Picture a Texan storyteller who spun historical mysteries with a dash of wit and a sprinkle of intrigue—meet Anna Castle! Known for her captivating 'Francis Bacon' and 'Professor & Mrs. Moriarty' series, Castle crafts tales that whisk readers to Elizabethan England and Victorian London, blending meticulous research with clever plotting. Her journey from academic to novelist proves it’s never too late to chase a storytelling dream.
The Making of Anna Castle
Born in Houston, Texas, Anna Castle’s early life was steeped in books, from devouring 'The Hobbit' at ten to rereading 'The Lord of the Rings' as a teen. Despite her love for stories, writing wasn’t her first path. She earned a BA in Classics, an MS in Computer Science, and a PhD in Linguistics, carving out careers as a waitress, software engineer, assistant professor, and archivist. It wasn’t until her late thirties that the urge to write fiction reignited, leading her to pen her debut novel, 'Murder by Misrule,' in 2014, after years of balancing eclectic pursuits.
Anna Castle’s Unforgettable Stories
Castle’s 'Francis Bacon' series, starting with 'Murder by Misrule,' reimagines the philosopher as a sharp-witted sleuth navigating Elizabethan intrigue. Each novel, like 'Death by Disputation' and 'The Widows Guild,' brims with historical detail and complex mysteries, earning praise for their zestful characters. Her 'Professor & Mrs. Moriarty' series, beginning with 'Moriarty Meets His Match,' offers a fresh take on Sherlock Holmes’s nemesis, pairing Professor James Moriarty with the cunning Angelina Gould in Victorian-era capers. Castle’s Cunning Woman series, including 'The Case of the Spotted Tailor,' adds a paranormal twist with cozy novellas set in 1590s England. Her style shines through meticulous research, witty dialogue, and plots that keep readers guessing.
What sets Castle apart is her ability to weave historical accuracy with modern storytelling flair. Her novels transport readers to vibrant settings, from Gray’s Inn to London’s West End, while exploring themes of justice, betrayal, and intellectual pursuit. Fans of historical mysteries find her work a delightful blend of education and entertainment, appealing to both history buffs and puzzle enthusiasts.
Why Anna Castle Matters
Anna Castle’s impact lies in her ability to breathe new life into historical figures and settings, making them accessible and thrilling for modern readers. Her series have garnered a dedicated following, with 'Murder by Misrule' earning a spot among Kirkus Reviews’ Best Indie Books of 2014. By transitioning from academia to fiction, Castle inspires aspiring writers to pursue their passions at any age. Her work enriches the historical mystery genre, offering stories that are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining.
- Resides in Austin, Texas, with a love for gardening and knitting.
- Key Works: 'Murder by Misrule,' 'Moriarty Meets His Match,' 'The Case of the Spotted Tailor.'
- Awards: 'Murder by Misrule' named among Kirkus Reviews’ Best Indie Books of 2014.
About Anna Castle
Ready to step into Elizabethan or Victorian intrigue? Snag 'Murder by Misrule' or 'Moriarty Meets His Match' and dive into Anna Castle’s spellbinding mysteries!