Picture a British storyteller spinning tales of magic and myth along the rugged Jurassic Coast—meet Lucy Hounsom! Writing as both Lucy Hounsom and Lucy Holland, this fantasy author has captivated readers with her intricate worlds and heartfelt characters. From the epic Worldmaker Trilogy to the bestselling Sistersong, Hounsom blends folklore, history, and feminist themes, all while co-hosting the award-winning podcast Breaking the Glass Slipper.
Born in 1986, Hounsom’s journey from bookseller to fantasy luminary is as enchanting as her stories. Her passion for speculative fiction and diverse representation shines through, making her a unique voice in modern fantasy.
The Making of Lucy Hounsom
Growing up in Berkshire’s Thames Valley, Lucy Hounsom was a dreamer who trained as an actress and dancer at Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead. Yet, her heart belonged to storytelling, inspired by giants like Tolkien, Terry Pratchett, and Alan Garner. She honed her craft with a BA in English and Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, University of London, followed by an MA under poet Andrew Motion. For twelve years, she worked at Waterstones, immersing herself in books before becoming a full-time author in 2022. Her debut, Starborn, was plucked from an agent’s slush pile, launching her into the fantasy scene.
Lucy Hounsom’s Unforgettable Stories
Hounsom’s Worldmaker Trilogy—Starborn (2015), Heartland (2016), and Firestorm (2017)—follows Kyndra, a young woman with star-born powers navigating a world of magic and peril. Praised for its evocative worldbuilding and complex characters, Starborn earned a shortlist spot in the 2016 Gemmell Awards for Best Fantasy Debut. The trilogy’s magic system, drawing from sun and moon, showcases Hounsom’s knack for blending myth with intricate societal dynamics.
Writing as Lucy Holland, Hounsom’s Sistersong (2021) reimagines the folk ballad ‘The Twa Sisters,’ set in ancient Devon. This New York Times bestseller weaves historical fantasy with themes of gender identity and betrayal, earning finalist spots for the Goldsboro Books Glass Bell Award and the British Fantasy Award in 2022. Her 2024 release, Song of the Huntress, dives into the myths of the Erlking and the Wild Hunt, delivering a dark, sapphic love story. Hounsom’s style—rich, emotive, and steeped in folklore—creates worlds that feel both timeless and fresh.
Her work stands out for its focus on queer narratives and regional histories, often exploring the Otherworld and medieval Welsh literature. Whether crafting epic battles or intimate character moments, Hounsom’s stories resonate with readers craving depth and diversity.
Why Lucy Hounsom Matters
Lucy Hounsom’s impact extends beyond her novels. Through Breaking the Glass Slipper, a podcast she co-hosts, she champions women in speculative fiction, earning a British Fantasy Award for Best Audio in 2019. Her advocacy for diverse voices challenges genre norms, inspiring new writers and readers. As a tutor for Curtis Brown Creative’s Writing Fantasy course, she nurtures the next generation of storytellers. In 2024, UNESCO Cities of Literature named her one of the ILX10: Rising Stars of UK Writing, cementing her influence.
Hounsom’s ability to weave myth, history, and inclusivity makes her a vital voice in British fantasy. Her stories invite readers to explore complex identities and ancient tales, leaving a lasting mark on the genre.
- Born: April 1986, Berkshire, UK
- Key Works: Worldmaker Trilogy, Sistersong, Song of the Huntress
- Awards: British Fantasy Award for Best Audio (2019), Gemmell Awards shortlist (2016)
- Fun Fact: She lives in Devon with two cats and a piano!
Snag Sistersong or dive into the Worldmaker Trilogy to experience Lucy Hounsom’s magical blend of myth and heart!