Historical fiction author David Lee Gibbs will showcase “The Lion Slayer: A Tale of Ancient Phoenicia” at the 2026 Manila International Book Fair, taking place September 9-13, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Manila. The book will be displayed at Booth 2-107.
Born in St. Louis and raised in Southern California, Gibbs earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from California State University, Long Beach. He spent decades working as a technical artist, graphic designer, art director, and publishing professional before turning his creative focus to historical fiction.
His interest in ancient Phoenicia began after a 2007 DNA test suggested possible ancestral ties to the civilization. This discovery inspired years of research into its people, culture, trade, and seafaring traditions, eventually leading to the creation of “The Lion Slayer,” the first book in a planned historical series.
Set during the Bronze Age, the novel follows a young Phoenician who earns the name Aleon-Tabah, the Lion Slayer, after defeating a man-eating lion. What begins as a moment of triumph soon becomes a difficult journey marked by love, religious conflict, sacrifice, shipwreck, captivity, and survival.
Beyond its historical adventure, the novel explores the meaning of true courage. Aleon learns that bravery is not measured only by physical strength, but by the ability to remain faithful, compassionate, and determined when life takes an unexpected turn. His journey offers lessons about resilience, identity, loyalty, and the importance of holding on to hope during moments of uncertainty.
Gibbs's participation in MIBF 2026 will introduce readers to an often-overlooked ancient civilization through a story that combines historical detail with timeless human struggles. Now retired in Northern Texas, he continues to bring the past to life through stories of adventure, personal transformation, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
For more information about “The Lion Slayer: A Tale of Ancient Phoenicia” and David Lee Gibbs's participation in the 2026 Manila International Book Fair, readers may follow official event announcements and exhibitor updates.
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