Dear Mr. Cornwell, I contacted you a while ago–I am the former teacher who finally read your Arthur series and loved it. All of the characters were fantastic–especially Derfel–as was the plot and detail. (I passed on my copies of the books to a friend, and she has just finished The Winter King and she loved it too. I also bought two of your other books–one Starbuck, one Sharpe–for my husband, who is somewhat of a history buff). I had asked you which of your books to read next, and you suggested the Saxon series. I am now halfway through The Pale Horseman, and I have to say that I do not love Uhtred nearly as much as I adored Derfel. I rooted for Derfel. I am not sure what to do with Uhtred. (Poor Mildrith!) Every time I think I might like him, something troubling happens and I maintain my poor opinion. I keep hoping that this disquietude will resolve itself as I read on–will it? :-) Regardless, your sense of storytelling is excellent. “Fate is inexorable”–what a brilliant theme–therefore I must read on to see how it all plays out. Thank you for the marvelous entertainment! Most sincerely, Danielle Evans