Greetings.

I just read your Warlord series and to me these were among your most powerful books.  You’ve written that these three novels were your favorites and I enjoyed reading them about as much as you enjoyed writing them.  To me, one of the most lasting impressions from your Arthurian trilogy was your portrayal of Lancelot.  He’s always been depicted as the epitome of strength and courage and someone to be taken very seriously; however, on his introduction I couldn’t help thinking of John Cleese’s Lancelot.  I think that is because both yours and Cleese’s Lancelots seemed more interested in their own image than in the true spirit of knighthood.  Your Lancelot had mirrors all about his palace while Cleese’s was unable to perform any heroic acts (including the slaughter of defenseless wedding guests) unless these deeds conformed to his own particular “idiom.”  I think you’re going to say no, but I have to ask nonetheless whether Cleese’s Lancelot contributed to the inspiration for your characterization.  Either way, in my opinion your vainglorious Lancelot delivered a perfect contrast to the stalwart Derfel.

Keith Biesiada