Picture a New England storyteller who unearthed forgotten heroines of history—meet Martha Hall Kelly! With her debut novel Lilac Girls, she spun a tale of courage and compassion that became a New York Times bestseller in 2016, captivating readers worldwide. Her historical fiction, rich with meticulously researched details and vibrant female protagonists, shines a light on women’s resilience during wartime, making her a beloved voice in contemporary literature.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Kelly’s journey from advertising copywriter to bestselling author is as inspiring as her stories. Her novels, translated into 50 countries and selling over two million copies, blend heart-wrenching history with hope, earning her a devoted global readership. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable writer!
The Making of Martha Hall Kelly
Martha Hall Kelly grew up in Milton, Massachusetts, surrounded by New England’s rich history, which later fueled her storytelling. After earning journalism degrees from Syracuse and Northwestern universities, she carved out a career as an advertising copywriter. But a serendipitous visit to a historical garden sparked an obsession with history, particularly the untold stories of women. Nearly 20 years ago, this curiosity led her to retire from advertising and dive headfirst into research, traveling to Europe to uncover the lives of World War II heroines. Despite no prior fiction experience, her passion for history and storytelling birthed a new career.
Martha Hall Kelly’s Unforgettable Stories
Kelly’s novels are a masterclass in historical fiction, weaving real events with vivid characters. Her debut, Lilac Girls (2016), follows Caroline Ferriday, a New York socialite turned philanthropist, who aids Polish women subjected to Nazi experiments at Ravensbrück concentration camp. The novel’s gripping narrative and emotional depth made it an instant bestseller, selling over two million copies. Its prequel, Lost Roses (2019), explores Caroline’s mother, Eliza Ferriday, during World War I, highlighting women’s friendships amid revolution.
Sunflower Sisters (2021) shifts to the Civil War, tracing Caroline’s ancestor, Georgeanna Woolsey, a Union nurse, alongside an enslaved girl named Jemma. Kelly’s latest, The Golden Doves (2023), returns to World War II, following two female spies hunting a Nazi doctor post-war. Her upcoming novel, The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club (May 2025), promises another heartfelt tale. Kelly’s style—empathetic, research-driven, and female-focused—brings history to life, making readers feel every triumph and tragedy.
Why Martha Hall Kelly Matters
Martha Hall Kelly’s impact lies in her ability to resurrect forgotten women’s stories, from concentration camp survivors to Civil War nurses. Her novels not only entertain but educate, shedding light on lesser-known historical moments with compassion and authenticity. By centering strong, complex female characters, she inspires readers to reflect on resilience and humanity. Her work has sparked book club discussions worldwide, fostering a deeper appreciation for history’s unsung heroines. Kelly’s legacy is one of empathy, proving that stories can heal and unite across generations.
- Born: Milton, Massachusetts
- Key Works: Lilac Girls, Lost Roses, Sunflower Sisters, The Golden Doves
- Notable: Over two million books sold, translated into 50 countries
- Upcoming: The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club (May 2025)
About Martha Hall Kelly
Ready to be swept away by history’s heroines? Snag Lilac Girls and dive into Martha Hall Kelly’s captivating world of historical fiction!