Picture an English storyteller who spun tales of dragons, elves, and heartfelt romance—meet Ben Alderson! A #1 Amazon bestselling author and beloved booktuber, Alderson has enchanted young adult fantasy fans with his vibrant worlds and diverse LGBTQ characters. From his debut novel to founding his own publishing house, he’s a literary force inspiring readers and writers alike.
Born in Berkshire, England, Alderson’s journey from book enthusiast to celebrated author is as magical as his stories. His passion for young adult literature and authentic representation drives his work, making him a standout voice in fantasy.
The Making of Ben Alderson
Growing up in Berkshire, Ben Alderson found solace in books, particularly young adult fiction. His love for storytelling blossomed through booktubing, where he launched his YouTube channel, Benjamin of Tomes, in 2012. Inspired by his friend Jasmine, a fellow book lover, Alderson built a community of readers, reviewing novels and sharing his passion. This platform became the springboard for his writing career, leading to his debut novel and a thriving publishing venture.
Alderson’s early reviews showcased his knack for spotting compelling stories, a skill he later poured into his own work. His dedication to diverse narratives, especially LGBTQ representation, set the stage for his unique voice in fantasy.
Ben Alderson’s Unforgettable Stories
Alderson’s debut, Cloaked in Shadow (2017), kicked off The Dragori series with a bang. This young adult fantasy follows Zacriah Trovirn, a gay elf navigating a kingdom of shapeshifters, elemental magic, and royal secrets. Praised for its vivid world-building and slow-burn M/M romance, the novel blends adventure, betrayal, and love, earning a 4.5-star rating from fans. Its prequel, Prince of Flames, dives deeper into Prince Hadrian’s backstory, enriching the series’ lore.
Beyond The Dragori series, Alderson’s Lord of Eternal Night (2021) reimagines Beauty and the Beast with vampires and witches, delivering gothic spice and drama. His King of Immortal Tithe and A Betrayal of Storms further showcase his flair for magical worlds and MM romance. Alderson’s style—lush, emotional, and action-packed—captivates readers with relatable characters and inclusive themes.
His work often explores identity, love, and courage, wrapped in fantastical settings. By centering queer characters, Alderson fills a gap in young adult fantasy, offering stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
Why Ben Alderson Matters
Ben Alderson’s impact extends beyond his novels. Through Benjamin of Tomes, his micro-publishing house, he champions aspiring authors, helping them bring their stories to life. His YouTube channel and Instagram, with thousands of followers, foster a vibrant book community, amplifying underrepresented voices. Alderson’s own-voice narratives as an LGBTQ author add authenticity, inspiring readers to embrace their identities.
His 2024 six-book deal with Angry Robot Books signals a bright future, promising more tales of fey, dragons, and romance. Alderson’s blend of storytelling and advocacy makes him a beacon for young adult fantasy fans and aspiring writers.
- Born: Berkshire, England
- Key Works: Cloaked in Shadow, Lord of Eternal Night, King of Immortal Tithe
- Notable Achievement: #1 Amazon bestselling author
- Publishing House: Benjamin of Tomes
Ready to dive into a world of elves and enchantment? Snag Cloaked in Shadow and discover Ben Alderson’s spellbinding fantasy!