David Gilman is a highly versatile author and screenwriter who has enjoyed a successful career in writing. Born in Liverpool and raised in Wales, Gilman's life has been marked by a series of diverse jobs and experiences that have taken him all over the world. From driving construction workers in the African bush at the age of 16 to serving in the Parachute Regiment’s Reconnaissance Platoon, and working as a firefighter, forestry worker, JCB driver, window dresser, and professional photographer, Gilman's varied background has given him a wealth of material to draw upon in his writing.
In 1986, Gilman turned to full-time writing and has since written numerous radio and television scripts, including several years of the popular TV series A Touch of Frost. He has also written for young adults, with his "Danger Zone" trilogy selling in 15 countries and receiving critical acclaim. The first book in the series, The Devil's Breath, was longlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and won the French Prix Polar Jeunesse.
As an author of historical fiction, Gilman is perhaps best known for his "Master of War" series, which follows the fortunes of Thomas Blackstone, a village stonemason in England who is sent to fight with King Edward’s army as an archer against the French in 1346. The series is rich in historical detail and has been well-received by critics and readers alike. Gilman has also written two standalone novels for adults, The Last Horseman and Night Flight to Paris, as well as the children's book Monkey and Me. His latest thriller series, The Englishman, was published in 2020 and features Dan Raglan, a contemporary knight errant who served in the French Foreign Legion. The second book in the series, Betrayal, will be published in early 2022.
Despite his many accomplishments, Gilman remains a down-to-earth and approachable figure. He is known for his generosity in sharing his knowledge and experience with other writers and has been a frequent speaker at literary festivals and events. With his talent for storytelling, his deep understanding of character and motivation, and his ability to bring historical settings to life, Gilman has established himself as one of the most accomplished and versatile writers of his generation.