Yes, it is. The story of 'Shardlake' is set against the backdrop of Tudor England which was a time full of upheaval. The legal system, the power struggles between different factions, and the general way of life during that period are all real aspects that the story incorporates. Shardlake's character may be fictional, but his interactions with real historical events and figures make the story feel like it could have been a true account of someone's experiences during that era. His investigations often lead him to uncover secrets and truths that were likely hidden in the real - life Tudor society.
In my opinion, 'Dissolution' is often considered one of the best Shardlake novels. It introduces the character of Matthew Shardlake very well. The historical setting is vividly depicted, and the mystery unfolds in an engaging way that draws the reader in right from the start.
Shardlake is actually fictional. The author likely drew inspiration from various sources but didn't base it directly on a true account. The characters and events are made up to form an engaging narrative.
I'm not sure which specific 'Mathew Christmas Story' you mean. There could be many stories related to someone named Mathew during Christmas. It could be a personal family story about a Mathew's Christmas experience, like how Mathew celebrated Christmas with his family, they might have decorated the Christmas tree together, prepared a big dinner, and exchanged gifts.
Mathew Shepard was a young gay man who was brutally murdered in 1998. He was lured from a bar by two men who then tortured and killed him because of his sexual orientation. His death became a symbol of anti - gay hate crimes in the United States and sparked a national conversation about hate crime legislation and LGBT rights.
For a Shardlake novel to be the best, the historical accuracy is crucial. In all the novels, the descriptions of Tudor England, from the architecture to the social hierarchy, are so detailed. And of course, the plot should be full of suspense. Take 'Dark Fire' where the search for the mysterious substance keeps the tension high throughout the book.
Well, apart from Matthew Shardlake and Jack Barak, there are also important female characters. For example, some of the women who are caught up in the political and social turmoil of the time. They add depth to the story, often being victims of the power plays and social norms of the Tudor era. Their stories also show different aspects of life during that period, from the lower classes to the courtly circles.
One of the main themes is mystery. The novels often revolve around complex and puzzling crimes that Shardlake has to solve. Another theme is the historical and social context of the Tudor period. It shows the power struggles, religious tensions, and class differences of that time.