Picture a Southern storyteller who swapped sticky summers for spellbinding tales—meet Ben Pollard! Born in the humid heart of the United States, this fantasy novelist and photographer captured readers’ imaginations with his 2023 debut, The Blue Blood Mage. With a knack for organic storytelling and a promise to keep AI out of his craft, Pollard’s rise in the literary world is as enchanting as his narratives.
From crafting magical worlds to snapping stunning cookbook photos, Pollard’s versatility shines. His works, including The Covid Chronicles and contributions to 36 Inspirational Chefs, blend creativity with authenticity, making him a rising star in fantasy fiction.
The Making of Ben Pollard
Growing up in the South, where the air was thick enough to 'slap you in the face,' Pollard found refuge indoors, diving into books. This 'indoor sport of reading' sparked a dream to join the ranks of great wordsmiths. Inspired by fantasy giants, he honed his craft, determined to tell human stories without artificial aid. His early career included photography, notably for 36 Inspirational Chefs, where his vivid images earned praise from chefs and foodies alike.
Ben Pollard’s Unforgettable Stories
Pollard’s debut, The Blue Blood Mage (2023), kicks off the Duke of Montenegro series with a bang. Protagonist Daniel Hawthorne, reeling from a messy divorce, stumbles into a magical world of nobles, goblins, and matriarchal intrigue. Fans of LitRPG love its fresh take, though some note its abrupt cliffhanger and rapid pacing. The sequel, The Prince of Binsar (2024), deepens the saga, showcasing Pollard’s knack for political twists and vibrant magic systems.
Beyond fantasy, Pollard’s The Covid Chronicles offers an honest, uplifting look at life during the pandemic at National Star in Gloucestershire. His earlier work, Musings of a Star Student, hints at his reflective style. Pollard’s writing is marked by accessible prose, diverse characters, and a commitment to human-driven narratives, setting him apart in a genre often padded with stats or AI fluff.
His photography for 36 Inspirational Chefs complements his storytelling, blending visual artistry with culinary passion. Pollard’s ability to weave compelling narratives across mediums makes his work resonate with a broad audience.
Why Ben Pollard Matters
In a world leaning on AI, Pollard’s pledge to keep his stories 100% human is a breath of fresh air. His focus on inclusive characters—spanning gender, orientation, and class—mirrors modern societal shifts, earning him a loyal following. The Duke of Montenegro series reimagines fantasy with matriarchal societies and cultivation hints, offering a bold twist on traditional tropes. Pollard’s growing influence suggests he’s on track to become a genre heavyweight.
His work as a photographer and chronicler of pandemic life adds depth, proving he’s more than a novelist. Pollard’s stories inspire readers to embrace creativity and resilience, making him a voice to watch in fantasy and beyond.
- Key Works: The Blue Blood Mage (2023), The Prince of Binsar (2024), The Covid Chronicles
- Notable Contribution: Photography for 36 Inspirational Chefs
- Writing Style: Organic, inclusive, human-driven fantasy
Snag The Blue Blood Mage and dive into Ben Pollard’s magical world of fantasy and heart!