The Black Arrow shows RLS researched his subjects

The Black Arrow is my favorite novel of all time, probably because I love medieval stories. I was intrigued to discover that Stevenson has it take place in a real place in southeast England (Suffolk County). The cities around the present day city of Tunstall are similar to the cities and villages of the book: Kettleburgh for the novel's Kettley, Framlingham for the novel's Risingham, and Farnham for the novel's Foxham. I believe that Shoreby is really Orford and Holywood, Leiston.

The Battle of Shoreby is modeled after the First Battle of St. Albans (1455) of the Wars of the Roses, and there were noblemen who disguised themselves as monks (the Earl of Wiltshire).

I love Stevenson's books!