The Narrative North

Author Stephanie Cowell on the Brontës, Hidden Letters, and The Man in the Stone Cottage

Catherine Cioffi

Step into the world of storytelling with Narrative North, the podcast that uncovers the inspirations, journeys, and creative minds behind today’s most compelling authors. In this episode, host Catherine Cioffi sits down with acclaimed historical novelist Stephanie Cowell to discuss her upcoming release, The Man in the Stone Cottage (September 16, 2025).

Set in 1846 Yorkshire, the novel follows the Brontë sisters—Charlotte, Anne, and Emily—as they navigate heartbreak, family struggles, and the pursuit of literary greatness. When a secret romance, hidden letters, and a mysterious map surface, Charlotte’s understanding of love, loss, and her connection to her late sister Emily is forever challenged.

Praised for its haunting, dreamlike prose, The Man in the Stone Cottage is a story of sisterhood, love, grief, and imagination. Join us as Stephanie shares the inspiration behind her work and offers a glimpse into the world of the Brontës.