Picture a British storyteller who swapped equations for epic adventures on Mars—meet Patrick Samphire! This fantasy and children’s literature author weaves tales brimming with humor, mystery, and imaginative worlds. From his debut novel to his snarky adult fantasy series, Samphire’s knack for blending science and storytelling has captivated readers of all ages.
Born in Bristol, UK, Samphire’s journey from theoretical physicist to celebrated novelist is as thrilling as his books. Now living in rainy Wales with his family, he continues to craft stories that transport readers to fantastical realms, proving that a PhD in physics can fuel more than just formulas—it can spark magic.
The Making of Patrick Samphire
Patrick Samphire’s love for storytelling began at 14, when he started writing to dodge English lessons in Bristol. Raised in Zambia until age nine, he soaked up diverse experiences that later shaped his vivid worlds. His family’s moves to Guyana, Austria, and England added layers to his creative palette. Despite earning a PhD in theoretical physics from the University of Essex, Samphire’s heart leaned toward stories, not science. After stints as a teacher, editor, and web designer, he attended the Clarion West Writers Workshop in 2001, honing his craft alongside future publishing stars.
His early short stories appeared in magazines like Realms of Fantasy and Strange Horizons, earning praise for their magical depth. But it was his shift to novels that truly launched his career, blending his scientific curiosity with a flair for adventure and wit.
Patrick Samphire’s Unforgettable Stories
Samphire’s debut, Secrets of the Dragon Tomb (2016), is a middle-grade masterpiece set in an 1816 British Mars colony. Twelve-year-old Edward Sullivan battles pterodactyls and villainous archaeologists to save his kidnapped parents, all while navigating clockwork butlers and dragon tombs. Its sequel, The Emperor of Mars, continues the high-stakes fun, earning fans among young readers and librarians for its humor and heart.
For adults, Samphire’s Mennik Thorn series, starting with Shadow of a Dead God (2020), delivers snarky fantasy mysteries. The second-rate mage Mennik Thorn stumbles into murder investigations in the vibrant city of Agatos, where dead gods’ essence fuels magic. Follow-ups like Nectar for the God, Strange Cargo, and Legacy of a Hated God deepen the noir-flavored saga, praised for vivid world-building and clever dialogue. Samphire’s style—playful yet poignant, with richly detailed settings—bridges genres, appealing to fans of both epic fantasy and cozy mysteries.
With around 20 short stories and novellas, including the collection At the Gates and Other Stories, Samphire showcases his range, from magical battlefields to Martian jewel heists. His ability to craft relatable characters and intricate plots keeps readers hooked, whether they’re kids or grown-ups.
Why Patrick Samphire Matters
Patrick Samphire’s impact lies in his ability to make fantasy accessible and exciting for diverse audiences. His middle-grade novels inspire young readers with tales of courage and curiosity, while his adult series offers witty, layered mysteries that rival genre giants. As a self-published author, his success in the Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) highlights his skill in reaching readers without traditional publishing support. His stories, infused with scientific wonder and global influences, reflect a unique voice in speculative fiction.
Living in Wales with his wife, author Stephanie Burgis, and their family, Samphire continues to write, edit, and design, balancing creativity with community. His work reminds us that imagination knows no bounds, whether on Mars or in a mage’s cluttered pantry.
- Born: Bristol, UK
- Key Works: Secrets of the Dragon Tomb, Shadow of a Dead God, Nectar for the God
- Fun Fact: He once cried on a camel as a kid—don’t make it weird!
Snag Secrets of the Dragon Tomb or Shadow of a Dead God and dive into Patrick Samphire’s thrilling, witty worlds today!