As promised, I am holding a drawing for a signed hardback copy of Lionheart. Any one who leaves a comment on this blog will be eligible to win. I usually keep the drawing open for two weeks, but this one may run longer as we all get caught up in the holiday hoopla.
First, quick updates. I have been assured by my publisher that the Lionheart audio book will be available within the coming week. Here is the link for anyone who’d like to listen to Emily Gray, the woman who’ll be doing the reading. http://www.audiofilemagazine.com/gvpages/a1571.shtml Lionheart will also be available in large print, although I don’t have the date for that yet. It is now available as a trade paperback Down Under and should be available as an e-book there very soon. As I’ve mentioned elsewhere, it will be published as a hardback in the U.K. next April. And I am very happy to report that the American edition is in its third printing.
Okay, now on to other issues. National Public Radio asked me to do a brief article on the Best Historical Novels of 2011, which ought to be up on their website http://www.npr.org/ in early December. And I had fun doing a slideshow for the Huffington Post about New Jersey writers. Here is the link, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sharon-kay-penman/12-authors-you-didnt-know_b_1108262.html I was surprised that so many renowned writers were born and bred in New Jersey, which is often an object of ridicule for the rest of the country. I’d originally created seven categories: Those Fluent in Sarcasm, Trail Blazers, Historical Novelists, Poets, Miscellaneous, Writers We Stole from NYC, and Newark, which unexpectedly emerged as a literary Eden. The powers-that-be at the Huffington Post asked me to trim it back, and we eventually ended up with twelve slideshows, one for each of the following New Jersey stars: Norman Mailer, Dorothy Parker, Phillip Roth, Janet Evanovich, George R.R. Martin, Stephen Crane, James Fenimore Cooper, Allen Ginsberg, Judy Blume, Harlan Coben, and two we “borrowed” from NYC, Jon Stewart and Peter Benchley. I was able to praise the Ice and Fire series, explain that Jaws was actually based upon a horrific series of attacks off the Jersey coast by a Great White shark in 1916, and showcase my favorite Dorothy Parker quote; she was once challenged at a dinner party to use “horticulture” in a sentence, and without pausing for breath, she purred, “You can lead a whore to culture, but you can’t make her think.” Another Parker response I like is when she was sitting morosely at a bar and when the bartender asked, “What are you having?”, she sighed, “Not much fun.”
But there were a number of other gifted New Jersey writers who didn’t make the final cut simply because the Slideshow space was limited. I felt badly that I couldn’t even mention them. Fortunately, I have a blog.
So…in addition to the above-named dazzling dozen, New Jersey can boast the following native-born sons and daughters:
1) Fran Liebowitz–writer, columnist, and social critic, known for her acerbic wit and one of the world’s worst cases of Writer’s Block, as she has been working on one novel for decades.
2) Gay Talese–writer, reporter, essayist, noted for what is often called the New Journalism.
3) Robin Maxwell, novelist, screenwriter, and blogger. Among her novels are The Secret Diary of Anne Boleyn, and her most recent work, O Juliet, an imaginative retelling of the story of Shakespeare’s doomed lovers; she is currently working on a novel about Tarzan and Jane.
4) C.K. Williams, acclaimed poet and Pulitzer Prize winner.
5) Amiri Baraki—poet, novelist, dramatist, essayist, teacher, often embroiled in controversy, a former Poet Laureate of NJ.
6) Alfred Joyce Kilmer (1886-1918)—journalist, poet, critic, editor, best known today for the poem so many children have memorized as a class assignment, Trees; he died in WWI at the Second Battle of the Marne.
7) William Carlos Williams (1883-1963)—a major American poet, novelist, essayist, and physician, mentor to Allen Ginsberg, Pulitzer Prize winner, and member of the New Jersey Hall of Fame. (Yes, we have one!)
8) Anne Morrow Lindbergh (1906-2001)—author and aviator, best known for Gift From the Sea, probably better known to the general public as the wife of Charles Lindbergh.
9) John Angus McPhee—author, staff writer for the New Yorker, Princeton professor, Pulitzer Prize winner.
10) Jacqueline Friedrich, a writer who focuses on a subject dear to my heart—wine; check out her blog, The Wine Humanist. http://www.jacquelinefriedrich.com/
11) Albert Payson Terhune (1872-1942)—author of the collies of Sunnybank books; his Lad was almost as beloved in his time as Lassie. I’d originally put Terhune in the Newark slideshow, although I wasn’t sure he belonged there. Wikipedia says he was born in Newark, but I couldn’t confirm it. While I loved his books as a child, when I reread them years later, I was startled by his casual bias against those not of his “class.” He was a believer in bloodlines—for dogs and people—and scornful of those he considered members of the lower order: immigrants, laborers, people of color, dogs that were not purebred. So it appealed to me to think of this aristocratic, rather pompous man being born in a gritty, blue-collar city like Newark. (The other writers able to claim Newark as their hometown are Harlan Coben, Stephen Crane, Allen Ginsberg, Phillip Roth, C.K. Williams, and Amiri Baraki.)
We were having a lively discussion on my Facebook page recently about “celebrity” authors, people who are famous for being famous, and then parlay their notoriety into book deals. It was triggered by my discovery that a novel written by the Kardashian sisters (Kim, Kloe, and Kourtney), about three high-profile sisters named Kamille, Kassidy, and Kyle, is on the Publishers Weekly bestseller list. One of my readers then suggested, tongue firmly in cheek, that we add Snookie from Jersey Shore to the list of NJ writers for her novel, It’s a Jersey Thing, in which she becomes a local celebrity after she—according to the book description—nearly burns down her rented bungalow, invents “tan-tags” (don’t even ask) and rescues a shark. I confess I was almost tempted to read about the shark rescue. But I decided Snookie didn’t make the cut. To borrow Voltaire’s comment that the Holy Roman Empire was neither holy nor Roman nor an empire, Snookie is not a writer and I don’t think she is even from New Jersey.
Since this blog began with Lionheart, it seems right to end it with A King’s Ransom. Some of my readers have asked for reports on its progress—or the lack thereof. Well, I have just finished a chapter in which Richard was shipwrecked twice, so he is not in the best of moods. I am putting up photos of the site of his first shipwreck—the island of Lokrum, one-half mile from Dubrovnik; in Richard’s time, they were known as La Croma and Ragusa. In Lionheart, Eleanor crossed the Alps at Mont Genevre, which is today a posh ski resort, and I wondered what she’d make of that. Well, the place where Richard came ashore on Lokrum is now a celebrated nudist beach! The chapter ends with the second shipwreck, where they find themselves in a desolate, barren, deserted marsh, and Richard speaks for them all when he says, “Where in God’s Holy Name are we?”
In case I don’t get another blog up before Christmas, I want to wish everyone the best of holidays. Let’s hope the New Year is a better one for us all, especially Mother Earth.
December 2, 2011
I love your books, and I love your blog. Thank you for sharing so much of your knowledge with all of us. And I wish you and yours a very wonderful holiday season as well!
Loved the HuffPost article and I am looking forward to the NPR report! Can’t wait to read Lionheart!
Always love to read your writing! This was very interesting.
Let’s hope the New Year is a better one for Mother Earth and all her furred, feathered and scaled children.
An interesting concept – which authors are associated with which states in the US. Someone could bring out a book of lists on that, or a non fiction book about the states, and the authors they inspired and why?
I will have to do more research into New Jersey, when we visited the US in 1989, we did so to visit friends who had moved there, one family for work for a long time, and one for a year, and so we saw only some of the many States that we could have visited. New Jersey was not a state that we got to. Oh well, another visit perhaps sometime?
A signed copy of Lionheart would be magnificent. It could stay pristine, while the other copy becomes well worn.
Love your books, Sharon! Didn’t think historical fiction was for me, but your books have changed my mind. So very excited to start reading Lionheart-waiting my turn with the library holds.
Sharon, I’ve told you before that I love your books! And I do. I cannot wait for the second half of the Lionhart duo to come out! I’d love to win the hardback, signed Lionhart!
Love your work, Sharon – not just the novels, but all the extras we get from you! I actually haven’t read Lionheart yet – am saving it for when I have more time!
I loved the Huffington Post article and I’m looking forward to your appearance on NPR. And if NPR and the Huffinton Post, why not Charlie Rose? I just finished “Lionheart” and absolutely loved it. You made Richard human. If I win the drawing, I’ll gift the copy to a dear friend since I already bought a signed copy of Lionheart,
I flew across the blustery pond,
a holiday was due,
it was my dearest wish whilst there
to purchase Lionheart too.
