Picture a Canadian storyteller who conjured a world of holy wars and cosmic dread—meet R. Scott Bakker! Born on a tobacco farm, this fantasy author has captivated readers with his Second Apocalypse series, blending philosophy, magic, and epic battles. With a style that echoes Tolkien and Herbert, Bakker’s intricate narratives have earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
Unlike typical fantasy scribes, Bakker weaves dense philosophical threads into his tales, challenging readers to ponder free will, faith, and human nature. Ready to explore the mind of a modern fantasy master? Let’s dive into his journey!
The Making of R. Scott Bakker
Born February 2, 1967, in Simcoe, Ontario, Richard Scott Bakker grew up amid the rustic charm of a tobacco farm. His academic path led him to the University of Western Ontario, where he earned a degree in literature and an MA in theory and criticism. A near-PhD in philosophy at Vanderbilt University sharpened his knack for big ideas, which later permeated his fiction. Living in London, Ontario, with his wife and daughter, Bakker splits his time between crafting novels and exploring philosophical inquiries.
Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythic scope and Frank Herbert’s intricate worlds, Bakker began developing his Second Apocalypse series in the 1980s while still in college. His unique blend of gritty realism and metaphysical depth set him apart, paving the way for a bold career in fantasy.
R. Scott Bakker’s Unforgettable Stories
Bakker’s magnum opus, the Second Apocalypse series, spans three sub-series: The Prince of Nothing, The Aspect-Emperor, and the yet-to-be-published The No-God. Originally envisioned as a trilogy, it expanded into nine books to accommodate his sprawling vision. The Prince of Nothing (2003–2006) follows Anasûrimbor Kellhus, a warrior-philosopher manipulating a holy war to thwart the nihilistic No-God. Its debut, The Darkness That Comes Before, won the 2004 Locus Award for Best First Novel.
The Aspect-Emperor (2009–2017) continues the saga, diving deeper into Kellhus’s empire and the cosmic stakes. Books like The Judging Eye and The Unholy Consult showcase Bakker’s knack for blending sorcery, political intrigue, and existential dread. Beyond fantasy, Bakker’s 2008 thriller Neuropath explores neuroscience and free will, while Disciple of the Dog (2010) introduces a detective with perfect recall. His prose—dense, poetic, and unflinchingly dark—challenges readers but rewards with profound insights.
Short stories like “The Knife of Many Hands” and an upcoming anthology, Atrocity Tales, further enrich the Second Apocalypse universe. Bakker’s ability to fuse grimdark fantasy with philosophical weight makes his work a standout in the genre.
Why R. Scott Bakker Matters
Bakker’s impact lies in his fearless exploration of human nature and belief. His Second Apocalypse series redefines epic fantasy by prioritizing philosophy alongside magic and warfare. Fans on platforms like Reddit praise his mature themes and complex characters, with some calling him a rare gem in modern fantasy. His Blind Brain Theory, developed through his blog Three Pound Brain, influences his narratives, questioning consciousness and cognition in ways that resonate beyond fiction.
Awards like the 2007 Locus for The Thousandfold Thought and a growing fanbase underscore his influence. Bakker’s work invites readers to wrestle with big questions, making him a vital voice in speculative fiction.
About R. Scott Bakker
- Born: February 2, 1967, Simcoe, Ontario
- Key Works: The Darkness That Comes Before, Neuropath, The Unholy Consult
- Awards: Locus Award for Best First Novel (2004), Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel (2007)
- Fun Fact: He developed his epic series while still in college!
Snag The Darkness That Comes Before and dive into R. Scott Bakker’s thrilling, thought-provoking fantasy world!