Kelly Gardiner writes historical fiction, fantasy, and crime fiction for all ages. Her latest series is The Firewatcher Chronicles and her other books include 1917, shortlisted for the NSW Premier’sYoung People’s History Prize; Act of Faith and The Sultan’s Eyes, both shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards; and the Swashbuckler pirate trilogy. Goddess, a novel based on the life of the queer, sword fighting cross-dressing opera star, Mademoiselle de Maupin, is being adapted for the screen.

Kelly taught creative writing at La Trobe University for many years and is now writing full-time.