Picture a storyteller who weaves 19th-century London’s fog-drenched streets into gripping mysteries—meet Heather Redmond! A bestselling historical mystery novelist, Redmond captivates readers with her 'Dickens of a Crime' series, where a young Charles Dickens plays sleuth. With a knack for blending historical accuracy and pulse-pounding suspense, this anglophile author brings Victorian England to life in a way that’s as cozy as a fireside tale and as thrilling as a midnight chase.
Redmond, also known by her pen name Heather Hiestand, is a committed Dickens devotee whose love for the 19th century shines through every page. Her work has topped charts at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books, earning her a devoted following and critical acclaim, including a starred review from Kirkus Reviews for her debut. Let’s dive into the world of Heather Redmond, where history and mystery collide!
The Making of Heather Redmond
Heather Redmond’s journey to becoming a celebrated author began with a deep-rooted passion for storytelling and all things British, despite her last known British ancestor leaving London in the 1920s. Raised across Illinois, California, and Texas, she now calls a small town in Washington State home, where she lives with her husband and son. Initially dipping her toes into mystery writing, Redmond took a detour through romance novels under the name Heather Hiestand before returning to her first love: historical mysteries.
Her fascination with Charles Dickens and 19th-century England fueled her signature series. A self-proclaimed anglophile, Redmond’s meticulous research and vibrant imagination transform historical settings into living, breathing worlds. As president emeritus of the Columbia River Chapter of Sisters in Crime, she’s also a passionate advocate for the mystery genre, nurturing a community of writers and readers alike.
Heather Redmond’s Unforgettable Stories
Redmond’s 'Dickens of a Crime' series is her crown jewel, reimagining a young Charles Dickens as an amateur detective in 1830s London. The series kicks off with A Tale of Two Murders (2018), where Dickens and his future wife, Kate Hogarth, investigate a suspicious poisoning. Praised for its 'sharp, incisive, and delightfully twisty' plot, this debut set the tone for Redmond’s blend of historical detail and cozy suspense.
Subsequent novels like Grave Expectations (2019) and A Christmas Carol Murder (2020) deepen the series’ charm, weaving Dickensian themes of wealth, poverty, and redemption into intricate mysteries. A Twist of Murder (2022), the fifth installment, takes readers to Harrow-on-the-Hill, where missing orphans and a treasure map unravel a chilling crime. Beyond this series, Redmond also pens the 'Journaling Mysteries,' a cozy Seattle-set series, and the 'Mary Shelley Mysteries,' showcasing her versatility.
Her writing style is a delightful mix of vivid historical settings, witty dialogue, and slow-burning suspense. Redmond’s attention to period details—like the rudimentary policing of 1830s London or Dickens’ own dining habits—grounds her stories, while her playful nods to Dickens’ future works add a layer of charm for fans. Whether it’s a body plummeting from a window or a cryptic treasure map, Redmond keeps readers guessing with every turn.
Why Heather Redmond Matters
Heather Redmond’s impact lies in her ability to make history feel immediate and alive. By casting Charles Dickens as a sleuth, she not only entertains but also invites readers to explore the social complexities of pre-Victorian England. Her stories resonate with fans of historical fiction and cozy mysteries, offering a fresh take on a beloved literary figure. As a bestseller and a leader in the mystery community, Redmond inspires both readers and aspiring writers to embrace the genre’s rich possibilities.
Her work also bridges the gap between niche historical interests and mainstream appeal, making 19th-century London accessible and thrilling. For Dickens fans and mystery lovers alike, Redmond’s novels are a love letter to a bygone era, wrapped in a page-turning puzzle.
- Key Works: 'A Tale of Two Murders,' 'Grave Expectations,' 'A Christmas Carol Murder,' 'A Twist of Murder'
- Genres: Historical Mystery, Cozy Mystery
- Notable Recognition: Starred Kirkus Review for 'A Tale of Two Murders,' bestseller status at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
- Fun Fact: Redmond is a keen watercolorist when she’s not writing!
Snag A Tale of Two Murders and dive into Heather Redmond’s spellbinding world of Victorian intrigue—your next favorite mystery awaits!