Dear Bernard
Just read Azincourt whilst on holiday in Indonesia ex Sydney, (having previously thoroughly enjoyed the Grail Quest series). An extraordinary account of the era and the battle. What fascinates me is that these events unfolded only six hundred years ago, which is not really that distant in the grand scheme of things. (I am 50 and I can recall my grandmother’s renditions of her childhood memories of 100 years past). The portrayal of the accepted barbarity of human behaviour at all stratas of fifteenth century European society is quite shocking. It makes for an extraordinary read, but imagine the devastating psychological impact of these events on the combatants and their families. It also seems to me that the mainstream christian churches, royals and peers (English & French) do not have a great deal to be proud of, when they review the actions they took in the name of God. (Additionally, the detailed portrayal of the Harfleur siege was riveting. Much thought must have gone into that
chapter). One question of interest. After Henry V’s efforts at Harfleur, his foray through France, and the victory at Azincourt, how long did it take the French to repel the English from their stronghold in Calais? I will look forward to your future historical novels. All the best in your endeavours.
Marc Radcliffe