If you enjoy reading novels by Sharon Kay Penman then you might also like the following authors:
Elizabeth Chadwick crafts rich, immersive tales set in medieval times. Her novel “The Greatest Knight” brings William Marshal’s life vividly to the page, while “The Summer Queen” offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Those who appreciate Sharon Kay Penman’s works may find Chadwick’s storytelling equally rewarding, as both share a deep love for historical accuracy and powerful character-driven narratives.
Ken Follett crafts gripping tales that span diverse genres. His novel “The Pillars of the Earth” transports readers to medieval England, weaving a vivid story of ambition and conflict during the construction of a cathedral.
In “Eye of the Needle,” he delivers a tense World War II spy thriller, filled with danger and betrayal. Each book captures rich detail and unforgettable characters.
Philippa Gregory crafts rich stories set against the backdrop of English history. Her novel “The Other Boleyn Girl” dives into the lives of the Boleyn sisters, while “The White Queen” captures the drama of the Wars of the Roses through the eyes of Elizabeth Woodville.
With her ability to blend historical detail and vivid characters, her work holds a special appeal for fans of Sharon Kay Penman, as both authors bring depth and humanity to iconic historical figures and events.
CJ Sansom crafts rich historical narratives with a strong sense of place and time. “Dissolution” introduces readers to Tudor England through the eyes of Matthew Shardlake, a lawyer entangled in dangerous investigations.
In “Winter in Madrid,” Sansom shifts to post-Civil War Spain, weaving a tale of loyalty, espionage, and moral conflict. His works combine meticulous detail with deeply human stories, drawing readers into worlds both familiar and distant.
Bernard Cornwell crafts vivid tales of historical adventure filled with rich detail and gripping narratives. Among his works, “The Last Kingdom” begins the epic Saxon Stories series, while “Agincourt” tells a rousing account of the famous battle through the eyes of an archer.
His characters and plots transport readers into the heart of pivotal moments in history. Fans of Sharon Kay Penman, who appreciate well-researched historical settings and complex, human stories, may find Cornwell’s novels equally absorbing.
Jean Plaidy crafted vivid historical novels that transport readers to different eras.
Among her works, “The Royal Road to Fotheringay” explores the early life of Mary, Queen of Scots, while “The Shadow of the Pomegranate” focuses on the marriage of Katherine of Aragon and Henry VIII.
These novels capture the drama and tensions of turbulent times with rich detail and thoughtful storytelling.
Dorothy Dunnett was a Scottish historical fiction writer known for her rich storytelling and detailed settings. One of her most famous works is the first book in the Lymond Chronicles, “The Game of Kings.” It’s set in 16th-century Scotland during tense political times.
The story follows Francis Crawford of Lymond, a clever and enigmatic outlaw accused of treason. He returns to Scotland to clear his name, facing enemies at court and within his own family.
The fast-paced plot is filled with twists, swordfights, and moments where Lymond’s intellect shines. If you’re drawn to intricate historical worlds like Sharon Kay Penman’s, this might grab your attention.
Maurice Druon wrote historical novels that explore power, betrayal, and ambition. His acclaimed series, “The Accursed Kings,” includes works such as “The Iron King” and “The Strangled Queen,” which portray the dramatic events surrounding the French monarchy in the 14th century.
These books offer vivid portrayals of historical figures and the turbulent times they navigated.
Edward Rutherfurd crafts sweeping historical epics that bring entire eras to life through richly developed characters and vivid storytelling. His novel “Sarum” spans millennia, tracing the history of England through the lives of interconnected families.
In “Paris,” he captures the spirit of the French capital across generations, blending personal struggles with historical events.
Fans of Sharon Kay Penman might find Rutherfurd’s work a similarly immersive experience, as both authors weave detailed histories with deeply human stories.
Ariana Franklin crafted immersive historical mysteries that transport readers to medieval times. Her novel “Mistress of the Art of Death” introduces Adelia Aguilar, a female doctor trained in solving murders in 12th-century England.
Another standout, “Grave Goods,” blends forensic investigation with vivid depictions of life under King Henry II. Through her works, she created rich, atmospheric worlds filled with intrigue and memorable characters.
Alison Weir crafts vivid and historically rich narratives. Her novel “The Lady Elizabeth” dives into the life of Elizabeth I before she became queen, while “Innocent Traitor” portrays the tragic and short-lived story of Lady Jane Grey.
Fans of Sharon Kay Penman, who appreciate well-researched historical settings and characters brought to life with depth, may find a similar appeal in Weir’s works.
Anya Seton created vivid historical tales that capture both human emotion and the essence of bygone eras. Her novel “Katherine” explores the life of Katherine Swynford and her forbidden love for John of Gaunt, set against the backdrop of 14th-century England.
In “The Winthrop Woman”, Seton brings to life the story of Elizabeth Fones, a remarkable woman who defied societal norms in Puritan New England.
Hilary Mantel crafted vivid portrayals of historical figures and moments, bringing the past to life with her mastery of storytelling.
Her novel “Wolf Hall” transports readers to the court of Henry VIII through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell, while “Bring Up the Bodies” follows Cromwell’s role in Anne Boleyn’s fall from grace.
Fans of Sharon Kay Penman, who appreciate richly detailed accounts of history and complex characters, may find Mantel’s works similarly rewarding.
Margaret George crafts rich and immersive historical narratives. Her novel “The Memoirs of Cleopatra” brings the life of the enigmatic Egyptian queen to vivid detail.
Another standout work, “The Autobiography of Henry VIII,” offers a personal and introspective portrayal of the infamous Tudor king. Both books showcase her ability to combine meticulous research with vivid storytelling.
Colleen McCullough crafted sweeping and immersive works of historical fiction. Among her novels, “The Thorn Birds” unfolds a multigenerational family saga set in Australia, while “The First Man in Rome” dives into the power struggles and alliances of ancient Rome.
Her writing often weaves detailed characters with rich historical settings, which create narratives both vivid and grounded.
Fans of Sharon Kay Penman may find a similar appreciation for McCullough’s ability to bring history to life through layered storytelling and a strong focus on human ambition and relationships.