Picture an American storyteller who spins historical mysteries into page-turning novels—meet Ariel Lawhon! A New York Times bestselling author, Lawhon crafts historical fiction that unravels the past with meticulous research and a flair for women’s untold stories. From the scandalous disappearance of Judge Crater to the fiery fall of the Hindenburg, her books bring history to life with suspense and heart.
But Lawhon’s not just a writer—she’s the co-founder of She Reads, an online book club that connects passionate readers worldwide. With a knack for blending fact and fiction, she’s become a beloved voice in historical fiction, inviting readers to step into the shoes of remarkable women from the past.
The Making of Ariel Lawhon
Born and raised in the United States, Ariel Lawhon’s journey to authorship was anything but conventional. She grew up far from literary hubs, on a six-mile dirt road without running water or electricity, facing years of hardship. Yet, this unconventional backdrop fueled her storytelling grit. Inspired by authors like Larry McMurtry and Agatha Christie, Lawhon turned her love for history and mystery into a career, debuting with her 2014 novel, The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress. Her path wasn’t paved with MFAs or fellowships but with a determination to transform 'nothing' into 'something' through words.
Ariel Lawhon’s Unforgettable Stories
Lawhon’s novels are literary time machines, plunging readers into historical enigmas with vivid prose and complex heroines. Her debut, The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress, reimagines the 1930s disappearance of Judge Joseph Crater, weaving a tale of greed and deceit through the eyes of three women. Flight of Dreams tackles the Hindenburg disaster, blending suspense with the personal dramas of its passengers. In I Was Anastasia, Lawhon explores the mystery of Anna Anderson’s claim to be the lost Romanov princess, using a dual narrative to keep readers guessing.
Her 2023 novel, The Frozen River, a Good Morning America Book Club pick, brings 18th-century midwife Martha Ballard to life, blending mystery and feminist defiance in a story of justice. Lawhon’s style—often called literary historical mystery—marries meticulous research with emotional depth, emphasizing women’s roles in shaping history. Her characters, from spies to midwives, reflect the resilience and humanity she cherishes in storytelling.
Co-authored works like When We Had Wings, with Kristina McMorris and Susan Meissner, showcase her versatility, diving into the lives of WWII nurses in the Philippines. Whether unraveling a scandal or a tragedy, Lawhon’s stories pulse with suspense and authenticity, earning her spots on LibraryReads, Indie Next, and Book of the Month Club lists.
Why Ariel Lawhon Matters
Ariel Lawhon’s impact goes beyond her novels. Through She Reads, she’s built a vibrant community where readers share their love for books, amplifying women’s voices in literature. Her focus on lesser-known historical figures—especially women—sheds light on stories often overlooked, making history accessible and thrilling. Translated into multiple languages, her books resonate globally, proving that a well-told story transcends borders.
Lawhon’s ability to weave suspense with empathy has made her a favorite among book clubs and libraries, where her talks on historical mysteries captivate audiences. By championing strong female characters and real-life heroines, she’s carved a niche in historical fiction, inspiring readers to see the past through a fresh, feminist lens.
- Born: United States
- Key Works: The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress, Flight of Dreams, I Was Anastasia, Code Name Hélène, The Frozen River
- Notable: Co-founder of She Reads, New York Times bestselling author
Ready to lose yourself in a historical mystery? Snag The Frozen River or I Was Anastasia and dive into Ariel Lawhon’s thrilling world of secrets and heroines!