Hello Mr. Cornwell, I’m writing with what Im afraid is some of the usual rubbish; Ive read most all of your books, enjoyed them immensely, big fan, love all the characters and thank you very much for enriching my life. That said, I have an ulterior motive as well, I love sailboats and I hear that you do as well. I have logged countless hours sailing on several of the sloops I have owned. I have even lived aboard a 30 ODay for two years while cruising the U. S. East coast from the Chesapeake Bay to the Florida Keys, Bahamas, and Virgin Islands single-handed. (Best two years of my& life so far.) I have some great sailing stories which I cant share with you for fear you will subconsciously steal the stories and incorporate them into you next Uhtred adventure! While anchored near Key West I met a couple from the mid-west sailing on a 23 wooden boat that they had built in their backyard. It was the most beautiful gaff rigged ketch I had ever seen. The wood work was very well done, the interior warm with wood hues and the small boat sailed like a dream. We struck up an immediate friendship while the owners told me all about the five year adventure they had while building her. I resolved to someday build at least one wooden boat and this spring I will start construction on my first sailboat, an 18 sloop rigged dory. Next year I am planning to have a design ready for a 22 24 cruiser for the Chesapeake and in 2014-15 Im planning a traditional 30 – 33 cutter rigged ketch for a nice long sail. Although Im not set on the cutter rig and the ketch may turn into a yawl. I read somewhere that you have a love for wooden boats? If this is correct Id like to hear about what you sail and what you like about wooden boats. If it isnt correct I wont hold it against you if you favor plastic boats.. I will continue to read your books multiple times and purchase every new book you write regardless! No hurry to reply, Im sure you are very busy and Im retired so I can wait much longer than your youthful fans although at age 64 I do worry about dying eventually, hopefully not before you have a chance to write. Roger E. Burens, Sr.