Hi Mr Cornwell. Honestly, I have never written to an author before, but having neglected my kids and my work for days I had to tell you how much I loved The Pale Horseman and The Lords of the North. I admit I’d never read your books before but the former caught my eye on a ferry to France, and by the return trip I was pressing my nose against the window of the onboard shop, desperate for it to open so I could buy the sequel… I can’t tell you how delighted I was to discover that it’s not a trilogy and that Uhtred will be picking up Serpent-Breath again. Like another of your correspondents I think I’m in love with Uhtred! This has never happened to me except with my own characters (yes, I’m a writer, failed so far, but I swear I would never dream of sending you a manuscript, don’t worry! In fact Uhtred has been all that could drag me away from my own work for about the last year…) I’m off to read The Last Kingdom (more work-avoidance), and am longing for another book in the series. Just one plea? I know Uhtred surely can’t end up with Gisela, since she isn’t ‘golden’, but please can you let him have a good long spell of happiness with her before more terrible things happen? I’m half in love with Finan, too, for that! One day I hope I’m even half as good a writer as you are. With huge admiration, and very best wishes, Gillian Philip