Without doubt, David Gemmell is my favourite author. I have tried hard to find someone who is better.

His flawed characters, wisdom and humour, within grand stories are an inspiration. Don`t discount his books if you don`t read 'fantasy'. There are no Dwarves or Goblins in these novels... they are more like historic saga`s, just based in imaginary (though familiar) worlds.

Nearly all of his novels can be read out of order, but I`d start with something from the beginning of each series, eg "Legend" or "Troy: Lord of the Silver Bow" (which is an historic novel).