Carol Townend writes atmospheric historical novels (romances and sagas) set in the colourful Middle Ages. Born in Yorkshire, she went to a convent school high on the Whitby cliffs. Later, she studied history at Royal Holloway College, London. She lives in London with her husband and daughter. Carol's first novel, Sapphire in the Snow, won the RNA New Writers' Award. In 2013, Betrothed to the Barbarian was shortlisted for the RoNA Rose Award and in 2015 Unveiling Lady Clare was also shortlisted. Carol loves research, and spends much time hunting for excuses to go on research trips. She can often be seen teetering on the battlements of various European castles, or poring over a medieval map.