‘History Channeled’: A short while ago, Hub Blog blogged about local writer Bernard Cornwell, who’s gaining more attention these days for his Michael Shaara/Patrick O’Brian-like historic fiction novels. ... In a fit of excitement, I later suggested to the Herald book editor we should do a story on Cornwell -- and get ahead of the trend curve in fast-draw Herald fashion yada yada. Her response (proving once again you shouldn't suggest things you're not ready to volunteer for): "Why don’t you do it?" ... I was ensared in a classic work-place trap of my own making. But I did it, and it turned out to be fun. Here it is. ... If you’re interested, check out Cornwell’s web site. I recommend the following if you want to tackle his popular Sharpe series: Start with, oh, “Sharpe’s Revenge” and definitely end with “Sharpe’s Waterloo,” which is simply an awesome, non-stop war war war book. ... You can always backtrack to his earlier novels, as I have. ... His Grail Quest books are also a lot of fun. And, yes, there are plenty of torn bodices and arrow-spitted Frenchmen.  ¶ 5:50 AM