I just returned from 7 weeks travel in Europe during which time I blundered across Uhtred of Bebbanburg. The current TV series on the Vikings alerted me to my total ignorance of the place of the Danes in our historical journey. I read 1356 early in the year and loved it. I wish you had been my History teacher – I would have paid more attention. I noticed the first in the series, was enthralled by both the story and the historical roots, then read all 7 while visiting Denmark, York, Ireland and other places where the Danes left their mark. What a wonderful juxtaposition of literature and life. Thanks for the experience. As a Christian who loves Jesus I have been fascinated by the complex way you have presented Uhtred and his spiritual perspective and I have many times wished I could have a conversation with him. I find myself wondering about your own personal spirituality. You seem to me to deal with the Pagan and Christian characters you invent in a way that is complex,
genuine, non-stereotypical, and with a realism that is at times both painful and inspiring. I’m not sure how many more of these you can generate but you MUST bring us back to Bebbanburg or we shall die unsatisfied. How long before Uhtred rises from his near death experience to fight again?
Allan Meyer