Picture an English storyteller who swapped tech startups for epic fantasy sagas—meet Alex Robins! Born in Norwich, England, and now weaving tales in France’s sun-kissed Loire Valley, Robins crafts historical fiction, military fiction, and fantasy novels that pulse with vivid worlds and gripping characters. His debut, The Broken Heart of Arelium, hooked readers with its intricate plot and heartfelt heroes, proving he’s a rising star in fantasy literature.
From a childhood love of The Hobbit to crafting his own mythic universes, Robins’s journey is as captivating as his stories. Let’s dive into the life, works, and magic of this Loire Valley wordsmith!
The Making of Alex Robins
Alex Robins was born in Norwich, England, during an era of lycra tracksuits and vibrant headbands. His passion for storytelling sparked in the Norwich School Library, a book-packed undercroft where he devoured The Dragonlance Chronicles and The Lord of the Rings. At age twelve, Robins moved to Nantes, France, facing the challenge of learning French. Those early, sometimes lonely years deepened his love for fantasy, offering an escape through the pages of his favorite authors. Before becoming a full-time author, Robins thrived as a tech entrepreneur, but the call to create epic narratives proved irresistible, leading him to trade code for quills.
Alex Robins’s Unforgettable Stories
Robins’s debut novel, The Broken Heart of Arelium (2021), kicked off his War of the Twelve series with a bang. This epic fantasy adventure follows a war-torn world where demi-gods awaken, threatening to unravel the nine Baronies. Readers praise its rich world-building and middle-aged protagonists—a refreshing twist in a genre often dominated by youthful heroes. The series continues with titles like The Ashen Hand of Kessrin, blending gritty military fiction with fantastical stakes.
His latest series, The Ruined Gods, dives into twisted mythology inspired by Ancient Greece. Here, Robins flexes his knack for weaving historical depth with fantastical flair, creating gods and mortals who grapple with betrayal and destiny. His writing style is immersive yet accessible, marked by vivid battle scenes, unreliable histories, and characters who feel like old friends—or formidable foes. Themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the weight of legacy resonate across his works, inviting readers to ponder the stories we tell about ourselves.
Robins’s ability to craft relatable, flawed heroes sets him apart. Whether it’s a grizzled warrior in Panacea or a cunning deity in The Ruined Gods, his characters leap off the page, driven by motives as complex as the Loire Valley’s sprawling vineyards.
Why Alex Robins Matters
Alex Robins is carving a unique niche in fantasy by championing mature protagonists and blending historical and mythological influences. His stories resonate with readers who crave depth and authenticity, offering a counterpoint to trope-heavy fantasy. Through his War of the Twelve series, he’s sparked discussions about how history shapes identity, earning a loyal following among epic fantasy fans. Living in the Loire Valley, surrounded by castles and vineyards, Robins infuses his work with a sense of place, making his worlds feel as tangible as the French countryside.
His transition from tech to storytelling inspires aspiring authors, proving it’s never too late to chase a creative dream. Robins’s growing influence signals a bright future, with fans eagerly awaiting his next mythical adventure.
- Born: Norwich, England
- Key Works: The Broken Heart of Arelium, The Ashen Hand of Kessrin, Panacea, The Ruined Gods
- Current Home: Loire Valley, France
Ready to lose yourself in a world of epic battles and mythic intrigue? Grab The Broken Heart of Arelium and dive into Alex Robins’s spellbinding fantasy today!