The book alas could not be found, so home I came so sad,
But if I was to win a signed copy then I wouldn’t feel this bad.
OK OK so I’m no poet. lol !
Hopefully Santa’s Elves have been busy internet shopping – I’ve dropped my husband enough hints :o)
Sharon,you are by far one of the best authors of historical novels I have ever read. Your detail to history,and just plain talent in your writing,makes for a very enthralling read. Thank you!!
I am so glad to hear that the audiobook will be released soon and you have a wonderful reader with Emily Gray. Looking forward to reading and listening to Lionheart. Any chance that any of your earlier works might be released on audio? Would love to listen to Sunne in Splendor or Here Be Dragons or actually any of them!
Having one signed copy kept in pristine condition while reading another is a good idea—I have a signed copy of DRAGONS which is very well worn and shows it.
I have heard raves about Lionheart, and would love to toss my name into the drawing. Many thanks, and my fingers are crossed!
I can’t wait to read the NPR article! I’d love to win an autographed copy!
I didn’t know Lokrum was that warm!! (for a nudist beach) It must be a lot warmer than Belgium, because the four years I spent there I spent most of the time trying to get warm 🙂
I would be so happy to receive an autographed copy of Lionheart. Thank you for offering it, Sharon.
I own all of your books, and would LOVE to add an autographed copy of the Lionheart to my collection! Can’t wait for more!
I love all your books and would be thrilled to win this!
Sign me up for the book give away. I’ve already read Lionheart but I want a signed copy. I’m a greedy sort of scoundrel, I know. Really looking forward to the next installment. Can’t wait to see Richard confront John. If you don’t hear from me again I hope you have a very merry Christmas Sharon and a happy and prosperous New Year.
Loved Lionheart – was the first person to read the Peachtree City Library’s copy! Can’t wait for the sequel now! I’d love to have my own copy!
Sharon – I would love to win a copy of Lionheart – I could read it sooner than waiting for the library copy!
I also want to thank you for including John McPhee in your expanded NJ list. He’s such a quiet yet ardent voice for ordinary interesting people and places.
I would love to have a *signed* copy! How wonderful! And it would definitely make my day.
Like all of your other loyal readers, I would treasure an autographed copy of Lionheart. But, I will gladly buy it and enjoy it just as much. Good luck to all!!!
I just finished Lionheart last night (at 1:00 am).
It was amazing, as are all SKP books. I’d be honored and delighted to have a signed copy (although at the moment I might be even more delighted w/ an advance copy of For a King’s Ransom — the waiting is going to be so hard).
I’m just starting the biography of Richard I and would love to win this as a follow-up to the biography. Love all of your books!
I loved Lionheart and loved getting to know Richard as the complex but, oh so likeable man he was. We are so lucky to have you in our reading lives Sharon. Thank you so much 🙂
Oh Dear, a comment? Sharon you have added so much to my life. Your books have opened my mind and have introduced me to so many wonderful people. All my best to you always.
I love your books. Hopefully you will post before the holidays, but if not have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I enjoyed the HuffPo piece, very much look forward to the NPR article, and it would make my Christmas if I won the Lionheart drawing! Happy holidays!
Loved Lionheart — eagerly awaiting King’s Ransom — in the meantime, enjoy reading your FB posts. The question I have is whether you need to visit Lokrum for firsthand research. Happy Holidays!
Just got a copy from the library after waiting a month for the first one that had it reserved to get it returned so I could check it out. I have loved all of Sharon’s books after a cousin introduced me to them about 15 years ago and have read all of them published so far, have a few of them in my own library and desire to get them all as I can find and afford them.
Well not being one to pass up on a chance for my own copy I am replying. Thanks Sharon for the books. Looking forward to King’s Ransom.
Thank you so much for including me in your New Jersey authors. I was actually born in Washington D.C. and moved to Bound Brook when I was a year and a half old — lived there till I went to college. Please don’t include me in the drawing for the book, as I will instead be buying the audiobook. SO glad it’s coming out that way! Sounds like you’re having a good time with Richard. I’m swingin’ with Tarzan and Jane.
Sharon, I just downloaded Lionheart from Audiable. I am a happy camper.
May I still be included in the drawing for Lionheart? Even though I have it on my Nook already too.
I would love to win a copy of Lionheart! Very few authors include us down here in Australia in their giveaways, so I’m really excited I can take part in this one.
I would love to win this! I just purchased Here Be Dragons and Falls The Shadow. I’ve heard amazing reviews on your books and can’t wait to read them! Happy Holidays to you also and thank you for doing the giveaway.
I can’t say I’m currently reading anything other than textbooks and notes, University is a bit more important! But I’m sure that after the next couple weeks of exams, that reading Lionheart would be a wonderful treat! Also, I can’t really say anything about Jersey, I live in Michigan and we get our fair share of ridicule here. Best wishes to you and yours for the holidays!
Love your books! And love the Angevins:) I would treasure a signed copy of Lionheart!
(I have almost attended a signing/reading twice (Dayton, OH)–the first time there were tornado warnings, and this past time I got into a car accident that day(!!!)–I’m beginning to feel like perhaps it’s not meant to be…)
Checked the NPR site for your list of historical fiction for 2011. Guess it is too early in December, but I did get “caught up” reading all the reviews that were there in that genre.
After reading LIONHEART I was looking for something else and now have been introduced to Scots author, Robert Low, THE LION WAKES, and Dorothy Dunnett, THE GAME OF KINGS. I think that I heard of these two authors through your FB friends. I did enjoy the books, though not as much as all of yours.
Fantastic post (Love the NJ authors – I’ve read many of them!)
I got the opportunity to read an ARC of Lionheart, but it’s falling to pieces so would love a chance at the Hardcover! I’m a huge, huge fan of your works, and really loved Lionheart!
What a fabulous giveaway! So while this is the season for giving and I really should be thinking about what I am going to give to others this season, I am giving in to a selfish moment and admitting that I’d give away the +/- 100 historical fiction novels lying around my house for a chance at a signed copy of Lionheart, lol! Merry Christmas to you, Sharon, and thank you for such a lovely opportunity for all of us who love your work so very much. 🙂
Love all your works. Your fabulous writings and all you do to save animals!
I would love to win a signed copy of Lionheart. I have all your books, except this one. Thanks for the opportunity to be in the draw. I have loved your writing since I read Sunne all those years ago.
I would love to win a copy of Lionheart! looking forward to reading it regardless of winning it or not. Richards trip home from the Holy Land often reminds me of Homer’s Odessey.
And a signed book would take pride of place on my shelves!
Your gift with words is incredible, and you are a dog lover as well. That goes straight to my heart! ~~wishing you a wonderful holiday, with thanks for your generosity.
Linda
I love your work. As a homeschool mom, it sends me on so many bunny trails, from all the nuggets of info you supply. Please continue to produce the outstanding, fun, books and info, so I can continue to grow.
I am very happy to report that Lionheart, the audio book, is now available on Amazon. It is my understanding that it will also be available at libraries. Sadly, I’ve been told Amazon’s Audio won’t sell it to readers who don’t live in North America. Thank you all so much for the lovely comments you’ve been posting; I’ll try to respond to them this weekend.
Hmm, cannot read Lionheart just yet. I need to read the other books first. I wil have to start with When Christ and his Saints Sleep first. Then one day get to the others. =D
Lokrum looks beautiful..wonderful to be able to look at the place where Richard was shipwrecked, even if changed markedly. I thoroughly enjoyed my library copy of Lionheart, would love to have my own signed hardcover book.
Looking forward to reading Lionheart, having read all your previous books! Loved your comments about NJ authors since I’m from NJ and still here too. Lad: a Dog by Albert Payson Terhune was one of my absolute favorite books as a child (I still love it) and probably the first tear jerker I ever experienced in literature. Sunnybank is not too far away, only about 30 mins. from where I live. Thanks for the giveaway!
Receiving Lionheart from its author for Christmas would just be too awesome for words!
I am making rapid progress through Lionheart, so I hope A King’s Ransom will come along soon! No pressure, Sharon, no pressure! A signed copy would make a great Christmas present for my sister. I think she’s hooked now. It’s only appropriate, as she’s a reading specialist in the public schools and running her own reading tutoring practice. Love to Read? Why, yes, she does, and she needs a new author to follow. You’re welcome!
