Daniel Silva is an acclaimed American author, well-known for his spy thriller and historical fiction novels. He was born in Michigan in 1960 and spent his childhood in California. Raised in a Catholic family, Silva later converted to Judaism as an adult. Even as a child, Silva felt a strong inclination towards writing, a passion that would eventually lead him to great success.
After completing his undergraduate degree in California, Silva pursued international relations in graduate school, reflecting his enduring interest in global affairs. His early career saw him working as a journalist for United Press International (UPI), covering the Middle East and reporting on significant events such as the Iran-Iraq war, terrorism, and political conflicts. Silva later moved to CNN, where he became executive producer of its public policy programming based in Washington.
Silva's foray into writing began in 1994 when he published his first novel, The Unlikely Spy, which became an instant bestseller and received critical acclaim. Inspired by this success, Silva decided to focus on writing full-time in 1997. Since then, all of his books have been New York Times/national bestsellers, translated into 25 languages, and published worldwide.
Silva is best known for his Gabriel Allon series, which consists of 19 novels, as well as the Michael Osbourne series, which has two books. His works have been praised for their intricate plotlines, meticulous research, and engaging characters. Silva's own experiences as a journalist and his deep understanding of global politics have significantly influenced his writing. He currently resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife, CNN special correspondent Jamie Gangel, and their two children, Lily and Nicholas.