Hi Bernard – I love your writing; read most books. I am currently writing a fantasy novel but trying to keep it gritty and medieval, grounded with believable characters and names etc.. I was wondering if you could recommend any good reference books regarding medieval life, weapons, castles etc..?

Also I find that you create some of the most horrible and repugnant characters around, this keeps me hooked as I wait to see if they get a good dose of karma. I was wondering if these characters are a result of your own bad encounters or just a healthy imagination? regards, Heath