Steven Brust is an American author known for his work in the fantasy genre. He was born on November 23, 1955, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Brust is best known for his series featuring the character Vlad Taltos, a human assassin in a world populated by various races, including dragons and elves. His writing often combines elements of humor, political intrigue, and complex characters. In addition to the Vlad Taltos series, Brust has written several standalone novels and collaborated with other authors. He is also recognized for his contributions to the science fiction and fantasy community through his essays and discussions on writing. Brust's unique style and engaging storytelling have earned him a dedicated readership.