Bulletin Board

Q

Hi. Just wanted to say thanks for waking me up to history. I picked up Azincourt by chance in a hotel. Everyones heard of Azincourt but what can most people tell you about it?? Nothing at all (me included)! I couldn't find a single person in the hotel who was even close to dating it let alone discussing it. I really enjoyed it. Just finished the Grail Quest trilogy. Maybe Arthur next? How about getting the kids in school reading them? You can do for history what Jamie Oliver did for school dinners?? This is not an idle comment - I really think you could. Best wishes JN

A

Thanks!


Q

I thoroughly enjoy your books. I readily appreciate the research you must do to create them. Looking forward to more. Sincerely

Jack E. Foulke


Q

I have just listened to Death of Kings and I have received the book yesterday. On the audio book there wasn't any historical notes which I always like at the end of your stories. When I got the book I went to the end to read the historical notes. These notes really add to your stories. Thank you.

Bill Francis

Mr. Cornwell, I just finished listening to Death of Kings and enjoyed it very much. One disappointment, however, was the lack of a historical note at the end. Why did the audio version not include that? Thanks, can't wait for Thomas of Hookton to return next year! -Jordan

A

I can't imagine why the Historical Note was not included in the audio book? I will certainly bring it to the attention of the publisher. Thank you!


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Just finished Death of Kings and loved every word, down to the details of which I felt like I was in every vivid moment. The Saxon saga is one for the ages, wishing more .... thanks

Steve Bootay


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Thank you for the Saxon series - you're really hit a high standard with them. Recently though, because of getting a Kindle, I've taken the opportunity to reread the Sharpe books (my 17th time through the series). One thing that struck me is that on several occasions you've had Sharpe be concerned about the sound of the sear-spring & tumbler on the lock clicking loudly into place as the hammer is drawn back. There is an old trick that was used by hunters in the day & soldiers during the 18th century onward in which the trigger is pulled back, then you draw back the hammer & hold it, then release the trigger. Thus no click. Since this technique was commonly used by troops during the French & Indian Wars who gave rise to the light troops, I think Sharpe would have known about it. Certainly Hagman would have known. Please, this is not a criticism, just an observation of a mostly forgotten trick except amongst those who re-enact & also hunt using flinters. Thank you again for all your wonderful books.

Sven Lugar

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Thank you! I confess that's new to me, but I shall try it out on the Baker!


Q

Dear Mr Cornwell, I Have read The Saxon Stories, Azincourt, and The Fort. These books are probably the best I have ever read! Keep up the good novels. Mr Edwards


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Hi Bernard, I have just finished reading 'Sharpe's Company' which I enjoyed immensely, but I am disappointed that writers and historians don't write about courage shown during retreats, an outstanding example being the retreat of the British 5th Army in March 1918 in WW1. With its huge advantage in surprise, numbers of fresh troops (80 divs to 15) new artillery tactics and even fog on the morning of the attack, the Germans should have routed the 5th Army, clearing the way for them to advance on Paris. Only the outstanding heroism by units like the 16th Manchesters and 2nd battalion Bedfordshire Regiment, halted the German advance. The German failure to rout the 5th Army, was the true turning point of the war, usually attributed to the 3rd Army's subsequent defence of Arras.

Charles Russell


Q

I enjoy the 'Sharpe novels' have em all I especially like 'Agincourt ' the novel its says more that Anne Curry who only tells the facts !!!! However I disagree that you 'outed' Obadiah Hakeswill. That someone like that would exist beats me why he killed more english then 'Crapauds' The Col in Fortress and Lt Knowles as well as the poor Lt in the night attack.No I will never mourn that piece of work Just finished Death of Kings ho hum on to the next Uhtred novel.

Harold Cohen


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It's been so long I can't remember which of your books I read first. No wait, Sharpe's Eagle. For me, whenever I think of that book it doesn't surprise me that you've remained my favourite author for over 10 years now. My dad was the one to put me onto your books, knowing how much I loved reading and writing. To a 10 year old boy you can see how Sharpe caught my imagination; though some might consider the books too graphic to a boy of that age. You books are part of my life. I dabble between historical fiction and magical fantasy so it's hard to know which one I want to write. All of this is fan babble I know but I just want to let you know the impact you've had on my ambitions in life. The Arthur Chronicles are my favourites, Derfel's a dude. Hope this has made your day, Gavin Patmore, England.

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Best of luck to you!


Q

I have been reading the Saxon tales and have enjoyed them up to "Death of kings". This story seemed a little short on a story line. The plot seemed to drag through about 75% of the way, with no real action till the end. I guess what I am trying to say is I am cautious sometimes with starting chronicles because it can take years to read the end of the story. Sometimes the books in the middle can feel like fillers, and that was the feeling I got with Death of Kings. Again, I like you work and almost all you do. I hope the Saxon stories have a path to a exciting conclusion that has no relation to volume of works. Thanks. Bob Szeyller