Ben Kane

Ben Kane was born in Kenya in 1970 to Irish parents while his father was working there as a veterinarian. The family returned to Ireland when Kane was seven, and he later studied veterinary medicine at University College Dublin. After qualifying, he worked as a veterinarian in Britain, but travel became equally important to his development. Extended journeys through Asia and other parts of the world brought him into direct contact with ancient sites, including the remains of Merv in Turkmenistan, and strengthened an existing interest in Roman and classical history.

Kane continued veterinary work while beginning to write historical fiction, drawing inspiration from the adventure stories and historical novels he had read since childhood. His first published novel, The Forgotten Legion, appeared in 2008 and began a trilogy set during the final decades of the Roman Republic. He subsequently wrote the Spartacus, Hannibal and Eagles of Rome series, combining large military events with the experiences of soldiers, slaves and civilians. Kane’s research includes visiting landscapes, studying equipment and taking part in long-distance historical and charitable walks. His fiction is best suited to readers interested in Roman campaigning, legionary life, Carthage, rebellion and the physical demands of warfare in the ancient Mediterranean.