Scott Mariani

Author

Scott Mariani is a British thriller author best known for the Ben Hope series — a long-running and hugely popular sequence of action-adventure novels that has sold over two million copies worldwide. His books deliver high-octane thrills, exotic locations, and a hero who combines intellectual curiosity with formidable combat skills. Born... in Scotland, Mariani studied at Oxford and has lived in rural Pembrokeshire, Wales. Before becoming a full-time writer, he worked in various fields, including as a professional musician and a martial arts instructor — interests that inform the action sequences and attention to detail in his fiction. The Ben Hope series, beginning with The Alchemist's Pursuit, follows former SAS officer and theology scholar Ben Hope as he travels the world taking on missions that blend historical mystery with modern-day danger. Hope is an unusual action hero — a man who studied Divinity at Oxford and can discuss ancient manuscripts as readily as he can handle a firefight. The series draws on real historical enigmas, religious mysteries, and archaeological puzzles, giving the books an intellectual dimension that sets them apart from more straightforward thrillers. With over twenty-five novels in the series, including The Babylon Idol, The Rebel's Revenge, The Pretender's Gold, and The Crusader's Cross, Mariani has maintained a remarkable consistency of pace and invention. Each book is a self-contained adventure that can be read on its own, while the ongoing development of Ben Hope's character rewards loyal readers. The books have been compared to the work of Dan Brown and Lee Child, occupying a space that combines conspiracy, history, and relentless action. Mariani's writing is lean, fast-moving, and packed with the kind of plot twists that keep readers turning pages late into the night. The audiobook editions of the Ben Hope series have attracted a substantial following, with narrator Colin Mace delivering commanding performances that capture Hope's quiet intensity and the globe-trotting scale of the adventures. The audiobooks are ideal for listeners who love action thrillers with a strong historical and intellectual dimension. Scott Mariani continues to write from his home in Wales, adding to a series that shows no sign of losing momentum. His books and audiobooks are a reliable choice for thriller fans who want their adventures smart, fast, and packed with historical intrigue. Read more Show less