Sharon – looking forward to the NPR story – just checked and it’s not up yet. Thank you for the update on Ransom – can’t wait. Although I already have a copy of Lionheart (and Loved it!), a signed copy is even more previous — and frees up the original copy to be loaned to a friend – such as my friend in Portland, OR who is on a very long public library waiting list for your Welsh series!
love your books, would love to win a signed copy of Lionheart. Thanks for all the great stories you have shared with us, the people of history you’ve made vivid and alive. All the best at Christmas and in 2012!
Wow, what a great giveaway! I am moving, and purging a lot of the books I have on my shelves rather than lug them to another state. Your books are not going to the book trade store, though. They will make this move with me, and any future moves I might have, because I love them so much
Great giveaway!
Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express is based on the Lindberg case.
What in this life could be better than a signed copy of Lionheart? I love the picture of the island off Dubrovnik sice I was there just a couple of weeks ago. To have a chance to walk in the footsteps of Richard is amazing!
Ah ha! Now I’ve found your blog! I feel like visiting the historical places that one’s characters visited would be one of the most moving and interesting parts of the research that goes into historical novels, but then again, that could just be the archaeologist in me! Just being somewhere where others have been can make me feel very connected to the past and our history.
Alissa, I am in total agreement. It is like briefly pulling back the veil that obscures the past. I’ll never forget the way I felt when I stood in the piazza in front of the church in Viterbo where Simon de Montfort’s sons murdered their cousin, which I dramatized in The Reckoning. The church is still intact, but sadly not open to the public. They have a plaque in the piazza, though, describing what happened, and I found the experience unexpectedly moving. I felt it would have taken very little imagination to hear the screams and see the blood pooling in the dust.
Alissa/SJP I so agree. It’s amazing, how intense an emotional pull one feels when visiting a place of such historical significance, especially one with tragic consequences.
Sharon, I think I’ve read every word you’ve ever published (my Lionheart arrived yesterday). Looking forward to a couple of reading hours each evening should motivate me to finish my Christmas shopping/’wrapping/mailing post-haste!
Should I be the fortunate one to win, my present copy will be passed on to a friend.
I would love to get a chance to win – but if I do, the book has to be mailed elsewhere… one of my friends’ mothers, back when I was… oh… thirteen? gave me a copy of _Here Be Dragons_ to read. I devoured it, and it’s been one of my staple reads for years (along with, well, everything else you’ve written). Her daughter and I had been letting our imaginations run rampant with Sherwood Forest and King Richard and Maid Marian and all, and she figured that she could at least give the girls a sample of the proper history – which, as I found out, was leagues more exciting.
Thanks for all the work you do on making these books so spectacular, so well-researched, and such a joy to read.
Haha, I get the feeling that Richard and most of his men wouldn’t have minded landing on a nudist colony beach 😉
Sharon, you keep adding places on my “must see” list as well as my “must read” list. Life isn’t long enough!
I think I’ve bought all of the local copies of Here be Dragons as Christmas presents, so hopefully we’ll get some more converts.
Again, thank you for your wonderful books and all I’ve gotten from them
I’m doing a Grand Reread of the books, and very much look forward to reading Lionheart for the first time! Happy holidays, and thank you for sharing your wonderful works with us.
I, too, am doing a reread of SKP books, starting with “The Sunne in Splendor”…the one that addicted me. Now, in the waning pages of Sunne, I am looking forward to “While Christ and His Saints Slept” and the following novels of the Henry II and Eleanor series which should set me up nicely for The Lionheart.
While nothing can compare with the addition of a Brand New Granddaughter to our family on 11-11-2011, the addition of a Brand New copy of “Lionheart” on my bedside table would be a most welcome arrival.
P. S. After re-reading the rich imagery and substance of Sunne, I’m still Addicted. It’s been a pleasure watching your growth as a writer, Sharon. Hats Off!!!
How about a new rule – books about British history have to be published in the UK first! I will have to re-think my Xmas holiday reading, although Lionheart at Easter looks like a good plan…
Today, William I ‘The Lion’ of Scotland died, and Henry III [IV] of England and Louis IX of France agreed to the Treaty of Paris.
I’m not certain am I eligible for prize driving but I would love to get it if I can.
I cannot wait to see that list – I have a feeling my book budget will be in jeopardy! Thanks – have a lovely holiday!
I love your books and can’t wait to give Lionheart to my parents for Christmas!
I am a new reader of yours. Just picked up When Christ and His Saints Slept and am loving it! I would love a copy of Lionheart!
How exciting about Lionheart’s success! Thank you for your wonderful novels- hope you have a Merry Christmas!
iI have always loved Terhune’s books, and I never realized he came from New Jersey. Also, I agree about the celebrity novels, and how such books have a market is beyond me.
Thanks for your very generous offer of Lionheart giveway.
I’m so looking forward to the release of “Lionheart”, Sharon! I’ve “followed his career” (as it were) for more years than I care to remember. Best of luck – as if you’ll need it – with the book.
I’m looking forward to the NPR report.
I’d love to get a chance to win Lionheart 🙂
Last week, while browsing on Amazon, a pop-up asked if I wanted to sell my copy of Lionheart. Actually, I haven’t finished reading it yet, but even when I do, it is definitely not for sale. It is a “keeper” that will go in my glass-doored bookcase, along with all my other SKP books. If I won a signed copy, I would gift mine to my granddaughter. I loved the blog about NJ authors. Trees by Joyce Kilmer was a favorite poem that I think I can still recite from memory.
I would love to get a chance to win Lionheart! 🙂
Hello Sharon
I am the newest member of your Australian fan club and am reading every moment I can to try and catch up on your novels before our fan club meeting next year. Your books are wonderful and I can’t wait to read Lionheart.
A signed copy would really be a thrill, thanks so much for this great contest! I’m currently working my way through the Welsh Princes trilogy and am enjoying it very much.
I love your work and would cherish a signed copy of Lionheart. Thank you!
Pick Me! Pick Me!
Can you tell I’m a little excited! I’d luv, luv, luv a signed copy!! YEAH!!!
Love the medival books. I’m a bit of a slow reader as I get older so I’m glad to see that it’ll be out in 2012!
My fascination with your books began with Sunne. I was being released from hospital and my friend (a librarian) thought I should read it probably because I am so captured by the era and so curious about the lifestyle and history. (At 40, I went back to college to finish what was started years ago. In my medevil history class, I traded a college prof a medevil poem for an essay, thinking that 2 pages of a poem was better than 10 pages of essay. The poem became 7 pages and earned an A., but so much for looking for an easy way.) At 72 I’m no scholar but I can keep up with the intrigue and scope. The books are forever on my book shelf. Now I am trying to be sure my granddaughter grows up sharing my passion for your books, and your passion for the charactors so the books will continue to have a place in our home. Thanks for sharing your talent.
I love reading your books and owuld be thrilled to own a signed copy of one of your books.
Just home to London after a long weekend in NY and Philly seeing Bob Seger. Had the brainwave of buying Lionheart while I was there….any more plans for a tour of Wales Sharon?
I’m a huge fan of all of your novels Sharon, and I would love a signed copy of Lionheart
It is always so heartening to get confirmation that there are still a lot of us out there who are fascinated by history, particularly medieval history. Nothing on the radar at the moment, Gil, though I’d like to do a Welsh tour somewhere down the line. Tim, I am sorry, but A King’s Ransom won’t be out until the autumn of 2013. There is no way I could ever have finished the research and writing in time for publication next year. As it is, I’ve sworn a blood oath to my editor that she will have it by February 1, 2013, which gives them a short turnaround, too. So we’ll all have our noses to the grindstone to get the book out. Way back in the good old days (sigh), I always had three years to do one of my historicals. Linda, I am so pleased to hear that you are passing the torch to your granddaughter. It always makes me so sad when I hear young people say they have no interest in reading.
I too have enjoyed your books. Happy holidays!
I posted this dazzling video of Lyon, France’s annual Festival of Lights on my Facebook page, but I know not all of you are Facebook fans, so here it is again. Definitely worth watching, especially the looks of wonderment on the faces of the children.
http://www.fetedeslumieres.lyon.fr/EN_1
As an English teacher, it always makes me happy when someone else knows that Dorothy Parker quote…I have done my best to introduce her to the younger generation of readers (and fellow staff members). I also have your novels on the shelf in my classroom. Although I had borrowed them from my best friend and read them already, I purchased them again because I still wanted my own copy. Your novels were my introduction to true historical fiction. Falls the Shadow was the first of your novels I read and I would love to add Lionheart to my collection!
