Step into the captivating world of the Plantagenet Saga, where medieval England’s royal dramas unfold with passion and intrigue! Written by Eleanor Hibbert under her pseudonym Jean Plaidy, this 14-book historical fiction series chronicles the turbulent Plantagenet dynasty from 1154 to 1485. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, it brings to life the power struggles, romances, and betrayals of iconic figures like Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, making history feel thrillingly alive.
Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of epic sagas, the Plantagenet Saga offers a front-row seat to a dynasty that shaped England’s destiny. From courtly scandals to battlefield heroics, this series is a timeless journey through a world of crowns and conquests.
How Plantagenet Saga Began
Eleanor Hibbert, a prolific British author, crafted the Plantagenet Saga under her Jean Plaidy pseudonym, known for its richly detailed historical novels. Inspired by her love for England’s past, Hibbert launched the series in 1976 with The Plantagenet Prelude. Her goal was to weave factual history with fictional flair, drawing from historians like Agnes Strickland to create immersive narratives. Hibbert’s disciplined writing—5,000 words daily at her typewriter—allowed her to produce this sprawling saga, blending romance and drama with historical accuracy.
The Heart of Plantagenet Saga
The series kicks off with The Plantagenet Prelude (1976), introducing Henry II’s rise and his fiery marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine, a queen whose ambition rivals his own. The Revolt of the Eaglets (1977) dives into the family’s fractures, as Henry’s sons rebel and Eleanor plots vengeance after Thomas Becket’s murder. The Heart of the Lion (1977) spotlights Richard the Lionheart’s crusades, while The Sun in Splendour (1982) closes the saga with Richard III’s divisive reign. Each novel stands alone but builds a grand tapestry of the dynasty.
Themes of power, love, and legacy pulse through the series. Hibbert portrays the Plantagenets as a family of magnetic, flawed figures—romantic yet ruthless, stylish yet volatile. The medieval setting, from England’s castles to Normandy’s courts, is vividly rendered, with political intrigue and personal betrayals driving the drama. Her style balances accessibility with depth, making complex history engaging for all readers.
Why Plantagenet Saga Resonates
The Plantagenet Saga has enchanted readers for decades, selling over 14 million copies as Jean Plaidy novels. Its blend of historical fidelity and emotional storytelling appeals to fans of authors like Philippa Gregory, offering a gateway to medieval history. Hibbert’s focus on strong female characters, like Eleanor of Aquitaine, adds a feminist lens, resonating with modern audiences. The series’ enduring popularity lies in its ability to make the past feel immediate, turning dusty records into page-turning drama.
Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise the saga’s immersive quality and educational value, often calling it a “history lesson wrapped in a story.” Its influence endures in the historical fiction genre, inspiring readers to explore England’s royal past.
- Publication Years: 1976–1982
- Number of Books: 14
- Author Pseudonym: Jean Plaidy (Eleanor Hibbert)
- Setting: Medieval England, 1154–1485
Ready to dive into a world of kings, queens, and epic betrayals? Grab The Plantagenet Prelude and let the Plantagenet Saga sweep you into medieval England’s thrilling history!