David Benem

David Benem writes epic fantasy centred on damaged characters, disputed histories, and the difficult recovery of heroic purpose. What Remains of Heroes is the first volume of A Requiem for Heroes. It introduces former soldier Lannick deVeers, the scholar-priest Bale, and other compromised figures whose separate paths unfold as an old threat gathers around the kingdom of Rune. Benem's own account explains that the book grew from years spent beginning fantasy stories before finally completing a character-driven book. The title placed among the finalists in the inaugural Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off, and later series records place The Wrath of Heroes after it. Rather than presenting virtue as a fixed identity, Benem builds the story around regret, revenge, forbidden lore, and reluctant action. Multiple viewpoints gradually reveal the political and supernatural danger connecting the cast. Readers encounter a writer working in epic and heroic fantasy while concentrating on people who must decide whether past failure prevents them from acting well when the realm needs them.