Your Questions

I ordered the Easton Press editions of your India Trilogy, which was my first introduction to your Sharpe series. I am two thirds through the entire series now and disappointed to find it so difficult (expensive) to find hard cover copies. I'd be fascinated to know how Easton Press decided on just the three books. I asked the same question of Mr. Shaara (Gods and Generals, etc) because I was hoping that Easton Press would publish more of his series of books and he indicated that Easton Press has their own way of doing things, with little input from him. Any chance Easton will expand the publication to cover the whole series, much like the Master and Commander series they offer? Any chance your current publisher will produce the entire series in hard cover? Keep up the excellent work! A Jamestown, Rhode Island fan.

I hear whispers on the net of Azincourt being made into a film. Is it true? If so, when? David Macey

Hi Mr Cornwell, I just wanted to say how much I enjoy your books (Especially the Arthur books) . The Sharpe books were recommended by a friend . After spotting The Last Kingdom in a book shop, I took his advice and I've been hooked ever since . After reading the Grail Quest books, my friend (same one that recommended you) and I developed an interest in archery . Azincourt pushed us over the edge and for six months we have been members of our local archery club . Despite being a difficult sport / hobby to master it's great fun . So thank you for that . Imagine our surprise and joy when we heard Azincourt was being turned into a film . Is this true ? And if it is, do you happen to know how two 26 year old archers could become extras ? I know it's probably a lot to ask, but I couldn't not ask . Kindest regards Andy Nash

Dear Bernard, I've been looking into the riddle that you posted regarding the identity of Sharpe's father. I wonder if you might answer one question, though: Would Sharpe's father's name be known to a student of history of the period? Actually, I suppose I might as well ask one other question while I'm at it: You mentioned in another post that Sharpe's mother was put out by her parents due to her...er, relationship... with Sharpe's mysterious father. What social class did Sharpe's mother belong to before being put out and turning to prostitution? I suppose that the answers to one or both of these questions could be considered "clues," but your loyal fans would definitely appreciate any response that you might care to give. As always, I eagerly await your next book. And thank you so much for taking time from your busy schedule to be so responsive to your fans! Always, Jim Shaw Washougal, WA USA

Dear Mr Cornwell, Over the last year I have discovered your books which I have been reading too quickly for my liking (I can't find them very cheaply in Australia, and when I read them in 5-6 hours its an expensive hobby!). I have loved the Sharpe novels which I have been reading as well as Stonehenge, Starbuck, The Uhtred Stories and some others. Please write more Starbuck novels (I would like to know where Lucifer learned to fire cannon!). Is there going to be another book between Trafalgar and Prey? Because the gap between the two is quite abrupt?

Also what would you think of writing a book (or 2) on the ill-fated Sepoy Rebellion of 1857? It would be outside Sharpe's jurisdiction but I think it could make a good story. Thankyou for your time, Angus Somerville, 14

Hi Bernard, Currently reading the Iron Duke by Richard Holmes. Just wondering what you thought of the book as you probably picked it up at some stage? Also at the risk of sounding desperately unpatriotic I don't quite understand why "gentlemen" would ever go to war especially during the Napoleonic era. It might be understandable back during the 100 years war where Lords were expected to provide a force etc and where numbers were fewer and plunder maybe went further. But from Holmes' book it seemed that only the very fortunate officers were raised to the peerage, made their fortunes etc while many more were far less fortunate what with the army being stuffed with senior officers and plunder (leaving the moral aspect aside) being discouraged etc. And not forgetting the very real risk of being killed or badly injured. I just don't see the attraction. Would it not have been more prudent for "men of consequence" to use their contacts to get fixed up in business in London etc rather than risk death and illness in the army? It's understandable why Sharpe would join but maybe you can explain why the upper classes would do so. Was it the age old pull of excitement and adventure or did it come down to what Wellington's mother said that Arthur should join the army because he was fit for nothing more (or something to that effect). Kind regards Willie

Hi Bernard - Can you please give me an idea of when Burning Land will appear for sale in Australia. I thought it normally appeared here about the same time it appeared in UK but so far haven't been able to find it in the bookshops. Keep up the good work. Regards Michael
Michael McNally

Dear Mr Cornwell I just wanted to say how brilliant I am finding the Saxon series and could not wait for The Burning Land to become available. Uhtred is a magnificent hero, truly brought to life and I actually found myself crying when reading a part of the book. I wondered however if you could tell me why in this book you refer to Uhtred's homeland as Bamburgh rather than Bebbanburgh, as you have done in the other stories? Many thanks for hours of entertainment. Best wishes, Karen Rhodes

Dear Bernard, I have just finished 'The Burning Land' and once again you have not disappointed. A thoroughly enjoyable read that fleshes out what life 'might' have been like in the formative years of the English nation. Two simple questions: You seem to have eschewed using phrases such as 'sword-joy' or 'blood-lust' for Uhtred's feelings during battle. Was this a conscious decision to make Uhtred a more mature and reflective man or a nod to political correctness? Personally, I really enjoyed those spine-tingling moments.

Secondly, I noticed that in some descriptive passages, you have adopted the Saxon style of alliteration, which I loved. Again was this conscious or did you read so much Anglo-Saxon poetry during your research that it just slipped in? Anyway, it was well worth waiting the extra year for and Azincourt was marvellous. Thank you.

John Byrne

Hi Bernard- not sure if this is the right place to give feedback or ask questions. I have discovered your books recently but I have enjoyed them so much. I have read your Arthur and Saxon series, and now I am reading The Burning Land. I had a thought the other day. Many fans would love to read more about Derfel but we all know there cannot be Derfel without Arthur. How about this idea for your next saxon book: Uhtred meets and befriends a Briton warrior, who is a descendant of Derfel? maybe someone like Finan or Pyrlig, a trusted warrior. The idea alone that someone continues the legacy of Derfel Cadarn could be very rewarding for your readers.

I also noticed that in Azincourt you mentioned the "two cranes" inn, is this the same as the place in the saxon series? best regards- SN

I am currently halfway through The Burning Land and as usual with this series, I am finding it a riveting read. I notice the standards described as being carried by the Saxons are of the conventional flag type however evidence from the Bayeux tapestry would indicate they used the Draco windsock type. Wouldnt an iron wolfs head with flowing windsock behind be quite a cool standard for Uhtred? - particularly with the eerie wind noise they are reputed to have made! Peter Clayton