Picture a British storyteller who swapped the editor’s desk for the quill of a historical novelist, weaving tales of Georgian London’s shadowy underbelly—meet Antonia Hodgson! Born in 1971, this award-winning author has captivated readers with her thrilling Tom Hawkins series, starting with the gripping The Devil in the Marshalsea. Her knack for blending meticulous historical detail with pulse-pounding crime makes her a standout in historical fiction.
Before she was a literary star, Hodgson spent nearly two decades in publishing, rising to editor-in-chief at Little, Brown. But the call of storytelling was too strong, and she dove into writing, creating novels that transport readers to the gritty, vibrant streets of 18th-century England. Let’s explore her journey, works, and why she’s a must-read for history and mystery lovers.
The Making of Antonia Hodgson
Born in Derby in 1971, Antonia Hodgson grew up with a love for literature, nurtured at Littleover Community School. She studied English Literature at Leeds University, graduating in 1994. Her career began at Harcourt, Brace, launching a 20-year publishing journey where she worked with luminaries like Nora Roberts and Elizabeth Kostova. This insider’s view of storytelling honed her craft, but her heart lay in creating her own worlds. Her first attempt—a gothic vampire novel—remained unpublished, a victim of the vampire craze’s timing, but it taught her resilience and the art of storytelling.
Antonia Hodgson’s Unforgettable Stories
Hodgson’s debut, The Devil in the Marshalsea (2014), introduced Tom Hawkins, a roguish gentleman navigating the treacherous debtor’s prison of 1720s London. This historical thriller, steeped in the era’s grime and intrigue, won the CWA Historical Dagger Award and was shortlisted for the Theakston Crime Novel of the Year. Its sequel, The Last Confession of Thomas Hawkins (2015), sees Tom facing the gallows, blending dark humor with high-stakes drama. A Death at Fountains Abbey (2016) takes Tom to Yorkshire, unraveling a financial scandal tied to the South Sea Bubble. Her fourth novel, The Silver Collar (2020), explores slavery and secrets, earning praise for its emotional depth.
In 2025, Hodgson ventured into fantasy with The Raven Scholar, a murder-mystery set in the mythical empire of Orrun. Narrated partly by a charismatic raven, this novel showcases her versatility, merging her crime-writing prowess with epic world-building. Hodgson’s style is immersive, with vivid settings—think smoky taverns and rat-infested alleys—paired with sharp dialogue and complex characters. Her Georgian focus, a less-explored era, adds freshness, making history feel alive and urgent.
Why Antonia Hodgson Matters
Antonia Hodgson has carved a niche in historical crime fiction, bringing the overlooked Georgian era to life with authenticity and flair. Her novels don’t just entertain; they illuminate the social inequalities, financial scandals, and human struggles of the 18th century, resonating with modern readers. Her shift to fantasy with The Raven Scholar signals a bold evolution, proving her storytelling transcends genres. Awards and critical acclaim aside, her ability to make history thrilling ensures her lasting impact.
- Born: 1971, Derby, England
- Key Works: The Devil in the Marshalsea, The Silver Collar, The Raven Scholar
- Awards: CWA Historical Dagger (2014)
Ready to step into Georgian London or a fantastical empire? Snag The Devil in the Marshalsea or The Raven Scholar and dive into Antonia Hodgson’s thrilling worlds!