Jessica Blair is the pseudonym for Bill Spence. Jessica Blair came into being when his publisher, Piatkus, accepted his first historical saga and declared that, for various reasons, they would prefer to publish it under a female name and they suggested Jessica Blair. Writing was a part-time occupation for Bill Spence until 1977 when, with the full support of his wife, Joan, it became full-time. Throughout Bills whole writing career he has had her, and his four children's, unstinting support, advice, and inspiration.