In both, the earlier Hardway Series press releases and books, about the author portion stated: Drake Russell is the pen name author of the Hardway Series. Mr. Drake has led the typical fictitious life of secret agent, astronaut, and adventurer. is his childhood dreams. He was born in the usual manner, went on to tie for the award of class' class clown. A few years of enlightening poverty and numerous close shaves convinced Drake to join the military. After a four and a half year stint completing his military and civic obligations, Drake joined the ranks of the unemployed at the height of the recession. Undaunted and in love, he married and became the quintessential family man in one of the most economically depressed regions of the country at that time.

Taking whatever work came along and living off the bounty of his Appalachian ridge & valley home in central Pennsylvania, the Russell's have managed to survive all the trials and tribulations that have been thrown in their path. From the deepest sorrow to the highest elation, they have endured and continued on. Drake, always an avid reader and storyteller, decided to try his hand at fantasy writing when his long time role-playing group went their separate ways. Drake still lives in the same old house with his wife and two working for a good employer and cranking out his heroes adventures on the weekends and in the wee hours of the morning.Mr Russell sincerely hopes you have enjoyed this story and will continue to read the further exploits of The Hardway. To both his fans and his critics, he wishes you to be safe, be well, and be happy.In reality, Drake Russell is one, L.A.

Duck, who as it turns out, has led a remarkably similar life as his pen name. And, while some things in his world has changed since the author's description above was written, his tales about the journeys and antics of the Hardway heroes will continue on.