Laura du Pre

Reading historical fiction was my guilty pleasure when I was a kid. I think I learned more about history from reading Jean Plaidy's novels. It wasn't a big surprise when I decided to go to graduate school and get my own degree in history.

Before I became a writer, I worked full time as an archivist. I spent 40 hours a week talking with full-time academics and researchers, secretly envying them for being on the other side of the table. Eventually, I got tired of handing historical documents to other people and decided to write historical fiction full time. Man, am I glad I made that switch!

In school, I researched the Gilded Age and the 1920s of the American South, so French history really wasn't part of my curriculum. I ran across some stories about my ancestors, who I was shocked to learn had a “French-sounding last name.” While I researched her and her Huguenot ancestors, I ran across the people of the Valois dynasty. I really never left their era, so you're looking at my refusal to leave.

The Three Graces Trilogy continues with the eldest sister, Henriette and will conclude with middle sister Catherine's story. Why did I choose that order? You really will have to read to find out for yourself. I'm available 24/7 at www.lauradupre.com. Stop by there for a free short story and make sure you'll be the first to hear about new releases and special discounts.