chilling mystery, vivid setting, and shocking twists, Immoral set the tone for what would become Freeman’s signature style — psychological depth, fast-paced storytelling, and emotionally charged plots. The book won the Macavity Award for Best First Novel and was a finalist for several other major honors, including the Edgar Award.

Since then, Brian Freeman has written numerous bestsellers, including both standalone novels and series titles. His most popular work remains the Jonathan Stride series, which now spans multiple books and continues to captivate fans around the globe. Readers often praise the way Freeman brings his characters to life — not just the protagonists, but even the secondary figures in his stories feel real, with their own personal histories and struggles.

What sets Brian Freeman apart is not just his ability to craft thrilling plots, but also his gift for creating atmosphere. Many of his novels are set in real-world locations, especially in Minnesota, where he now lives with his wife, Marcia. He doesn’t just describe places — he brings them to life. Whether it’s a quiet lakeside cabin, a fog-covered back road, or the noisy streets of Las Vegas, every setting plays a role in the story. These locations aren’t just backgrounds; they reflect the emotions of the characters and the tension of the plot.

Over the years, Freeman has also experimented with other genres and projects. He’s written standalone novels that explore different themes, published short stories, and contributed to various literary journals. His storytelling has proven to be versatile yet consistently powerful, whether he’s focusing on a serial killer, a missing person, or a troubled detective trying to find his way through moral gray areas.

In recent years, Brian Freeman has also been chosen to continue the legacy of the late Robert Ludlum, writing new books in the Jason Bourne series. This honor speaks volumes about the respect he holds within the publishing world. Being trusted to carry on such an iconic character is a testament to his talent for crafting action-packed, intelligent, and emotionally resonant thrillers.

Despite his success, Freeman remains connected to his readers and deeply committed to his craft. He often speaks at events and writers’ conferences, sharing his insights about the writing process, character development, and the art of suspense. Fans appreciate his down-to-earth personality and his thoughtful engagement with the community that supports his work.

If you’re new to Brian Freeman’s novels, you’re in for a treat. His books are more than just page-turners — they’re emotional journeys. Each novel takes you deep into the minds of characters facing impossible choices, uncovering secrets that refuse to stay buried. Whether you’re starting with Immoral, diving into the fast-paced world of Stripped, or exploring one of his chilling standalone novels, you’ll quickly understand why Brian Freeman is considered a master of psychological suspense.