Bulletin Board

Q

Hi Bernard, I just want to say i am really looking forward to Sharpe's Fury. Ive been collecting these books since I received Sharpe's Siege for christmas in 1987. I was 14 at the time and I spent the holidays reading it over and over. Its my favourite book after Rifles which in my opinion is the best book of the series and one of my top 3 favourite books. I work in Winchester and hope to see you on the 20th. All the best. Dave Cook


Q

Dear Bernard, after being teased for weeks by trailers of Sharpe's Challenge . I was sorry to say very disappointed it reminded me of Sharpe in his early years in India for example the jetties Sharpe calling out for Simmerson and not Hakeswill (shame he died)the tunnell full of explosives the only real difference being our good friend Harper turned up . I would like to know if you had any say in this film or was it all down to itv . David King

A

I'm sorry you were disappointed. I have no control over the TV scripts, but I enjoyed it!


Q

would like b.c. to know with a master in u.s. history and 35 years teaching u.s. history I would not hesitate refering students to the Starbuck series for an understanding of the conflict. the research is flawless.
Stan Lerner

A

Thank you.


Q

As with all the messages you're sent I must say how much I enjoyed your books, but mostly The Grail Quest series. If any book series in existance should be made into a film these should, with Lord of the Rings and Kingdom of Heaven hitting big. People seem to relate to Thomas in it because he isn't perfect but always comes out a hero, people seem to think if he can than there's some hope for them. If it was made well it, I think and others agree, The Grail Quest films would be bigger than the Lord of the rings. I would ask that you just consider the possiblities. Thank you.

A

I would be happy to consider it - but I'm not a filmmaker, so it's up to someone else to make it happen.


Q

Hello Mr.Cornwell,I'm writing this five weeks before the biggest exams of my life. I'm currently five weeks away from starting the leaving certificate and I just thought that I should thank you seeing as it's your books, which I have read many times before, that are keeping me going through all this time when I am supposed to be studying (who needs a job when I can read novels? me...apparently) and I would just like to say a huge thanks to you in that you have kept yourself clear of these pitiful "Grail" books and that your ones are original (I really liked Vagabond) and for that I am grateful (not that the words of a average Irish boy would mean too much to a writer of your stature) but I give you what little paise I can to all my like-minded friends (I expect a badge of some sort), and once more THANK YOU!!! Eoin.

A

Thanks Eoin - best of luck on those exams!


Q

Mr Cornwell, I have been recently reading the Sharpe series of books, and have purchased each one (I have just found out about the new one and am very excited about it) and am currently reading Sharpe's Waterloo. I have read many books over the last few years, each of which I enjoy but never before have I felt compelled to contact the author, and thank them for there contribution. I am still quite young (25) and it is difficult to describe how much joy I have received from the books. I love the characters, the plots, everything, but the beauty of it is most things actually happened. I feel I am being educated. My schooling did not even touch on these events and your books have truly rekindled my love for History, and it is sometimes the most simple obvious things that delight me. Things I would never normally think of. Anyway I am sure that you have many similar emails, and I would just like to ask the question how is Sharpe received by American and British fans? I hope that they feel similar to me (I am from London) and get as much joy, pride, and happiness from reading your works! Anyway Sorry to ramble. I just wanted to express my gratitude for what is a superb series of books. Andrew McGovern

A

Thank you for your very kind message!


Q

Dear Bernard. I will be honest and say I have no idea if this is going in the right place, finding my way around websites has never been my strong point! Anyway I would just like to say how much I love your books, Especially Sharpe and The Warlord Chronicles. I have greatly enjoyed following sharpe through each of his battles and would be lying if I said I hadnt become rather fond of his harsh character and terribly ungentleman-like manners. He has also become a great educator in my life. I could now load a musket with my eyes closed, know to order square formation when threatened by a cavalry attack and most importantly I've learnt that taking orders from self-important fools is never a good course of action. And of course, never fight fair. I would like to offer a simple thanks for creating such a fantastic character that definitely rivals Horatio Hornblower though no doubt if they ever met they might get on rather well. I have greatly enjoyed all the Sharpe books and in a way they have also help me to decide to study history in university, though if I do there will always be a certain greenjacket rifleman at the forefront of my mind reminding me that soldiers win the battles, not Generals or Colonels or any such like. Thanks again. Deirdre


Q

Just wanted to say how much I loved The Grail Series, Warlord Chrons, Stonehenge etc. I love your books and read them over and over. Please write more!!! Thanks again. Leigh Eldridge


Q

Hi Bernard, good to see you on the box last week,talking about Sharpe. I do remember you saying to an audience in Norwich that no more would be made, let's hope the new one was a success, I and my friends thought it was brill. cheers for now and can't wait for new book. Mike


Q

Bernard, The recent posting about the F word reminded me of my experience years ago at Hurricane Island Outward Bound. This was before females were allowed to go so it was all 16 to 18 year old youths. It was pretty much carpet f-bombing all round. It grew tiresome and we came up with a sentence in response, "That f***ing f***er is f***ing well f***ed". As far as I'm concerned your books are better without that word. Thanks for your time. Tom