Mary Sharratt

Mary Sharratt is an American author known for her historical fiction novels featuring strong female protagonists, often focusing on overlooked or misunderstood women from history. She has earned particular recognition for her detailed research and vivid portrayal of historical settings, especially in medieval and Renaissance Europe. Her most acclaimed works include "Daughters of the Witching Hill," which explores the Pendle witch trials of 1612, and "Illuminations: A Novel of Hildegard von Bingen," which won the Nautilus Gold Award and was named one of the Best Books of 2012 by Publishers Weekly. She has also written extensively about female composers, most notably in "Ecstasy," a novel about Alma Mahler. Sharratt's work consistently examines themes of women's spirituality, artistic expression, and resistance against patriarchal structures. Her novels have been published in multiple languages and have received recognition from various literary organizations. Having lived in Germany and England, Sharratt currently resides in Portugal, where she continues to write historical fiction focused on women's stories. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Antioch University.

Readers praise Sharratt's attention to historical detail and her ability to bring lesser-known historical women to life. Many reviews highlight her thorough research and authentic period atmosphere, particularly in "Illuminations" and "Daughters of the Witching Hill." What readers like: - Well-researched historical settings - Focus on overlooked women in history - Clear, accessible writing style - Complex female characters What readers dislike: - Pacing sometimes feels slow - Some narrative sections get bogged down in historical details - Character development occasionally sacrificed for historical accuracy Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: - Illuminations: 3.9/5 (2,800+ ratings) - Daughters of the Witching Hill: 3.8/5 (3,200+ ratings) - Ecstasy: 3.7/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon averages 4.2/5 across all titles, with readers specifically noting the "rich historical context" and "compelling female perspectives." Multiple reviews mention her work introduces them to historical figures they hadn't previously encountered.

Illuminations (2012) A biographical novel about medieval mystic, composer and abbess Hildegard von Bingen, following her life from childhood to her achievements as a visionary and writer.

The Dark Lady's Mask (2016) Historical fiction depicting the life of Aemilia Bassano Lanier, a possible inspiration for Shakespeare's Dark Lady and the first professional female poet in Renaissance England.

Daughters of the Witching Hill (2010) A story based on the real-life Pendle Witch trials of 1612 in Lancashire, England, focusing on the relationship between two women accused of witchcraft.

Summit Avenue (2000) Set in early 20th century Minnesota, follows a young German immigrant woman pursuing her musical ambitions while working as a domestic servant.

The Real Minerva (2004) Chronicles three women's intersecting lives in 1920s Minnesota as they deal with societal constraints and search for independence.

Ecstasy (2018) A biographical novel about Alma Schindler Mahler, focusing on her marriage to composer Gustav Mahler and her own artistic aspirations in fin de siècle Vienna.

The Vanishing Point (2006) Set in colonial Maryland, tells the story of two sisters who emigrate from England, one as a tobacco bride and the other as a midwife.

Tracy Chevalier writes historical fiction focused on women's lives and artistic pursuits in different time periods. Her works, like "Girl with a Pearl Earring," blend historical research with narratives about art and creativity.

Sarah Dunant specializes in Renaissance-era historical fiction with female protagonists exploring religion, art, and power. Her books feature research into Italian history and examine women's roles in convents, courts, and aristocratic families.

Elizabeth Chadwick creates medieval historical fiction based on primary source research and reenactment experience. She writes about noble women navigating political alliances and power structures in medieval England and France.

Philippa Gregory writes historical fiction centered on women in Tudor and Plantagenet England. Her works focus on royal courts, political intrigue, and the experiences of queens and noblewomen during pivotal historical periods.

Kate Morton combines historical and contemporary storylines featuring family secrets, old houses, and women uncovering past mysteries. Her novels move between time periods to explore connections between present-day characters and historical events.