Your Questions

I know that this is possibly the most annoying question for a successful author to have to answer, but what sort of sources of inspiration have given you story ideas? I know the "Hornblower" series was the starting point for Sharpe, but what got you started on the others? (feel free to answer something along the lines of "I haven't the foggiest: perhaps my own imagination?" as I appreciate that this is the obvious answer).

One more thing - are there any historical periods which you'd never be inclined to study? (just wondering - I love studying History for A Level, but abhor studying the World Wars - while the majority of other students seem to love writing essays on the Nazis). Jen

Just read that Paul McGann was originally filming the Sharpe series until he broke his leg? Did you feel pretty tense at the time of this? Bet you were relieved when Sean paid off as Sharpe. I think it would of been great with either actor. Both two of the best lead actors out of Blighty! thanks, Mike.

Sir, I discovered your work this summer and have avidly been devouring the Arthur books, the Saxon stories and Sharpe as well. I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy the website. It is a great addition to your fans and a great diversion for those of us at work who can't be reading one of your great stories as we would like. It is very good of you to answer questions so regularly. I do agree with others who have suggested a map section. I do have a question: I was curious as to which of your books has sold the most copies. Keep up the great work!! Tod (Indiana)

sir I have purchased 'sword song' a couple of weeks ago.Today I went into my local ASDA to find a hint or three for my wife for Christmas there sealed in plastic stuck to the front of the book is a magazine styled booklet called 'Warriors Story' can this be purchased elsewhere or is this just for ASDA'S own coffers? thank you for all your historical books may Sharpey stag on for many more years . I remain sir, yours faithfully M.N.MacDonald ex R.G.J.

Dear Mr Cornwall: Sometime in the 1950's, Walt Disney conclusively proved that Francis Marion was a pure unspoiled hero. The series, if I remember correctly,, was called The Swamp Fox, and was featured on the weekly Walt Disney program. I'm not sure how many episodes were made. Attacking Mel Gibson's historical accuracy is one thing, but Walt Disney's? Next thing you'll be saying that Davy Crockett was not absolutely true! I has a coonskin cap back then. Please don't tell me I wore it for nothing. Sincerely Bill

Dear Sir I just relistened to Sharpe's Eagle and again loved it. One line in the book relived on old question. In the audio a dragoon officer says that the point beats the edge of the sword. I know that in European history the edge became less and less popular and the point got ever more popular. In the Japan the edge is the samurai's soul and main weapon. Which would you favour for duelling and on the battle field? I still don't know. I guess I want a katana with a point but ..... I would like our option or Uhtred's or Sharpe's. Kind Regards Frank Kramer Ps I became a father for the first time 4 weeks ago and we named the boy Wessel. I wanted to go for Derfel but the wife said no :)) Frank Kramer

I have read all your books. Like you I think the War Lord chronicles trilogy is brilliant. I compare it to Lord Of The Rings and wonder whether it would not make an equally superb movie trilogy with the appropriate funding!! are there any plans for this? John Callender

I enjoy reading about history very much, and its even more enjoyable when it is made into a novel or a film. This is why I have taken an interest in your novels but I would've been even more delighted if you started writing a novel about the crusades, so do you have such plans?
Salim

Dear Sir, I've just finished "Sword Song" and have to say I now enjoy the Saxon series more than Sharpe, which has been my favourite series for some time. How many books will it be before Uhtred gets even with his uncle? Or even more important, how long until the next book? Waiting Patiently (just), Chris Genge

When will the next Uhtred book be out in the UK please? thanks, Mick

Mr. Cornwell, I have read six of your books (The Grail Quest Trilogy, and the first 3 books from The Saxon Stories) and I eagerly (interpret this to mean I actually lose sleep wondering where Uhtred may next step) await Sword Song's release. I am an aspiring author. I am writing my first novel, book 1 of a historical fiction trilogy. Do not worry, I will not forward it to you. I just hope to someday find that people are as interested, entertained and, in the case of your historical works, educated, by my works as they are by yours. You are most definitely one of my favorite authors and certainly number 1 in historical fiction. I eagerly anticipate each new release based in medieval times (where my novels and interests are centered). Thank you for wonderful characters, accurate history, and entertaining, suspenseful reading. You are quite an artist and your ability to communicate history entertainingly is a rare gift that I now appreciate all the more since having taken on the effort of writing myself. I just felt the desire to pass along my thanks and to also ask 1 quick question. I hear rumor that Sword Song is not the end of Uhtred's journey; is this so? Shall we expect more from the Saxon Series? I certainly hope so. It is a wonderful epic. I would love to see this series run as your Sharpe series has. Uhtred is, perhaps, the most fascinating character I have ever read. Many, many thanks and kindest regards. Billy Stewart