Sherrilyn Kenyon,
Author & Tennessee Resident

Sherrilyn Kenyon started out writing science fiction under the pseudonyms Kyle Hunter and Alyx Woodward, and fantasy as Anne Dragonswan. It wasn't until the early nineties that she turned to writing romance, which to this day is still one of her greatest loves (along with two adorable boys, an Australian Shepherd, a Himilayan cat, her hubby, friends, computers and teaching.).

Kenyon's interest in history began in infancy practically. Kenyon thought it had something to do with the huge suit of armor her mother had in their den. Something about all that metal and the swords on the wall--dunno. Kenyon was very fortunate to become involved with the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) sixteen years ago and she has basked in their warmth and companionship ever since. Kenyon supposes it might all have something to do with the fact that she has an ancestor mentioned by name in the Bayeaux Tapestry.

• Food--Medieval dinning habits and typical fare may surprise you.
• Clothing--fashions changed much more often than most people think. Make sure your character's are fashionably attired.
• Medicine--It wasn't all potions and prayers. You could actually visit a dentist and cosmetic surgeon.
• Heraldry--learn the basics for designing appropriate shields.
• War--from the Albegensian Crusade of the War of the Roses, countless conflicts raged during the Middle Ages.
• Vocabulary--If you think a stew is for dinner and a coffyn is for a corpse, you need to check this book before you put the wrong words in your character's mouth.
• Also included, information on saints, popes, religious orders, festivals, music, measurements, and roles of m3edieval women, men and children in all areas of medieval life.

More than 20,000 first and last names and their meanings from around the world--including special advice for choosing historical, science fiction, fantasy, mystery and action names, and valuable instruction for naming your setting!