I cannot resist commenting here to throw my name into the hat. Have I ever mentioned to you how much I love your books? 😉
Oh, and I can’t wait to read about Dubrovnik in Ransom!
Sharon I just got into all of your books this summer and am on my second read through now, I simply can’t get enough! I am eagerly awaiting A King’s Ransom, you really know how to make your characters mean something to your readers. Thanks for all you do and good luck capturing Richard’s final years
Sharon,
I preordered Lionheart and have received it. I haven’t read it yet, but I plan on doing so as soon as I can. I would love to win a personal autographed copy of Lionheart from you.
I think I have just about every book you have written, and I love them all.
Thanks for all you do.
And today, Henry VI [VII] of England was born.
I have to admit I have fallen a little behind on keeping up with your Penman-ship…. I am very much looking forward to reading Lionheart and King’s Ransom.
At last report, you were not too keen on revisiting the life of King John in your writing (having more than touched on it in Here Be Dragons), but since he necessarily intrudes on Richard’s life, I wondered if your view had modified? Do you think you might ever be convinced to forge that missing link in your “reign chain” joining your chronicles of the reigns of Stephen and Maud, through Henry II and Richard, down to Henry III and Edward I? John is such a fascinating character and the historians never seem quite able to stop debating his good and bad points…
I have to disagree with plamz007 and wish everybody reads those feedback
I own all your books except Lionheart and would love a signed one to add to my collection! If I wasn’t languishing away amidst the “Song of Ice and Fire,” I’d already be done with Lionheart. I’m looking forward to reading you again soon!
Thanks for the latest update. In the UK so waiting frantically until end of March/early April when Lionheart will come out! Wish it was sooner!
I am a great fan. Looking forward to reading Lionheart.
I would love a copy of Lionheart it seems a long time until next Spring in the UK and since I first came across your books you are one of the few authors I buy in hardback so it’s sad the UK will be trade paperbacks.
Good news, Mandy. My British publisher has decided to bring Lionheart out in hardeback in the UK, after all. The only catch is that you have to wait till next April for it. 🙁
I have a Christmas present for you all–a very interesting book-related website and blog, which is great fun to read–Lit Asylum. Right now they have an interview with Elizabeth Chadwick and she has generously shared the first chapter of her new Eleanor book, The Summer Queen. Here is the link and Merry Christmas. http://litasylum.com/
Love that you have such a great blog! Love your books, too!!!! I would absolutely LOVE to win a copy of Lionheart. There’s a lot of love flying around in here. 🙂
Today, Gilbert de Clare, 7th Earl of Hereford and one of the most important figures during the Second Baron’s War, the war against Llewellyn the Last and the reign of both Henry III [IV] and Edward I died.
A generous giveaway, Sharon! I love your books, your blog, and can’t wait to see the piece for NPR. Have a Merry Christmas!
Here is today’s Facebook post; the reference to a “heartbreaker” story is one I posted on Facebook about a young Afghan woman being forced to wed her rapist. Beyond sad. But this post is a much happier one.
This posting is one sure to make everyone happy; I feel I owe you all this after posting that heartbreaker below. There is a new Margaret Frazer novel out, A Play of Heresy, in which her player and sometime spy, Joliffe, has to solve a mystery for the devious and dangerous Bishop Beaufort. Reading one of her novels is the next best thing to time travel. And here is a wonderful story about a dog on his way to the gas chamber who saved himself by licking the hand of his executioner and now has the happy home he deserves—that all dogs deserve. dhttp://www.care2.com/causes/superdog-flies-across-north-america-one-lick-saved-his-life.html
While searching for one of my supposed ancient ancestors, Isabel of Angouleme, I found her in your incredible story, Here Be Dragons. I’ve since taken my oldest daughter to Wales, England and France and found where Isabel was born; it’s now a school, and found where Simon de Montfort died (he’s my hero) We felt “compelled” to visit the lands and castles in your stories. I’ve read them all. Well, I still have 1/2 of Lionheart to finish.
I’m hoping you can help me with one question.
Have I missed the movie versions of your work? They would make incredible stories for the screen too!
Thank you for hours of remarkable journeys while in the comfort of my cozy bed! And, for friendships that will last a lifetime.
Congratulations on the success of ‘Lionheart’, Sharon. It’s been very busy here with work and home life, so haven’t had a chance to get the book yet, but I will. If I don’t win one that is. 🙂 Looking forward to reading it!
Today, Mary Queen of Scots was born.
Thank you for all your books, Sharon. You always have been my favourite historical fiction author and Here Be Dragons and its sequels will remain in my heart forever. I am a Brit with family living near Cilmeri and during one of my sojourns to Wales, I convinced them to find Abbey-Cym-Hir for me. I have since been there several times, but those first overwhelming emotions have never left me. I have to venture down that hill alone, shooing away the relatives and can ‘feel’ the history emanating through the valley around that lonely field and those stoic stone remnants. Llewellyn’s story has moved me beyond words and I am eternally grateful to you for that.
I am happy not to enter your contest, but to give an extra chance to others, because a friend in the US was kind enough to get me a signed copy at one of your bookstore visits. She has yet to ship it to me in Canada, but my book pile will be pushed aside when it does arrive because I have been so anxious to read it. A copy of all your books resides in my library, some showing their wear and tear from several readings so thanks again to you and all the other writers who bring history alive for so many of us.
I signed copy would be a treasure!
Loved the NJ authors list. I spend 20+ years in Mississippi and it’s the only state I know of that has such an abundance of writers of renown: Eudora Welty, Shelby Foote, William Faulkner, Richard Ford, Walker Percy, Margaret Walker Alexander, Willie Morris, Richard Wright, Barry Hannah, Larry Brown, John Grisham, Ellen Douglas, Tennessee Williams (yes, from Mississippi, in spite of what his name signals!), Donna Tartt, William Alexander Percy, Howard Bahr….and the list goes on! A rich literary heritage there.
Well,I would love a Sighed Copy! A happy Christmas, and a Fine 2012(woooo)! to All, Sharon,..and her Avid Readers,Sharon, for me you open up the intriging history of english Ladys (Katherine Swinford,s etc)…and you make them “Come to Life” not least Elenor? Thank you Again.
I have become obsessed with your books and felt lost when I finished, “Devil’s Brood.” You’ve opened up such an incredible world to me, I don’t want to read anything but historical fiction now! I’m intrigued to read more of Richard’s story, though I was so disburbed by the way Henry’s sons treated him! I found myself very pro-Henry, one of my favorite characters ever. I love reading your author’s note at the end of your books, was so glad to come across your website. Thanks for the offer!
Today, Malcolm IV ‘the Maiden’ of Scotland died. He was an enemy and later ally of Henry II, serving at the siege of Toulouse where he was also knighted by Henry.
Also, I’ve finally finished reading Lionheart, and it was excellent. I’ll probably write up a more detailed review later, but I’d just like to thank you, Sharon. The book was amazing. I loved the new characters, the old ones, the descriptions, any scene with Richard and Phillipe. I had only two very minor issues to raise, both of which can be explained: The weather in the Holy Land, which seemed excessively wintery. I can attribute that to an unusually wet year, plus lower temperatures 800 years ago. Second was the dismissive attitude Richard and most people seemed to have towards John, but I attribute that to them not knowing him and he not having a chance to prove himself yet. I loved the balanced portrayal of him in Here Be Dragons, and hope we’ll be seeing more of that John in King’s Ransom.
WOW! What a giveaway! I am just finishing The Devil’s Brood. I have enjoyed the whole series. First read Splendor in the Sunne when it was first published and have enjoyed everything I have read, including the mysteries. Thanks and Happy Holidays.
I really enjoyed reading your blog . . . . . Lionheart is on my TBR list and I would love a signed copy. Thanks for the chance to win one. Have a fantastic holiday!
