Picture a Los Angeles-born storyteller who swapped Hollywood dreams for the gritty streets of 14th-century London—meet Jeri Westerson! Known for her award-winning Crispin Guest Medieval Noir mysteries, Westerson blends historical intrigue with hard-boiled detective vibes, creating a genre that’s as unique as a knight in shining armor solving crimes.
Born in 1960, Westerson’s passion for medieval history and mystery novels has made her a standout in historical fiction. Her tales of disgraced knight-turned-investigator Crispin Guest have captivated readers, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Agatha and Shamus. Let’s dive into her journey, from her eclectic career path to her literary legacy!
The Making of Jeri Westerson
Growing up in Los Angeles, Westerson was surrounded by history-loving parents and shelves brimming with historical fiction. Initially drawn to acting, she pivoted to graphic design after college, working in the field for 15 years. After starting a family, she honed her writing as a newspaper reporter, eventually channeling her love for medieval England into novels. Her persistence paid off when her first Crispin Guest novel, Veil of Lies, sold in 2007, launching her into the literary spotlight.
Jeri Westerson’s Unforgettable Stories
Westerson’s Crispin Guest series, spanning 15 novels, is the heart of her work. Set in 1380s London, the series follows Crispin, a knight stripped of his title for treason, who reinvents himself as ‘The Tracker,’ a private investigator. With his witty apprentice Jack Tucker, Crispin tackles murders and mysteries with a noir flair, evoking Sam Spade in chainmail. Veil of Lies (2008) introduces Crispin’s quest to uncover secrets behind a merchant’s death, earning Macavity and Shamus nominations. Troubled Bones (2011) sees him in Canterbury, mingling with Geoffrey Chaucer and solving a murder tied to sacred relics.
Beyond medieval noir, Westerson explores other genres. Her paranormal series, Booke of the Hidden, mixes romance and fantasy, while her Tudor mysteries, King’s Fool, feature Henry VIII’s jester as a sleuth. Writing as Haley Walsh, she pens LGBTQ romantic comedies, showcasing her versatility. Her vivid historical detail and flawed, relatable characters make her stories immersive, with a dark edge that keeps readers hooked.
Westerson’s style is a masterclass in balance: authentic medieval settings meet fast-paced plots, sprinkled with humor and heart. Her deep knowledge of medieval weaponry—swords, daggers, and all—adds authenticity, making every clash feel real. Fans praise her ability to weave historical figures like Richard II and Chaucer into her narratives seamlessly.
Why Jeri Westerson Matters
Jeri Westerson has carved a niche in historical fiction, proving medieval mysteries can be as thrilling as modern crime novels. Her Crispin Guest series, lauded by Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews, has inspired readers to explore medieval history while enjoying gripping whodunits. By engaging fans through her blog, Getting Medieval, and social media, she brings history to life, making it accessible and fun.
Her influence extends to aspiring writers, as she’s served as president of the Southern California Mystery Writers of America and is a founding member of the Historical Novel Society’s SoCal chapter. Westerson’s ability to reinvent herself—much like Crispin—resonates with readers who admire her tenacity and creativity.
- Born: 1960, Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Veil of Lies, Troubled Bones, Booke of the Hidden, Courting Dragons
- Awards: Nominated for Agatha, Macavity, Shamus, and more
- Fun Fact: She’s an expert in medieval weaponry!
Snag Veil of Lies and dive into Jeri Westerson’s medieval noir world—where history meets mystery in the most thrilling way!