Bulletin Board

Q

Hi. I got completely lost in the world you created in both the Sharpe and Thomas stories, desperately bullying friends and partners into reading them so we could discuss them! Having read the first few books before seeing the TV series, I was a tad disappointed in Sean Bean (top lad, fellow White Rose) but short compared to the imposing character you describe...same for Harper....bit late to complain of course, but how did you feel? RS relies on his imposing build and height on many occasions, and Harper is "a huge man, an Irish giant". the series were fun anyway. looking forward to more Sharpe, Sandman (and secretly, more Thomas) from you. Colin, Paris.

A

Thanks for your message Colin. I am delighted with the films and feel all the actors did a tremendous job.


Q

Happy St George's day for the 23rd. Any plans to expand on Beowulf. Just read Heretic. Very good. Can I have some more please! Mark Stevens

A

A Happy St George's Day to you and everyone else too. Expand on Beowulf? No! But The Last Kingdom is set in the right era . . .


Q

In 1971 I completed a degree in Medieval History. Except for a brief trip to Great Britain I've had very little chance to utilize or even discuss my research on the longbow or fighting techniques. This week I discovered you and your Grail Series. Your description of the battle of Crecy not only brought to life some of my faded studies but gave me a "you-are-there" experience. It was perfectly marvelous. Of course I'll now read all your other books. Thank you so much! Anna M. Swain


Q

Hello Mr Cornwell, I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your books especially the Sharpe series, although I do not like the new covers for Havoc & Escape. Much preferred the old covers with a rifleman on them. I have just found out there will be another Thomas Hookton book later this year so that will be something to look forward to. I am really enjoying Sharpes Escape and hope this will not be the last Sharpe book. Many thanks Regards Deb Wright

A

Sorry Deb, no Thomas of Hookton book this year. The next book will be The Last Kingdom (click on 'What's Coming' to read the first chapter).


Q

Hello Bernard, hope you are well, got a signed Sharpe's Escape for my father when you recently signed at Waterstones in Ledenhall, London, it went down a treat so wanted to say thank you, looking forward to the new book in October, anymore thought on Sanderman making a reapperance? Once again thank you for the cracking books and please try and bring Hakeswill back! Pete

A

It is a good possibility for Sandman - and I'll see what I can do about Hakeswill.


Q

I'm sure you are bored of people praising the Sharpe series, and indeed, you are probably far more proud of your many other works, however they are truly fantastic. I'm probably quoting a critic to say that it's blend of sub-plot and historical action is AMAZING! Equally with the Grail Quest, and I have not as yet had the priviledge of reading any other works, though Stonehenge is on my shelf waiting to be read. I was merely wondering if you intended to continue filling bits in here and there in the Sharpe series. Also, surely at a time when Master and Commander has just grossed so highly at the Box Office, Sean Bean could return to Sharpe with a larger budget for Sharpe's Waterloo? Thanks. Edward Bell

A

I would be happy to see it happen!


Q

My favourite author is coming here to Toronto!!! Having read everything you've had published, in fact getting hooked on each of the series, I've watched literally with baited breath for the next book from your gifted pen. I was so pleased to learn that you are coming here, then realised that it was on a day that leaves me out of commission and unable to be at the gathering. Devastated would be a good word. Thanks for the many hours of reading pleasure you have given me and will continue to give me (I'm starting back through Sharpe again). Good luck on your Toronto visit and, in absentia, I'll issue you a warm Canadian welcome on that day. Phillip Day, Toronto

A

Sorry our schedules will not coincide, but thank you for your kind thoughts.


Q

I know you have previously rejected the idea of making a film of the Warlord chronicles, saying that it would be too expensive. But I believe it would be worth spending time to find out if it could be done. I thank you for your wonderful ability to give me so much happiness through your storytelling. Mike

A

I haven't rejected the idea - I'd love to see it happen! I will, however, be surprised (pleasantly so) if it does.


Q

Mr Cornwell I have just enjoyed reading 'Sharpe's Escape'. Thank you for another very entertaining book. I was wondering if you have ever read any of Harry Turtledove's books in his Great War and American Empire series. He has the same punchy and entertaining style of writing as you, though far be it from me to draw comparisons. It just strikes me as the kind of book you yourself might enjoy as a reader. Best wishes Andy

A

I haven't (shame on me), but I will. Thank you


Q

I was gutted, I work fairly near one of the shops you were due to do a book signing and I had to work from home that day, shame. I am currently reading the Quest series(paperback) and Sharpe. I loved the first 2 quest books, just waiting for Heretic to come out on paperback. I have just started Sharpes Rifles, only 13 more to go after. Inbetween I read my other favourites, Lee child (Jack reacher novels only), James Patterson (mainly his Along came a Spider and subsequent books in the Alex Cross series (didn't like his other books, except the Jester), Jeffrey Deaver and Michael Crichton. I tried the Arthur Books, but due to having a memory span of a Goldfish with Parkinsons, I can't seem to read books where there are more than 4 characters(a minor flaw in my character) so although I bought them, I doubt I will read them. After Sharpe I will move onto the Starbuck chronicles (About coffee??) Anyway, thanks for some memorable books, I love the Shapre series, altho every time I read a line where he speaks I picture Sean Bean in my mind, and I have just got to where he meets Patrick and I am sure I will see the chap who plays him in the tv series. Keep up the good work. P.s Will you ever write any books for the American audience (besides Starbuck chronicles) (I am in England BTW)

A

I think so - but when? I wish I knew - but probably, yes.