About Me
I am a naturally curious person who often reflects deeply on the past. It's no wonder that I enjoy studying history and writing historical fiction. My maternal grandparents served during World War II, and their stories of bravery and sacrifice have fuelled my imagination since I was a child, inspiring me to delve deep into the archives. Once I began researching, I couldn't resist sharing what I had learned.
My writing journey began with historical fiction set during WW2, but I have since explored other genres, such as contemporary romance. What fascinates me is that the past often influences the present, and this is reflected in my contemporary stories as well. To me, the past isn't just history - it's full of lessons and echoes that shape the stories we tell today.
My debut novel, The Beauty Shop, is the one I hold most dear. It won a B.R.A.G. Medallion and is based on the true story of the RAF Guinea Pig Club. This will always be my most cherished book. When I first stumbled upon the story of this lesser-known club, I knew I had to bring it to life. Meeting and speaking with two former WW2 pilots from the club was unforgettable. They loved the novel, especially the aerial scenes, which meant more to me than any award ever could.
My second novel, Madame Fiocca was inspired by the real-life SOE agent, Nancy Wake. I am now diving into a new WW2 series that has been more challenging than my other books, but as I sit here drinking endless cups of tea, I am glad to say I am making good progress.
The bestselling Christmas in the Highlands was the first contemporary romance novel I released and I am currently working on a new romantic fiction series.
As someone who originally comes from the north of England, I have lived in the southwest and also spent a brief period in Scotland before settling down in a charming area of Cumbria with my family. Our forever home is a Victorian sandstone house that stays cool in the summer and warms up nicely in the winter when we light the stoves. With Hadrian’s Wall on one side and the Lake District fells on the other, it's easy to immerse myself in the history of the area as I walk in the footsteps of Wordsworth, Coleridge, Beatrix Potter, and Arthur Ransome.
My writing room faces east, providing me with an incredible view of the Pennines, with fields dotted with sheep and cattle, and farmhouses scattered across the landscape. When I write, there are only two things I need: peace and copious amounts of tea throughout the day. As Winston Churchill said in 1942, “Tea is more important than ammunition.”
When I’m not writing, I love exploring the lakes, fells, and forests nearby. On wild, stormy days, you'll find me curled up with a book or watching Netflix when I'm not running on the treadmill.
I'm also a proud member of The Society of Authors and the Alliance of Independent Authors.
Hailing from the north of England
Sign up for Suzy’s readers' group and get a free copy of Spitfire.
From the author of the WW2 novels, THE BEAUTY SHOP & MADAME FIOCCA, comes a gripping, heart-wrenching story of a Spitfire pilot caught up in the storm of the Dunkirk evacuations in 1940.
Along with a free book you will also get exclusive previews of cover reveals, the latest book news and giveaways along with historical and writing-related articles.
© Suzy Henderson 2023. All rights reserved.
