Picture a storyteller who spins forgotten voices into vibrant historical tapestries—meet Katherine J. Chen! This rising star in historical fiction has captivated readers with her bold reimaginings of overlooked figures, from a quiet Bennet sister to the fiery Joan of Arc. With a knack for blending meticulous research with compelling prose, Chen’s novels breathe new life into familiar stories, earning her accolades and a devoted following.
Born with a passion for storytelling, Chen’s journey from a Princeton graduate to an award-winning author is as inspiring as her characters. Her work, marked by feminist perspectives and vivid narratives, has appeared in prestigious outlets like The New York Times and Literary Hub, cementing her as a fresh voice in literature.
The Making of Katherine J. Chen
Katherine J. Chen’s path to authorship began with a love for stories, nurtured at Princeton University, where she studied English and honed her craft under acclaimed writers like Susanna Moore and C.K. Williams. After graduating in 2012, she worked at a literary agency, immersing herself in the world of books. Her MFA from Boston University, where she earned the Florence Engel Randall Fiction Prize, sharpened her skills as a senior teaching fellow. Personal challenges, including her family’s bankruptcy and a thyroid cancer diagnosis, fueled her writing, infusing her stories with raw emotion and resilience.
Katherine J. Chen’s Unforgettable Stories
Chen’s debut novel, Mary B (2018), reimagines Mary Bennet, the overlooked middle sister from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Far from the prim wallflower, Chen’s Mary is a passionate, witty woman navigating love, scandal, and independence in a restrictive society. Critics praised its fresh take, with readers charmed by its homage to Austen’s classic.
In Joan: A Novel of Joan of Arc (2022), Chen transforms the legendary saint into a fierce, flawed warrior. This feminist retelling, which won the 2023 American Library in Paris Book Award, portrays Joan as a physically powerful teenager driven by anger and ambition. Translated into nine languages, the novel’s vivid prose and action-packed storytelling earned raves from Hilary Mantel and The New York Times.
Chen also contributed to Stories from Suffragette City, a historical fiction anthology, showcasing her ability to craft compelling short narratives. Her upcoming novel, under contract with Random House, will explore the complex sibling dynamic between Morgan le Fay and King Arthur, promising another bold dive into Arthurian legend.
Why Katherine J. Chen Matters
Katherine J. Chen’s work resonates because it amplifies marginalized voices—women like Mary Bennet and Joan of Arc who defy expectations. Her feminist lens challenges traditional narratives, offering readers empowering, nuanced heroines. As a doctoral student at Brown University, Chen continues to push literary boundaries, blending academic rigor with creative passion. Her ability to make history feel urgent and personal has earned her a growing fanbase and critical acclaim, marking her as a vital voice in historical fiction.
- Birthplace: United States
- Key Works: Mary B (2018), Joan: A Novel of Joan of Arc (2022)
- Awards: 2023 American Library in Paris Book Award, Florence Engel Randall Fiction Prize
- Education: B.A. Princeton University, MFA Boston University, Ph.D. candidate at Brown University
Snag Joan: A Novel of Joan of Arc or Mary B and dive into Katherine J. Chen’s thrilling historical fiction! Her stories of fierce women and forgotten voices will leave you inspired and eager for her next tale.