Steven Erikson is a Canadian author best known for his epic fantasy series, Malazan Book of the Fallen. Born on October 7, 1967, he has a background in archaeology and anthropology, which heavily influences his writing style and world-building. Erikson's work is characterized by its complex narratives, large ensemble casts, and deep philosophical themes. The Malazan series, which began with the novel Gardens of the Moon in 1999, has garnered a dedicated following and is praised for its intricate plots and rich character development.