I have read (I believe) all of your books–many of the Sharpe series more than once–and I am taking this opportunity to say thank you for the never-failing time traveling sense of period atmosphere, the humanity, the wry wisdom and verisimilitude–a sense of the familiar–that graces every page of your work.  I understand that the praise of your readers is very likely not the purpose or goal of your work.  Also, I imagine that there has been no dearth of sincerely felt and expressed appreciation of your work over the years.  But, if I can imagine one step farther, it can’t be a bad thing ever to know that another soul has been touched and another life enriched.  If all this seems excessive–well, it’s just a hint of the sheer joy you’ve given me.  Gushing as it may seem.

I am a retired news columnist working on a memoir of my life as an Rock musician in the  60s.  And no, I am not asking you to read it or consider it for a second.  I mention it simply to indicate I have an sense of the effort involved in the craft of writing…a sense that informs my praise and appreciation.  Nor am I making a bid of any sort for your attention.  If you have actually read this I might be surprised, but either way, I choose to assume you will have and we can leave it at that.  Thanks again, Your devotee and possible future companion in the mead halls of Asgard.

Tom