Andy West

I don't even remember learning to read, it seemed like I always could. From the beginning I was always very interested in books; but factual books as much as fiction. Physics was an early love, the big picture of the Universe, and Carl Sagan an inspiring hero, which all led to a degree in that subject.

Yet discovering the fascinating workings of evolution has been my most passionate intellectual hobby in later times, along still with fiction of course. So most of my stories tend to have an underpinning of evolutionary mechanisms, from the 'big engines of history' to the tricksy workings of individual memes. The juicy core of the fruit for me is how evolution both applies to, and operates within, sentient societies. Yet I love an intriguing tale too, set in worlds peopled (or 'beinged') by memorable characters with personal challenges and goals, flaws and abilities and vulnerabilities, whose lives unfold on the battleground where social imperatives clash with individual will and achievements.

Considering the above motivations my natural writing home has been Science Fiction. So the upcoming (end March 18) 'Assassin's Legacy' from Newcon Press, first of the 'Waters of Destiny' duo and written with co-author Ian Watson, is a departure from SF for both of us. And a hugely enjoyable departure to write, especially regarding deep delvings into the arcane; lost languages and ancient medical practice, molecular biology and Gnostic sects, and much else both medieval and modern. The resulting tale is indeed intriguing, and studded with striving individuals both nefarious and noble, who are embedded in a vast and powerful conspiracy that unfolds over 900 years.

Andy West