I am just coming to the end of “The Winter King”, which is the first book selected by our Reading Group. I cannot wait to read the next book in the trilogy! But could you answer two questions for me please? Why is the title “The Winter King”?

And also – when you explain about Galahad being Derfel’s “right hand man” as he defends the right hand of Derfel with his shield which is carried in his left hand – is this a true definition of the phrase “right hand man” or did you make up the explanation to fit the saying? Thank you for a wonderful read. I look forward to seeing your reply. Val