Your Questions

Dear Sir, I would like to thank you! for your books and the hours of joy they have provided me. I would also ask you to help me, as some one who has done a lot or research on the matter, on the number of British colours lost/captured during the Napoleonic wars. How many of them were lost/captured? I am speaking about Army colours only (without the Navy ones). And if you have an information about the number of Russian colours/French eagles that would be greatly appreciated... Much obliged and merry Christmas! Alexander

Hello Mr. Cornwell, I am huge fan, especially of the Arthur and Saxon series. I was reading your explanation on the differences in how Army and Navy officers were promoted during Sharpe's period. Do you have any idea how Marine officers in the same period were appointed and then promoted? As a former Marine, the question plagues me. Steve Moss

Hello Bernard, I heard you on a radio show about a year on radio 5 I believe. You were talking about where you get your inspiration from when writing your books and commented how many fantastic stories this country's history gives us. One such story fascinated me at the time and I had forgotten about it until now. It concerned I believe a young Englishman who sought revenge for his wife's death by launching a personal campaign against the French, more than that I can't really remember. I was wondering if you could give me any names or more information on this, I realise my memory is a little thin but anything you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance Peter

Dear Mr Cornwell, Love the Sharpe and Saxon stories, can't wait for the next. Are there any plans for you to do any signings in Northern Ireland in the near future? I would love to get a few of my collection signed. Yours sincerely Gary Donald

Hi I was just reading Wellington Rifles the history of the 95th rifles and I came across a couple of familiar name, two officers named Wigram and Ephinstone. Are the officers in Sharpe's Siege who have the same names based on these light infantry officers or is it just a coincidence? Also my World History teacher introduced me to the Flashman series, if you have not read them then I highly recommend them. Cameron Stewart

Dear Mr Cornwell, Just wondered if you could give some hints about how you are going to portray the character of Alfred the Great's son Edward the Elder in your Saxon series? I ask because you've stated that the series will go beyond Alfred's reign and cover Alfred's daughter Aethelflaed's battles against the Danes, but you haven't said much about Edward. I find Edward an interesting character, he achieved a lot in his reign but doesn't seem to get mentioned a great deal, maybe because he's 'sandwiched' between the reigns of the more popular Alfred and Athelstan. He appears to have been a hugely efficient warrior, though lacking his father's intellectual tastes. Do you agree? David

Hi Bernard! I hope you are well! Have you ever heard of G.A. Henty? If so are you familiar with his works, and in your opinion, are they a worth while read?
Jim Watanabe

I've just finished Sword Song - the brilliant forth installment of the Saxon Stories. Having read all your other series ( except Sharpe as it is all on TV ! and I can't read once I have seen it on the screen as it destroys my imagination as my mind automatically puts Sean in the lead role ) I must say that the Saxon stories have to be your best series to date - I thoroughly enjoyed the Arthur Books and have read them through 3 times, but the story of Uhtred really captures the imagination and are a brilliant read - simply can't wait for the next book ! PS. I am a born and bred Lancastrian living in Oswaldtwistle (nr. Blackburn) - any chance of any heroes coming from around here, we always seem to be forgotten even though the Romans and Vikings came through - or should I just wait for you to do a series on War of the Roses . Joking apart - thank you for your writing, and imagination, it really does give a bookworm like me great joy to read your books. yours sincerely, Max Robinson

Bernard, are there going to be anymore in the Starbucks series? As at the end of the Bloody Ground, the story MUST continue. David Kerr

Dear Mr. Cornwell. I'm a reader from Spain so, first of all, excuse my poor English. I've read that, from your own novels, your favourites are the Arthur books. In fact, i like all your novels, but my favourites are those three too. My question is: where those books written with... how can I say it... a bigger amount of love, care or whatever? It's just that they are almost perfect, and I wonder if that's going to be the highlight or your career, 'cause I'm waiting for something like those books since I read them. Not to say I don't like the rest of your novels. I love the Uhtred saga, and the Grail quest, and Sharpe's books (though I think Spaniards are not the most reliable characters). It's just those three are GREAT. Best regards, George