Fiona, This is an extract as to how the author of the ‘Montfort’ Series, Katherine Ashe describes Eleanor’s (de Montfort) first meeting with Llywelyn (at Kenilworth – which never happened!):
“Here… was a man stocky of stature, dressed as any lord might be, with ears that protruded like wings from his curling, short and dull brown hair.’ This in contrast to her description of Edward 1 (with whom Eleanor was in love and who, in turn, lusted after her!):’Edward was glorious as usual with his brilliant corona of blond curls, his face acclaimed for angelic beauty, his very short, expensive crimson tunic making impressive display of his long muscular legs.’ Not the picture that most have of the Prince of Wales!
I have her four volumes of ‘Montfort’ and while they are of interest to all who like this period, her treatment of the known facts is, in my opinion, utter rubbish! Her books are promoted as being fiction, to allow her to expand on the known history to include speculation (Edward 1 is the produce of the life-long liasion between Simon and Queen Eleanor of Provence and not of King Henry 111), but her treatment of the Welsh history is unforgiveable! The Llywelyn who is betrothed to Eleanor de Montfort is described as ( her spelling!!): ‘Llewellyn ap Llewellyn, son and heir of LLewellyn ap Gryffid, betrothed to Eleanor de Montfort la demoiselle, Earl Simon’s daughter.’
These are not the only instances and the only thing that stopped me throwing the thing at the wall, was that the books are on my Kindle! I have to add, that I think the lady is a very nice person (I did enter into a brief e-conversation with her) but really, there was no need to invent these spurious scenes on what was already an amazing story of an amazing man!
Sharon, I’ve just finished The Sunne in Splendour ( I’ve already mentioned that I discovered your books last summer, please do remember that 🙂 so my order of reading them is a little bit reversed) and I would like to ask you about one of the minor characters. Minor but nonetheless intriguing, namely Robert Apsall. In Sunne he is a knight and Edmund’s tutor whereas the other sources claim him to be a priest. First I thought it’s just Wikipedia (not always reliable source) but then I came across such information in other online texts. Was he really ransomed by Edward?
I’m particularly curious about the latter one. Did you find it being mentioned in some records from Edward’s reign?
Looking forward to the new book!
just finished Lionheart at 2am this morning – what a great read! i love the immersion into the medieval world – and at the end of day, human nature is a constant. but i wish i could meet Eleanor; she is beyond amazing! i did find myself wondering how she handled things during Richard’s absence. there must have been considerable challenges, likely an understatement, eh?
Here is today’s Facebook Note. I have also posted a photo of the castle at Gorizia or Gorz on Facebook; this was where Richard sought a safe-conduct, under an alias. Kings, of course, are not good at flying beneath the radar.
We cannot be absolutely certain of the day but it is believed that on December 10th, 1192, Richard I’s worst ever Christmas season began when he was shipwrecked for the second time in less than a month, driven ashore in a desolate region somewhere between Venice and Aquileia. It is believed that he was heading for the Hungarian port of Zadar before being swept off course in a storm. The Hungarian king, Bela III, was no friend to the Holy Roman emperor, but his queen, Hal’s widow Marguerite, probably wouldn’t have been thrilled to welcome Richard, as he’d treated her sister Alys rather shabbily. Still, Hungary would have seemed like Disney-world compared to what he would face in Istria, Austria, and Germany. Since what happened to him had not even a fig leaf of legality, I felt some sympathy for his plight way before my research changed my rather negative view of the man. But writers are drama junkies, so I confess I’m looking forward to writing about his ordeals.
As a New Jersey native (and of the Shore, no less), I’m always fiercely protective and proud of the state’s abundance of writers. Going to school in New England and now in DC really makes me love NJ all the more. I love the assortment you put together for the list.
Interestingly enough, I picked up A Song of Ice and Fire not long after reading The Sunne in Splendour. I kept trying other pieces of historical fiction related to the Wars of the Roses, but nothing was living up to Sunne, but multiple recommendations about ASoIaF being the fantasy take on the Wars had me intrigued. Both the series and your books have been favorites of mine for years now; two world colliding!
Hi Sharon,
Just finished reading Lionheart and eagerly awaiting The King’s Ransom.
Once again your Author’s notes were very illuminating especially as I was taught about a ‘different’ Richard in history lessons at school in England! Would love to win a signed copy as I have all your books but alas none signed.
Cheers, Lesley
Today, Llywelyn the Last of Wales was killed in a wood at Aberedw. Also, Ogedei Khan died, likely preventing a Mongol conquest of Europe.
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
I said I was going to try to post heartening, happy-ending posts during the holiday season. Today is an exception, for it is a tragic date in Welsh history. On December 11, 1282, Llywelyn ap Gruffydd was slain and hopes of Welsh independence died with him.
Sharon, I was undertaking some research into Gwenllian (having noted the death of Llywelyn) and I came across a notice referring to her two cousins Tomasina and Anastasia, the daughters of Guy de Montfort and Margherita d’Aldobrandesca. I decided to follow their trail which led me to discover that they were the ancestors of Elizabeth Woodville!
Here’s the story:
Guy de Montfort took service with Charles of Anjou serving as his Vicar-General in Tuscany. There he married an Italian noblewoman, Margherita Aldobrandesca, the Lady of Sovana, heiress of a branch of the Aldobrandeschi family. With her he had two daughters:
1. Anastasia, married Romano Orsini
2. Tomasina, married Pietro Vico
Anastasia de Montfort, Countess of Nola (Nola was given to Guy by Charles of Anjou for services at the battle of Alba) married Romano Orsini , Senator of Rome 1268 – 1327.
They had one child:
Roberto Orsini , Count of Nola 1295 – 1345 who married Sibilla del Balzo (Father: Hugh de Baux , Seneschal; Mother: Jaqueline della Marra)
They had one child:
Nicholas Orsini , Count de Nola
1331-1398/99
Nicholas married – Jeanne de Sabran (Father: Guillaume de Sabran, Count of Ariano; Mother: Francesca de Celano)
Nicholas and Jeanne’s child Sueva Orsini, married in 1381 – Francesco del Balzo
(Father: Bertrand III de Baux , Duke of Andria; Mother: Marguerite d’Alneto)
Suevo and Francesco’s daughter, Margaret de Baux , Countess of Saint-Pol
1394 – 1469,
Married: 1405 – Peter of Luxembourg , Count of Saint-Pol (Father: John de Luxembourg , Lord of Beauvoir Mother: Marguerite of Enghein)
Margaret and Peter’s daughter:
Jacquette of Luxembourg 1415 – 1472, Married: Richard Woodville, 1st Earl Rivers
1405-1469 – executed in England (Father: Richard Woodville, Esquire; Mother: Joan Bedlesgate)
Jaquette and Richard had two daughters:
Ann Wydeville , Viscountess Bourchier
AND
Elizabeth Woodville, Queen Consort of England (Edward IV)
1437 – 1492
Impressive, Ken! Very impressive. Also a very interesting family tree.
Today, Geoffrey Fitzroy, Archbishop of York, Henry II’s son died in exile in Grandmont Priory in Normandy.
Today’s Facebook Note.
Thanks to Koby for reminding me that on this date in 1212, Henry II’s illegitimate son Geoffrey, the reluctant Archbishop of York, died in exile at Grandmont in Normandy. Interestingly, his death date can be listed in modern fashion as 12/12/12. Geoffrey’s tenure as Archbishop of York can be described as “stormy,” for he definitely inherited his fair share of the Angevin black bile temper. He was not suited for a life in the Church, but Henry, of course, paid no heed to the evidence or Geoffrey’s own wishes. Unlike his other brothers, though, Geoffrey (Geoff) in my novels, remained loyal to his father until Henry’s last anguished breath. I suppose it can be argued that, being illegitimate, he had no where else to go, but the chronicles and William Marshal’s Histoire show that he truly loved his father.
Today, Maimonides, also known as Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon, Mūsā ibn Maymūn and Rambam died. Not only was he a great Rabbi and Philosopher, he was also Saladin’s personal physician.
Also, Frederick II Hohenstaufen, Holy Roman Emperor, known as ‘Stupor Mundi’ died today.
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
Today in 1250, the Holy Roman Emperor, Frederick II, died; known as Stuper Mundi–the wonder of the world–this remarkable, gifted, and controversial man was the son of Richard’s nemesis, Heinrich von Hohenstaufen and Constance de Hauteville, the last Norman Queen of Sicily. Coincidentally, I recently finished a short story (yes, me!) about Constance for the upcoming anthology, Dangerous Women. Thanks, Koby, for reminding me!
