STORIES, VOICES AND JOURNEYS.
Real Women. Bold Stories.
Step closer to the author behind the fiction — stories of courage, resilience, and a few adventures of my own.
Historical Fiction
Real Women, Bold Stories
Meet Penelope Clare
Penelope Clare is an author of immersive historical fiction and practical writing guides, known for stories that celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and independence.Her debut novel, A Bold Pursuit, blends real historical events with emotional depth and page-turning adventure—part of a growing historical fiction series set in the 19th century. With a focus on richly drawn characters, captivating settings from Victorian England to colonial India, and themes of women’s empowerment and social justice, Penelope’s books are beloved by readers seeking meaningful, character-driven stories with heart.In 2024, what began as a quick summer project turned into a surprise second venture: the How to Write Your Novel Fast! series. Written with warmth and humour, these down-to-earth guides help first-time authors tackle the writing and self-publishing process—from blank page to bookstore shelf. With no formal background in publishing, Penelope completed her debut novel in just seven months, learning every step from scratch—and now she shares those lessons with other aspiring writers. Her motto? I did it, you can too.When she’s not writing, Penelope is usually researching dusty archives, dreaming up her next heroine, or helping fellow creatives find the confidence to finish their stories.Tap the image and join me on Goodreads — every follow, rating, or review helps bold stories reach new readers.
Testimonials
Editorial Review
ABP was my first historical fiction project so I'm grateful Penelope gave me the chance to expand on my knowledge and professional practice by trusting me with her story and characters. I had a blast working with her and getting to see her creative mind. For someone who taught themselves how to write, and was new to the publishing world, I couldn't believe how gifted she was at storytelling. I immediately got lost a new world and fell in love with the characters, especially Heath. She is incredible and I can't wait to work with her on A Bold Adventure, coming soon.Chloe, Booklyst Editing ServicesWonderfully romantic escapism.
A beautifully written story about love, loss, and resilience that will sweep you away as you embark on an unforgettable journey. I enjoyed reading about Sarah Guest's fight for freedom and independence against the odds, and yet wish her to find that happy ever after with the man she loves ... because after all, that's what we want, isn't it? In real life as much as in romantic fiction. Lovely light read. Perfect for dark winter evenings.
Yorkshire LassHistorical Fiction
This is my first experience in HR Romance other than reading a few of the "classics" as a teen. The attention to detail was remarkable and the pacing of the story moved along very well. I love books where I feel like I have learned something about another world by the time I have finished. That's exactly how I felt after reading A Bold Pursuit.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Now for the sequel!
I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of this book. You know that feeling you get when a character worms their way into your psyche and you find yourself wondering what they’re doing, when you put the book down.? Well that’s what happened reading this debut novel. Lovely rounded characters, enjoyable story, moves easily along and very pleasing conclusion.
Kate
⭐️⭐️⭐️A very easy 5 star read for me.
I enjoyed this book very much much. I had the pleasure of being an ARC for this book and I am so happy that I was. When you think of historical romance, oftentimes it takes you back to when you were in school. Just waiting for the bell to ring so you can escape. This was not the case for me with A Bold Pursuit. I stayed up well past my bedtime because I had to finsd out how it ended.
Lois Johnston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Historically Accurate
A good read. I love the characters, even the ratbags. I enjoyed the historical accuracy and learnt a lot. definitely looking forward to the second book!
K. F. Smith
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Rich In Period Detail
I really enjoyed it. It was so rich in period detail that it made a lovely escape from 21st century life. Sarah's independence was admirable, and Heath was a delightful hero. The happy ending was incredibly satisfying.
Emma Melbourne
Author of the Miss Fleming seriesFollow me on Amazon to see all my books and get updates when new stories are released. Just tap the image above.
On the Horizon:
A Bold Rebellion
Lanarkshire, Scotland may have shaped her, but it is New Zealand that will test her.
Jenny Clifford has always been the reliable one — the sister who held her family together when grief hollowed out her parents and her twin brother was banished. While Heath was raised among the Beaumonts at Dunham Massey, heirs to a vast textile fortune, Jenny learned resilience on the farm. She crossed the world to stand at Heath’s side in colonial Canterbury, but now that he has married, Jenny is free to claim a life of her own.On the windswept bays of Banks Peninsula, with her beloved cashmere goats and a new world at her feet, Jenny learns to sail — and to live untethered. Yet the colony is restless. From her family’s textile dreams to the imprisoned Māori men from Parihaka, Jenny’s path collides with stories of resistance, love, and loss. A Scotswoman among settlers, she recognises the echoes of her own people’s struggles against English rule over land and sovereignty — and must decide where she belongs.A Bold Rebellion is a sweeping tale of independence, resilience, and self-realisation in 1880s New Zealand — a story of a woman who may take lovers, may risk heartbreak, but will never surrender her freedom.
I Did, You Can Too!
Writing a novel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The I Did, You Can Too! series is built for debut and struggling writers who want clear, practical steps without the fluff. From kickstarting your idea to publishing and marketing, these guides walk you through the whole process with honesty, humour, and encouragement. Explore the covers below — each image is clickable and will take you straight to the book or resource it represents.
Wherever you are in your writing journey, you’ll find a guide here to help you keep moving. And when you’re ready for hands-on progress, the Workbook Edition is waiting—packed with space to plan, track, and test your ideas until they take shape on the page. Click through, explore, and take the step that matters most: the one that gets you closer to a finished novel.
Share Your Story
I love hearing from readers and fellow writers. Whether you’ve read one of my novels, tried the workbook, or just want to connect about bold women and bold journeys — this is the place. Send me a note and let me know what’s inspired you.Your stories matter as much as the ones I write. Feel free to share a note, a thought, or even just a hello. And if you’d rather connect in the scroll of daily life, you’ll find me on socials. Just tap the icons below.
Historical
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Thank you
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