Picture a storyteller who swapped coding for crafting epic Bronze Age adventures—meet Sam Barone! This American historical novelist has enchanted readers worldwide with his vivid tales of ancient civilizations, blending meticulous research with gripping storytelling. Best known for his Eskkar Saga, Barone brings the past to life with characters that leap off the page and plots that keep you hooked.
From his roots in Queens, New York, to his global fanbase, Barone’s journey is as fascinating as his novels. With a knack for weaving history and fiction, he’s carved a unique niche in historical fiction, dabbling in sci-fi for good measure. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this captivating author!
The Making of Sam Barone
Born and raised in Queens, New York, Sam Barone’s early life was shaped by a love for reading and history. After graduating from Manhattan College in 1965 with a degree in psychology and a minor in history, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, an experience that likely fueled the discipline in his writing. Barone then spent three decades in technology, retiring in 1999 as Vice President of International Systems at Western Union International. But it was a recurring dream of an ancient warrior defending a village that sparked his writing career, leading him to trade software for stories.
Sam Barone’s Unforgettable Stories
Barone’s debut novel, Dawn of Empire (2006), kicked off the Eskkar Saga, a sweeping Bronze Age epic set in the Land Between the Rivers. The story follows Eskkar, a barbarian warrior, and Trella, a wise slave girl, as they unite to build and defend the world’s first walled city against invaders. Praised for its blend of romance, action, and historical detail, it won first place in the Arizona Authors Association Literary Contest in 2007. Its sequel, Empire Rising (2007), continues their saga, charting the rise of the city-state Akkad with vivid characters and intense battles.
Other notable works include Battle for Empire (2012), where Eskkar confronts his past and a new enemy, and Clash of Empires (2013), the sixth Eskkar novel, depicting a final stand against a mighty foe. Barone also ventured into sci-fi with Jettisoned (2014), a novella about a perilous space freighter journey, showcasing his versatility. His writing style—marked by thorough research, psychological depth, and fast-paced plots—makes ancient worlds feel alive and relatable.
Barone considers himself a storyteller, not just a writer, crafting tales he’d love to read. His ability to merge historical accuracy with emotional resonance has earned him a loyal following, with his books translated into nine languages and over 180,000 readers worldwide.
Why Sam Barone Matters
Sam Barone’s impact lies in his ability to illuminate the Bronze Age, a period often overshadowed by later eras like ancient Greece or Rome. His Eskkar Saga offers a window into early civilization, exploring themes of leadership, survival, and love amid war and chaos. By grounding his stories in historical detail, Barone educates as much as he entertains, making readers feel the dust of ancient battlefields and the weight of empire-building.
His shift from a tech career to writing at 57 also inspires aspiring authors, proving it’s never too late to chase a passion. Barone’s engagement with fans, often responding personally to emails, adds a personal touch that strengthens his legacy. Living in Prescott, Arizona, with his wife Linda and their cats, he continues to write, leaving a mark on historical fiction that’s as enduring as the walls of Akkad.
- Born: Queens, New York
- Key Works: Dawn of Empire, Empire Rising, Battle for Empire, Jettisoned
- Awards: Arizona Authors Association Literary Contest, First Place (2007) for Dawn of Empire
- Fun Fact: Barone started writing after recurring dreams about an ancient warrior!
About Sam Barone
Snag Dawn of Empire and dive into Sam Barone’s thrilling Bronze Age world—your next adventure awaits!