Dutch Castles

Two of the events organised by my Dutch publishers, Gottmer, really stand out in my memory. They were both at mediaeval castles.

The first was an afternoon event at Keukenhof Castle (or Kasteel, as they say). Several hundred Ranger fans turned up to see the mediaeval weapons demonstrations and to have me sign their books. The castle grounds and gardens were quite beautiful. It's often used as a venue for weddings and other functions. Not that I saw too much of them.  I was sequestered in a tower room to meet readers and sign books.

The series is called Die Grizje Jager in Holland. It means “The Grey Hunter”.  My pronunciation of the title always brought forth giggles and laughter. I kept saying “De Greeze Jagger”. It wasn't until the end of the week I discovered it was pronounced “Grayze Jagger”. The way I was saying it probably meant The fat hunter, who knows?

The second castle event was a mediaeval dinner in a 14^th century castle (complete with moat) called Hoensbroek . Again, I spent some time signing books. And a very fruitful session with Dimitri, who was there giving archery lessons. He showed me where my technique had slipped a little and I immediately managed to shoot two bulls. I then quit while I was ahead. Dinner was in the servants' quarters in the kitchen. The local bookseller had run a competition for  kids. First prize was dinner with me in the castle. My wife unkindly suggested that second prize was two dinners with me in the castle.

I chose to ignore her.

Dimitri gives John a few tips. John wants to know where to get a hat like that.