And here is a link to the Worst Sex Scenes of 2011, http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/badsexaward No author wants to make this list! The unhappy winner was David Guterson, best-known for Snow Falling on Cedar. Other nominees included Stephen King, Lee Child, James Frey, and Jean Auel. And yes, the Guardian article provides passages
Love all your books. Great to see Richard the Lionheart featured.
I got what you wish, thanks for putting up. Woh I am gladsome to mature this website finished google. Thanks For Share Sharon Kay Penman » Blog Archive » LIONHEART BOOK GIVEAWAY.
Today, two events happened that are not directly related to any of the characters we know and love. Sicilian chancellor Stephen du Perche moved the royal court to Messina to prevent a rebellion, and Hulagu Khan captured and destroyed the Hashshashin stronghold at Alamut.
Koby, I was fascinated by Stephen of Perche’s story when I was researching Lionheart; it didn’t really figure in my book, but I got sidetracked reading about Sicilian history; for a time, I seriously thought about writing of the period, and I haven’t given it up entirely, but I suspect it isn’t likely to come to pass. That period was so drama-filled, wasn’t it? For Lionheart readers, Alamut was the power base of what Koby correctly calls the Hashashin, more commonly known as the Assassins. Now, here is today’s Facebook Note.
My Australian fan club is a force to be reckoned with. My British publisher has informed me that Lionheart is in its third printing Down Under, with over 6,000 copies of the trade paperback in print, which they called “fantastic” in light of the depressed book economy there.
And on this date in 1485, Katherine of Aragon, the first of Henry VIII’s unhappy wives was born.
Sharon, unfortunately my question has nothing to do with Sicily or the Assassins. I’m sorry for repeating myself but I’ve finished reading The Sunne in Splendour recently (I’ve already mentioned that I discovered your books last summer and started my reading with Time and Chance so the order of my reading is not quite as it should be:-)) and I would like to ask you about one of the minor characters, namely Robert Apsall. In The Sunne he is a knight and Edmund’s tutor whereas other sources claim him to be a priest.
At first I thought it’s just Wikipedia (not always reliable source) but then I came across such information in other online texts.
Was he really ransomed by Edward? I’m particularly curious about the latter one. Did you find it being mentioned in some records from Edward’s reign?
Hi Sharon, I have been a huge fan of your novels for years and just recently stumbled across this blog. When I saw the chance to win a signed copy of Lionheart I couldn’t resist (I have already bought a copy of Lionheart for my Dad for Christmas as he is a big fan as well. At the moment I am finding it difficult not ripping off the wrapping paper and reading it first myself!). Merry Christmas!
You replied to an email I sent you once, when I was a teenager, and that was about the coolest thing to have ever happened to me. I just thought you should know that it means a lot when authors take the time to speak with their fans. Merry Christmas.
And today, Henry VI [VII] of England was crowned King of France at Notre Dame in Paris.
Here is today’s Facebook Note. And I just discovered that the NPR website, the link given above in the first part of the blog, has published my piece about the Best Historical Fiction of 2011.
An early birthday gift for my Facebook friends, an amazing and touching video showing a real-life rescue of a young humpback whale dying in entangled fishing nets. http://www.care2.com/causes/the-day-they-saved-a-whale.html And on this date in 1431, the hapless Henry VI was crowned King of France in Notre Dame, Paris. Needless to say, he never ruled France and an argument can be made that he never ruled England either.
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
I am addicted to Christmas music, can happily listen to it around the clock. I was wondering if others share my addiction, or if you start to feel bombarded in the malls, etc, after a few weeks. My own favorites are as follows: I’ll be Home for Christmas, which is a sad song to me, for I read it to mean a yearning for times gone by and loved ones now dead. What Child is This, because it is set to the tune Greensleeves. Christmas Eve, Sarajevo, another song with sorrowful undertones because of the memories it conjures up. Silent Night for the sheer beauty of it. Little Drummer Boy because it was my dad’s favorite Christmas song. I don’t like novelty songs, loathe All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth and I Saw Mama Kissing Santa Claus. But if pushed to the wall, I’ll admit that i think Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer is funny. Hey, who says consistency is a virtue? I get awful headaches from films like The Kingdom of Heaven and Braveheart, but I happily give Lion in Winter a pass, after all! Anyway, which Christmas songs do my Facebook friends and blog readers enjoy…or not?
In 2006, Sarah McLachlan issued a splendid CD called “Wintersong.” Last year, I discovered it, bought one, and later gave the CD to three of my favorite ladies at Christmastime. The covers include “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Silent Night.” She also covered songs by two other prominent Canadian singer-songwriters, Gordon Lightfoot and Joanie Mitchell. Sharon, you probably know that Sarah has actively supported the humane treatment of animals.
I love your books and blog. I am so excited about Lionheart! Vicky
A useful link for correcting common errors in English (perhaps in medieval dialogue?)
http://public.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/errors.html
I am huge fan of your books. Can’t wait to dive into Lionheart!
Today, Henry II of England was crowned at Westminster Abbey, and Anne, Duchess of Brittany, was married to Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor by proxy.
Today in 1154 Henry and Eleanor were crowned at Westminster, probably so very sure the world was theirs for the taking. I can’t help thinking of a line from The Lion in Winter, when Henry says bitterly, “My life will read better than it was lived.”
I can’t wait to read Lionheart! Your Henry II & Eleanor trilogy are the best novels I have read about this time period and I have several more of your novels on my “to-read” list. I know just what I will be doing during those snowbound days after Christmas 🙂
Sharon and Koby, thank you for reminding me of this important date. I’ve tried not to focus on the stormy future that awaited both Henry and Eleanor but rather on the event itself and I’ve found out (to my great relief) that on his coronation day Henry did his best to look like a king and had put on some decent clothes.
(Although I must admit that Henry I do love is the one not paying the least attention to what he wore, what he ate and where he slept)
I am a very new reader to your works, having “re-discovered” a childhood fascination, the Middle Ages, and received many recommendations, including for your books. I am especially drawn to Richard III and with all this reading ahead of me, feel like a kid in a candy shop!
Warm wishes from Alaska to you and all your readers. 🙂
I am not only an avid reader and literature enthusiast but also an amateur writer (as i have begun on my first novel), and i am a huge fan of this particular genre. xx
It would make my Christmas extra special to win a book by an author whom i greatly admire, although i must admit that i am somewhat daunted by how many people have replied to this amazing novel giveaway! xx
I will therefore just cross my fingers and hope, but i would also like to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year for 2012! xxx
I look forward to devouring more of your works over Christmas, and continuing writing into the new year. Thank you for holding such an amazing book giveaway. xx
Many Thanks x
Just finished Lionheart – loved, loved, loved! Can’t wait for King’s Ransom. (no pressure!)
And today is the usually believed date for Richard I ‘Lionheart’ being captured and imprisoned by Leopold V of Austria on his way home to England.
In other matters, Hanukkah begins today at sundown, so happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate.
Actually, tomorrow is the more credible date. I hope you have a wonderful Hanukkah! Good wishes to all of my Jewish friends and readers. Hard to believe the year is almost over, but I suspect few of us will be sorry to see it go.
Tristan has a new little sister. Yesterday I adopted Holly from Last Chance Ranch. They think she is a cocker spaniel, but she is so small, I think she may have more interesting bloodlines. She is amazingly sweet and loving for a little dog who’s had some traumatic experiences. At first Tristan was so intensely interested in her that she was a little nervous, but now that has changed and she is the one stalking him!
I’d like to second Karen O. above to say how glad I am to see John McPhee on your list. By a terrific coincidence, I’ve got Annals of the Former World sitting on my nightstand.
And speaking of Dubrovnik, I can’t help wishing you would set one of your novels in the Republic of Ragusa, just to see how many critics assume it’s an imaginary place.
Aww, Sharon, I think Holly deserves her own blog post, if only to share your photo(s).
Thanks for writing Lionheart. I’ve always wanted more information on this near mythological character. I can’t wait for the sequel. It was a little more interesting for me since there is some genealogical evidence that my family descends from King John. I’ve been a big fan of your writing ever since I read “The Sunne in Splendor”. Keep on writing.
Thanks to Jennifer for posting this on my Facebook page:
overheard from a friend on facebook — “If I make it to Heaven, I’m asking Richard III if he knows what happens to his nephews. If I don’t make it to Heaven, I’ll ask Henry Tudor.”
