I first picked up one of your books several years ago. It was 'The Winter King'. I am a fan of Arthurian legend, and your books were fantastic. However, I felt the need to come and seek your site out after having finished two books of another series. I had read 'The Archer's Tale' some time ago, and because I simply pick books off the shelves in a random fashion, I didn't even know the book had been continued as a series. I was delighted to find both 'Vagabond' and 'Heretic' side by side at a local library. I snatched them up, and read them both in a week. Thomas of Hookton is a great character because he is not great. He is a common person who achieves things through his strength of will. It is very inspiring to see characters like that. I suppose I am writing this to you simply to say that I enjoy your writing. It is engrossing, and even though I love historical fiction I have never been one for battle-scenes. However, with your books I find myself hanging onto the details and feeling very satisfied with outcomes. Combined with my very limited knowledge of historical facts and your wonderful characters I enjoy your novels very much. In fact, you have achieved something few authors do. I am a kind of misogynistic reader. Very rarely do I enjoy female characters. However, all of Thomas's women were very enjoyable characters. I cannot go into more detail, because I don't really understand how some authors can write women and some can't for me. But I can say that you succeeded! I wish I could be more helpful, but I'm sure you will take the compliment. Thank you for writing, because good historical fiction is always such a treat to me. Well-wishes and good health to you! Mary Helen P. Chaplin
I'm glad to know I succeeded in writing female characters you enjoy - thanks very much for letting me know. I appreciate your message.