Steven Erikson is a highly regarded Canadian novelist, particularly known for his work in the realms of fantasy and science fiction. With a background in archaeology and anthropology, Erikson's writing is often informed by his academic expertise, lending a unique depth and authenticity to his worlds and characters. He is perhaps best known for his Malazan Empire novels, which include the Malazan Book of the Fallen series, as well as the Bauchelain & Korbal Broach and Kharkanas Trilogy series.
Erikson's approach to storytelling is characterized by a willingness to challenge conventions and push boundaries. He is not afraid to take risks in his writing, such as killing off main characters in order to deepen the plot and add complexity to his narratives. This boldness has earned him a dedicated following, with readers who appreciate his commitment to creating immersive and thought-provoking worlds.
Beyond the Malazan Empire, Erikson has published over twenty books, exploring a wide range of themes and ideas. Many of his works examine notions of privilege, power hierarchies, and the rise and fall of civilizations. At the same time, Erikson is known for his irreverent sense of humor and willingness to poke fun at the conventions of the fantasy genre.
Throughout his career, Erikson has received numerous accolades for his writing. He is a New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author, and his Malazan Book of the Fallen series has been recognized as one of the top 10 fantasies by Fantasy Book Review and one of the 30 best fantasy book series of all time by Paste magazine. Erikson has also been nominated for the Locus Award four times and the World Fantasy Award twice. Despite these honors, however, Erikson remains a humble and approachable figure, known for his generosity and kindness towards fans and fellow writers alike.