Essie Fox was born and grew up in Herefordshire. She now lives in Windsor.
 
After studying English Literature at Sheffield University she first worked for the Telegraph Sunday Magazine, and then the book publishers, George Allen & Unwin – before moving into art and design, a career that lasted twenty years.
 
Always an avid reader, Essie also yearned to write. She has now published four historical novels with Orion Books. Her debut, The Somnambulist, one of three Victorian gothic mysteries, was shortlisted for the 2012 National Book Awards, and also featured on Channel 4’s TV Book Club. Subsequent titles were selected for the You Magazine Reading Group, and The Times Historical Book of the Month.
 
As well as appearing at many literary festivals and book events, Essie writes the popular blog (The Virtual Victorian). She has been interviewed on local and national radio, as well as contributing articles to newspapers and magazines. She has lectured at the V&A, and the National Gallery.