Hilary Mantel
Biography
Hilary Mantel is a critically acclaimed author known for her historical fiction series centered on the life of Thomas Cromwell. Born in Glossop, Derbyshire, Mantel began her writing career in the 1970s and published her first novel, "Every Day is Mother's Day," in 1985. She gained widespread recognition for her work with the release of "Wolf Hall" in 2009, the first book in the Thomas Cromwell series, which went on to win the Man Booker Prize. Mantel continued Cromwell's story with the release of "Bring Up the Bodies" in 2012, earning her a second Man Booker Prize. The final installment in the trilogy, "The Mirror and the Light," was published in 2020 and received high praise from critics and readers alike. Throughout her career, Mantel has been celebrated for her meticulous research and immersive storytelling, bringing to life the complex political and personal intrigue of Tudor England. Her work has solidified her as one of the most esteemed historical fiction writers of her generation.
Standalone Novels
Individual novels by Hilary Mantel not part of a series
- A Change of Climate
- A Change of Climate :
- A Place of Greater Safety
- An Experiment in Love
- Eight Months on Ghazzah Street
- Eight Months on Ghazzah Street :
- Fludd
- Giving Up the Ghost: A Memoir
- La Sombra de La Guillotina
- The Giant, O'Brien
- Vacant Possession
Classic Series
The series that started it all
- Wolf Hall
- Bring Up the Bodies
Recent Series
Latest works by the author
- The Mirror and the Light
Reading Order
Complete reading order for Hilary Mantel's books
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hilary Mantel best known for?
Hilary Mantel is best known for her historical fiction novels, particularly the Thomas Cromwell series.
How many books are in the Thomas Cromwell series?
There are three books in the Thomas Cromwell series by Hilary Mantel: 'Wolf Hall', 'Bring Up the Bodies', and 'The Mirror and the Light'.
What awards has Hilary Mantel won for her books?
Hilary Mantel has won several prestigious awards for her Thomas Cromwell series, including two Man Booker Prizes for 'Wolf Hall' and 'Bring Up the Bodies'.
What time period do Hilary Mantel's books about Thomas Cromwell cover?
Hilary Mantel's books about Thomas Cromwell are set in England during the reign of King Henry VIII, specifically focusing on the inner workings of the court in the 16th century.
Are there any plans for more books in the Thomas Cromwell series?
Hilary Mantel has indicated that 'The Mirror and the Light' will likely be the final book in the Thomas Cromwell series, but she may revisit the character in future works.