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LONDON, Jul 29, 2006 (UPI via COMTEX) -- David Gemmell, noted fantasy novelist best known for stories such as "Legend" and "Waylander," has died in Britain at the age of 57.
Gemmell had undergone heart bypass surgery two weeks ago but died Friday, the BBC said.
An official at his publisher, Transworld, said he had appeared to be making a good recovery. Transworld managing director Larry Finlay said Gemmell was "writing at the peak of his powers. He was a true pleasure to work with."
Throughout his writing career, Gemmell wrote a total of 30 novels, the BBC said. He was known for themes of heroism and adventure. Many regard "Legend," his first novel published in 1984, to be a fantasy classic.
The second part of Gemmell's planned trilogy of historical novels, "Troy: The Shield of Thunder No 2," is due to be published in September, the BBC said.
Gemmell is survived by his wife and two children.
URL: www.upi.com Copyright 2006 by United Press International
