Picture a Canadian storyteller who whisks you away to Regency-era England, where romance and mystery dance in perfect harmony—meet Cindy Anstey! With a knack for crafting young adult novels that blend Jane Austen’s wit with a dash of intrigue, Anstey has charmed readers worldwide. Her stories, steeped in the elegance and societal quirks of the early 19th century, are as delightful as a stroll through a London ballroom.
The Making of Cindy Anstey
Born with a pen in hand (or so it seems), Cindy Anstey began writing as a child, penning her first novel, King Nap in the Land of Doze, at age twelve. Her imagination thrived during her family’s global adventures, from Singapore to Montreal, and later as an expat in Memphis and Belgium. These travels, coupled with her love for art and history, shaped her storytelling. It was in Belgium, with time on her hands and Europe’s charm at her doorstep, that Anstey reignited her passion for writing, diving into the Regency era’s rich tapestry.
Cindy Anstey’s Unforgettable Stories
Anstey’s novels are a love letter to the Regency period, known for its manners, high society, and subtle rebellions. Her debut, Love, Lies and Spies, follows Juliana Telford, a ladybug-obsessed heroine who stumbles into espionage while dodging marriage prospects. Inspired by historical smuggling and spy networks, it’s a playful mix of romance and adventure. Duels and Deception pairs heiress Lydia Whitfield with a law clerk, unraveling a kidnapping plot with Austen-esque banter. Suitors and Sabotage weaves a tale of mistaken affections and architectural mishaps, while The Hummingbird Dagger ventures into darker mystery with a memory-less heroine. Anstey’s style shines through her meticulous research, witty dialogue, and strong, selfless heroines who challenge societal norms, all wrapped in a lighthearted tone that keeps readers hooked.
Her settings, from grand estates to bustling London, feel alive, thanks to Anstey’s deep dive into cultural history—think books like What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew. She balances historical accuracy with modern sensibilities, giving her female characters agency within their era’s constraints. Fans of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer find a kindred spirit in Anstey’s work, which adds humor and suspense to the traditional Regency romance.
Why Cindy Anstey Matters
Cindy Anstey’s novels do more than entertain—they invite young readers into historical fiction with a fresh, accessible voice. Her stories celebrate female friendships, family bonds, and personal growth, resonating with teens navigating their own identities. By blending mystery and romance, she makes the Regency era feel vibrant and relevant, earning praise from outlets like Entertainment Weekly and VOYA. Though she passed away in June 2021 after a decade-long battle with cancer, Anstey’s legacy endures through her books, which continue to inspire readers to embrace history with a smile.
- Key Works: Love, Lies and Spies, Duels and Deception, Suitors and Sabotage, The Hummingbird Dagger
- Hometown: Nova Scotia, Canada
- Influences: Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer
Snag Love, Lies and Spies and dive into Cindy Anstey’s Regency romance today—your heart will thank you!