Hi

I have been a keen reader of the Saxon stories since the first one. Whilst waiting for the next installment I happened to read some original stories of Conan the Barbarian. I wondered if this character influenced the creation of Uhtred in any way?

Certainly they have some similarities such as uncanny warriors instinct, battle-joy, a way with the ladies (so to speak) and a funny way of inadvertently achieving good while pursuing their own ends. They both have similar attitudes to the supernatural, though in Conan’s world the supernatural is real (not that this really adds anything for me).

Of course Uhtred is a far more authentic, realistic and complex character, woven into factual and relevant history, and is much more satisfying for it.

If you haven’t read any of the Conan stories, they are easy reading and perhaps you’d enjoy them.

Paul Vincent