Mr. Cornwell,
I absolutely loved reading your stories on Sharpe, Uhtred and King Arthur. While I do love the blissful romantic sagas of the perfect Arthurian kingdom with sunny skies, bright green grass and clear blue waters, I should thank you for making my favourite hero (Arthur) so much more closer to a real human being. I really enjoyed this new take on the characters.

I wanted to know what your thoughts were on Alfred’s treatment of Uhtred. As a writer, you maintain an excellent affect of keeping a neutral stance yourself by showing both Uhtred’s annoyance as well as pointing out Alfred’s political acumen. But as a reader, I could not help but get frustrated every time Uhtred was forced to do Alfred’s bidding, for I would hate it myself how he was being manipulated. When you wrote these sections of the novels, did you have a feeling of admiration for Alfred or would you side with Uhtred ? Or is it possible as a writer to remain impassive to the actions of your characters ? Personally I think it would be hard for a writer not to get involved with his/her own characters, or maybe sometimes the ability to do so dictates if you are a good one ?
Rakshit Tirumala