Historical Fiction Author Victoria Thompson Dies at 76

Historical romance and mystery author Victoria Thompson died at her home in Long Grove, Illinois on August 23, after a years-long battle with cancer. She was 76. 

Thompson was the Edgar and Agatha Award–nominated author of more than 50 novels, including the Gaslight Mystery and Counterfeit Lady series.

Starting in 1985, Thomson published 20 historical romance novels before pivoting to historical mysteries in 1999 with Gaslight Mysteries, which socialite-turned-midwife Sarah Brandt and Detective Sergeant Frank Molloy as they solve murders and fight injustice in turn-of-the-twentieth century New York City. The 27th Gaslight Mystery was published in April 2024.

While continuing to write the Gaslight books, Thompson started The Counterfeit Lady novels, a  historical series featuring Elizabeth Miles, a young con woman who uses her skills to right wrongs and help those in need in early 1900s New York City. The seventh book was published in December 2023.

In 2012, she won a career achievement award from Romantic Times magazine and she more recently served on the Board of Trustees of the Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire, Illinois.

Thomson was born in Washington, D.C., on July 25, 1948. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Jim Thompson; her sister Sue (Joe) Bredekamp; her daughter Lisa (Rob) Thompson; her daughter Ellen (Dave) Thompson Nemetz; her three grandchildren, Liam Thompson, Ryan Thompson, and KJ Thompson; and her beloved cancer support group.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made in Vicki’s memory to the Foundation for the Vernon Area Public Library District or SpiriTrust Lutheran. 

Correction: This piece has been updated to accurately reflect Thompson's age at time of death.