BETH GRACE FOX was brought up running with horses. Born in Geraldine in the South Island of New Zealand, into a household brimming with books, children and animals, Beth developed a lifelong interest in historical writings. Having studied Middle English and the History of Art and Architecture, Beth spent many years teaching between London and New Zealand, while also travelling extensively in the Middle East. Having raised three sons in New Zealand, Beth's eclectic interests saw her establish a career in the fashion world and later back in London working with ancient maps. Her fascination with Afghanistan and the golden Akhal-Teke horses of Turkmenistan led to her engrossing herself in journals written by intrepid travellers in the 1800s. She lives in Christchurch.