BOOK BRIEF

Penmarric

Susan Howatch
Guide cover placeholder

Penmarric

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1984

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Susan Howatch

Penmarric

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1984
Book Details
Pages

704

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Gothic Literature

Classic Fiction

Historical Fiction
Setting

Cornwall, England • 1890s-1940s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Penmarric by Susan Howatch is a family saga set in Cornwall, spanning multiple generations from the 19th to the 20th century. The narrative follows individuals navigating love, power, and legacy within the Penmarric estate, highlighting themes of ambition and betrayal. Each character's perspective contributes to a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and turbulent familial relationships.

Mysterious

Emotional

Dark

Gritty

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

8,765 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Penmarric by Susan Howatch captivates with its sweeping multigenerational saga set in Cornwall, praised for its intricate plot and complex characters. While the vivid historical backdrop and emotional depth engage readers, some may find the narrative's sprawling nature overwhelming. Howatch's storytelling prowess is evident, though the pacing can occasionally drag.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Penmarric?

Fans of sweeping family sagas like The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough or Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier will enjoy Penmarric by Susan Howatch. Readers who savor complex characters, intergenerational drama, and rich historical settings will find this novel engrossing.

4.2

8,765 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

704

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Gothic Literature

Classic Fiction

Historical Fiction
Setting

Cornwall, England • 1890s-1940s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!