Mercedes Lackey

Mercedes Ritchie Lackey is an American writer of fantasy novels, born on June 24, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois. She is known for her interlinked novels and trilogies set in the world of Velgarth, particularly the country of Valdemar. Her work often features interactions between human and non-human protagonists, exploring diverse cultures and social mores. Lackey has also published novels that re-work fairy tales, delving into themes of ecology, social class, and gender roles. She is recognized as one of the most prolific science fiction and fantasy writers, having published over 140 books. In 2021, she was named the 38th Damon Knight Grand Master by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA).