Have read The Arthur trilogy, in process of reading the third Saxon novel, and also reading the second of the Grail Quest (Vagabond) having already listened to an audio version of the Grail Quest. This does not seem to match up with the books. I have a distinct feeling that they leave parts of the narrative out. Anyway my main question is how do you write such vivid accounts of the battles? I can almost smell the fear, hear the sounds of the horses, men and the weapons. You are so descripitive and I wonder as you are writing are you there with your characters? Can you see the battle unfolding for your main character, (as in the Grail Quest you have to also stick with the whole scenario and outcome of the battles as they actually are documented). My husband complains that I am totally absorbed but he cannot talk as he has read all the Sharpe books. Please keep up the good work and I am pleased that you do all your own research. Books are fantastic and all my family are avid readers. My eldest daughter has just read the three Saxon books in a week. (She took the third book off me before I could start it.) Anyway hope look forward to the next Uhtred episode. (Visiting The Yorvik centre in York this weekend believe it is really good. Have you been?)

Last question what will be the next historical period you would like to cover? The Crusades (please not Robin Hood)? War of the Roses? Cromwell – civil war? Occupation of the Romans? The list is endless. Avid history book reader. Regards, Diane