Picture an American storyteller who traded a zookeeper’s leash for a pen, weaving historical worlds that captivate readers—meet Libbie Hawker! Born in Rexburg, Idaho, this self-published sensation has crafted over two dozen novels, from ancient Egypt’s pharaohs to the rugged American frontier, all while tending her one-acre farm near Friday Harbor, Washington. Her richly detailed historical fiction and vibrant characters have earned her a devoted following and a spot on bestseller lists.
The Making of Libbie Hawker
Growing up between Idaho’s rural landscapes and Seattle’s urban pulse, Libbie Hawker (also known as Olivia Hawker and L.M. Ironside) was shaped by the stark beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the Puget Sound’s storied past. Her eclectic career—from zookeeper to yarn dyer—fueled her storytelling grit. After years of rejection from traditional publishers, she embraced indie publishing in 2011, finding freedom to write on her terms. Inspired by literary giants like Hilary Mantel and Vladimir Nabokov, Hawker honed a voice that blends historical precision with emotional depth.
Libbie Hawker’s Unforgettable Stories
Hawker’s novels are time machines, transporting readers to vividly realized eras. Her The She-King series, written as L.M. Ironside, follows Hatshepsut, Egypt’s powerful female pharaoh, with meticulous detail and gripping drama. Mercer Girls, part of the Old Seattle series, paints 1860s Seattle through the eyes of women seeking new lives, earning a finalist nod for the Willa Literary Award. Calamity reimagines the legendary Calamity Jane, blending myth and raw truth in a poignant American West saga. Hawker’s style shines in her complex characters—flawed, fierce women navigating history’s challenges—and her ability to make distant eras feel intimate and alive.
Beyond fiction, Hawker’s nonfiction, like Take Off Your Pants!, guides aspiring writers with practical outlining tips, reflecting her knack for demystifying the craft. Her stories often explore themes of resilience and identity, resonating with readers who crave both historical accuracy and emotional heft.
Why Libbie Hawker Matters
Libbie Hawker’s impact lies in her fearless independence and her gift for humanizing history. By self-publishing, she bypassed gatekeepers, proving that talent and tenacity can triumph. Her novels, lauded for their depth and authenticity, have hit the Washington Post and Amazon Top 100 lists, inspiring book clubs and historical fiction fans. Hawker’s farm life and quirky passions—like her podcast on 80s cartoons—add a relatable charm, making her a beacon for writers and readers alike.
- Born: Rexburg, Idaho
- Key Works: The She-King, Mercer Girls, Calamity, Take Off Your Pants!
- Awards: Finalist for Washington State Book Award, Willa Literary Award, Audie Award
- Fun Fact: Lives on a one-acre farm with plans for a sheep dairy
Snag Mercer Girls or The She-King and dive into Libbie Hawker’s spellbinding historical worlds!