Surena: Hero of Ancient Persia
Join me as I share my journey in writing and publishing my new graphic novel
Who Is Surena?
Surena (c. 84 BC – 52 BC) was a brilliant Parthian general. He is best remembered for his decisive victory over the Roman Republic at the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC.
At Carrhae, Surena’s force of roughly 10,000 cavalry (including 1,000 heavy cataphracts and 9,000 horse archers) decimated a much larger Roman army of approximately 40,000 led by Marcus Licinius Crassus.
Some of you may remember the name Crassus. He was the rich Roman general who put an end to Spartacus' Rebellion. Played by Simon Merrells in the Starz Series: Spartacus: War of the Damned.
After defeating Spartacus, Crassus wanted more glory, so he decided to try his luck at conquering Persia. Surena captured and executed the Alexander-wannabe by pouring molten gold down his throat –a mockery of his greed.
Inspiring and heartfelt!
Alex B
"
Promotion and buildup will be Ai Art. The actual novel will be human art.
Why is Surena?
What inspired this book?
I was frustrated by the lack of visibility the Persian people received during Women, Life, Freedom and the January 2026 massacre –when the Islamic Republic of Iran murdered over 30,000 protesters in Iran who demanded religious freedoms and political change.
When will it be released?
2028 earliest. I want to do a good job. So I will take my time. However, I want to start uplifting Iranian people right away, so I will open up my writing journey for Surena to the public.
What do you want to accomplish with this book?
Uplift the Persian people in these dark times
Restore Persian confidence in martial matters
Inspire Persians to pursue strategy-themed activities
Show the world the glory of Ancient Zoroastrian Persia
Bring visibility to the suffering of the Iranian people
What if people steal my idea?
Go for it. The goal is to uplift Persians and bring visibility to their suffering. If you can do a better job than me, please. All my research will be available to you. I don't need the money.
How can I follow your publishing journey?
Through this website’s updates and social media posts. Possibly a Patreon or Go-Fund Me later.
All Good Writing Starts With Research
Lots of Research...
Today is May 4, 2026. Happy Star Wars Day. Here are my sustainable, actionable research goals to get started on Surena.
By June 1st, 2026, finish 1st reading Shanameh by Ferdowsi Part 1. Will read a total of three times.
By June 1st, 2026, read and outline ten articles and videos about the Battle of Carrhae for surface understanding
By June 1st, 2026, read and outline ten articles and videos about the life of Surena for surface understanding
By June 1st, 2026, compile a list of documentaries and books about the Carrhae and Surena for deep dive