The Brave Sir William

Author Insights: How did you develop such an unforgettable character as Sir William de Clopton in “Shield of Honor” and “The Debt”?

L. J. Bonham: Ah, the good Sir William, one of my favorites. He is central to a major theme in “Shield of Honor,” a son’s fight to emerge from his father’s shadow. Sir William is a composite character, I pulled elements from numerous historical figures and personal experience to create him.

AI: What’s Sir William’s core personality?

LJB: He’s a tyrant, obsessed with increasing his family’s wealth and prestige. Bold, cunning, and ruthless people have always occupied society’s top rung throughout history, and Sir William is the epitome of the successful medieval nobleman.

AI: He’s a villain then?

LJB: He’s a man, just a man, with strengths and weaknesses.

AI: Does he have any redeeming qualities?

LJB: Yes, many. He’s faithful to his cuckolding wife, devoted to his children, and steadfast loyal to his king. He’s fought and bled for his faith. Sir William is either a great ally or feared enemy depending on how he’s treated. He’s a pragmatic survivor in an age filled with constant intrigue and danger. He has the capacity to grow, albeit kicking and screaming at times.

AI: You say he’s just a man, does he make mistakes?

LJB: Numerous ones, like anyone else. Sir William came from humble, if noble, beginnings to become a wealthy, powerful man, sometimes by dubious means. The life altering decision he made in “The Debt” follows him into “Shield of Honor.”

AI: He sounds fascinating.

LJB: Sir William is a man of his time and a man for all times. Get to know him in “The Debt,” and follow his exciting adventures in “Shield of Honor.” You’ll be glad you did.