Here be Dragons

Here be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman is a historical novel published by Penguin in 1991. This edition spans 803 pages and is presented in English. The narrative unfolds in thirteenth-century England, Wales, and France, focusing on themes of power, betrayal, loyalty, and political intrigue, particularly surrounding King John of England, his daughter Joanna, and Llewellyn Ab Iowerth, the Prince of Gwynedd.

Readers will find a richly woven tale that explores the complexities of relationships and conflicts during this tumultuous period. The story centers on Joanna, King John’s illegitimate daughter, and her marriage to Llewellyn, who opposes English influence in Wales. The novel delves into the intricacies of loyalty and the struggles for power, providing a vivid backdrop of historical events and personal dramas that shape the characters’ lives.