Dear Bernard Cornwell,

On several occasions I sold you Farne Islands boat tickets on behalf of Billy Shiel’s when you were researching for your books. I have never read historical fiction before and because the birdwatchers who visit the Islands are always  recommending your books I have now read and completed The Last Kingdom.

Wow! I am very impressed and I have become a historical fiction convert and I will definitely continue with series. I do like the characters no doubt like me everyone probably likes Uhtred best. I enjoyed the plot and of course in Northumberland there has to be Vikings. Little touches though such as Mildriths family being in debt to the Church add to the realism of the tale .

Thank you for writing such an enjoyable book and long may you continue.

I am from the Seahouses and my ancestors were the Clan Douglas who were famous for stealing Harry Hotspots flag at The battle of Chevy Chase and putting it on their castle. Chevy meaning a singular Cheviot hill and the Chase is the valley below it.  Sadly my branch of the family were some distance away from owning the castle keys but the Clan had some brilliant history.So you may have inspired me to read about them too.

yours sincerely

Katie Wright