Bernard Cornwell is an English author best known for his historical novels, particularly the Sharpe series about a British soldier during the Napoleonic Wars. Born in London in 1944, Cornwell's father was a Canadian airman, and his mother was a member of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force. After being adopted by a family in Essex who were part of a strict Protestant sect known as the Peculiar People, Cornwell eventually attended London University and became a teacher.

He later joined the BBC as a researcher, moving up the ranks to become Head of Current Affairs Television for BBC Northern Ireland. His move to the United States was motivated by love, marrying an American named Judy. Due to visa complications, he began writing as a way to earn a living, leading to the creation of his renowned Sharpe series. Cornwell's work often includes an end note discussing the historical accuracy of the events depicted, providing readers with insights into both his storytelling process and the real-world history behind his narratives.

Throughout his career, Cornwell has written numerous series, including The Saxon Stories and The Warlord Chronicles, with several adaptations made for television. His contributions to literature have also been acknowledged with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) title.