ALISTAIR FORREST

Journalist, editor and author of historical fiction. Lives on an Island. Writes and shoots the breeze.

"Forrest has the gift of the true storyteller"
–Lord Cormack, historian & author

I’m Alistair Forrest, a historical fiction author with a lifelong fascination for the ancient world. My novels are inspired by real events, places, and people from history — brought to life with characters who feel the heat, the fear, the ambition and courage of their time.

I grew up in the Middle East, surrounded by stories carved in stone and echoes of past empires, which probably explains my early obsession with history. After returning to the UK, I spent much of my career in journalism and magazine editing, working for newspapers such as the South Wales Echo and later editing titles in travel, photography, and natural health.

Storytelling, in all its forms, has always been my way of exploring the world.

My historical fiction novels include Libertas, set in Roman Spain during the final days of Caesar’s civil war; Vipers of Rome, a tale of espionage and loyalty; Sea of Flames, a story of vengeance and adventure across the Mediterranean; and Line in the Sand, a more personal and prophetic journey. 

I also contribute short stories to historical fiction anthologies, such as The Ring anthology, where a single Roman ring threads through centuries of history. I also wrote the allegorical Cell Wars: An Inside Story under the name Adam Fox.

These days I live on the beautiful island of Alderney with my wife, Lynda — a place where inspiration seems to blow in with every tide. Thanks for visiting — I hope you’ll enjoy exploring my stories as much as I’ve enjoyed writing them.

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'Not In The Script' – NITS for short – an author’s ramblings about sources of inspiration and the stuff that never quite makes it into a finished work, or conversely pushes the boundaries of what might have been true if we dared to think it. Have a look and sign up (free).

COMING SOON – the first in The Britannia Conspiracy series set against a backdrop of Julius Caesar’s two incursions to Britain during his brutal conquest of Gaul. To be published in 2026 by Sapere Books.
Gutsy women!

Gutsy women!

Countering misogyny in my novels...

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The Thrill of the Chase

The Thrill of the Chase

How an obscure Greek ship's captain came to light while reading Plutarch. Now the hero of new book published by Sapere Books.

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Angry youth, vengeful pirate

Angry youth, vengeful pirate

Why Sextus Pompey turned bad...

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Julius Caesar marched through my garden

Julius Caesar marched through my garden

A peaceful olive grove near a small Spanish town that will have witnessed the full force of Caesar's legions.

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Who was Goliath?

Who was Goliath?

An author begs forgiveness from Biblical historians and religious chroniclers and hopes you'll enjoy his reimagining of a well-known tale.

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Short Story – The Harpax Agenda

Short Story – The Harpax Agenda

Roman general and spymaster Marcus Agrippa is about to stumble upon a weapon to win a war – but who can you trust?

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