My own story
I'm a passionate pursuer of lost and hidden stories of the Elizabethan age. I endeavor to craft stories that are thoroughly researched and follow actual historical figures’ lives exceptionally accurately, using primary sources such as period letters, ambassadorial reports, court records, land records, and—plot twist—within the rich symbolism and classical allusions of Elizabethan literature.
History of a history buff
Hello! I’m Dorothea Dickerman, writer and recovering lawyer. I retired as a partner from a 34-year career at a large international law firm to research and write historical fiction and essays exploring the closing chapter of the Tudor Age, the Elizabethan era.
My academic journey includes earning a B.A. from Amherst College summa cum laude in English and Political Science, followed by a J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School. I am a member of the Historical Novel Society North America.
With a unique blend of legal experience, meticulous research of primary source historical, legal and literary documents, and firsthand travels across England, Italy and beyond, I specialize in providing rich context to Tudor law, history, politics and personalities.
My mission is to peel back the layers of the Elizabethan age, exploring its enigmatic depths and hidden, darker and enchanting secrets. Where “official” historical records present gaps, my work begins – digging into the personal motivations that shaped the actions of the era. I venture into territories often overlooked by traditional historians, mining stories from literary works and otherwise overlooked details that can help explain broader historical phenomenon like conflicts, betrayals and political maneuverings.
While some may assume that, as a novelist, I simply invent tales about the Elizabethan court, I assure you that my work is firmly grounded in fact. Through my research, writing and multimedia content, I invite you to join me on a journey into this captivating world. The hidden side of history is the truest and most fascinating of all.
The Team
No writer does it all on her own. I rely on my two dachshund colleagues for a lot of the (short) leg work. While my Instagram focus is all things Elizabethan, let's just say it's not entirely free of the exploits and adventures of these characters.
Let’s Connect
I love to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
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