Lauren Belfer is an acclaimed American author, best known for her historical fiction novels. Born in Rochester, Belfer spent most of her childhood in Buffalo, where she attended Buffalo Seminary. This setting would later serve as the basis for her first novel, "City of Light," which is set in Buffalo during the early 20th century.
Belfer's parents were a significant influence on her creativity and love for history. Her mother was an art teacher, and her father was a history professor, who often discussed historical epochs with her during her childhood. This early exposure to history and art would later become the backbone of her writing, as she aimed to show the impact of global events on individual lives.
After graduating from Buffalo Seminary, Belfer attended Swarthmore College, where she received a Bachelor's degree in Medieval studies and Art History. She then went on to Columbia University, where she earned an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Belfer's love for creativity and history is evident in her writing, as she weaves historical facts and events into compelling narratives that engage readers.
Belfer's most recent novel is "Ashton Hall," which has received critical acclaim from publications such as the New York Times Book Review and Booklist. Her debut novel, "City of Light," was a New York Times bestseller and a Notable Book. Her second novel, "A Fierce Radiance," was named a Washington Post Best Novel, an NPR Best Mystery, and a New York Times Editors' Choice. Belfer's third novel, "And After the Fire," received the inaugural Book Club Award of the National Jewish Book Awards.
Despite facing rejection early in her career, Belfer persisted and continued to write. Her first published short story was rejected forty-two times before it found an editor who loved it, and her second published story was rejected only twenty-seven times. Belfer's determination and perseverance are a testament to her passion for writing and storytelling. She currently lives in New York City and continues to write historical fiction novels that captivate and engage readers.