Ben Blake

Biography

I've been a writer since I was a kid, but only recently decided to publish on the internet. A few books will be coming now, since I have several backed up: what Stephen King calls "trunk novels".

Away from writing, I like to watch football (soccer) and rugby, enjoy a drink and going to the cinema, and like good food.

Smashwords Interview

How do you approach cover design?
I have a friend, Mark Watts, who's a graphic artist. He and I have a chat about the book and come up with an idea, which Mark then creates.

The only time I've decided on my own was for Blood and Gold, which most people seem to think is the worst of the covers so far. So I'll take a hint and stick to the writing from now on, and let Mark do the covers.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
Blimey.
"IT" (Stephen King) - the best evocation of childhood I've ever read.
"The Awakeners" (Sheri S Tepper) - a brilliant critique of zealotry, told in a thrilling Fantasy tale.
"The Lions of al-Rassan" (Guy Gavriel Kay) - friendship between supposed enemies, in the midst of war.
"Against a Dark Background" (Iain M Banks) - an SF carnival of hopes in a disintegrating world.
"The Silence of the Lambs" (Thomas Harris) - just a fabulous thriller.

Sorry there's no Tolkien here. Don't hold it against me.
Read more of this interview.

Where to find Ben Blake online

Where to buy in print

Books

Black Lord of Eagles
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 105,130. Language: British English. Published: April 10, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic
The Ashir have always been alone, but now strangers have come. The Thrain mean to conquer, and with their strange metals and riding beasts, there is little the Ashir can do. Except they have Kai, servant of the Teacher God, marked from birth by a snake around his eye. As long as Kai lives, the Ashir have hope.
Troy: The Ancient Dead
Series: TROY. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 71,810. Language: English. Published: December 17, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Historical, Fiction » Fantasy » Epic
Troy still stands, and the Greek army threatens to revolt. But Odysseus has a plan, centred on the south gate of Troy – the Horse Gate. In Greece itself revolt has already torn the nations apart. The kings will return to more war – if they return at all. For the gods are fickle, and the Greensea and its islands are full of perils even Odysseus must face.
Troy: Heirs of Immortality
Series: TROY. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 76,870. Language: Commonwealth English. Published: February 14, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic, Fiction » Fantasy » Historical
A vast Greek fleet has gathered at Aulis, ready for the assault on Troy. But a prophecy says the first man ashore will die, and unease spreads among the soldiers. Across the sea Troy prepares to defend herself. Palisades have been built overlooking the beach, and allies have promised help. Better still, Mursili the Hittite is making iron blades, each one stronger than any weapon in all Greece.
Troy: A Brand of Fire
Series: TROY, Book 1. Price: Free! Words: 78,190. Language: English. Published: June 10, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic
Greece is a land of unruly kings and warriors, always hungry for glory. In the days after the last heroes, they are even hungrier for practical things - land, and most of all wealth. Troy has plenty of both. One brand and the whole Aegean could catch fire. The world is about to learn that the age of heroes is not over after all.
The Gate of Angels
Series: Songs of Sorrow, Book 2. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 86,490. Language: British English. Published: January 21, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic
The war for Sarténe has begun. In the city of Mayence the people prepare defences and wait for the All-Church army to come. Everything depends on Calesh Saissan and his friends, but an assassin has slipped into the city and is waiting for his chance, even before the army approaches. In the mountains, the Lady of the Hidden House teaches her lore to Farajalla, her chosen heir. Because the ancien
Blood and Gold
Series: Songs of Sorrow, Book 1. Price: Free! Words: 101,400. Language: English. Published: August 5, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic
Sarténe is a land of culture and beauty. It is also about to be invaded, its people accused of heresy and awful crimes. Defending it are four friends, famous for their exploits in war in the desert far away. Behind them stands the Hidden House, and the ancient powers it is said to command. But against them comes a vast army, larger than any they can raise, and the cruel general who leads it.
The Risen King
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 139,570. Language: British English. Published: March 24, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic, Fiction » Fantasy » Historical
An elite warrior band, the brethren, has slept an enchanted sleep for 600 years. Woken by their former enemies, they find the world has changed, and they have no place in it except whatever they can make.

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