Hi Bernard.

I have to confess that I came to the Last Kingdom somewhat reluctantly. I have had a passion for the Vikings since childhood (and was lucky enough to study under Peter Sawyer in the 1970’s) and consider myself relatively knowledgeable on them. So, based on other popular novels covering the period, I expected  an account full of 21st century perspectives and anachronisms. I should have known better (I had not read any of your books before). The Last Kingdom and all the books that follow has been a wonderful revelation. A evocative period feel, plausible interpretations of historical figures and fictitious characters ( young & old  Ragnar and Uhtred in particular) who have real authentic 9th/10th century mind-sets. What is more, not a Berserker, Blood Eagle or horned helmet in sight.

Thank you for so effectively transporting me back to a period I have always loved!

However, since I have received so much from the stories, I thought I might be able to give a bit back. I have just read a book by Matthew Townend entitled “Viking Age Yorkshire” (ISBN 978 1 906259 39 6 – Blackthorn Press).On the off chance that you have not come across it I thought I would draw it to your attention. I know your reputation for thorough research so I do this with trepidation. Published at the start of 2015, it is an up-to-date, comprehensive and readable academic round up of archaeology and scholarship on the Scandinavian settlement in general but, of course, York and Yorkshire in particular. All of which endorses so much of your interpretation. Since you have now introduced us the Sihctric Caoch and the books move to the Hiberno-Norse phase of York and English history, I hope you will not think me to presumptuous to suggest you may find the book has interesting detail on that period.

Thanks again for such wonderful story telling and I hope I may have given you something you might want to read!!

Paul Stein ( Pickering)