Picture a British storyteller who transports you to the gritty streets of Ancient Rome while also saving furry friends as a veterinarian—meet Alex Gough! This multifaceted author weaves thrilling historical fiction with a passion for Roman history, captivating readers with vivid characters and immersive plots. But Gough’s talents don’t stop at storytelling; he’s also a respected vet, penning groundbreaking works in small animal medicine that have left a mark on both literature and veterinary science.
The Making of Alex Gough
Born and raised in the UK, Alex Gough’s love for Ancient Rome sparked early, fueled by a fascination with its underclasses and overlooked eras. While details of his early life remain private, his dual career path is anything but ordinary. By day, Gough built a reputation as a partner in a veterinary practice in Bath, specializing in small animal medicine and cardiology. By night, he channeled his historical obsession into writing, blending meticulous research with gripping narratives. His veterinary expertise and literary ambitions converged, making him a unique voice in both fields.
Alex Gough’s Unforgettable Stories
Gough’s historical fiction is a love letter to Ancient Rome, focusing on its lesser-known corners. His debut, the Carbo Series, kicked off in 2014 with titles like Watchmen of Rome and Bandits of Rome. These books follow Carbo, a former soldier navigating Rome’s dangerous underbelly, offering readers a gritty, ground-level view of the empire. Gough’s Imperial Assassin series, starting with Emperor’s Knife in 2019, dives into the chaotic Severan dynasty, following spy-assassin Silus through high-stakes missions. His latest works explore Mark Antony’s larger-than-life persona, blending war, politics, and romance. Gough’s style is immersive, with richly drawn characters and plots that balance historical accuracy with pulse-pounding drama, earning praise from fans of Simon Scarrow and Ben Kane.
Beyond fiction, Gough’s veterinary contributions shine. His textbook Differential Diagnosis in Small Animal Medicine, now in its second edition, is a go-to resource for vets, offering comprehensive diagnostic lists. Co-authored with Kate Murphy, it’s lauded for its practical, time-saving approach. Gough also pens regular columns for UK Vet and Veterinary Times, tackling topics from canine cardiology to pet allergies, cementing his influence in the veterinary world.
Why Alex Gough Matters
Alex Gough’s impact lies in his ability to bridge two worlds: the thrill of historical fiction and the precision of veterinary science. His novels breathe life into Ancient Rome’s forgotten stories, offering readers an escape into a meticulously crafted past. Meanwhile, his veterinary work—through textbooks, articles, and practice—has shaped how professionals approach small animal care. Gough’s dual legacy inspires aspiring authors and vets alike, proving you can excel in multiple passions. His critical take on alternative veterinary therapies in No Way to Treat a Friend further showcases his commitment to evidence-based practice, sparking important conversations in the field.
- Key Works: Carbo Series, Imperial Assassin series, Differential Diagnosis in Small Animal Medicine
- Fields: Historical fiction, veterinary medicine
- Notable Trait: Balances dual careers as a novelist and practicing veterinarian
Ready to explore Ancient Rome or learn about pet care? Snag Watchmen of Rome or Differential Diagnosis in Small Animal Medicine and dive into Alex Gough’s brilliant worlds!