PHOTO: Paul Bernardi, acclaimed author of The Huscarl Chronicles and Rebellion trilogy, brings medieval England’s history and drama to life through captivating fiction.
Balancing Accuracy With Storytelling
Paul Bernardi shares his passion for Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, blending rigorous historical research with engaging storytelling, creating relatable characters, and offers advice for aspiring historical fiction writers.
Paul Bernardi has established himself as a prominent voice in historical fiction, captivating readers with vivid portrayals of Anglo-Saxon and Norman England. His passion for history, ignited during a school project on Roman Britain and further nurtured at the University of Leeds, shines through his carefully researched and richly imagined novels. Bernardi’s works blend meticulous historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, creating immersive experiences that appeal both to history enthusiasts and fiction lovers.
His debut trilogy, The Huscarl Chronicles, invites readers into the turbulent world of 1066 through the eyes of Thurkill, a young warrior caught in the chaos of the Norman Conquest. The series balances the harsh realities of medieval life with universal themes of honor, loyalty, and survival, establishing Bernardi as a master storyteller. He continued his exploration of this transformative era with the Rebellion trilogy, starting with Blood Feud, which examines the impact of Norman rule in northern England. Additionally, Bernardi has showcased his versatility with Blood Price, a standalone murder mystery set during King Knut’s reign.
Paul Bernardi skillfully blends meticulous research and vivid storytelling, crafting authentic characters and immersive historical worlds that captivate and educate readers effortlessly.
Published by Sharpe Books, Bernardi’s novels stand out for their detailed settings and multidimensional characters like Thurkill and Oslac, who resonate as authentic and relatable figures. His dedication to accuracy is evident, though he admits a balanced flexibility in narrative details to ensure an engaging reading experience. For instance, while he strives for historical precision in details such as armor and customs, he allows himself creative freedom with timelines or character actions when it benefits the story.
Bernardi’s approach to character creation focuses on crafting ‘normal’ individuals with universal emotions and relatable flaws. Thurkill, the principled yet cheeky young warrior, and Oslac, a down-to-earth man fighting for his family and beliefs, exemplify this effort. These authentic portrayals foster strong connections between readers and the characters’ struggles in a bygone era.
Looking ahead, Bernardi is nearing completion of the second book in his Rebellion trilogy, with plans to release the final installment by the end of 2025. Although his passion lies primarily with the Anglo-Saxon period, he is intrigued by other historical eras, currently exploring the late medieval period through Helen Castor’s The Eagle and the Hart, which delves into the lives of Richard II and Henry IV.
For aspiring historical fiction writers, Bernardi offers practical advice rooted in experience: start writing without overthinking, finish the first draft, and resist the urge to turn your novel into a history lecture. He emphasizes that the story must entertain, not overwhelm readers with historical minutiae. Beginning with action and maintaining a fast pace keeps readers engaged and invested in the characters’ journeys.
Paul Bernardi’s work not only enriches readers’ understanding of medieval England but also inspires writers to approach historical fiction with both passion and discipline. His novels continue to illuminate the past with authenticity and heart, making history accessible and thrilling for a modern audience.
Source: Reader’s House Interview with Paul Bernardi