And today is (at least according to my sources) a commonly accepted date for the birth of Thomas Becket, Lord Chancellor of England and Archbishop of Canterbury.
hey i found a discount on Auto Traffic Buddy.
On December 21, 1192, began what was surely Richard’s worst ever Christmas when he was captured in Erdburg outside Vienna, after making a desperate 145 mile dash for safety in just three days. He almost escaped the imperial net, was less than fifty miles from Moravia, where he’d likely have been welcomed by the brother of the Duke of Bohemia, who was feuding with Heinrich. As he was being taken under guard to Leopold’s foreboding castle of Durnstein, I’m sure it must have tormented him, knowing how close he’d come to defying the odds yet again.
I have read so many historical novels, but none of them capture my imagination or my desire to read more than your books! Amazing talent! Thank you so much for continuing to make the Plantagenets come alive for me!
Today is the Winter Solstice, so Happy Winter Solstice to those who celebrate. Also, today Richard Plantagenet or Richard of Eastwell, who claimed to be the illegitimate son of Richard III died.
Sharon or Koby can you write more about him? I’ve just read the Wikipedia article but I’m not quite sure whether I can rely on it or not. The story about Richard being witness to the battle of Bosworth seems highly improbable to me. Should we really believe that he was Richard III’s son? Till now I wasn’t even aware of the fact that such person ever existed.
After examine just a few of the weblog posts in your website now, and I really like your approach of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website record and will probably be checking back soon. Pls take a look at my website as nicely and let me know what you think.
LionHeart is out? Woohoo!!! Okay, so I’ve been living under a rock lately. Let’s see if I can squeeze it on anybody’s Christmas list in time. Thanks for continuing to write.
And today, Berengaria of Navarre, originally Berenguela, died in the abbey of L’Épau in Le Mans.
As for your question, Kate, I really can’t help you. My source refers to The Parallel, or a Collection of Extraordinary Cases Relating to Concealed Births, and disputed successions, and The History of King Richard III. On the internet, I have found http://www.richardiii.net/r3_detail_children.htm to be useful. Ultimately, I think the information is inconclusive, but assuming no one lied, it is quite possible he was Richard’s son.
Thanks, Koby. Katie, I’m not going to be of any help either. Whatever I ever knew about Richard of Eastwell has vanished in the mists of time; Sunne came out in 1982, after all!
Glad you got the word, John.
After Christmas, I will do the drawing for the winner of the signed copy of Lionheart.
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
On this date in 1231, Berengaria of Navarre, Richard’s queen and widow, died, and was buried in the abbey she’d founded at Epau outside Le Mans. She was a wife for 8 years, a widow for 31, quite unusual for a young, highborn woman. I was pleased to see that Le Mans has a street named after her; she’d become known as the Lady of Le Mans because she spent the remainder of her life there. We know so little about her, perhaps one reason why she intrigues us. All we can say for a certainty is that she was courageous and very pious. If she resented Richard’s neglect after he’d regained his freedom, she kept it to herself or trusted intimates; nothing trickled into the chronicles. Only once are we given a brief glimpse of the woman, not the queen, when the Bishop of Lincoln reported that he’d found her heartbroken upon learning of Richard’s death and did his best to console her. But was she mourning for Richard? For what might have been? Or for the uncertain future that suddenly lay ahead of her? (John treated her rather shabbily, although she fought stubbornly for her dower rights.) She never returned to Navarre and she is the only English queen not to have set foot on English soil. She is also the only English queen to have been wed and crowned in Cyprus and to have spent her honeymoon in a war zone. But as little as we know of her, she is better known than most medieval queens, in part because she was the bride of the legendary Lionheart and in part because of the unusual trajectory her life took. Rest in peace, Berenguela.
Sharon and Koby, thank you for your replies. Whether Richard Plantagenet was or wasn’t Richard III’s son I guess we will never know. I finished reading Sunne two weeks ago and I can assure you Sharon that you had not written a single word about him:-).
What will you wish King John for his birthday tomorrow? I’m looking forward to reading your note. Maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea to ask all your readers what they would wish him if they only had a chance to meet him on this special day:-). I’ve already started considering the possibilities:-)
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
I did the NPR interview on Thursday with Guy Raz, the host of All Things Considered. It will be the C segment of the show to be played tonight, Christmas Eve, and those wanting to listen to it should tune in to their local stations between 5:30 PM and 6 PM; this is what they told me about other time zones, that “Some members in western time zones will carry the first feed of the show (which goes out at 5 PM EST) so they should just make sure when it’s on and then catch the second half.”
And on this date in 1144, the crusader city of Edessa fell to the Saracens, thus setting in motion the disastrous Second Crusade.
You will often see this date mentioned as the birth date of King John, but it is in error. I’d explained that to Paul below, but Facebook apparently ate my answer, so I’m trying again. John was definitely born in 1166, not 1167; otherwise, he could not have been Henry’s! The confusion comes from an entry in the chronicle written by the usually reliable Abbot of Mont St Michel, but it is likely he meant it to be included for the year 1166. Interestingly, every biographer I’ve read of Eleanor gets this right, but John’s biographers have been sloppy and simply go with 1167. I trusted them when writing Here Be Dragons, so my John is a year younger than the real John. Also, it is likely that John was not born on Christmas Eve; because of his name, a first for the royal family, it is more probable that he was born on December 27th, the saint’s day of St John the Evangelist. So from the moment he drew his first breath, John was creating controversy!
Good to know that John was more probably born on 27th. I’m not particularly good at dates and I was so proud that I could remember his birthday but it seems that I have lived my whole life through being mistaken:-).
Was the Young Henry actually born on February 28th or am I wrong again?
Any controversy concerning his birthday too? I’m asking just in case because his birthday is one of few dates I can remember.
As far as I know, Kate, no controversy about Hal’s birthdate. Sadly, the chroniclers didn’t bother to list the exact birthdates of his sisters. We know the months in which Joanna and Leonora were born, but not the days.
Henry, Eleanor, and their Devil’s Brood would have wished you all a Joyeux Noel. The Welsh princes would have said Nadolig Llawen. I’ll settle for Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to all. Since we mentioned Christmas, I’ll also mention that it was a very popular day for coronations, for obvious reasons. So, for example: Charlemagne was crowned Holy Roman Emperor, William the Conqueror was crowned King of England, Baldwin of Boulogne was crowned first King of Jerusalem, and Count Roger II of Sicily was crowned first King of Sicily.
And I wish you all in my mother Polish Wesolych Swiat!
Here is today’s Facebook Note, a long one.
I’d like to thank everyone who sent Christmas good wishes my way; may they boomerang back to you all.
Today was a remarkably busy day in history. Christmas was a very popular day for coronations: Charlemagne in 800, William the Conqueror in 1066, Roger II, King of Sicily in 1130; Roger was the father of Constance de Hauteville, whom readers met in Lionheart. Her unloved and unlovable husband, Richard’s nemesis, Heinrich von Hohenstaufen, was crowned King of Sicily at Christmas, 1194. which he celebrated by having the bodies of the former King Tancred and his son dragged from their tombs. He would top that by breaking his word to Tancred’s widow, sending her and her children under arrest to Germany, where her four year old son would be blinded and castrated before his death.
And on Christmas, 1170, Thomas Becket took a huge stride along the road to martyrdom by excommunicating Henry’s chancellor, the Archbishop of York, and the Bishops of London and Salisbury. They at once raced to Normandy to complain to Henry, who went ballistic at the news and uttered the fateful words, “What miserable drones and traitors I have nourished and promoted in my household, who let their lord be mocked so shamefully by a lowborn clerk!” It took just four days for those chickens to come home to roost.
Heinrich had a Becket scandal of his own, when the exiled Bishop of Liege was murdered by four German knights believed to be acting on his behest. Many of his outraged bishops and barons rose up in rebellion, but he somehow managed to avoid papal censure, and in a nice twist of irony, the rebels were reconciled to him by none other than his royal prisoner, Richard Lionheart. This was an impressive diplomatic feat by Richard, done because Heinrich was scheduled to meet with the French king and he feared that Philippe would offer to help the emperor put down the rebellion in return for….you guessed it…turning Richard over to his tender mercies. Even a natural optimist like Richard couldn’t see that ending well, and so he took action to make sure that meeting never took place.
And today, Stephen was crowned King of England, and Constance de Hauteville gave birth in a public square to Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, ‘Stupor Mundi’.
