Deborah Harkness, the author of the critically acclaimed and wildly popular “All Souls” trilogy, is known for her intricate world-building, historical details, and enchanting blend of romance and magic. But what fuels her imagination? The answer, as with many writers, lies in books.

Harkness’s reading life is a tapestry woven with diverse threads, from history and science to fantasy and romance. She credits her childhood love of reading with igniting her passion for storytelling. “My mother was a voracious reader,” she shared in an interview, “and we always had a lot of books around the house. It was just assumed that I would read.”

This early exposure fostered a deep appreciation for the power of words. “Reading is like breathing for me,” she confessed, highlighting the essential role it plays in her creative process. “It’s how I learn, how I connect with the world, how I escape and explore.”

Harkness’s reading choices reflect this multifaceted approach. She delves into the rich tapestry of history, immersing herself in the lives of historical figures and the events that shaped the world. She’s particularly drawn to the Tudor period, evident in the historical accuracy that underpins her “All Souls” series. “I’m fascinated by the past,” she admitted, “and I find that reading about history helps me understand the present.”

But Harkness isn’t confined to the pages of history books. She also embraces the fantastical realms of fantasy literature, finding inspiration in authors like Ursula K. Le Guin and Neil Gaiman. Their ability to weave magic and myth into compelling narratives speaks to her own desire to create worlds that both enchant and challenge readers.

Romance, too, plays a key role in her reading life. “I love a good love story,” she confessed, drawing inspiration from classics like “Pride and Prejudice” and contemporary authors like Jojo Moyes. This appreciation for the intricacies of human relationships adds a layer of depth and emotion to her own work.

Ultimately, Deborah Harkness’s reading life is a testament to the power of books to inspire, inform, and entertain. It’s a life woven through stories, history, and the magic of the written word, a journey that ultimately informs her own writing and allows her to create worlds that resonate deeply with readers. As she herself said, “I don’t think I could be a writer without being a reader.”