Sir I first read the Starbuck Chronicles as a young officer stationed abroad in the late 1990s. Having been posted to Virginia 3-months ago, I have had the chance to visit many of the places and battles mentioned, and to research the reasons behind that conflict. The books are as enthralling second time around as they were before. I know you have been asked this many times, but surely you have unfinished business with Nate Starbuck? He is too complex a character, in too complex a war, to leave limping back from Antietam? Your theme that men fight for many reasons is used far too little by other military authors. Likewise, you have developed Robert E Lee beautifully – State or Nation? What a choice! Your work enthused me to research further this military genius – still the only man I can find to be offered head of both armies in the same war! Surely Starbuck must march again, unless the turning of a useless regiment into a successful one at Antietam is his end? My instinct is that you have outlived young Nate. He will forever be poised for Robert E Lee’s, ultimately doomed, next great gamble to crush the army of the Potomac, and thus force a peace settlement before the north eventually find a killer to match him. Perhaps it is best that way, as young Nate is surely as doomed as the rebellion. Ian Atkins