I've recently got a kindle and found myself re-reading a lot Rosemary Suttcliff as an adult and she really was one of the greatest writers Britain's ever produced. Some of the descriptions of the countryside are incredibly beautiful and poetic and all her books have this air of melancholy tinged with optimism.
As a child I didn't realise she was severely disabled and knowing that now it does add something to for example Warrior Scarlet where the main protagonist is determined to achieve his goal despite everyone telling he cant because of his withered arm.
I just finished reading the Armourers House by Rosemary Suttcliff and I had a really good cry when Kit turned up on Christmas day after being feared drowned on and lovely Aunt Deborah was so happy.