Picture a Canadian storyteller who unearths the hidden lives of women lost to history—meet Bryn Turnbull! With her internationally bestselling historical fiction, Turnbull spins tales that transport readers to the glittering courts of Imperial Russia, the scandal-soaked salons of 1920s Britain, and the tense streets of Nazi-occupied Paris. Her novels, brimming with meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, invite you to step into the shoes of unsung heroines.
The Making of Bryn Turnbull
Born and raised in Toronto, Bryn Turnbull’s love for stories took root early. At eleven, she was so engrossed in a copy of Sandman (Volume 2) that she accidentally put her foot through a window, earning five stitches and a lifelong lesson: reading is not a contact sport! Armed with a Bachelor’s in English Literature from McGill University, a Master of Letters in Creative Writing from the University of St. Andrews, and a Master of Professional Communication from Toronto Metropolitan University, Turnbull transitioned from corporate communications to full-time writing. Her fascination with historical fiction grew from a desire to amplify the voices of women overlooked by traditional histories.
Bryn Turnbull’s Unforgettable Stories
Turnbull’s novels are a masterclass in blending historical accuracy with emotional depth. Her debut, The Woman Before Wallis (2020), dives into the glamorous yet turbulent life of Thelma Morgan Furness, the American divorcee who captured the heart of Edward, Prince of Wales, before Wallis Simpson stole the spotlight. This top-ten Canadian bestseller sparkles with scandal and heart. In The Last Grand Duchess (2022), Turnbull brings Grand Duchess Olga Romanov to life, offering a poignant window into the fall of Imperial Russia through the eyes of a courageous young woman. The Paris Deception (2023) explores art theft and resistance in Nazi-occupied France, inspired by the real-life heroics of Rose Valland. Her latest, The Berlin Apartment (2024), weaves a sweeping love story against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall’s rise, showcasing Turnbull’s knack for humanizing grand historical moments.
Turnbull’s style is immersive, her prose vivid yet accessible. She threads fictional characters among real historical figures, creating narratives that feel both intimate and epic. Her focus on women’s stories—often those pushed to the margins of history—sets her apart, making her work a vibrant contribution to historical fiction.
Why Bryn Turnbull Matters
Bryn Turnbull’s novels do more than entertain; they rewrite history’s narrative by centering women who shaped their eras in quiet, powerful ways. Her meticulous research and empathetic storytelling resonate with readers, offering fresh perspectives on well-known events. By illuminating the lives of figures like Thelma Furness and Olga Romanov, Turnbull encourages us to question whose stories history chooses to tell. Her work has earned her a dedicated following and critical acclaim, cementing her as a vital voice in historical fiction.
- Birthplace: Toronto, Canada
- Key Works: The Woman Before Wallis, The Last Grand Duchess, The Paris Deception, The Berlin Apartment
- Fun Fact: Turnbull lives with her puppy Edie, whom she jokingly suspects is the reincarnation of Princess Margaret!
Snag The Woman Before Wallis or The Last Grand Duchess and dive into Bryn Turnbull’s captivating world of historical fiction!