Esther Mona Friesner-Stutzman, born on July 16, 1951, is a renowned American science fiction and fantasy author. She is not only a celebrated novelist but also a poet and playwright. Friesner is particularly well-known for her humorous writing style, which she adeptly uses to address significant issues such as gender equality and social justice with a broad audience.

Educated at Vassar College, Friesner completed B.A.s in both Spanish and Drama. She furthered her education at Yale University, where she was awarded both an M.A. and a Ph.D. in Spanish. After teaching Spanish at Yale for several years, she transitioned into a full-time writing career.

Friesner has published twenty-seven novels, with notable titles including Temping Fate and Nobody's Princess. Her short fiction and poetry have appeared in esteemed publications such as Asimov's, Fantasy & Science Fiction, Aboriginal SF, Pulphouse Magazine, Amazing, and Fantasy Book, along with numerous anthologies. Her story, "Love's Eldritch Ichor," was notably featured in the 1990 World Fantasy Convention book.