William Judson

William Judson was a pseudonym of author Edwin Corley.

Edwin Corley was a prolific novelist who wrote over two dozen thrillers, mysteries, and works of mainstream fiction and suspense between 1969 and 1981. Most were translated into different languages and published around the world, and two were made into feature films.

Depending upon the novel’s genre, he wrote under his own name or one of his four pseudonyms: David Harper, William Judson, Patrick Buchanan, and Will Collins.

Mario Puzo, author of THE GODFATHER, wrote: “Corley doesn’t let himself get flapped. He is a fascinating storyteller.”

Edwin Corley began his writing career as a STARS AND STRIPES correspondent while serving seven years in the United States Air Force (1945-1952). He later wrote dozens of short stories (which formed the basis of COMBAT PAY, a co-venture written with Robin Moore) and then began working in New York City as an advertising copywriter. His responsibilities would later include agency producer as well as vice-president.

In 1963, Ed married Betty Zekauskas, a food stylist he had recently met. They had three children: Richard, Elizabeth, and Eugene.

In 1969, his first novel SIEGE was published to widespread acclaim; THE JESUS FACTOR and HIJACKED soon followed and, with three successful books and one film now to his name, he left Madison Avenue behind and began writing full-time. He moved his family to upstate New York where he enjoyed hunting and fishing excursions in the Adirondack wilderness while finding more inspirations for future novels.

In 1974, the Corleys moved again, this time to the small town of Pass Christian, along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. For the remaining years of his life, if Ed wasn’t busy writing, he was often found fishing from his cabin cruiser, SARGASSO, or exploring the Deep South in his Winnebago.

Edwin Corley passed away after a brief illness in November of 1981, shortly after his 50th birthday.

Much more information about Edwin Corley and his legacy can be found at www.edwincorley.com .