Chris Sarantopoulos studied Geology in Scotland (you may hear him say 'aye' a couple of times), then decided to diversify and did a Masters in Service Management. Alas, it was words and stories that he fell in love with. He's influenced by Stephen King, George R. R. Martin, Margaret Weis, Tracy Hickman, Richard Morgan, and R. Scott Bakker. He lives in Greece, and if you happen to spend time there, contact him. He may be able to arrange a meeting.