Picture a New York lawyer by day, spinning tales of medieval jesters and Shakespearean intrigue by night—meet Alan Gordon! Born in Texas in 1959, this American author has captivated readers with his Fools’ Guild Mystery series, a dazzling blend of historical fiction, mystery, and wit set in 13th-century Europe. With a knack for turning court jesters into secret agents, Gordon’s stories are as clever as they are thrilling, earning him a devoted global readership.
Gordon’s unique storytelling weaves historical accuracy with playful imagination, drawing inspiration from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night to craft a world where fools are the unsung heroes of medieval politics. Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, his books promise a delightful escape into a bygone era.
The Making of Alan Gordon
Born in Texas to musician parents, Alan Gordon grew up surrounded by creativity, fostering a love for music and storytelling. Raised in New Jersey, he later pursued academics at Swarthmore College and earned a law degree from the University of Chicago Law School. Settling in New York City, Gordon became a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society, a role he balances with his writing career. His legal work, aiding those in need, mirrors the underdog spirit of his fictional jesters, who champion peace amidst chaos.
Gordon’s writing journey began with short stories in prestigious outlets like Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine. His fascination with Shakespeare, sparked during a seminar where he imagined all the Bard’s fools as one character, led to his debut novel, Thirteenth Night, launching the Fools’ Guild series in 1999.
Alan Gordon’s Unforgettable Stories
The Fools’ Guild Mystery series, spanning eight novels, is Gordon’s crowning achievement. Set in the turbulent 13th century, the series follows Theophilos (aka Feste from Twelfth Night) and his wife, Claudia (Viola), as they navigate political intrigue and solve murders under the guise of jesters. The premise is ingenious: the Fools’ Guild, a secret organization, manipulates events to maintain peace, making jesters the medieval equivalent of James Bond.
Key works include Thirteenth Night (1999), where Feste investigates Duke Orsino’s murder, and Jester Leaps In (2000), a Byzantine adventure tackling missing agents in Constantinople. A Death in the Venetian Quarter (2002) dives into the Fourth Crusade’s chaos, while The Parisian Prodigal (2010) wraps the series with a Toulouse murder mystery. Gordon’s style blends sharp dialogue, historical detail, and humor, creating fast-paced, witty narratives that keep readers guessing.
Beyond novels, Gordon’s creative talents shine in musical theater, with librettos for works like The Girl Detective and The Usual, the latter earning him the 2013 Kleban Prize for Most Promising Musical Theatre Librettist. His ability to juggle law, writing, and theater showcases a versatility that mirrors his multifaceted characters.
Why Alan Gordon Matters
Alan Gordon’s impact lies in his ability to breathe new life into historical mysteries, blending scholarly research with playful storytelling. His Fools’ Guild series reimagines medieval Europe, making jesters not just entertainers but pivotal players in history. Fans and critics, from Laurie R. King to Publishers Weekly, praise his vivid settings and engaging characters, cementing his place among top historical mystery authors.
Gordon’s work resonates with readers who crave intelligent, character-driven stories. By grounding his tales in real events—like the Crusades or Byzantine politics—he offers a window into the past while keeping the narrative accessible and fun. His legacy endures in the hearts of those who cherish clever, underdog heroes.
- Born: June 23, 1959, in Texas, USA
- Key Works: Fools’ Guild Mystery series (1999–2010)
- Awards: 2013 Kleban Prize for Musical Theatre Librettist
- Day Job: Lawyer with the Legal Aid Society in New York City
About Alan Gordon
Snag Thirteenth Night and dive into Alan Gordon’s witty, medieval world of mystery and mischief!