Picture a British-born storyteller who reimagined the Robin Hood legend with a fierce, knife-wielding heroine—meet A.C. Gaughen! Born in Nottinghamshire, the heart of Robin Hood country, Gaughen has carved a niche in young adult fiction with her thrilling Scarlet series and Elementae novels. Her tales blend action, romance, and strong female leads, captivating readers worldwide.
But Gaughen is more than a writer. With a passion for empowering young women, she serves as Director of Girls’ Leadership at Boston GLOW, inspiring teens to find their voices. Her love for Scotland’s history and late-night writing sessions fuels her unique storytelling, making her a standout in YA literature.
The Making of A.C. Gaughen
Born on November 7, 1984, in Nottinghamshire, UK, Anne Catherine Gaughen (known as Annie to friends) grew up steeped in the lore of her hometown’s legendary outlaw, Robin Hood. Her fair complexion kept her indoors, where she fell in love with books and writing, penning her first story in kindergarten about a gorilla in a shower—a tale so funny it got her kicked out of class! Gaughen’s academic journey took her to St. Andrews University in Scotland, where she earned a Master’s in Creative Writing, and later to Harvard for a Master’s in Education. Scotland’s rich history and folklore captured her heart, influencing her storytelling.
Her writing career began with short stories in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, but her breakout came with the Scarlet series, published by Bloomsbury. Gaughen’s quirky habits, like staying up late and sipping Diet Coke, reflect her belief that late nights feel like “stealing time,” a nod to her fascination with thieves and their cunning ways.
A.C. Gaughen’s Unforgettable Stories
Gaughen’s Scarlet series—Scarlet (2012), Lady Thief (2014), and Lion Heart (2015)—reimagines the Robin Hood legend through the eyes of Will Scarlet, a girl disguised as a boy. Scarlet, a gritty thief with a secret past, battles the evil Sheriff of Nottingham while navigating romance and loyalty. Written in Scarlet’s vivid first-person dialect, the series brims with swashbuckling action, romance, and medieval grit, earning praise for its fresh take on a classic tale.
Beyond Robin Hood, Gaughen’s Elementae series—Reign the Earth (2018) and Imprison the Sky (2019)—dives into fantasy with elemental magic and complex heroines. Her stories shine with strong, flawed female characters who defy expectations, blending historical authenticity with modern themes of empowerment. Gaughen’s narrative voice, often raw and emotional, draws readers into worlds where courage and vulnerability coexist.
Her writing process is as dynamic as her characters. Gaughen admits to being a “pantser,” not an outliner, letting her stories evolve organically. This approach, paired with her love for Scotland’s rugged landscapes and thief lore, creates immersive, unpredictable narratives that resonate with YA fans.
Why A.C. Gaughen Matters
Gaughen’s impact extends beyond her books. By reimagining traditional tales with fierce female leads, she challenges gender norms in historical fiction, offering role models for young readers. Her work with Boston GLOW empowers teen girls, aligning with her stories’ themes of resilience and self-discovery. Gaughen’s ability to weave historical detail with contemporary issues makes her a vital voice in YA literature.
Her influence also lies in her accessibility. Fans connect with her through social media and retreats like Kindling Words East, where she mentors aspiring writers. Despite health challenges, including vision issues from diabetes, Gaughen’s perseverance inspires her community, proving that storytelling can overcome obstacles.
- Born: November 7, 1984, Nottinghamshire, UK
- Key Works: Scarlet series, Elementae series
- Education: Master’s in Creative Writing (St. Andrews), Master’s in Education (Harvard)
- Fun Fact: Lives with her Goldendoodle, Lucy, in Massachusetts
Snag Scarlet and dive into A.C. Gaughen’s thrilling world of adventure and empowerment!