Dear Mr. Cornwell I have within the last few minutes just finished Sword Song and have to say how thoroughly I have enjoyed the series so far, now surpassing the Warlord Chronicles as my favourite. As someone who is passionate about Dark Ages and Anglo-Saxon history I love the interplay between fact and fiction. What I like in your approach is when you drop in seemingly insignificant characters that later emerge as central; Heastan, Aethelflaed, Edward. To someone who knows the period this really adds to the sense of anticipation. I wonder about Sihtric (Caec?) and I spotted Wulfstan (of York?) this time. The history of my home town of York is a passion for me so I have my historical favourites too like Raegnald, the Olaf’s and Erik of course. I wonder whether we are going to see Uhtred at Brunaburgh although I guess he would be getting on a bit by then. I look forward to finding out. Do you find that the nice thing about Alfred’s age is that there is just enough light to write historical narrative and just enough mystery for you to fill in the blanks. I would love to write something similar with early 7th century Northumbria, Edwin, Oswy, Oswald, Penda and Cadwallon, Paulinus, Hilda etc etc. Far more dark than light here though. Are you also intrigued by this era? A pleasure to speak with you and I look forward very much to the future adventures of Uhtred. Many thanks and warmest regards John