Picture a British storyteller who spun Cornwall’s rugged cliffs and stormy seas into gripping historical tales—meet E.V. Thompson! Born in 1931, this prolific author crafted over forty novels, blending meticulous research with vivid storytelling. His love for Cornwall’s history and people earned him an MBE in 2012, making him a cherished voice in historical fiction.
Thompson’s journey from Royal Navy sailor to celebrated novelist is as captivating as his books. His tales, often set in 19th-century Cornwall, transport readers to a world of miners, fishermen, and windswept moors, all brought to life with a storyteller’s flair. Ready to dive into his legacy? Let’s explore the man behind the pages.
The Making of E.V. Thompson
Ernest Victor Thompson was born on July 14, 1931, in London, where his early love for literature took root. At 15, he joined the Royal Navy, serving in Hong Kong, Japan, and during the Korean War. After nine years, he traded naval life for the Bristol Police, then worked as chief security officer for Rhodesia’s Department of Aviation. In 1970, craving a writer’s life, he settled in Cornwall’s Sharptor, living in a stone miner’s cottage that inspired his stories. His diverse experiences—from sailor to detective—infused his novels with authenticity and grit.
Thompson’s writing career began with short stories, with over 200 published worldwide before his first novel. His move to Cornwall marked a turning point, as the region’s history and landscapes became his muse. Despite early struggles, including sweeping floors at a China Clay works, his persistence paid off with his debut novel’s success.
E.V. Thompson’s Unforgettable Stories
Thompson’s novels are a love letter to Cornwall, blending historical accuracy with compelling narratives. His debut, Chase the Wind (1977), the first in the Retallick Saga, follows Josh Retallick and his love, Miriam, against Bodmin Moor’s wild backdrop. Voted the best historical novel of the year, it was translated into 14 languages. The Retallick Saga, spanning nine books, traces a Cornish family’s triumphs and tragedies, showcasing Thompson’s knack for family sagas.
Other notable works include Though the Heavens May Fall (2007), the first in the Amos Hawke series, where a Cornish detective unravels murders in 1856. The Blue Dress Girl (1992) ventures to Hong Kong, exploring the opium trade through a young Cornishman's romance. The Tolpuddle Woman (1994) tackles social injustice, reflecting Thompson’s ability to weave historical events into human stories. His style—rich in detail, character-driven, and evocative—makes history feel alive, earning praise for its accessibility and depth.
Thompson also wrote as James Munro and penned non-fiction about Cornwall, like Discovering Bodmin Moor. His extensive research, often sparked by simple moments like seeing bluebells at a miner’s cottage, grounded his stories in authenticity, captivating readers worldwide.
Why E.V. Thompson Matters
E.V. Thompson’s impact lies in his ability to make history personal. His novels, selling over five million copies, brought Cornwall’s past to global audiences, blending adventure, romance, and social commentary. Honored as a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedd and awarded an MBE in 2012 for literature and community service, he was a cultural ambassador for Cornwall. His storytelling inspired readers to explore the region’s heritage, while his dedication to authenticity set a standard for historical fiction.
Thompson’s death in 2012 at 81, surrounded by family in Launceston, marked the end of a prolific career, but his stories endure. His ability to capture the spirit of Cornwall—its people, struggles, and beauty—ensures his place as a beloved author whose works resonate across generations.
- Born: July 14, 1931, London
- Key Works: Chase the Wind, Though the Heavens May Fall, The Blue Dress Girl, The Tolpuddle Woman
- Awards: MBE (2012), Best Historical Novel Award for Chase the Wind
- Died: July 19, 2012, Launceston, Cornwall
Snag Chase the Wind and dive into E.V. Thompson’s sweeping historical adventures—Cornwall’s past awaits!