Raymond E. Feist, born Raymond Elias Gonzales III, is an eminent American fantasy fiction author renowned for The Riftwar Cycle, a captivating series of novels and short stories. Born on December 21, 1945, Feist's literary creations have been translated into multiple languages and have collectively sold over 15 million copies worldwide. His journey in the realm of literature began in Southern California, where he was born and later chose San Diego as his home.

Feist pursued his higher education at the University of California, San Diego, where he earned a B.A. in Communication Arts with Honors in 1977. It was during his academic years that Feist conceived the idea for a novel about a boy destined to become a magician. This vision materialized into a published novel in 1982, marking the commencement of a prolific writing career that continues to enchant readers globally. Feist’s dedication to storytelling is rivaled only by his passions outside of writing, which include collecting fine wine, DVDs, and books on a wide array of subjects such as biographies, history, and notably, the history of American Professional Football.

Currently residing in San Diego with his children, Feist's life is as rich and engaging as the worlds he creates in his books. His commitment to his craft and his readers is evident in every page of his works, making him a stalwart figure in the realm of fantasy literature.