Picture a British storyteller who whisks you back to the gritty, plague-ridden streets of 1660s London—meet C.S. Quinn! This bestselling author of historical fiction has captivated readers worldwide with her thrilling Thief Taker series, blending meticulous research with heart-pounding narratives. With over 200,000 books sold and translations in 15+ languages, Quinn’s tales of crime and mystery have earned her a devoted following.
Born in Colchester, UK, Quinn’s journey from travel journalist to historical fiction star is as fascinating as her novels. Her knack for weaving vivid historical details with gripping plots has made her a standout in the genre, while her blog about global culinary adventures adds a dash of flavor to her multifaceted career.
The Making of C.S. Quinn
Catherine Quinn, known as C.S. Quinn, grew up in Colchester, where her passion for history took root. Her academic prowess in historical research earned her prestigious postgraduate funding from the British Art Council, setting the stage for her storytelling career. Before penning novels, Quinn honed her craft as a lifestyle and travel journalist, writing for heavyweights like The Times, The Guardian, and The Mirror. Her globetrotting experiences, from far-flung markets to ancient ruins, infused her writing with authenticity and flair.
Quinn’s transition to fiction was a natural evolution. Inspired by her love for 17th-century London—a time of plague, fire, and intrigue—she poured her research and wanderlust into creating immersive worlds. Her disciplined approach, often writing from 9 a.m. until hitting her word count, reflects her Stephen King-esque work ethic.
C.S. Quinn’s Unforgettable Stories
Quinn’s Thief Taker series, set in 1660s London, is her crown jewel. The series follows Charlie Tuesday, a charismatic thief taker tackling crimes too petty for London’s watchmen, and his spirited ally, Anna-Marie. The debut, The Thief Taker (2014), introduces a city ravaged by the Black Death, where Charlie hunts a gruesome killer. Readers praise its vivid descriptions and electrifying pace, with one calling it a ‘historical treat’ for London lovers.
Subsequent novels like Fire Catcher (2015), set during the Great Fire, and Dark Stars (2016), exploring ancient blood-spells, deepen Charlie’s saga. The Changeling Murders (2018) weaves in the Bawdy House Riots, showcasing Quinn’s knack for merging real history with fiction. Her Revolution Spy series, including The Bastille Spy (2019), shifts to the French Revolution, following spy Attica Morgan. Quinn’s style—sharp, atmospheric, and sumptuous, as noted by author Simon Toyne—blends historical accuracy with thriller-like intensity.
Beyond historical fiction, Quinn writes popular romances under the pen name Joana Taylor, ranking among Amazon’s top 10 adult romance authors. Her blog, chronicling culinary escapades at places like Wagamama, reveals a playful side that complements her thrilling narratives.
Why C.S. Quinn Matters
C.S. Quinn has carved a niche in historical fiction by bringing 17th-century London to life with unparalleled vibrancy. Her ability to merge meticulous research with accessible, thrilling stories has made her a favorite among readers and critics. The Thief Taker series, lauded for its immersive world-building, offers a window into a turbulent era, while her global perspective as a journalist adds depth to her tales.
Quinn’s impact extends beyond books. Her success as a female author in a competitive genre, coupled with her engaging blog, inspires aspiring writers to blend passion with discipline. With fans eagerly awaiting her next release, Quinn’s legacy as a storyteller who makes history pulse is firmly cemented.
- Born: Colchester, UK
- Key Works: The Thief Taker, Fire Catcher, Dark Stars, The Bastille Spy
- Pen Name: Joana Taylor (romance novels)
- Notable Fact: Her books have sold over 200,000 copies worldwide.
Snag The Thief Taker and dive into C.S. Quinn’s thrilling historical world—London’s dark alleys await!