Picture a storyteller who weaves love, history, and suspense into tales that transport you to Ireland’s rugged heart—meet Lorna Peel! A British-born Irish novelist, Peel has enchanted readers with her romantic suspense and historical romance novels, most notably her gripping The Fitzgeralds of Dublin series. With a knack for blending meticulous research with heartfelt storytelling, she’s carved a niche in the world of Irish historical fiction.
From her rural Irish home, where she tends to chickens and delves into genealogy, Peel crafts stories that resonate with authenticity and emotion. Her journey from a professional genealogist to a beloved author is as captivating as her novels, inviting readers to explore Ireland’s past through her vivid prose.
The Making of Lorna Peel
Born in England and raised in North Wales, Lorna Peel’s life took a transformative turn when her family moved to rural Ireland during her youth. This shift sparked a lifelong passion for Irish history and culture, which now permeates her writing. Her diverse heritage—Irish, Dutch, German, Scottish, and Welsh—fuels her fascination with genealogy, a theme woven into her novels. Before becoming a full-time writer, Peel worked as a professional genealogist and tour guide, honing her research skills and deepening her connection to Ireland’s past.
Peel’s writing career began with her debut novel, Only You (2014), a contemporary romance that showcased her ability to craft compelling relationships. Inspired by authors like Sharon Penman and Thomas Hardy, she transitioned to historical romance, finding her true calling with The Fitzgeralds of Dublin series. Her stubborn determination to refine her craft, despite early discouragement from teachers, has made her a standout voice in Irish literature.
Lorna Peel’s Unforgettable Stories
Lorna Peel’s novels are a masterclass in blending romance, suspense, and historical detail. Her flagship series, The Fitzgeralds of Dublin, is a gritty family saga set in 19th-century Ireland. The series kicks off with A Scarlet Woman (2017), where Dr. Will Fitzgerald and Isobel Stevens navigate love and societal judgment in 1880s Dublin. The novel’s rich depiction of the Liberties, a poverty-stricken area, highlights Peel’s commitment to historical accuracy.
Other standout works include A Suitable Wife (2018), which delves into family secrets, and A Discarded Son (2020), exploring inheritance and betrayal. Her standalone novel Into The Unknown (2015) blends World War II romance with mystery, showcasing her versatility. Peel’s style is marked by slow-burn romances, suspenseful twists, and a deep respect for Ireland’s cultural tapestry, making her stories both immersive and emotionally resonant.
Peel’s love for history shines through her meticulous research, often inspired by her own family tree explorations. Her novels avoid insta-love, instead focusing on relationships that evolve organically, earning praise from readers for their authenticity. Whether set in Victorian Dublin or wartime London, her stories capture the resilience of the human spirit.
Why Lorna Peel Matters
Lorna Peel’s impact lies in her ability to breathe life into Ireland’s past, making history accessible through relatable characters and gripping narratives. Her work resonates with fans of historical romance and Irish fiction, offering a window into the social and cultural complexities of 19th-century Ireland. By centering strong, nuanced female characters like Isobel Stevens, Peel challenges traditional gender roles, adding depth to the genre.
As a self-published author, Peel’s success underscores the power of independent storytelling. Her dedication to genealogy and historical accuracy has earned her a loyal readership, while her engaging newsletters and exclusive prequels keep fans connected. In a crowded genre, Peel’s unique voice—rooted in her Irish home and heritage—sets her apart as a storyteller to watch.
- Born: England, raised in North Wales and Ireland
- Key Works: Only You, Into The Unknown, The Fitzgeralds of Dublin series
- Fun Fact: Peel keeps guinea hens and grows her own vegetables!
Ready to lose yourself in a tale of love and history? Snag A Scarlet Woman and dive into Lorna Peel’s captivating world of Irish romance!