Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of witches and magic from the wilds of Idaho—meet Louisa Morgan! A former classical and folk singer, she traded melodies for manuscripts, enchanting readers with her historical fantasy novels. Her debut, A Secret History of Witches, introduced a world where magic flows through generations, cementing her as a beloved voice in fantasy literature.
Now living in southwest Oregon with her loyal Border Terrier, Oscar, Louisa draws inspiration from nature and a vibrant community of authors. Her stories weave together the strength of women, the allure of magic, and the weight of history, inviting readers to lose themselves in spellbinding narratives.
The Making of Louisa Morgan
Born in Ross, California, Louisa Morgan—pseudonym of award-winning author Louise Marley—began her career not with a pen, but with a song. From age five, she performed as a professional singer, mastering folk and classical music. Her love for storytelling, however, was sparked by Will James’ Smoky, the Story of a Horse, a gift from her horse-loving father. She read it countless times, dreaming of one day crafting her own tales. After decades in music, she transitioned to writing, influenced by the Clarion West Writer’s Workshop and mentors like Greg Bear and Robin Hobb. This leap from stage to page marked the start of a new creative chapter.
Louisa Morgan’s Unforgettable Stories
Louisa’s novels blend historical fiction with magical realism, focusing on strong female characters and the legacy of witchcraft. Her debut, A Secret History of Witches (2017), follows five generations of Orchière witches, exploring their struggles to harness and hide their powers. Critics praised its rich generational saga, comparing it to Practical Magic. The Witch’s Kind (2019) shifts to post-World War II America, where two women protect a mysterious baby, blending suspense with emotional depth.
The Age of Witches (2020) dives into Gilded Age New York, pitting two magical families against each other in a tale of power and ambition. Her 2022 novel, The Great Witch of Brittany, traces the origins of the Orchière witches, introducing Ursule, a young woman discovering her magical destiny. Louisa’s latest, The Ghosts of Beatrice Bird (2023), explores hauntings and friendship, showcasing her versatility. Her lyrical prose and vivid historical settings create immersive worlds that resonate with fans of feminist fantasy.
With The Faerie Morgana set for release in September 2025, Louisa continues to explore magical narratives, reimagining figures like Morgan Le Fay. Her stories are layered yet accessible, balancing suspense, emotion, and enchantment, making her a standout in historical fantasy.
Why Louisa Morgan Matters
Louisa Morgan’s work celebrates the resilience of women, weaving magic into historical struggles to highlight their strength and agency. Her novels resonate with readers seeking empowering, character-driven stories, earning praise from outlets like the Boston Globe for their absorbing depth. By mentoring aspiring writers through workshops and engaging with book clubs, she fosters a creative community, leaving a lasting mark on the genre. Her ability to blend history, magic, and human connection ensures her stories endure.
- Born: Ross, California, USA
- Key Works: A Secret History of Witches, The Witch’s Kind, The Age of Witches, The Great Witch of Brittany, The Ghosts of Beatrice Bird
- Upcoming: The Faerie Morgana (September 2025)
- Influences: Clarion West Writer’s Workshop, Will James, nature
Snag A Secret History of Witches and dive into Louisa Morgan’s enchanting world of magic and history!