I’ve just read The Empty Throne, and was not disappointed. I’ve read, I think, most of your work and am hugely impressed at your ability to write such gripping historical fiction. Your research is painstaking.
Over the years, I have recommended the writing of a number of authors to colleagues and friends – in particular, yours and the works of the late Patrick O’Brien and Leslie Thomas. All completely different styles, and with Leslie Thomas perhaps not really falling into the category of historical fiction.
It may be that I should have expanded my reading further, but I feel that such work is really at the forefront of “contemporary” English literature.
So why e-mail you? The simple answer is that I regret never having had the chance – or made the opportunity – of thanking the other two for the enjoyment their work has brought me. In my 68th year, I thought it was about time that I took the opportunity to thank you!
Best wishes.
David Healy