How did Richard manage to do that? Being a prisoner? A royal prisoner, treated with respect, but still a prisoner? Did he meet any of the rebels in person or did he have his own man/men (swayed to his side merely by his persuasive skills:-)) to do that in his stead? I can’t imagine the whole thing being organized in his ‘inconvenient’ situation.
Kate, he was allowed to meet with the rebel bishops and barons, obviously having convinced Heinrich that he could pull this off. He had ties to some of the German rebels, being the brother-in-law of Henry the Lion and uncle to Henry’s son, the Duke of Saxony. This incident started to change my utterly negative view of Richard as this magnificent killing machine, for it showed he was capable of less bloody forms of persuasion! In the same way, I was impressed by the glowing critique he got for his eloquent defense at Heinrich’s court, for it came from Philippe’s French chronicler of all people! So I began to see that his tongue could be as formidable as his sword arm.
PS Once the ransom demands had been agreed upon, Richard was allowed to have visitors and the German chroniclers were very impressed that so many of Richard’s subjects made the long trek to Germany to see him. He wrote to Eleanor at one point, making known his wishes that Hubert Walter be elected Archbishop of Canterbury, as indeed he was, a far more successful choice than Henry’s Thomas Becket!
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
I hope everyone had as nice a Christmas as I did. And for those of you who traveled for the holiday, a safe trip home.
Today in 1135, Stephen was crowned King of England, launching the time “When Christ and His Saints Slept.” And on December 26, 1194, Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, King of Sicily, and King of Jerusalem, was born at Jesi, Italy. Frederick, known as Stuper Mundi, the Wonder of the World, was the son of the loathesome Heinrich von Hohenstaufen and Constance de Hauteville, whom Eleanor and Berengaria meet at Lodi in Lionheart. As I’ve mentioned before, Constance was 40 and had never been pregnant before. Knowing there’d be doubts that the child was really hers, she set up a tent in the Jesi marketplace and invited all of the town’s women to witness her give birth. As icing on the cake, she publicly nursed Frederick a few days later. Frederick’s enemies (beyond counting!) would later try to claim he was really the son of a butcher, but thanks to his mother’s courage and daring, this slander never gained any traction. I write about this episode in the short story that will appear in the anthology Dangerous Women.
Hi!! my name is Milly and I just read “Falls the Shadow”. It was a miracle I found your book in the local library, I live in mexico and it’s usually very hard to find books in english, your book was a Veritable christmas gift. I loved it!!! thank you so very much for writing it, I really didn’t know that much of England’s history, but I never would’ve thought it could be so interesting 🙂 Now I’ll look for the next one, I’m left on a cliff-hanger, I wnat to kow all about Ellen, and the rest of de Montforts, I want to know what happens to Lewllyn… thruthfully: Thank you, and Merry Christmas
I have been an avid reader of your novels since The Sunne in Splendour. After that I picked up every book of yours and anxiously await the next book. Sometimes it feels like forever. In fact I had no idea that you wrote a new book. I am so excited to read this one. It seems you are enthralled by Henry, Eleanor and Richard.
It is also fantastic to hear your take on authors out there. Who knew there were so many talented authors from New Jersey. It is nice to hear that some of my favourite authors are those you applaud as well.
Sometimes real life is more thrilling than fiction. History gives us so many unbelievable moments, most about women. I did not know that about Frederick and his mother Constance that you just posted.
I give kudos to you for finding these amazing moments in history and writing about them. You make history come alive on paper and enthrall me. It has made me enthusiastic about history, and more aware of our beginnings. Thank you for expanding my mind, creating fabulous works of writing. All the best. I look forward to more of your works.
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I have been an avid reader of your work since I first read When Christ and His Saints Slept. I had no idea that those events had actually occurred in history. After reading that novel I was hooked to you as a writer. I purchase every book you had written and was engrossed in reading each one, and astonished that those events had actually occurred. Simon de Montfort, Llewellyn, Ellen de Montfort, Cecily. After that I could not wait for your next to be realeased. Time and Chance. And it did not dissatisfy Eagerly I await for the next work of yours. Actually I was excited to find out that you had continued with Richard in this new one, since I do not know many specifics of his life, only the usual. I am eager to read this.
It was warming to know that some of the authors I enjoy reading are credited by you as well. I did not know that a few of them were from New Jersey. It was interesting to hear your take on them as well.
Hopefully people have the same experience I did when reading your works. Eager to read more. Books are so underrated. You have brought a whole new genre of book into my life; the historical novel. I have craved these ever since reading your books. I enjoy fact and fiction interwoven with each other. It makes me feel more knowledgeable. I cannot wait for you to expand and bring another book out. I am eager to know what the next will be about.
And today, Anne de Mortimer, Countess of Cambridge was born, who would be the mother of Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York.
Happy New Year, Sharon, to you & all your readers!
Even though I follow Huffpost regularly and often listen to NPR, I missed your contributions to both these mediums. Therefore, I was glad to visit your links and listened to the NPR interview & read the Huffpost article.
I received a copy of Lionheart for my birthday but would treasure a signed copy. I have hardcovers of all your historical novels and often re-read them. I haven’t started Lionheart yet because I’m trying to finish a book on Cecily Neville’s life by another author. Although I had always wanted to read the story of Richard III’s parents, this book is not what I hoped it would be but I have a personal rule that I always finish a book I start (except for a book by Danielle Steele I once picked up; just couldn’t finish that one–choppy sentences and short stilted paragraphs are not my cup of tea). So, the magic of Lionheart will have to wait a bit longer until I’m done with Cecily.
The recession ended my 30-year career as a travel agent in an office so now I work from home. Visiting your blog is a welcomed break from work. I love reading the bits of info on births/deaths, etc. of historical figures that you and your readers mention.
My question to you is–what will follow the 2nd Richard book?
Sharon has stated several times that after finishing A King’s Ransom, she hopes to be able to write a book about Balian d’Ibelin. And allow me to say once more that I wholeheartedly support the idea, and would love to be at Sharon’s service for it.
In other matters, today, Westminster Abbey was consecrated, barely a week before Edward the Confessor died.
Just last night I finished reading the Kindle version of Lionheart. I would be honored to win a signed hard copy of Lionheart to add to my collection of your other books. Best wishes for the New Year!
Here is today’s Facebook Note.
In the dim historical past, Westminster Abbey was consecrated today in 1065, at the behest of Edward the Confessor. This was not the magnificent cathedral that we know today, of course. That, we owe to Henry III. Henry was not a very good king; in fact, it can be said that he was a living argument against hereditary kingship. But he left behind a truly splendid legacy, which should be acknowledged.
In the waning days of 2011, life is good in the Penman household, for Holly seems to be winning over the big galoot. I caught them playing again and he didn’t object when she swiped his beloved duck right out from under his large nose.
In the waning days of 2011, I’ve ordered Devil’s Brood at last and now, while waiting impatiently to get it, I’m a little bit nervous knowing perfectly well how it must all end (I mean the deaths) and not knowing whether Sharon was particularly tough on Young Henry or not???
On the other hand, I’m looking forward to meeting Sharon’s Geoffrey!
Hi Sharon I would love to win a signed copy of Lionheart
Hi Sharon, have read all your novels. My favorite I have to say is ‘Here Be Dragons’. Not sure, but I think I must have been Welsh in a past life. If ‘Lionhearted’ is anything like its predecessors then the wait has been worth it!
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Hello Sharon,
I am currently serving a tour in Afghanistan, and I found your newest book (Lionheart) on Amazon last month. I have not been able to put it down (when I have time to read)! I have always wanted to learn more about King Richard and the Crusades, and you have made it an entertaining experience. I can’t wait to pick up your next novel when you finally release it.
Thank you for giving me something worth my time to read while deployed.
-Diana
My 87-year-old dad loves your books. He just finished Lionheart and asked me to check out A King’s Ransom for him. I told him that it’s still in the works. Thanks for all of your work.
I just finished Lionheart on my Nook. As with all your books, I loved it. I’ve always been a big fan of historical fiction and when I discovered your books it was love at first read. My wife is an extreme anglophile and has gotten me interested also. We’ve been to England a couple times now and always look forward to returning.
You make history come alive and, as far as I am concerned, your works should be required reading in conjunction with any history course studying the periods you write about. Fleshing out the facts and dates with a reasonably accurate novel would do wonders for any teacher.
Thanks for the hours of enjoyment and PLEASE don’t stop now.
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