Hazel Gaynor is an award-winning, New York Times, USA Today, Irish Times and internationally bestselling author known for her historical novels which explore the defining events of the 20th century. A debut author recipient of the 2015 RNA Historical Novel of the Year award, her work has since been shortlisted for the 2019 HWA Gold Crown Award, the 2020 RNA Awards, and the Irish Book Awards in 2017, 2020 and 2023. THE BIRD IN THE BAMBOO CAGE was a bestseller in the USA and her most recent novel, THE LAST LIFEBOAT, was a Times of London historical novel of the month and a 2024 Audie winner for Best Fiction Narrator. Hazel's next novel, BEFORE DOROTHY, will be published in June 2025. Her co-written historical novels with Heather Webb have all been published to critical acclaim. Their latest collaboration, CHRISTMAS WITH THE QUEEN, will be published in November 2024. Her work has been translated into 20 languages in 27 territories to date. She lives in Ireland with her family.

‘Atmospheric’ My Weekly‘Shines a brilliant light on female courage and endurance…A splendid read’ Kate Quinn, New York Times Bestselling Author of The Alice Network‘This exquisite, thoroughly researched book places her a clear head and shoulders above the rest.’ Sunday Independent‘Beautiful, heart-wrenching yet life affirming – I loved it.’ Fionnuala Kearney author of You, Me and Other People‘A compelling read, the best kind of historical fiction.’ Portobello Book Blog‘So absorbing, I couldn’t put it down.’ Book Chat‘Hazel delivers a cast of strong, courageous women for readers to fall in love with.’ writing.iePraise for Hazel Gaynor:‘This is a gorgeous, uplifting, magical book that will have you hooked from the start.’ Gill Paul author of The Secret Wife‘Peopled with unforgettable characters…Once begun, I dare you to put it down.’ Kathleen Tessaro, author of The Perfume Collector‘Beautiful, heart-wrenching yet life affirming – I loved it.’ Fionnuala Kearney, author of You, Me and Other People‘Hazel delivers a cast of strong, courageous women for readers to fall in love with.’ writing.ie‘Her pages pulse with luxurious language and fine detail… an emotive and accessible read' Gloss Magazine‘Gorgeously written’ Irish Independent