Picture a British storyteller who weaves history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural into spellbinding novels—meet Elena Collins! Writing under this evocative pseudonym, Judy Leigh, a USA Today bestselling author, has captivated readers worldwide with her dual timeline historical fiction. From her 17th-century Somerset cottage, Collins crafts tales that bridge past and present, blending heartbreak and hope in a way that feels like a fireside chat with an old friend.
With her works translated into over eight languages, Collins has carved a unique niche in contemporary literature. Her novels, like The Witch’s Tree and The Lady of the Loch, are more than stories—they’re time machines that transport readers to forgotten eras while unraveling modern mysteries. Ready to step into her world?
The Making of Elena Collins
Elena Collins is the pen name of Judy Leigh, a former theatre studies teacher who traded the stage for the page. Before becoming a full-time writer, Leigh lived across the UK, from Liverpool to Cornwall, soaking up the rich history that now fuels her novels. After retiring from teaching, she earned an MA in Professional Writing at Falmouth University, honing her craft. Her pseudonym honors her grandmother, Nell Collins, a fortune-teller with healing hands, whose storytelling spirit inspires Collins’s paranormal-infused narratives.
Leigh’s early career as Judy Leigh focused on uplifting romantic comedies about older women seizing second chances. When her publisher suggested exploring paranormal romance, she embraced the challenge, birthing Elena Collins and a new genre. Her love for theatre and history shines through, making her novels vibrant tapestries of human experience.
Elena Collins’s Unforgettable Stories
Collins’s novels are dual timeline masterpieces, weaving historical tragedies with modern resolutions. Her debut as Elena Collins, The Witch’s Tree (2022), sets the tone: in 1682 Somerset, Grace Cotter dreams of love but faces deadly gossip, while modern-day artist Selena uncovers the cottage’s secrets. The novel blends romance, suspense, and witchcraft, earning praise for its vivid settings and emotional depth.
The Lady of the Loch (2023) transports readers to 1306 Scotland, where a woman’s betrayal echoes through time, and The Wicked Lady (2024) explores the legend of Katherine Ferrers, a 17th-century highwaywoman. Her latest, The Cornish Witch (2025), delves into Cornwall’s mystical past. Collins’s style is immersive, with lush descriptions of places like Somerset and Scotland, and a knack for making the supernatural feel intimate and real.
Her themes—women’s resilience, hidden histories, and the power of connection—resonate deeply. By spotlighting overlooked female voices from the past, Collins bridges centuries, creating stories that are both haunting and hopeful. Her ability to balance historical accuracy with ghostly intrigue sets her apart in the genre.
Why Elena Collins Matters
Elena Collins has redefined historical fiction by infusing it with paranormal elements and a focus on women’s untold stories. Her novels don’t just entertain—they illuminate the strength and struggles of women across time, from 17th-century healers to modern artists. Translated into over eight languages, her work has reached a global audience, proving that stories of love, loss, and redemption are universal.
Collins’s impact extends beyond her books. By drawing on her theatre background and love for research, she creates worlds that feel alive, inspiring readers to explore history’s hidden corners. Her growing fanbase, evident in glowing reviews and blog tours, celebrates her as a voice for women’s empowerment and historical curiosity.
- Pen Name Origin: Elena Collins honors Judy Leigh’s grandmother, Nell Collins, a storyteller and healer.
- Key Works: The Witch’s Tree, The Lady of the Loch, The Wicked Lady, The Cornish Witch.
- Lives In: A 17th-century cottage in Somerset, UK.
- Fun Fact: She writes four novels a year and has sold over one million copies with Boldwood Books.
Snag The Witch’s Tree and dive into Elena Collins’s haunting, heartfelt world of history and mystery!