Order of Ariana Franklin Books

Ariana Franklin was the pseudonym used by acclaimed British writer Diana Norman (1933-2011) for her captivating historical fiction works. Writing under this name, she crafted two beloved series: the Mistress of the Art of Death books and the Makepeace Hedley novels.

Norman's writing journey began in journalism, where she made her mark as the youngest reporter working on Fleet Street. Her life took a new direction when she married renowned film critic Barry Norman, leading her to step back from journalism due to conflicts with her husband's profession. She then embraced motherhood in the English countryside, where she continued pursuing her passion for writing in whatever moments she could find.

Diana Norman first entered the publishing world in 1980 with Fitzempress' Law, written under her real name. It wasn't until 2006 that she introduced the Ariana Franklin pen name with City of Shadows, a novel that earned recognition through its Barry Award nomination for Best Novel.

Her extensive bibliography spans both identities - the Makepeace Hedley series, the non-fiction work Terrible Beauty, and standalone novels including Fitzempress' Law, King of the Last Days, The Morning Gift, Daughter of Lir, Pirate Queen, The Vizard Mask, Shores of Darkness, and Blood Royal were all published as Diana Norman. The Siege Winter represents a collaborative effort with Samantha Norman.

Several of her titles have appeared under alternate names: The Serpent's Tale was also released as The Death Maze, Relics of the Dead is known as Grave Goods, and A Murderous Procession carries the alternative title The Assassin's Prayer.