Sharon Kay Penman was a distinguished American historical novelist, celebrated for her intricately woven narratives set during the Middle Ages, primarily in England, France, and Wales. Her storytelling prowess was evident in her sagas about English and Welsh royalty, earning her a place among the most revered authors in historical fiction.

Penman's literary journey began with The Sunne in Splendour, a captivating novel about King Richard III of England and the Wars of the Roses, which she was compelled to rewrite after the original manuscript was stolen. This stand-alone book paved the way for her subsequent works, including the beloved Welsh Princes trilogy and the Plantagenet series. In addition, Penman expanded her literary repertoire by delving into medieval mysteries, the first of which, The Queen's Man, was a finalist for the Best First Mystery Edgar Award in 1996.

Her novels received widespread acclaim, with latter entries making their way onto the New York Times Bestseller List. Critics and readers alike praised Penman's meticulous research and the vivid characterizations that brought historical figures to life. Beyond her novels, Penman's contribution to historical fiction was further underscored by her belief that "Historical Novelists Owe the Truth to Readers – and to History," a sentiment she articulated in a 2020 op-ed for the History News Network.

Penman's academic background in history from the University of Texas at Austin, alongside her Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers University School of Law, informed her detailed and authentic narratives. Despite her early career as a tax lawyer, Penman's passion for history and storytelling ultimately led her to become a full-time writer.

On January 22, 2021, the literary world lost a towering figure when Sharon Kay Penman passed away from pneumonia at the age of 75. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire and captivate readers around the globe.