Kate Quinn is a bestselling American author celebrated for her richly detailed historical fiction. A graduate of Boston University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in classical voice, Quinn blends her love of history with a gift for vivid storytelling. Her novels often center on courageous women whose lives intersect with pivotal moments in history, from ancient Rome to the battlefields and espionage networks of the 20th century.
Quinn first gained recognition with the Empress of Rome saga, a four-book series that immerses readers in the politics, intrigue, and drama of ancient Rome. She later shifted focus to more modern settings with The Alice Network (2017), a dual-timeline story connecting a World War I female spy ring with a post-World War II search for truth. This novel became an international bestseller and solidified her reputation for combining historical accuracy with emotional resonance.
Her subsequent works, including The Huntress (2019), The Rose Code (2021), and The Diamond Eye (2022), continued to explore themes of friendship, resilience, and the untold contributions of women in history. The Rose Code was particularly praised for its portrayal of the women codebreakers at Bletchley Park, while The Diamond Eye drew inspiration from the real-life Soviet sniper Lyudmila Pavlichenko.
Quinn is also a skilled collaborator, contributing to multi-author historical novels such as Ribbons of Scarlet, A Day of Fire, and A Song of War. Her 2024 release, The Briar Club, set in a Washington, D.C., boardinghouse during the McCarthy era, delves into secrets, loyalty, and female solidarity. Looking ahead, she plans to branch into magical realism with The Astral Library (scheduled for February 2026).
Known for her immersive research, compelling characters, and the ability to make history feel alive, Kate Quinn has become a beloved voice in historical fiction, attracting readers worldwide.
