C.J. Sansom is a British author known for his historical fiction novels, particularly the Shardlake series. Born in 1952, he has gained recognition for his engaging storytelling and well-researched settings, often set in Tudor England. His writing combines elements of mystery and history, appealing to a wide range of readers. Sansom's debut novel, Dissolution, was published in 2003 and introduced readers to the hunchbacked lawyer-detective, Matthew Shardlake. The series has received critical acclaim and has been translated into multiple languages, solidifying Sansom's reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary historical fiction.