Picture a British storyteller who spun gothic mysteries and sweeping family sagas, then found her true voice in tales of faith and redemption—meet Susan Howatch! Born in 1940 in Surrey, England, Howatch captivated readers with her intricate plots and deep dives into human nature, blending history, spirituality, and drama in a way that’s utterly unforgettable.
From her early gothic novels to the beloved Starbridge series, Howatch’s journey as a writer mirrors her own spiritual awakening, making her a unique voice in historical fiction. Let’s explore the life, works, and lasting impact of this remarkable novelist.
The Making of Susan Howatch
Born Susan Elizabeth Sturt on July 14, 1940, in Leatherhead, Surrey, Howatch grew up as an only child, her father, a stockbroker, having died during World War II. Despite this loss, she described her childhood as happy, studying at Sutton High School and later earning a law degree from King’s College, London, in 1961. In 1964, she moved to the United States, working as a secretary in New York City before marrying sculptor Joseph Howatch. It was here, at her kitchen table in New Jersey, that she began crafting her first novel, The Dark Shore (1965), launching a career that would soon soar.
Susan Howatch’s Unforgettable Stories
Howatch’s early works were gothic novels, filled with suspense and intricate plots, like The Shrouded Walls (1968) and The Devil on Lammas Night (1970). But she hit her stride with family sagas, starting with Penmarric (1971), a sprawling tale of the Penmar family in Cornwall, inspired by the Plantagenets. This bestseller, written while caring for her young daughter, showcased her knack for weaving historical drama with personal turmoil.
Her most celebrated work, the Starbridge series (1987–1995), marked a profound shift. Set in the fictional Starbridge Cathedral, these six novels—starting with Glittering Images—explore the Church of England through the 20th century, blending theology, psychology, and rich character studies. Inspired by her move to Salisbury and a spiritual epiphany, Howatch infused these books with Anglican themes, earning praise for their depth and emotional resonance. Later, the St. Benet’s Trilogy (1997–2003), including The Wonder Worker, continued her exploration of faith, tackling modern dilemmas with a thrilling edge.
Howatch’s style is a masterclass in complexity—her plots are layered, her characters flawed yet compelling, and her themes of redemption and morality resonate deeply. Whether it’s the gothic chill of her early works or the spiritual intensity of Starbridge, her stories invite readers to ponder life’s big questions.
Why Susan Howatch Matters
Susan Howatch didn’t just write novels; she bridged genres and eras, blending historical fiction with spiritual insight. Her Starbridge series redefined religious fiction, offering a nuanced look at faith that appealed to both secular and spiritual readers. By funding the Starbridge Lecturer post at Cambridge University, she also fostered dialogue between science and religion, leaving a legacy beyond the page. Her ability to craft stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking has kept her work relevant, inspiring readers to explore the intersections of history, faith, and human experience.
About Susan Howatch
- Birth Date: July 14, 1940, in Leatherhead, Surrey, England
- Key Works: Penmarric, Starbridge series, St. Benet’s Trilogy
- Awards: Honorary Doctor of Letters from Hope College (2012)
- Fun Fact: She wrote her first bestseller, Penmarric, at her kitchen table while raising her daughter!
Snag Glittering Images and dive into Susan Howatch’s spellbinding world of faith, drama, and history!