Bulletin Board

Q

Dear Bernard Pretty much writing in to argue against you calling Henry Clinton an idiot which seems most unfair given his record while admittedly no genius he was no slouch. If Gage and Co had listened to him then Bunker Hill would not have happened (He wanted to come behind the Americans and trap them instead). It was his idea and flank attack that beat the Americans at Long Island. His capture of the Hudson forts to aid Burgoyne with what little he had was the best anyone could have done under the circumstances. At Monmouth although it was a draw he at least one his strategic aim avoiding the main body or baggage becoming engaged by Washington. And the capture of Charlestown was well done. He also had to contend with the fact he had to send thousands of troops away to fight the French in the West Indies and put up with Cornwallis undermining him (dormant commission and informing him to Howe) and was not even allowed to resign by Germain even though he wanted too get out. So while probably unsuited to the role he was not the idiot or Simmerson figure you make him out to be.
Geraint

A

I disagree . . . I think he was supine, vindictive and ineffective, but I guess it doesn't really matter now!


Q

I first read your trilogy about Arthur as a warlord and I loved the idea of that and your writing style. The Sharpe series didn't interest me very much until I watched Sean Bean on BBC!! Wow! I just finished Lords of the North and can only hope that Uhtred isn't finished. I am now beginning the Grail Quest and I know I will enjoy those equally as much. I find your writing and battle description very exciting. Beautiful job with the Danes too! Thanks for keeping the dark ages alive in readers' minds! Lisa Spencer


Q

I'm a big fan and have read all your Sharpe, Arther, Grail Quest and Saxon stories, plus a selection of others. I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed Sword Song and look forward to the next installment. Jonathan Webb


Q

Dear Mr. Cornwell: I just finished reading The Starbuck Chronicles; Wow, I'm going to take a trip out to western Maryland and visit Manassas and Antietam. I've been to Gettysburg and ended up staying three days studying the history. The Starbuck Chronicles have stirred my interest in the Great U.S. Civil War once more to want to study the history. I have read all the Sharpe books, including the short stories, the Thrillers, Redcoat, and I started Gallows Thief but stopped shortly into the book since it was to distressful. Maybe I'll start it again another day. I'm going to start reading the Arthur Books next. I sure would like to see Nate Starbuck come back in another series of the Starbuck Chronicles. There is a lot of unfinished business and stories to be told about Nate. It would make a great TV series too. Thank you sincerely for giving me many hours of joy and adventure reading your books. There is nothing better then to sail on the Chesapeake Bay and have a Bernard Cornwell novel along to read once we drop the hook and enjoy a glass of wine. Fairwinds and following seas, Earl Sewell Wilmington, DE USA


Q

Dear Bernard- I loved the Arther books, Winter King was phenomenal and I recommended it to several people who agreed. The Saxon Stories are even better, and I really can't wait to read Sword Song. I may fly to London just to buy it!!! Keep it coming! Sincerely, Rich Earthrowl


Q

Hello Mr. Cornwell. I just recently moved from Massachusetts (my home and my favorite) to Florida and I am just thanking you for writing such amazing books. Whenever I buy one of your books, I can hardly set it down. I am completely in love with the Saxon stories as I can trace my surname back to 5th century Normandy. I know it really doesn't have much to do with the Saxon Stories per say, but it does give me an amazing insight into the lives of these noble warriors. I have also read your Arthur books and your re-telling is not only humorous at times but the spin you place on the candid Arthurian legend is simply amazing. I also like your Grail Quest series as it again tells history from yet another point of view that is absolutely incredible. I liken you to Stephen Pressfield in your mastery of telling history in a fun and interesting way. Any one of my friends who ask for a good book I automatically tell them about you. This is just a thank you from a loyal fan. Sincerely, Bryant J Lanctot P.S. My Uncle lives in Chatham and we used to go Striped Sea bass fishing every now and again.


Q

Simply want to thank you for all the pleasure that you have given me over many years. Have read all of your published work but the Sharpe series in particular are brilliant. Again, my sincere thanks and best regards.
Derek Thomas


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Just finished "Sword Song" and have one suggestion--WRITE FASTER! (I truly could not put it down...might be the best of the series, so far). Claudia McKee


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Great books ... I have enjoyed every one to date. Keep up the good work. Dan Donnelley


Q

I cannot thank you enough for writing The Saxon Tales. As I walked through my bookstore, I noticed the cover of The Last Kingdom, and was drawn to it by my particular affinity for that era. I must say, I've hardly enjoyed books as much as The Last Kingdom, and I have read every following title while eagerly awaiting Sword Song. In the mean time, I look forward to reading everything else you've written. Thanks for rekindling my interest in literature!
Jonathan