Picture an English storyteller who turned medieval history into a riot of laughter—meet Howard of Warwick! Hailing from Warwick, England, this master of historical comedy and crime fiction has won hearts with his Chronicles of Brother Hermitage series. With a knack for blending meticulous research with side-splitting humor, Howard crafts tales that make the 11th century feel like a Monty Python sketch.
His books, filled with bumbling monks and cheeky weavers, have sold over 150,000 copies worldwide, earning praise as 'hilarious' and comparisons to Terry Pratchett. Ready to dive into a world where history meets hilarity? Let’s explore Howard’s journey!
The Making of Howard of Warwick
Born in Warwick, Howard grew up steeped in England’s rich history, a backdrop that would later fuel his comedic tales. Little is known about his early years, but rumors swirl that young Howard plucked his first quill from the family goose, destined for storytelling. Initially juggling a day job, he began writing in hotel rooms and on long commutes, channeling his love for humor and history into fiction. His big break came with self-publishing in 2010, when traditional publishers dismissed his unique medieval crime comedy genre as nonexistent.
Inspired by comedic giants like Douglas Adams and the absurdity of Monty Python, Howard carved a niche with his blend of historical accuracy and irreverent wit. His persistence paid off, transforming him from an obscure writer into a global bestseller.
Howard of Warwick’s Unforgettable Stories
Howard’s Chronicles of Brother Hermitage, now spanning 33 books, anchor his legacy. The series follows Brother Hermitage, a well-meaning but clueless monk who stumbles into solving crimes in post-1066 England. Think Inspector Clouseau meets Brother Cadfael, with a dash of Saxon sass. The Heretics of De’Ath (2010), the first in the series, sets the tone with a mysterious monastery death and Hermitage’s accidental detective work.
Other gems include The Garderobe of Death, where a murder in a medieval privy sparks chaos, and The Tapestry of Death, weaving deceit and a killer tapestry. Howard’s historical 're-creations,' like The Domesday Book (No, Not That One), hilariously reimagine 1066, suggesting King Harold survived Hastings. His style—crisp, absurd, and packed with wordplay—delights readers who crave history without the stuffiness.
Published by The Funny Book Company, Howard’s works embrace 'creative history,' prioritizing laughs over rigid accuracy. Fans adore his ability to make Normans and Saxons feel like quirky neighbors, with plots that twist like a medieval maze.
Why Howard of Warwick Matters
Howard’s impact lies in making history accessible and uproariously fun. His books have cultivated a devoted global readership, with over 1,000 reviews praising their laugh-out-loud moments. By blending comedy with crime, he’s pioneered a niche genre, proving medieval mysteries can be cozy and chaotic. His self-publishing success, boosted by savvy marketing, inspires indie authors to defy traditional gatekeepers.
Recognition from the Crime Writers’ Association and a storytelling prize affirm his influence. Howard’s tales remind us that history isn’t just battles and kings—it’s people, quirks, and the occasional murderous monk. His legacy? Turning dusty manuscripts into a riot of modern merriment.
- Born: Warwick, England
- Key Works: The Heretics of De’Ath, The Garderobe of Death, The Domesday Book (No, Not That One)
- Awards: Prize for storytelling
- Fun Fact: Howard’s books are narrated in audio with professional actors!
Snag The Heretics of De’Ath and dive into Howard of Warwick’s medieval mayhem—your funny bone will thank you!