Renowned historian and author specializing in Celtic history and culture, shedding light on the ancient Celts and their contributions to modern society.
Peter Berresford Ellis is a British historian, literary biographer, and novelist renowned for publishing over 98 books to date, including the internationally bestselling Sister Fidelma historical mystery series under his pseudonym Peter Tremayne. His work has been translated into 25 languages, cementing his status as a prolific and versatile writer.
Born on 10 March 1943 in Coventry, England, Ellis's family roots can be traced back to 1288 in the Cork area, where his ancestors were stonecutters. His father, Alan John Ellis, was a journalist who started his career with The Cork Examiner, while his mother, Eva Daisy, was the daughter of a house painter and decorator from an old Sussex family of Saxon origin.
Educated at Brighton College of Art and the University of London, Ellis graduated from North East London Polytechnic (now part of the University of East London) with a degree in Celtic Studies in 1989. He later earned a master's degree in Celtic Studies from the University of East London in 1993.
Ellis began his career as a junior reporter on an English south coast weekly, eventually becoming deputy editor of an Irish weekly newspaper and editor of a weekly publishing trade journal in London. His first book, Wales a Nation Again, was published in 1968, focusing on the Welsh struggle for political independence with a foreword by Gwynfor Evans, Plaid Cymru's first MP.
In 1975, Ellis became a full-time writer, leveraging his academic background to produce numerous titles in the field of Celtic Studies. He has written academic articles and papers in the field for various journals, solidifying his expertise as a historian and literary biographer.
Under the pseudonym Peter Tremayne, Ellis has written the internationally acclaimed Sister Fidelma series, which has captivated readers worldwide. The series follows the adventures of Sister Fidelma, a seventh-century Irish nun and detective, as she solves crimes and unravels mysteries in ancient Ireland.
Ellis's work has had a significant impact on the field of Celtic Studies, with his books and articles providing valuable insights into the history, culture, and literature of the Celts. His writing has also influenced the genre of historical mystery, inspiring a new generation of writers and readers alike.
Ellis's contributions to literature and history have been recognized through various awards and honors. His work has been praised by critics and scholars, solidifying his reputation as a master historian and storyteller.
Throughout his career, Ellis has been driven by a passion for history, literature, and the arts. His personal milestones, including his academic achievements and literary successes, serve as a testament to his dedication and perseverance.
As a historian, literary biographer, and novelist, Peter Berresford Ellis has left an indelible mark on the literary world. His work continues to captivate readers and inspire new generations of writers, ensuring his legacy as a master storyteller and historian.
86 Years Old
A renowned expert in European Iron Age archaeology, known for his groundbreaking research on the Celts and the prehistoric landscape of Britain.
Born in 1909
Scottish historian and author renowned for meticulously researched historical novels that bring Scotland's rich past to life, and for his contributions to the country's cultural heritage.
Born in 1925
Scottish author and screenwriter best known for his Flashman series of historical novels, which follow the misadventures of a cowardly British army officer during the 19th century.
