Picture a Scottish storyteller who whisks you from the misty ruins of Hadrian’s Wall to the sun-scorched battlefields of ancient Rome—meet Gordon Doherty! Born in 1978, this historical fiction maestro has captivated readers worldwide with his vivid novels set in Classical Antiquity. With tales translated into over seventeen languages, Doherty’s knack for blending meticulous research with heart-pounding drama makes history feel like an epic adventure you can’t put down.
The Making of Gordon Doherty
Born on February 20, 1978, in Glasgow, Scotland, Gordon Doherty grew up with a passion for stories that sparked his imagination. Visits to Roman ruins in Britain and the ancient sites of Turkey and Greece fueled his love for history. Despite earning a physics degree, his heart was set on the past. While working in science and technology, he dove into history in his spare time, crafting his debut novel, Legionary, which launched his career in 2011 during the self-publishing boom. Inspired by authors like David Gemmell and Bernard Cornwell, Doherty found his calling in bringing forgotten eras to life.
Gordon Doherty’s Unforgettable Stories
Doherty’s novels are a masterclass in historical fiction, weaving rich narratives around the Roman Empire, Byzantium, Classical Greece, and the Bronze Age. His Legionary series, starting with the 2011 novel of the same name, follows the gritty adventures of Pavo, a soldier in the late Roman Empire, facing barbarian hordes and political intrigue. The Strategos trilogy dives into the Byzantine Empire’s turbulent 11th century, blending war and betrayal with vivid cultural detail. Empires of Bronze, set in the Hittite Empire, explores the Late Bronze Age Collapse through Prince Hattu’s epic struggles. Co-authored with Simon Turney, the Rise of Emperors series tackles the rivalry between Constantine and Maxentius with gripping intensity. Doherty’s style—marked by immersive world-building, flawed heroes, and meticulous historical accuracy—makes every page a journey.
His research is legendary, drawing from sources like Trevor Bryce’s Kingdom of the Hittites and John Julius Norwich’s Byzantium trilogy. Whether it’s the clashing swords of Kadesh or the political machinations of Constantinople, Doherty’s tales pulse with authenticity and emotion, earning praise from readers and historians alike.
Why Gordon Doherty Matters
Gordon Doherty has carved a unique niche in historical fiction, shining a spotlight on lesser-known periods like the Byzantine Empire and the Hittite civilization. His ability to humanize ancient figures and make complex histories accessible has won him a global fanbase. Published by major houses like Penguin and Head of Zeus, his work bridges the gap between scholarly precision and page-turning entertainment. By raising funds for Myeloma UK through his literary connections, Doherty also shows his commitment to giving back, making him a storyteller with heart and impact.
- Born: February 20, 1978, Glasgow, Scotland
- Key Works: Legionary, Strategos, Empires of Bronze, Rise of Emperors
- Notable Fact: His novels are published in over seventeen languages.
Ready to time-travel with a master storyteller? Snag Legionary or Empires of Bronze and dive into Gordon Doherty’s thrilling historical worlds!