An audience of students, staff and the public were given an insight into the world of historical fiction this week, as bestselling author Dr Marisa Haetzman delivered a masterclass exploring her journey from medicine to literature.

Held at the University’s Paisley campus, the event formed part of UWS’s Honorary Doctorate Masterclass Series, which brings leading figures recognised by the University back to campus to share their expertise and experiences.

Dr Haetzman, who writes alongside her husband, crime author Chris Brookmyre, under the pseudonym Ambrose Parry, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by UWS in 2024 in recognition of her contributions to literature and the arts. Writing as Ambrose Parry, the pair have sold hundreds of thousands of books worldwide, with their award-winning Raven and Fisher series which captures the world of 19th-century Edinburgh, where history and science are woven together.

During the session, which attracted around 70 attendees, Dr Haetzman spoke about her life as a novelist and the responsibility she feels in portraying real historical figures with both accuracy and empathy. The crime-writing duo also discussed the inspiration behind the novels, their new book The Death of Shame and the challenges of writing collaboratively.

It’s been a real pleasure to return as an Honorary Graduate of UWS and talk about the road that led me from medicine to fiction. Moving from studying medical history, where you’re really not encouraged to make things up, to writing fiction was a challenge – but a rewarding one. Our collaboration works because we bring different strengths – Chris is the expert in fiction, and I bring a background in medicine and history. Together we’ve found a shared language in storytelling. Sharing that journey with the audience today was really rewarding, especially at a University that values both science and creativity so deeply.

Dr Marisa Haetzman, Reflecting on her visit

 

The event drew students from across UWS’s Creative Industries programmes marking the session as a great example of how academic and creative disciplines can overlap in new and exciting ways.

 

We were delighted to welcome Marisa back to UWS to share her story with our community. Her journey is a wonderful example of how higher education can open doors to unexpected and inspiring paths. The blend of medical insight and literary imagination that defines her work shows how curiosity and creativity can thrive together. Those values are what lie at the heart of UWS.

Professor James Miller, UWS Principal and Vice Chancellor

 

The session is part of the University’s ongoing series of Honorary Doctorate masterclasses, which celebrate the achievements of distinguished figures recognised by UWS and provide students with direct access to leading voices across sectors.

The event supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 5: Gender Equality.