If I Pay Thee Not in Gold

Mercedes Ritchie Lackey (born 1950) is an American writer of fantasy novels. Many of her novels and trilogies are interlinked and set in the world of Velgarth, mostly in and around the country of Valdemar. Her Valdemar novels form a complex tapestry of interaction between human and non-human protagonists with many different cultures and social mores.

Her other main world is one much like our own, but it includes clandestine populations of elves, mages, vampires, and other mythical beings. The Bedlam's Bard books describe a young man with the power to work magic through music; the SERRAted Edge books are about racecar driving elves; and the Diana Tregarde thrillers center on a Wiccan who combats evil.

She has also published several novels re-working well-known fairy tales set in a mid-19th to early 20th century setting in which magic is real, although hidden from the mundane world. These novels explore issues of ecology, social class, and gender roles.

Lackey has published over 140 books and writes novels at a rate of 5.5 per year on average. She has been called one of the "most prolific science fiction and fantasy writers of all time."

Piers Anthony's name is synonymous with fantastical worlds, vivid characters, and an unparalleled sense of whimsy. Born in Oxford, England, in 1934, he moved to the United States as a child, shaping the cultural landscape of his imagination. What sets Anthony apart is his ability to weave humor and depth into stories that are both lighthearted and thought-provoking, making him a standout in the fantasy genre.

Anthony’s journey to becoming a household name in fantasy literature wasn’t a straightforward path. After serving in the U.S. Army and briefly teaching, he devoted himself to writing, selling his first short story and setting the stage for his later successes. However, it was with the Xanth series that he truly carved out his place in literary history. A world brimming with puns, magic, and eccentric characters, Xanth resonated with readers for its wit and its heart. What began as a fun experiment turned into a sprawling saga, with Anthony publishing a book for nearly every letter of the alphabet, earning him a global following that continues to grow.

But it’s not just the wordplay that defines Anthony’s work. His Incarnations of Immortality series, which explores immortality, fate, and cosmic justice, shows a deeper philosophical side, blending speculative ideas with rich world-building. His Apprentice Adept series similarly explores complex themes like the nature of reality, self-discovery, and the power of choice.

Beyond his prolific career, Anthony's personal life has shaped his writing in profound ways. He has faced his share of loss, including the death of his daughter Penny in 2009 and his first wife, Carol Ann, in 2019. These tragedies have added a layer of emotional complexity to his more recent works, touching on themes of grief, resilience, and the human spirit’s capacity to endure.

Residing in California with his wife MaryLee Boyance, Anthony continues to engage with his audience, providing them with updates, personal insights, and new stories through his website, HiPiers.com. His ongoing dedication to the craft ensures that readers of all ages will continue to explore the worlds he’s so brilliantly created, from the whimsical lands of Xanth to the more reflective landscapes of his other series.

Piers Anthony's work is a testament to the power of storytelling—how it can transport, entertain, and challenge readers. With over 50 novels to his name, his impact on the fantasy genre is undeniable, making him a beloved figure among those who seek stories that mix humor, heart, and imagination.