Picture an American storyteller who reimagines Tudor England with a thrilling twist—meet Laura Andersen! With a passion for British history and a knack for weaving alternate histories, Andersen has carved a unique niche in historical fiction. Her Boleyn Trilogy captivates readers by asking, 'What if Anne Boleyn’s son had lived?'—a question that spins Tudor-era drama into fresh, addictive narratives.
Born with a love for stories, Andersen’s journey from a book-loving English major to a celebrated author is as inspiring as her novels. Her ability to blend historical accuracy with imaginative 'what-ifs' has earned her comparisons to giants like Philippa Gregory, making her a must-read for fans of royal intrigue and romance.
The Making of Laura Andersen
Laura Andersen grew up west of the Rocky Mountains, immersed in books and dreaming of far-off places. With a B.A. in English from Brigham Young University, emphasizing British history, she honed her love for the past. Writers like Dorothy Dunnett and Sharon Kay Penman fueled her imagination, while her eclectic tastes—from P.D. James’ mysteries to Tana French’s psychological thrillers—shaped her storytelling. After years of rejections, Andersen’s persistence paid off when her Boleyn Trilogy sold at auction in 2011, launching her career.
Life wasn’t always smooth: Andersen faced personal challenges, including her son’s cancer diagnosis in 2008. Yet, her resilience shone through, much like the strong characters she crafts. Her writing began as an escape, evolving into a calling that brought Tudor England to vivid life for readers worldwide.
Laura Andersen’s Unforgettable Stories
Andersen’s Boleyn Trilogy—The Boleyn King (2013), The Boleyn Deceit (2013), and The Boleyn Reckoning (2014)—reimagines a world where Anne Boleyn’s son, Henry IX (William), ascends the throne. This alternate history blends political intrigue, romance, and betrayal, focusing on William, his sister Elizabeth, and fictional friends Dominic and Minuette. Andersen’s prose is gripping, with a knack for making historical figures like Elizabeth Tudor feel both familiar and fresh.
Beyond the trilogy, Andersen penned the Tudor Legacy Trilogy (The Virgin’s Daughter, The Virgin’s Spy, The Virgin’s War), exploring Elizabeth I’s reign with new twists. Her standalone novel, The Darkling Bride (2018), shifts to a modern gothic mystery, showcasing her versatility. Andersen’s style balances meticulous research with emotional depth, creating immersive worlds where history and imagination collide.
Her love for Tudor-era details—swords, corsets, and courtly drama—shines through, but she’s unafraid to tweak history for narrative flair. Fans praise her for crafting plausible alternate realities that feel authentic, earning starred reviews from Booklist and Library Journal.
Why Laura Andersen Matters
Laura Andersen’s work redefines historical fiction by daring to rewrite the past. Her alternate histories invite readers to ponder how one change—like Anne Boleyn’s son surviving—could reshape a nation. Her focus on character-driven stories, especially strong women like Elizabeth Tudor, resonates with fans of feminist historical narratives. By blending romance, intrigue, and political drama, Andersen appeals to both history buffs and casual readers.
Her growing influence, marked by awards and a dedicated readership, cements her as a fresh voice in a crowded genre. Andersen’s ability to make Tudor England accessible and thrilling ensures her stories endure, inspiring new generations to explore the past with curiosity and wonder.
- Born: Date unavailable; raised west of the Rocky Mountains
- Key Works: Boleyn Trilogy, Tudor Legacy Trilogy, The Darkling Bride
- Awards: Award-winning author, with starred reviews from Booklist and Library Journal
- Influences: Dorothy Dunnett, Sharon Kay Penman, P.D. James
Ready to step into a Tudor world where history takes a thrilling turn? Grab The Boleyn King and dive into Laura Andersen’s captivating alternate histories!