Christopher C.W. Gortner is a bestselling American author, well-known for his historical fiction and spymaster thriller novels. Born in Malaga, Spain, Gortner grew up in a small village that offered a breathtaking view of the ruined castle that once served as the home of Isabella of Castile. This upbringing surrounded him with history, making historical characters and events a significant part of his childhood and influencing his future writing career.
Gortner's love for history led him to study the subject in college, eventually earning a master's degree in history. His novels have gained international acclaim and have been translated into more than twenty languages. Some of his most popular works include "The Spymaster Chronicles" and a series of standalone novels. These novels have been met with critical acclaim and have become bestsellers in the United States and Europe, appearing on the Marin Independent Journal, The Last Queen, American Booksellers Association, and USA Today bestseller lists. The Washington Independent Review of Books also recognized Gortner as one of the top historical novelists.
In addition to his writing, Gortner is an experienced public speaker, having given keynote speeches in the United Kingdom and the United States. He has spoken at various events, including the Historical Novel Society Conference, writers' conferences, book clubs, and women's groups. His talks focus on historical fiction, offering insights into his writing process and the historical context of his novels.
Before becoming a published author, Gortner spent over a decade working in public administration as a public health practitioner. He also spent a few years in the fashion industry. Gortner, who holds an MFA in Writing with an emphasis on Renaissance Studies, currently resides in Northern California. He has a website where readers can learn more about him and his books, and he welcomes reader group chats.