Picture a storyteller who weaves the elegance of 20th-century Europe into page-turning tales—meet Judithe Little! This American author of historical fiction has a knack for bringing forgotten stories to life with her award-winning novels, like Wickwythe Hall and The Chanel Sisters. With a background in foreign affairs and law, Little blends meticulous research with romance and suspense, creating narratives that feel as authentic as they are captivating.
The Making of Judithe Little
Born and raised in Virginia, Judithe Little’s journey to becoming a novelist was anything but ordinary. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia, followed by studies at the Institute of European Studies and the Institut Catholique in Paris. Her time abroad, coupled with an internship at the U.S. Department of State, sparked a fascination with global history. After earning a law degree and practicing as an attorney for over 25 years, Little turned to writing, channeling her love for history into stories that resonate with readers worldwide.
Judithe Little’s Unforgettable Stories
Little’s debut novel, Wickwythe Hall, is a gripping World War II tale set in a British country estate. Inspired by a lesser-known naval confrontation between the British and French, it weaves together the lives of an American heiress, a French refugee, and a mysterious champagne vendor. The novel’s rich historical detail and emotional depth earned it accolades, including finalist spots in the William Faulkner-William Wisdom Creative Writing Competition.
Her second novel, The Chanel Sisters, shines a light on Antoinette Chanel, the lesser-known sister of fashion icon Coco Chanel. Narrated from Antoinette’s perspective, this rags-to-riches story follows the sisters’ rise from a convent orphanage to the glamorous streets of Paris. Little’s lyrical prose and impeccable research bring the early 20th-century fashion world to life, earning praise from outlets like Entertainment Weekly for its vivid portrayal of sisterhood and resilience.
Little’s writing style is smooth and immersive, blending romance, heartbreak, and historical accuracy. Her themes often explore strong women defying societal constraints, making her stories both inspiring and relatable. Currently, she’s working on her third novel, set to further cement her place in historical fiction.
Why Judithe Little Matters
Judithe Little’s novels do more than entertain—they illuminate overlooked corners of history. By spotlighting figures like Antoinette Chanel or crafting nuanced WWII narratives, she invites readers to see the past through fresh eyes. Her ability to humanize history has earned her a dedicated following and critical acclaim, with reviewers lauding her for adding depth to iconic figures and eras. Little’s work reminds us that behind every historical event are real people with dreams, struggles, and triumphs.
About Judithe Little
- Key Works: Wickwythe Hall (2017), The Chanel Sisters (2020)
- Awards: Finalist in the William Faulkner-William Wisdom Creative Writing Competition
- Hometown: Houston, Texas, where she lives with her husband and three children
- Fun Fact: When not writing, she enjoys riding horses and scouring Round Top Antiques Week.
Ready to step into the past? Grab The Chanel Sisters and dive into Judithe Little’s world of history, heart, and haute couture!