Gemmell's name guarantees a satisfying story and a thumping good read. I recommend all his heroic creations - 'Druss the axeman,' 'the Jerusalem man,' among others - but my favourite has to be 'Waylander': Clint Eastwood with a crossbow and the same 'Make my day, punk' attitude.

The quote by Neal Asher—“Gemmell’s name guarantees a satisfying story and a thumping good read. I recommend all his heroic creations—‘Druss the Axeman,’ ‘the Jerusalem Man,’ among others—but my favourite has to be ‘Waylander’: Clint Eastwood with a crossbow and the same ‘Make my day, punk’ attitude”—is a powerful tribute to the enduring appeal of David Gemmell’s heroic fantasy novels. Asher, a celebrated science fiction author, praises Gemmell’s ability to craft gripping, action-packed stories featuring morally complex and larger-than-life characters.

By referencing Druss, the Jerusalem Man, and especially Waylander, Asher highlights the mythic quality of Gemmell’s protagonists—warriors who face overwhelming odds with grit, honor, and a deep sense of personal code. Calling Waylander “Clint Eastwood with a crossbow” draws a vivid parallel between the fictional assassin and the iconic Western antihero, emphasizing Waylander’s stoic demeanor, lethal efficiency, and tough, no-nonsense attitude. The phrase “Make my day, punk” further reinforces the image of a fearless, formidable character who takes justice into his own hands.

The origin of the quote likely comes from an interview or article where Asher discussed his literary influences. His praise situates Gemmell as a master of the heroic fantasy genre, whose work not only entertains but also inspires readers and writers alike. Asher’s own novels, filled with high-stakes adventure and bold protagonists, clearly draw inspiration from the kind of storytelling Gemmell championed.

Ultimately, Asher’s quote is both a recommendation and a homage, celebrating Gemmell’s legacy of creating compelling, action-driven tales filled with honor-bound warriors and richly imagined worlds. It's a recognition that storytelling at its best combines character, attitude, and emotion—and that Gemmell's heroes continue to capture the imagination of readers who crave stories of redemption, courage, and defiance.