Matthew Shardlake
About the Series
The Matthew Shardlake series follows the adventures of a hunchbacked lawyer in Tudor England, who navigates the treacherous waters of legal and political intrigue during the reign of King Henry VIII. The series artfully combines historical fiction with elements of crime and mystery, as Shardlake solves various cases while grappling with the societal challenges and personal struggles of his time. Each novel immerses readers in the rich tapestry of 16th-century England, filled with vivid characters, detailed settings, and a plot that intertwines historical events with Shardlake's legal pursuits.
Series Details
- Author:C.J. Sansom
- Started:2003
- Books:7
- Status:Complete
Genres
Themes
Books in Order
Dissolution
2003In the summer of 1540, lawyer Matthew Shardlake is called to investigate the murder of a powerful abbot at a monastery that is being dissolved by the Crown. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and the dark underbelly of the political machinations surrounding the Reformation.
Dark Fire
2004Shardlake is tasked with investigating the theft of a dangerous substance known as 'dark fire,' which could be used to devastating effect in warfare. At the same time, he becomes embroiled in a case of heresy that puts him at odds with powerful figures in the court of Henry VIII, testing his resolve and legal acumen.
Sovereign
2006As the plague ravages London, Shardlake finds himself in York, where he is sent to represent the king's interests in a murder trial. However, the trial reveals deeper conspiracies that threaten the stability of the realm itself, and Shardlake must navigate treacherous political waters to uncover the truth.
Revelation
2008Shardlake is called to investigate a series of murders linked to a secret religious sect. As he unravels the threads of faith and fanaticism, he must confront his own beliefs and the impact of the Reformation on society, leading to a gripping climax that challenges his understanding of justice.
Heartstone
2010In the aftermath of the English Civil War, Shardlake is tasked with solving a case involving the mysterious disappearance of a young nobleman. The investigation leads him to confront issues of loyalty and betrayal, and he must navigate the complexities of a nation torn apart by conflict.
Lamentation
2014Shardlake investigates the murder of a prominent author whose work threatens to expose secrets within the royal court. As he delves into the literary world of the time, he uncovers a conspiracy that could change the course of history, while grappling with his own feelings of isolation.
Tombland
2018Set in the wake of the Kett's Rebellion, Shardlake finds himself in a tumultuous Norfolk, where he must solve the murder of a young woman while navigating the upheaval of the time. This novel explores themes of justice in a world where the old order is crumbling and new ideas are emerging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Matthew Shardlake series based on real historical events?
Yes, the Matthew Shardlake series is set during the tumultuous Tudor period of England, specifically under the reign of Henry VIII. The author, C.J. Sansom, weaves real historical events and figures into the narrative alongside fictional plots.
Do I need to read the books in order?
While each book in the series can be enjoyed as a standalone story, reading them in order provides a richer understanding of the character development and overarching themes in Matthew Shardlake's life.
What is the main character, Matthew Shardlake, like?
Matthew Shardlake is portrayed as a complex character: a dedicated lawyer with a strong sense of justice, who struggles with his physical deformity (he is hunchbacked) and the prejudices of his time. His character embodies resilience and intellect, navigating both legal challenges and personal dilemmas.