Juliet Marillier is a New Zealand-born author known for her work in the fantasy genre. She has gained recognition for her richly woven narratives that often draw on historical events and folklore, particularly from Celtic and Norse traditions. Her debut novel, "Daughter of the Forest," was published in 1999 and is the first book in the Sevenwaters series. Marillier's writing is characterized by strong female protagonists and themes of love, sacrifice, and the connection between humans and nature. Over the years, she has published numerous novels and series, earning a dedicated readership and several awards, including the Aurealis Award for her contributions to fantasy literature.