L.E. Modesitt, Jr. is a well-known American novelist, renowned for his works in the science fiction and fantasy genres. Born as Leland Exton Modesitt, Jr., he spent twenty years working as a political writer in Washington D.C. His diverse body of work includes several series such as the Saga of Recluce, Spellsong Cycle, The Corean Chronicles, and The Imager Portfolio, among others. Modesitt's writing is characterized by recurring themes such as the Galactic Empire, Galactic war, time travel, nanotechnology, and a love for food.
Modesitt's writing career began with the publication of his first story in the Analog Science Fiction and Fact magazine in 1973. He is best known for his fantasy series, "The Saga of the Recluce," which is a fan favorite. Prior to his career as a novelist, Modesitt had a wide array of work experiences, including working as a Navy pilot, lifeguard, delivery boy, unpaid radio disc jockey, real estate agent, market research analyst, legislative assistant for a Congressman, Director of Research for a political campaign, and Director of Legislation and Congressional Relations for the United States Environmental Protection Agency. He has also worked as a consultant on environmental, regulatory, and communications issues, and a college lecturer and writer in residence.
In addition to his novels, Modesitt has published technical studies, articles, columns, poetry, and a number of science fiction stories. His first short story, "The Great American Economy," was published in 1973 in Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact. Modesitt's writing style and the themes he explores are greatly influenced by his diverse professional background and his lifelong love for science fiction. He has published over seventy-five novels and nearly fifty short stories, and his work continues to be popular among readers of science fiction and fantasy.