David Gemmel

British Fantasy author David Gemmel died this morning after unexpected complications following heart surgery. Gemmel's career spanned nearly a quarter century, beginning with the publication in 1984 of Legend. He wrote more than thirty novels, and the second book of a planned triology, Troy: The Shield of Thunder, will appear posthumously in September. His climb to success was not without its dark moments, such as the rejection slip that read, "You mention in your resume that you are working as a lorry driver's mate for Pepsi Cola. This is an occupation not without merit. Good luck with it." He did not take the hint. At the height of his writing prowess, Gemmel leaves behind a hoard of fans and the sites they produced, including the Unofficial David Gemmel Site and one devoted to Gemmel Mania, as well as bereft family and friends. Gemmel was fifty-seven. An appreciation, a quote froma convention speech, and links to other material are at Books at Transworld.