Fantasy novelist David Gemmell, best known for stories such as Legend and Waylander, has died at the age of 57.
Gemmell had heart bypass surgery two weeks ago and appeared to be making a good recovery, according to his publisher Transworld.
His career began in 1984 with Legend, a tale of a fortress under siege. He wrote 30 novels in total.
Transworld managing director Larry Finlay said Gemmell was "writing at the peak of his powers".
"He was a true pleasure to work with," he said.
"We will surely miss him, as will his thousands of devoted fans around the world. Our thoughts are with his wife Stella and his two children."
A statement from the publisher said he died on Friday morning.
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