The only complaint was that the era in which Penman sets the action ( 12th century England) 'lacks epic qualities.' The novel had a first printing of 75,000 copies with a major ad and promotion campaign and author tour. Although based on real life historical characters-Queen Maude and King Stephen are the main protagonists-it was thought that, in the fictional character Ranulf, Penman added a 'successful addition'. The book was described as a 'magnificent combination of history and humanity' in which Penman presents 'complicated politics' in a persuasive manner with well-presented characters. When Christ and His Saints Slept: A Novel by Sharon Kay Penman, Paperback Barnes & Noble Free Shipping on Orders of 40 or More Home Books Add to Wishlist When Christ and His Saints Slept: A Novel by Sharon Kay Penman 4.5 (55) Paperback (Reprint) 15.99 18.00 Save 11 Paperback 15.99 eBook 11. Publishers Weekly gave a positive review of When Christ and His Saints Slept. When Christ and His Saints Slept: A Novel (Plantagenets Book 1) Kindle Edition by Sharon Kay Penman (Author) Format: Kindle Edition 1,287 ratings Book 1 of 5: Plantagenets See all formats and editions Kindle 10.99 Read with Our Free App Hardcover 55.61 2 Used from 12.54 4 New from 55. Penman chronicles the story of cousins Maude and Stephen as they fight for England's throne. In the book Penman introduces the genesis of the Plantagenet dynasty as Empress Maude battles to secure her claim to the English throne, ultimately more for her young son Henry Plantagenet, than for herself. It is the first of Penman's Plantagenet trilogy, (ultimately five books) followed by Time and Chance, Devil's Brood, Lionheart and A King's Ransom. 55.61 2 Used from 12.54 4 New from 55.61.

When Christ and His Saints Slept is a historical novel written by Sharon Kay Penman, published in 1994.

When christ and his saints slept