About the author

Throughout my high school years, I was, at best, a C student in English.  I struggled to compose a compelling short story, never mind a novel. Or two! And now I’m halfway through my third!

But then, at the age of 52, I had what can only be described as an epiphany. After coaching nine boys and two girls in an Under-18 Tournament of Champions game, At the Death materialized from my subconscious. Working with my spiritual companion, the adventure was placed into my memory banks — right down to the very last line. It took me ten years to get this fantasy down on paper, but I never wavered from that original storyline. I filled in all the blanks with true-to-life experiences, most involving The Beautiful Game.

I remember thinking that I had to start somewhere, so I wrote Chapter 5 first – just to see if I could. I chose that chapter because it was easy – and fun.

I read somewhere that the same thing happened to JK Rowling. And it could happen to you. Contact your spiritual companion and ask for an inspirational revelation!

ALEX K. PHAKOS is a life-long soccer enthusiast sporting fifty years as a player, coach, referee, and fan. He played soccer in Germany before becoming the head coach of a Division 1 men’s collegiate soccer team. He was compelled to write this first novel upon the loss of his 12-year old-daughter, and the promise he made to her that he would “be there” for the children in his life in a way that he wasn’t there for her. Beginning with redoubled efforts to coach his sons’ soccer teams and including parenting seven more adopted children, his life (and afterlife) philosophy has been indelibly marked by her passing. At the Death represents the crystallization of this philosophy. He currently lives with his wife and children in Massachusetts.