Some early comments about Ice to Athelstan – The Emergence of England

January can be a thin time for book sales after the excitement of December. But it gives people a chance to do some reading, and to give me some feedback on Ice to Athelstan. People seem especially to have enjoyed the summary sections and tables of key people and events as well as the accessible style and content. One even said to me: “I didn’t expect to enjoy it – but I did!”. Others have sent written comments, and her are some I’ve received:

Just wanted to let you know that [we] have been reading your book… We love it! – it was so accessible to a general audience –  great job, Charles!  I hope that you get the kudos that it deserves.    N  

I’ve nearly finished your book. Just one chapter to go and it’s been a really good read… I liked the structure of the book as a whole and the chapters too with their summaries to consolidate what had been covered… You have certainly made me think more about pre-Norman Conquest Britain…!     D

I have just finished reading “The Book” and am extremely impressed. I confess that I have never had a great interest in history; …however, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and have recommended it to many friends…I feel that I now have a better understanding of the vast period you covered… Most of all, thank you for tempting me into learning more about the history of our country.    L

The book was received with excitement, although my partner got his as an early present as I left it out on the worktop by mistake! Anyway it’s a good sign that he picked it up and was saying, ‘Oh, this looks good!’ before I realised! He had a head start so is halfway through and says it is very enjoyable. R

I am enjoying your book very much.  A

Thanks and…

Big thanks to all of you who have sent me notes – please keep them coming. So far they do reflect what I was seeking to achieve, but I now need to get the word into the shops, and even schools!If anyone does buy from Amazon it would also be incredibly helpful if you could post a (hopefully positive) review on Amazon as this can really help spread the message.

 I’m doing a talk locally on the book early next month but would be happy to look at other venues. Meanwhile Book 2 is progressing well, but would certainly benefit from a further boost on Ice to Athelstan!  And let me know if anyone locally would be interested in a discussion group on this period. As ever, please feel free to pass the word along.

Charles