Picture a British-French storyteller who weaves gothic tales with a feminist edge, pulling you into the shadowy halls of elite schools—meet Phoebe Wynne! A former Classics teacher turned novelist, Wynne crafts psychologically rich stories that unravel the dark side of privilege and tradition. Her debut, Madam, and follow-up, The Ruins, have captivated readers with their haunting settings and bold themes.
The Making of Phoebe Wynne
Born with dual British and French nationality, Phoebe Wynne grew up steeped in two cultures, splitting her time between England and France. She studied Classics at Royal Holloway, University of London, and later earned an education degree from King’s College, London. For eight years, she taught Classics in southern England and English Literature in Paris, experiences that shaped her sharp insights into institutional power dynamics. Wynne left teaching to pursue writing full-time, honing her craft in Los Angeles and London, where her passion for gothic literature and Greek mythology fueled her storytelling.
Phoebe Wynne’s Unforgettable Stories
Wynne’s debut novel, Madam (2021), is a chilling gothic thriller set in the fictional Caldonbrae Hall, a remote Scottish boarding school. The story follows Rose Christie, a young Classics teacher who uncovers sinister secrets beneath the school’s prestigious facade. Infused with Greek mythology and feminist themes, the novel critiques patriarchal traditions with a slow-burn intensity, earning comparisons to Margaret Atwood and Donna Tartt. Her second novel, The Ruins (2022), shifts to a French Riviera castle, blending dual timelines (1985 and 2010) to explore family secrets and tragedy. Wynne’s novella, part of In These Hallowed Halls, further showcases her knack for dark, atmospheric tales. Her style—rich with vivid settings, complex characters, and classical references—creates immersive narratives that linger long after the final page.
Wynne’s writing draws heavily on her teaching experiences, particularly in boarding schools, where she witnessed the weight of tradition and privilege. Her stories amplify marginalized voices, using mythology to parallel modern struggles, making her work both timeless and timely. Readers praise her ability to craft suspenseful plots that double as sharp social commentary.
Why Phoebe Wynne Matters
Phoebe Wynne’s impact lies in her fearless exploration of power, gender, and societal expectations. Her novels resonate with readers who crave stories that challenge the status quo while delivering gripping suspense. By blending classical mythology with contemporary issues, Wynne bridges ancient and modern worlds, offering fresh perspectives on women’s agency. Her growing acclaim as a gothic and feminist writer signals a bright future, with fans eagerly awaiting her next work.
- Birthplace: Dual British-French nationality, splits time between England and France.
- Key Works: Madam (2021), The Ruins (2022), In These Hallowed Halls (novella).
- Genres: Gothic fiction, feminist literature, psychological thriller.
Ready to dive into a world of eerie castles and fierce heroines? Grab Madam and lose yourself in Phoebe Wynne’s spellbinding gothic tales!