If you love immersive, meticulously researched historical fiction, "The Sunne in Splendour" is right up your alley. This sweeping epic brings the Wars of the Roses to dramatic life and offers a fresh, humanizing portrait of Richard III - far from the villain of Shakespeare's play. Sharon Kay Penman’s attention to period detail, vibrant characterizations, and political intrigue will captivate fans of Hilary Mantel or George R. R. Martin. History buffs and anyone looking to understand the shifting loyalties and betrayals of 15th-century England will revel in this rich tale.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found this book daunting due to its sheer length (over 900 pages!) and slow start. The vast cast of characters and intricate politics can be confusing at first, especially if you’re not already interested in or familiar with the Wars of the Roses. Others felt the narrative sometimes gets bogged down in exposition, with a writing style that occasionally leans heavy on archaic language and a somewhat generous view of Richard III that might not suit everyone.

A masterful and absorbing historical novel - dense but rewarding, especially for those who adore historical fiction or want to see a nuanced take on Richard III. Definitely worth the time if you’re seeking an epic, character-driven read.

About:

'The Sunne in Splendour' by Sharon Kay Penman is a meticulously researched historical fiction novel that vividly brings to life the tumultuous period of the late 15th century in England. The book primarily focuses on the rise and fall of Richard III, offering a sympathetic portrayal of the controversial king as well as delving into the intricate political intrigues of the War of the Roses era. Through rich character development and detailed historical accuracy, Penman weaves a captivating narrative that immerses readers in a world filled with power struggles, betrayals, and personal sacrifices. The writing style is described as beautifully crafted, engaging, and educational, making the lengthy 900-page novel a compelling and absorbing read for fans of historical fiction.

Characters:

The characters are multidimensional and complex, with Richard III depicted as sympathetic and morally upright, while the supporting cast presents a range of motivations that enrich the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The author employs a detailed and immersive style that captivates readers with its historical accuracy and rich character depth, although its length leads to slower pacing at points.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative intricately weaves the historical events of the Wars of the Roses with a focus on the life of Richard III and his relationships, presenting a sympathetic view of his character in contrast to traditional portrayals.

Setting:

The 15th-century English setting is brought to life through meticulous detail and rich descriptions that enhance the story's authenticity.

Pacing:

While the pacing starts slow due to detail-heavy exposition, it accelerates as the plot unfolds, maintaining interest through dramatic political and personal events.

Richard did not become frightened until darkness began to settle over the woods. In the fading light, the trees began to take on unfamiliar and menacing shapes. There was movement in the shadows. Low-...

Notes:

The Sunne in Splendour is Sharon Kay Penman's debut novel.

The novel is about the life of Richard III, set during the Wars of the Roses.

It spans nearly 936 to 1249 pages depending on editions.

Penman undertook extensive research to accurately depict historical events and figures.

This book presents Richard III in a more sympathetic light compared to his portrayal in Shakespeare's works.

The author provides a detailed account of the political machinations and battles that defined the era.

Penman describes Richard's growth from a young boy overshadowed by his brothers to a tragic king.

The book explores the relationship between Richard and his wife, Anne Neville, in depth.

Many readers note that the writing becomes more accessible and romantic in the second part of the book.

The title refers to the coat of arms of Edward IV, Richard's brother.

The narrative includes various characters' perspectives, providing a well-rounded view of the historical context.

The story critiques Tudor propaganda that painted Richard as a villain after the War of the Roses.

The book was first published in 1982 and remains popular among historical fiction fans.

Readers often describe the book's character development as deep and engaging.

It has been compared to epic tales like 'Game of Thrones' for its political intrigue and familial power struggles.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of betrayal, political intrigue, and the tragic elements surrounding the deaths of key characters.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance, particularly in the relationship between Richard and Anne.

From The Publisher:

A glorious novel of the controversial Richard III-a monarch betrayed in life by his allies and betrayed in death by history

In this beautifully rendered modern classic, Sharon Kay Penman redeems Richard III-vilified as the bitter, twisted, scheming hunchback who murdered his nephews, the princes in the Tower-from his maligned place in history with a dazzling combination of research and storytelling.

Born into the treacherous courts of fifteenth-century England, in the midst of what history has called The War of the Roses, Richard was raised in the shadow of his charismatic brother, King Edward IV. Loyal to his friends and passionately in love with the one woman who was denied him, Richard emerges as a gifted man far more sinned against than sinning.

This magnificent retelling of his life is ?lled with all of the sights and sounds of battle, the customs and lore of the ?fteenth century, the rigors of court politics, and the passions and prejudices of royalty.

1982

Ratings (15)

Incredible (7)
Loved It (5)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (50):

Read It (15)
Want To Read (25)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (9)

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About the Author:

For many years while she was a student and then a tax lawyer, Sharon Kay Penman (1945-2021) worked on a novel about the life of Richard III and The War of the Roses. After the original manuscript was stolen from her car, Penman rewrote the entire novel that would become The Sunne in Splendour.

Penman is the author of ten critically acclaimed and New York Times best selling historical novels and four medieval mysteries featuring Justin de Quincy. The first book in the series, The Queen's Man, was a finalist for an Edgar Award for Best First Mystery from the Mystery Writers of America.

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The Sunne in Splendour

Sharon Kay Penman

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