Sharon Kay Penman

Penman, Sharon Kay, - passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 22, 2021 after a short illness. She was 75 years old. A longtime resident of Mays Landing, New Jersey, she was a critically acclaimed New York Times bestselling author. She has been hailed as one of the foremost writers of historical fiction. She was admired by authors such as Bernard Cornwell, Stephen Berry, Margaret George and George R. R. Martin of Game of Thrones fame. She was renowned for her incredible attention to detail, impeccable accuracy and a deep knowledge of her subject matter. Born on August 13, 1945 in New York City, she was raised in Atlantic City by her loving parents Theresa and Bill Penman. She earned her bachelor's degree in history from the University of Texas and then her law degree from Rutgers University of Law in Camden, New Jersey. While working on her degree she wrote her first novel, The Sunne in Splendour about the life of Richard III and the end of England's War of the Roses, but tragically the manuscript was stolen from her car. For many years afterward, she just could not bring herself to rewrite her novel. However, after years of practicing law, she went back to writing and The Sunne in Splendour was published in 1982. After which time she stopped practicing law to focus full time on her writing. Sharon went on to write 11 historical novels and 4 mysteries. Her most famous series was about the Plantagenets and was a 3-book series. The second novel in the series, Time and Chance (2002), put her on the New York Times bestseller list. The other two books were When Christ and the Saints Slept (1995) and Devils Brood (2008). Sharon was not finished with the Angevins however, penning 3 more novels including her final novel The Land Beyond the Sea (2020). Sharon also wrote several historical mysteries set in the Middle Ages and starring the fictional Justin de Quincy, one of Sharon's favorite characters. The Queen's Man (1996) was a finalist for an Edgar Award for best mystery from the Mystery Writers of America. Sharon loved to communicate with her loyal readers and developed many friendships over the years that spanned the globe, from her fan club in Australia to her legions of fans in Great Britain. She was a true lover of animals and was directly involved with Rescue dogs. Her last two German Shepherds, the amazing Cody and the gorgeous Shadow, were both rescue dogs. Her present dog Holly was a loyal companion who brought her much comfort and joy. Sharon has made special provisions for her beloved Holly to be taken care of. She was a member of a close knit family and will be sorely missed by her brother, William J Penman Jr of Absecon, New Jersey, and her nephew, with whom she was especially close, William J Penman VI also of Absecon. Her extended family, Nancylee, Shirley, Michelle and Aunt Jean all occupied a special place in Sharon's heart. Her generosity and compassion identified her as a special person. While there is a new angel in heaven, she will be sadly missed here on earth. This coming Spring, when all of final details are worked out, there will be a special event to commemorate Sharon's life. Check back periodically on the Boakes Funeral Home website www.boakesfuneralhome.com for future details. In lieu of flowers, make donations in the memory of Sharon Kay Penman to www.beaconanimalrescue.org either by check or PayPal. "A light that shines brightly, shall never be diminished by darkness."