Picture a British storyteller who swapped antique appraisals for steamy historical romances—meet Kate Bateman! Writing as both Kate and K.C. Bateman, this bestselling author crafts tales of feisty heroines and swoon-worthy heroes, set against the lavish backdrops of Regency and Renaissance eras. Her journey from TV antiques expert to romance novelist is as captivating as her books, sparked by a cheeky $1 bet with her husband.
With series like Secrets and Spies and Bow Street Bachelors, Bateman has enchanted millions, blending historical intrigue with sizzling chemistry. Her sharp wit and richly detailed worlds make her a standout in historical romance, earning starry-eyed reviews and a devoted readership.
The Making of Kate Bateman
Born in the United Kingdom, Kate Bateman grew up immersed in art and history, thanks to her parents’ antiques business and art gallery. Her childhood split between the UK and Spain, followed by a degree in English and French from the University of Nottingham, fueled her love for storytelling. After a brief stint in publishing, she dove into the family auction house, co-founding Batemans Auctioneers in 2001. Her expertise landed her on BBC shows like Bargain Hunt and Flog It, where her charm and knowledge shone.
A pivotal moment came in 2016 when her husband, Matt, dared her to finish a novel for a mere dollar. Kate gleefully proved him wrong, penning her debut, To Steal a Heart. That bet launched her into the literary world, where she now juggles writing, family life with three lively sons, and transatlantic moves between Illinois and England.
Kate Bateman’s Unforgettable Stories
Bateman’s novels are a delicious blend of adventure, romance, and historical detail, starring what she calls “badasses in bodices.” Her Secrets and Spies series, set during the Napoleonic era, kicks off with To Steal a Heart, where a circus thief and an aristocratic spy ignite sparks amid espionage. A Raven’s Heart and A Counterfeit Heart follow, weaving suspense and sensuality.
The Bow Street Bachelors series dives into Regency London’s underbelly, with This Earl of Mine introducing a rakish earl turned investigator chasing a elusive thief. To Catch an Earl and The Princess and the Rogue continue the thrills, blending danger and desire. Her Ruthless Rivals series, like A Reckless Match, explores feuding families whose hatred turns to love, packed with witty banter and steamy encounters. Her Renaissance romp, The Devil to Pay, earned a 2019 RITA nomination, showcasing her knack for vibrant historical settings.
Known for intelligent heroines, snarky heroes, and “wickedly inappropriate banter,” Bateman’s style is both hot and heartfelt. Her books, translated into languages like French, Japanese, and Croatian, have earned starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal, cementing her as a genre favorite.
Why Kate Bateman Matters
Kate Bateman has redefined historical romance by infusing it with empowered women and emotionally rich narratives. Her heroines—whether counterfeiters or investigators—challenge conventions, resonating with readers who crave strong, relatable leads. By drawing on her antiques expertise, she crafts authentic, immersive worlds that transport fans to bygone eras.
Her impact extends beyond bookshelves, inspiring aspiring authors to take creative risks, much like her own leap from a dare to a three-book deal with Penguin Random House. With a growing fanbase and accolades like the 2018 Book Buyer’s Best award for A Counterfeit Heart, Bateman’s legacy is one of passion, wit, and timeless romance.
- Born: Around 1979, United Kingdom
- Key Works: To Steal a Heart, This Earl of Mine, The Devil to Pay, A Reckless Match
- Awards: 2019 RITA Finalist, 2018 Book Buyer’s Best for Best Historical Romance
- Fun Fact: She collects “wobbly furniture” and chipped china from auctions!
Snag To Steal a Heart and dive into Kate Bateman’s sizzling, history-soaked romances today!