Reading this book (The Pagan Lord) again and noticed you make a brief mention of Kettil and Eldgrim having a friendship going “far beyond mere liking” and Uhtred threatening anyone who questioned it (very progressive for a 10th century Lord!).  Are we to assume they were lovers?  If so I think may be the only time in your books you have included a gay character, at least that I can recall.  Was this common in this era, I cannot imagine the Christian Saxons approving!

Chris Horry