Ruth Goldstraw was born in Coventry and studied Archaeology at University College, Cardiff. She worked as an antiquities restorer at the British Museum, before moving to Shropshire. The bleak beauty of the Mosses in the north of the county, and the fascinating history of the area, inspired her to write The Witchfinder’s Assistant.

Ruth has won short story competitions and is particularly proud of coming second in a limerick contest. She now lives in the Cotswolds with her husband, David, who is both her fiercest critic and greatest champion.