Picture a British storyteller who spun medieval history into gripping tales from a 200-year-old farmhouse—meet Joanna Hickson! A former BBC journalist turned historical fiction maestro, Hickson brings 15th-century England and France to life with vivid characters and intricate plots. Her passion for the past, sparked by Shakespeare’s history plays, has made her a beloved voice in historical fiction, especially for her portrayal of Catherine de Valois.
From her cozy East Lothian home, Hickson crafts stories that transport readers to royal courts and battlefields, blending fact with drama. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore how this history buff became a literary star!
The Making of Joanna Hickson
Born in Hertfordshire, England, Joanna Hickson spent her early childhood in Australia before returning to England at thirteen. A visit to her first castle ignited a lifelong love for medieval history, fueled by Shakespeare’s dramatic history plays. After earning a degree in Politics and English, she embarked on a 25-year career at the BBC, producing and presenting news and arts programs across radio and television in Scotland and London. This journalistic rigor honed her storytelling, but her heart remained in the 15th century.
While at the BBC, Hickson published a children’s historical novel, Rebellion at Orford Castle, but her shift to full-time adult fiction came later. Retiring from journalism, she embraced her passion for history, channeling it into novels that breathe life into forgotten figures. Her East Lothian farmhouse, steeped in centuries-old charm, became the perfect backdrop for her creative journey.
Joanna Hickson’s Unforgettable Stories
Hickson’s novels are a love letter to medieval history, blending meticulous research with compelling narratives. Her breakout series, centered on Catherine de Valois, includes The Agincourt Bride (2013) and The Tudor Bride (2014). These books follow the French princess who married Henry V and later founded the Tudor dynasty through her secret marriage to Owen Tudor. Told through the eyes of Catherine’s loyal wet nurse, Mette, the series captures the intrigue, danger, and romance of royal life.
Beyond Catherine, Hickson’s Red Rose, White Rose (2014) explores Cicely Neville’s role in the Wars of the Roses, painting a vivid picture of a woman navigating love and power. Her later work, First of the Tudors (2016), spotlights Jasper Tudor, weaving a tale of loyalty and ambition. Hickson’s style—rich with historical detail and emotional depth—appeals to fans of Philippa Gregory, earning praise for its immersive storytelling.
Her recent Queens of the Tower series, including The Lady of the Ravens (2020) and The Queen’s Lady (2022), continues to showcase her knack for bringing lesser-known figures to the forefront. Each novel reflects Hickson’s ability to balance historical accuracy with human drama, making the past feel thrillingly alive.
Why Joanna Hickson Matters
Joanna Hickson’s impact lies in her ability to humanize history’s overlooked figures, particularly women like Catherine de Valois and Cicely Neville. Her novels shine a light on their resilience and agency in a male-dominated world, resonating with readers who crave strong, complex heroines. By weaving meticulous research into accessible narratives, she makes medieval history approachable and addictive, earning a loyal following.
Hickson’s transition from journalism to fiction also inspires aspiring writers, proving it’s never too late to chase a passion. Her work continues to enrich the historical fiction genre, inviting readers to rediscover the past through fresh, empathetic lenses.
- Born: Hertfordshire, England
- Key Works: The Agincourt Bride, The Tudor Bride, Red Rose, White Rose, First of the Tudors
- Fun Fact: She lives in a 200-year-old farmhouse in East Lothian!
Snag The Agincourt Bride and dive into Joanna Hickson’s spellbinding world of medieval drama!