Dear Mr Cornwell,
Having just finished your latest episode of Thomas, I wanted to write and say just how much I enjoy reading your work. As a schoolboy I used to think of history, reading and such as a chore, much better to be playing sport than enjoying our past. I regret my exam results mirrored this lack of enthusiasm.
It took me well into my twenties to realise that without understanding the past the future lacks meaning certainly purpose, I spent many years researching family history, eventually working ( in my spare time) to help those with hereditary illness’ which with genealogy family bloodlines could help in treatment.
This led me to forty years or more of reading anything and everything Historical, I could including many of your sources and… Your entire works – I now have just managed to persuade my young 13 year old to read 1356 and sadly he is “hooked” (pardon the pun) I still purchase hard back but have succumbed to kindle on my iPad (such is progress).
Your work always captures my attention and imagination, and with my continuing knowledge of British history I enjoy the weaving of fiction around facts, my son certainly is enjoying the journey. Some years ago I found details of an ancestor Sir John Tissington, (knight) who fought with Lord Ralph Basset of Drayton under the command of John of Gaunt at Agincourt – I am still trying to find his exact DOB but his son was a direct descendant – another few years of research and enjoyment to come.
Thank you for contributing to this thirst and the pleasure I have received in reading your exemplary work
Kind regards
Sincerely
Malcolm