Bernard Cornwell is a British author best known for his historical fiction novels. Born on February 23, 1944, in London, he has written over 50 books, many of which are set during the Napoleonic Wars or the Middle Ages. His most famous series is the Sharpe series, which follows the adventures of Richard Sharpe, a soldier in the British Army. Cornwell's writing is characterized by its detailed historical research and vivid storytelling. He has also written the Saxon Stories, which inspired the popular television series The Last Kingdom. His works have garnered a large following and critical acclaim for their engaging narratives and rich historical context.