Bernard, I am both very pleased and a little disappointed to see another Sharpe novel (Sharpe’s Escape), what would we do without him? However I do worry that filling in all the gaps in the Napoleonic Wars with Sharpe begins to stretch the belief in this wonderful character. Could it be time to give him a leave of abscence and develop some existing or new characters. Rider Sandman in the Gallows Thief for example is ripe for a couple more tales. Although I must say the end of the novel could have done with at least another chapter to tie things up. I do not want to appear too critical as I am a huge fan of your writing and especially Sharpe. Please keep up the great work. regards, Mark