Joanna Hickson is a renowned author from the United Kingdom, known for her exceptional work in the historical fiction genre. She was born in Hertfordshire and spent her childhood in England and Australia, where she developed a deep love for history, particularly medieval history. Hickson was inspired by the history plays of Shakespeare, and this interest in history stayed with her throughout her life.
After completing her education, Hickson embarked on a career in journalism, working for the BBC for over twenty-five years. During her time at the BBC, she worked as an arts and news journalist, presenter on television and radio in Scotland and London, and producer and presenter of News and Arts programs. Hickson's background in journalism and her passion for history have greatly influenced her writing, enabling her to create vivid and engaging historical narratives.
Hickson's debut novel, The Agincourt Bride, is the first in a series of historical novels published by Harper Collins. The novel tells the story of Catherine de Valois, the daughter of the 15th century French King Charles VI, from the point of view of Mette, a Parisian baker's daughter who becomes Catherine's wet nurse and close companion. Hickson's fascination with Catherine de Valois and her life has been a long-standing interest, and her research and attention to detail bring the character and the period to life.
Hickson now writes full-time and continues to indulge her passion for medieval history. She lives in an ancient farmhouse in East Lothian, Scotland, with her husband and a wayward Irish terrier. She enjoys engaging with her readers on social media, including Twitter and Facebook, and encourages them to join her in her explorations of the fifteenth century.