Bulletin Board

Q

Dear Bernard I have just spent two relaxing weeks in the Vendee in France on holiday and read both The Last Kingdom and The Pale Horseman. I could not put them down - my son who is 11 and really into Sharpe and all things historical also picked up The Last Kingdom and loved it. They are brilliant - can't wait to read Lords of the North. Thanks again Patrick Neal Mirfield, West Yorkshire


Q

Having read quite a bit of your "Your Questions" section, I realize that you receive about a metric ton (if one could weigh email) of mail just about every day. I just want to tell you that I have now read just about every one of your books that I can get my hands on (buy, beg, borrow, or steal!). I have yet to read the Stonehenge book, or the Gallows Thief series, but having only begun reading your books a year ago, I'd say I've done about as much as humanly possible! Anyway, to the point of my letter: thank-you so much for the hours and hours (and hours) or reading enjoyment. Your Holy Grail series got me hooked and ever since then I have had an insatiable appetite for Sharpe, King Arthur, and of course Vikings! Aside from the endless bloodshed and historical accuracy (which as a student of history, I crave) I want to tell you that your books have even once brought me to tears and that is certainly a telling sign that I was gripped fully in the claws of your wonderful book. Although I am beside myself with anticipation for the next book in the Viking series, I will wait patiently for the next book, I'm sure it will be worth the wait. Cheers, Second Lieutenant Matt Cochrane, Canada


Q

There is a very interesting museum about the first Marquess of Anglesey and Waterloo at Plas Newydd on Anglesey. Susan Mason


Q

Sir, I have been checking you notes on the Starbuck Chronicles for 10 years now. Any new news on when or if there will be another book? Thanks Matthew

Mr. Cornwell ... I would like to bribe you into writing another Starbuck book. While I know this is perhaps the not most effective way to channel the creative process, I find it worth a shot. Name your price. I have major organs to spare. Cat

A

Don't know what to say, really! A bribe would be nice, especially if it's big enough, but I'm not in any real need of major organs at the moment, and I think my wife would object to me keeping your liver or whatever in the freezer. But I take your point! Thanks!


Q

I think you might have made an error. If I recall correctly, it was Henry I (the Conqueror's youngest son) who was involved in the blinding of his granddaughters. Henry I was not, however, a Plantagenet king. The first of that dynasty was his grandson, Henry II. And in his partial defense, he did not order the blinding, only condoned it. His granddaughters had been exchanged by his son-in-law has hostages. His son in law then blinded and mutilitated his hostage. The father of the mutiliated girl retaliated by blinding his hostages (Henry I's granddaughters), but only after obtaining Henry I's consent or at least non-objection. Presumably, Henry I viewed his son in law's actions as being out side the pale and refused to exempt his grandchildren from the consequences of their father's folly. Coinncidentally, Henry I allegedly had his elder brother, Robert, blinded after a failed escape attempt. All in all, a pretty atrocious family to belong to. Steve Moss

A

An atrocious family indeed - I was flying blind, so thank you!


Q

Hi Mr. Cornwell. In a August 16th posting, Bob McCaffrey asked you what the sword in your website is. It is called the Robin Hood Sword, and is a replica of the prop used in the Kevin Kostner film "Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves." Alan Kempner

A

Terrific! Well done! I didn't know that - I assume the website designer did, but never thought to ask him. Thanks.


Q

Hi! I know you must get thousands or even millions of these emails, but it needs to be said that I love your books. My only complaint is that there are too many and I can't read them fast enough! I started 'Sharpe's Company' on Monday and finished it yesterday (which for me is very quick) and am looking forward to buying 'Sharpe's Sword' later today. You must be getting bored with all these emails and letters saying exactly the same thing over and over again, and I apologize for that, but as I said before - it needs to be said.
Rhys


Q

Dear Mr. Cornwell Let me join the ranks of those who really enjoy your sailing books as well. A pity that you don't plan on writing any more, but I have one left to find and read. Here in Vancouver they are very difficult to come by, alas. Kind Regards Rory Filer, Vancouver, B.C.


Q

Hello Mr Cornwell, I felt I had to write and tell you how much I enjoyed the Warlord Chronicles. They were as captivating the second time of reading as the first. The books were lent to me by my Mother-in-law,with a strong recommendation.They did not disapoint.I am now two thirds of the way through The Grail Quest and am finding them every bit as good.Thank you. John Cummings


Q

I cannot tell you enough how happy I am to have found your books. Not only are they a great read, but I feel I am getting a history lesson at the same time...Majoring in American History in College many years ago, this is quite new to me. Ray McCraw Concord, NC, USA