Picture a British historian who conjures the gritty, vibrant streets of medieval London with every page—meet Toni Mount! With her Sebastian Foxley Mystery series and captivating non-fiction, Mount weaves tales that blend meticulous research with thrilling storytelling, transporting readers to a world of murder, intrigue, and everyday medieval life. Her passion for uncovering the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary times has made her a beloved voice in historical literature.
From her home in Gravesend, Kent, Mount’s journey from scientist to storyteller is as fascinating as her novels. With an MA from the University of Kent and a knack for bringing history to life, she’s not just an author but a teacher, speaker, and creative force who inspires history buffs and mystery lovers alike.
The Making of Toni Mount
Born in Gravesend, Kent, Toni Mount’s early career was rooted in science, working in the pharmaceutical industry after studying chemistry. But history was her true calling. After joining an adult history class, she earned a BA from The Open University and an MA from the University of Kent, where she researched a 15th-century medical manuscript. This blend of scientific precision and historical curiosity shaped her unique voice. By 1999, she was teaching history to adults, eventually leading independent classes in Rochester and Gravesend, sparking her love for sharing medieval stories.
Toni Mount’s Unforgettable Stories
Mount’s Sebastian Foxley Mystery series is her crowning achievement, a collection of medieval murder mysteries set in the bustling, grimy streets of 15th-century London. The series follows Sebastian Foxley, a talented but hunchbacked artist and reluctant sleuth, as he navigates crimes from arson to alchemy. Titles like The Colour of Poison (2016) kick off the series with Seb racing to save his brother from the hangman’s rope, while The Colour of Sin (2024) sees him unraveling mysteries on a perilous pilgrimage to Canterbury. Each novel bursts with historical detail, from the stench of London’s alleys to the vibrancy of royal courts, earning praise for its “impeccable research” and “evocative storytelling.”
Beyond fiction, Mount’s non-fiction works shine a light on medieval life. Everyday Life in Medieval London, a number-one bestseller, explores the city’s diverse inhabitants, from Saxons to Tudors. Dragon’s Blood and Willow Bark (2015) delves into the mysteries of medieval medicine, while How to Survive in Medieval England offers a playful guide for time travelers. Her scientific background adds depth, making complex topics accessible and engaging.
Mount’s writing style is a masterclass in balance: vivid, atmospheric settings paired with tightly plotted mysteries. Her characters, like the endearing Seb Foxley, feel real, grappling with universal emotions in a vividly recreated past. Her ability to weave historical accuracy with page-turning plots has drawn comparisons to C.J. Sansom’s Matthew Shardlake.
Why Toni Mount Matters
Toni Mount’s impact lies in her ability to make history accessible and thrilling. Through her novels, non-fiction, and online courses at MedievalCourses.com, she brings medieval England to life for readers and students worldwide. Her talks, especially on “Medieval Housewives,” captivate audiences with anecdotes and insights, while her contributions to The Richard III Society and The Tudor Society cement her as a respected historian. With over 40,000 books sold and 13.5 million pages read, Mount’s work inspires a new generation to explore the past with curiosity and wonder.
- Born: Gravesend, Kent, England
- Key Works: Sebastian Foxley Mystery series, Everyday Life in Medieval London, How to Survive in Medieval England
- Notable: MA from University of Kent, contributor to MedievalCourses.com
Ready to step into the gritty, thrilling world of medieval London? Snag The Colour of Poison and dive into Toni Mount’s masterful storytelling!