Picture an American storyteller who whisked readers into the heart of World War II with a whip-smart heroine—meet Susan Elia MacNeal! Known for her gripping Maggie Hope mystery series, MacNeal blends historical intrigue with page-turning suspense, earning her a spot on the New York Times bestseller list and a legion of devoted fans. From her publishing roots to crafting tales of espionage, her journey is as captivating as her novels.
Born in Buffalo, New York, MacNeal’s passion for storytelling bloomed early, nurtured by a love for literature that would shape her career. Her transition from editor to acclaimed author proves that sometimes, the best stories are the ones you write yourself.
The Making of Susan Elia MacNeal
Susan Elia MacNeal grew up in Buffalo, attending Nardin Academy before graduating cum laude from Wellesley College in 1991 with a degree in English. Her academic curiosity led her to cross-register at MIT and attend the Radcliffe Publishing Course at Harvard, setting the stage for a vibrant career in publishing. Starting as an intern at Random House under publisher Harold Evans, she climbed the ranks, working as an assistant to novelist John Irving and later as an editor at Viking Penguin and Dance Magazine. These roles honed her storytelling instincts, but it was a visit to Churchill’s underground war rooms in London that sparked her writing career, inspiring the creation of her iconic Maggie Hope series.
Susan Elia MacNeal’s Unforgettable Stories
MacNeal’s Maggie Hope series, starting with the Edgar-nominated Mr. Churchill’s Secretary (2012), introduces Maggie Hope, a brilliant mathematician turned spy navigating the perils of World War II. The novel, a Barry Award winner, immerses readers in London’s Blitz, blending meticulous historical research with heart-pounding mystery. Princess Elizabeth’s Spy (2012) follows Maggie undercover at Windsor Castle, guarding a young Princess Elizabeth, and landed on the New York Times bestseller list. His Majesty’s Hope (2013) sends Maggie into Nazi territory, earning praise for its daring plot, while The Last Hope (2024) concludes the series with Maggie facing a high-stakes mission in Spain.
MacNeal’s style is a masterclass in historical mystery, weaving real-life figures like Winston Churchill and Coco Chanel into her narratives. Her novels balance taut suspense with rich character development, celebrating unsung heroines like the Special Operations Executive spies who inspired Maggie. Beyond the series, her standalone novel Mother Daughter Traitor Spy (2022) explores a mother and daughter uncovering a Nazi plot in 1940s Los Angeles, showcasing her versatility.
Why Susan Elia MacNeal Matters
Susan Elia MacNeal’s work resonates because it honors the courage of women in wartime while delivering stories that thrill and educate. Her meticulous research brings history to life, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of World War II, like the SOE’s female operatives. With nominations for Edgar, Agatha, and Macavity awards, her influence in historical fiction is undeniable. MacNeal’s ability to craft strong, relatable heroines like Maggie Hope inspires readers to explore resilience and bravery in their own lives, making her a standout voice in the genre.
- Born: 1968, Buffalo, New York
- Key Works: Mr. Churchill’s Secretary, Princess Elizabeth’s Spy, The Last Hope, Mother Daughter Traitor Spy
- Awards: Barry Award winner; nominated for Edgar, Agatha, Macavity, and ITW Thriller awards
Ready to step into the thrilling world of espionage? Grab Mr. Churchill’s Secretary and dive into Susan Elia MacNeal’s masterful historical mysteries!