Edward Rutherfurd

Edward Rutherfurd was born in England, in the cathedral city of Salisbury. Educated locally, and at the universities of Cambridge, and Stanford, California, he worked in political research, bookselling and publishing. After numerous attempts to write books and plays, he finally abandoned his career in the book trade in 1983, and returned to his childhood home to write SARUM, a historical novel with a ten-thousand year story, set in the area around the ancient monument of Stonehenge, and Salisbury.

Four years later, when SARUM was published, it became an instant international bestseller, remaining 23 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List. Since then he has written five more bestsellers: RUSSKA, a novel of Russia; LONDON; THE FOREST, set in England's New Forest which lies close by Sarum, and two novels which cover the story of Ireland from the time just before Saint Patrick to the twentieth century.

What genre does Edward Rutherfurd write?

He writes historical fiction, primarily large-scale, multi-generational epics that follow people and places across centuries.

Which book should I start with to get a sense of his work?

Sarum is his breakthrough novel and a great introduction to his sweeping, place-based storytelling. Alternatively, choose a title set in a region you care about, for example Russka, London, The Forest, New York, China, or his Ireland novels.

Are his novels standalone or part of a series?

Most of his novels are standalone epics focused on a particular place. A few are linked thematically by country, notably the two novels that trace Ireland's history; for linked works, read in publication order for best continuity.

What is the typical length and style of his books?

They are generally long, richly detailed sagas with multiple characters and timelines, spanning centuries and emphasizing historical setting and generational continuity.

Which of his books are most notable or bestselling?

Sarum is his most famous bestseller, spending 23 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List. Other well-known titles include Russka, London, The Forest, and his novels set in Ireland, New York, and China.