10/28/2025
We are saddened to announce the passing of Christopher Gortner, known as C.W. Gortner to his readers. An international bestselling writer of historical novels, bringing a new perspective on maligned women in history, including Juana La Loca, Catherine Medici, Lucrezia Borgia, Marlene Dietrich, and Coco Chanel, as well as a spy series set in Tudor times, and his most recent book about Yves Saint Laurent, which touched on an era close to his heart.
All told, Gortner wrote and published 16 books over almost 2 decades in a total of 28 countries. In the US, he was published by Ballantine, William Morrow, and St. Martin's Press.
"Christopher was my very first author/client and soon after, a close friend. He was incredibly talented. Able to read, research, and absorb everything about a person in history, and then embody their voice--he blew me away. He was also hilariously funny, wickedly astute, with a big heart for humans, but especially for the many animals who found and adopted him. He will be missed terribly by all who have known him. Luckily, we have his wonderful books to enjoy forever." -Jennifer Weltz, JVNLA
“Christopher and I first met at a Historical Novel Society Conference over a decade ago as he was contemplating a second career as a novelist. How lucky we all are that he made his vision a reality. Christopher was witty and delightful, with unmatched savvy, style, and work ethic; while he wrote in different historical eras and different voices, every novel was a gem. It was an honor to publish him and to be his friend.” -Rachel Kahan, William Morrow
He is survived by his husband, Erik Dubon. Details regarding a memorial will be announced at a later date.
