Picture an American storyteller who weaves Regency-era mysteries with the precision of a historian and the heart of a romantic—meet C.S. Harris! Writing under her pen name, Candice Proctor has captivated readers worldwide with her bestselling Sebastian St. Cyr series, blending historical intrigue, vivid characters, and a touch of romance. With a PhD in European history and a past as an archaeologist, Harris crafts stories that transport you to 19th-century England with unparalleled authenticity.
Her novels, translated into over twenty languages, have earned her a spot on the USA Today bestseller list and a devoted following. From foggy London alleys to glittering ballrooms, Harris’s tales are as thrilling as they are meticulously researched. Ready to uncover the world of this versatile author? Let’s dive in!
The Making of C.S. Harris
Born Candice Proctor, C.S. Harris grew up as an Air Force brat, exploring castles in Spain and mountains in Oregon, with a history-professor father who sparked her love for the past. Her childhood adventures across Europe, coupled with a degree in Classics and a PhD in European history, shaped her storytelling. Before writing, she dug into history as an archaeologist, unearthing Cherokee villages in Tennessee and Roman cemeteries in England. These experiences honed her knack for bringing historical settings to life. Her pivot to writing began with historical romances under her real name, but her mystery series as C.S. Harris truly defined her career.
C.S. Harris’s Unforgettable Stories
Harris’s flagship work, the Sebastian St. Cyr Mystery series, launched in 2005 with What Angels Fear. Set in 1811 London, it follows Viscount Devlin, a war-scarred nobleman turned sleuth, as he navigates murder and betrayal. With over twenty books, the series blends gritty crime with Regency elegance, earning praise for its historical depth and complex characters. When Gods Die (2006) deepens St. Cyr’s saga, unraveling a royal scandal in Brighton, while Who Will Remember (2025) tackles a chilling murder amid England’s Year Without a Summer.
Beyond mysteries, Harris shines in other genres. As Candice Proctor, she penned seven award-winning historical romances, like Night in Eden (1997), a tale of passion in colonial Australia. Her standalone Civil War novel, Good Time Coming (2016), explores war’s toll on a Louisiana family, showcasing her emotional range. As C.S. Graham, she co-wrote thrillers with her husband, Steven Harris, diving into modern conspiracies. Harris’s style—rich, atmospheric, and character-driven—marries historical accuracy with page-turning plots, making her a standout in historical fiction.
Her research is impeccable, drawing from her academic roots and global travels. Whether depicting London’s seedy docks or aristocratic salons, Harris immerses readers in settings that feel alive. Themes of justice, identity, and resilience run through her work, resonating with fans of authors like Anne Perry and Ellis Peters.
Why C.S. Harris Matters
C.S. Harris has redefined historical mysteries, blending scholarly rigor with storytelling flair. Her Sebastian St. Cyr series has not only entertained but also elevated the genre, inspiring readers to explore Regency England’s complexities. Translated globally, her books bridge cultures, proving the universal appeal of a good mystery. Harris’s ability to juggle genres—mystery, romance, nonfiction—while maintaining authenticity cements her legacy as a versatile, influential author.
Her work also highlights the power of historical fiction to illuminate human struggles. By weaving real events, like the Napoleonic Wars or the French Revolution, into her narratives, Harris makes history accessible and thrilling. Her fans, from casual readers to history buffs, cherish her for stories that educate as much as they entertain.
- Pen Names: C.S. Harris, C.S. Graham, Candice Proctor
- Key Works: Sebastian St. Cyr series, Good Time Coming, Night in Eden
- Awards: RT Reviewers Choice Awards for Historical Mystery
- Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana
Snag What Angels Fear and dive into C.S. Harris’s thrilling Regency mysteries today!