I’m still over the moon (and what a gorgeous moon it was last night as Arthur and I celebrated under the stars!) to share that The King’s Intelligencer has been awarded Gold in Tudor and Stuarts Historical Fiction—and crowned 2024 BOOK OF THE YEAR by The Coffee Pot Book Club.
This honour feels especially poignant because this book almost didn’t get written. At one point, I’d stuffed the manuscript in the bottom drawer, convinced I couldn’t make it work. Writing about Franny Apsley’s perilous world of espionage and court intrigue was daunting, and I began to doubt my ability to do her story justice. But then, something remarkable happened—a message from the past that changed everything.
Out of nowhere, a long-lost portrait of Sir Allen Apsley, Franny’s grandfather, resurfaced, accompanied by a newly transcribed will detailing her father’s life, which threw light on a curious part of his life at court. Suddenly, I had a deeper understanding of his legacy and its impact on Franny. These discoveries gave me fresh insights into my characters and inspired me to dig deeper into the layers of history shaping their lives.
I couldn’t have done it without the encouragement of friends, family, and beta readers who believed in me—even when I didn’t believe in myself. This journey has been a powerful reminder of the value of persistence, curiosity, and the magic of uncovering hidden stories.
Thank you to everyone who helped bring The King’s Intelligencer to life. Be sure to check out all the amazing medalists on The Coffee Pot Book Club—you’re in for a literary treat!
Never give up, dear writers. Sometimes, history sends you exactly the inspiration you need.
You’re a wonderful writer. Congratulations on the awards.
Thanks so much Michael, that’s very kind of you!