Imogen Hermes Gowar

Gowar interrogates the intersection of history and narrative through her richly detailed writing, as seen in her debut novel, "The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock". Her work often explores themes of women’s roles in historical contexts, drawing on her academic background in Archaeology, Anthropology, and Art History. The novel, which gained critical acclaim and a Betty Trask Award, delves into 1780s London, focusing on the interconnected lives of a merchant and a courtesan. Her fiction benefits from a strong sense of material culture and empathetic character exploration, allowing readers to engage deeply with historical and personal complexities.\n\nHer professional experience in museums, notably at the British Museum, serves as a vital method in her creative process. This background inspired Gowar to craft stories that imaginatively reconstruct historical narratives, addressing how history shapes individual lives. Her emphasis on material artifacts as storytelling devices provides a unique lens for examining the past, making her work particularly compelling for those interested in historical fiction and women’s history. Moreover, her active involvement in teaching and facilitating historical fiction courses enriches the literary community by fostering new voices in the genre.\n\nWhile working on a second book about Lady Eleanor Talbot, a figure from the Wars of the Roses, Gowar continues to expand her repertoire. This ongoing project highlights her dedication to uncovering women's hidden histories. Her contributions to literature have been recognized with various accolades, such as being shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction. For readers seeking a bio that showcases a writer’s dedication to historical themes and narrative depth, Gowar’s work offers a profound exploration of the past and its lasting impact on the present.