Dear Mr. Cornwell,

I’d like to start by saying I am a huge fan and you are my favorite author. I’m an avid reader and love historical fiction and you are just the best. I’ve read most of your books (I’m working my way through the Sharpe novels rights now) and have gone through the Uhtred and Thomas of Hookton series twice.

I have a bit of a personal question for you… and feel free to ignore me! I’ve noticed that you do so well with the religion of your characters. Uhtred is a worshipper of Thor and Odin in a Christian world. Thomas of Hookton is an educated bastard. Sharpe is essentially and atheist and yet can be very superstitious and believes in fate. The most evil of all your characters are the very strict and legalistic priests, especially the Dominicans who torture Thomas. And some of your best characters are the priests who know how to compromise (like Pyrlig and Beocca).

Here is the question: What is your personal religious background and belief? I have wondered this for years and you clearly are well versed in Catholic and Anglican belief systems. Super personal and probably offensive to ask, but I am a Christian myself and would love to know.

Thomas Allen