A PhD in Regency protocol, petticoats and plot twists

A University of Queensland graduate who wrote two Regency-era novellas as part of her PhD has signed a major international publishing deal.

Author Alison Goodman graduated this week from UQ with a PhD in Creative Writing, after tapping into the popularity of the TV series Bridgerton.

“I’ve very much enjoyed Bridgerton and its take on the Regency period,” the newly conferred Dr Goodman said.

“My novellas are set at the same time in UK history, but with two middle-aged crime-fighting twin sisters as the protagonists.”

The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies will be published in the US, UK and Australia in 2023.

“I loved developing these characters, Lady Augusta and her sister Julia, who are spinsters in their 40s and effectively ‘written off’ by society,” Dr Goodman said.

“Their invisibility actually gives them some agency, so they’re able to move around and have adventures alongside an acquaintance, who’s a highwayman.

“It was my first time writing historical fiction for adults and I had a ball.”

Dr Goodman is already a New York Times bestselling author, with seven published novels.

“I’ve written in quite a few genres – young adult, fantasy, sci-fi/thriller – but adult historical fiction, and novellas, were both new for me,” Dr Goodman said.

“When you write fiction you’re always learning.

“I was drawn to do a PhD at UQ so I could change lanes but be creative in an informed and supportive environment.”

 Dr Goodman’s academic study also included an investigation into a common form of fiction research where authors visit the site where their historical novels are set.

“It can be such an important resource for a writer, to walk the same ground their character does and get the sensory input to help connect with them.

“I was lucky I travelled to the UK just before the pandemic, and managed to do most of my site research for the novellas.”

Dr Goodman said returning to Australia and straight into lockdown was challenging, but ultimately worked in her favour.

“I was in Melbourne where the lockdown was longest, but once I pushed through that creative malaise it was actually a great escape to just go and write,” she said.

“UQ’s Higher Degree Research staff and my PhD supervisor Professor Kim Wilkins were just fantastic through that period and really supported me.”

Dr Goodman said stepping away from her writing career to study again was a gamble, but it had paid off.

“I would say UQ is one of the best places for genre writers to extend their skills,” she said.

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