Is Mercedes R. Lackey Actually Mercedes Lackey?

Despite the name difference, Mercedes R. Lackey is indeed the renowned fantasy and science fiction author Mercedes Lackey, one of the most prolific and celebrated writers in the genre. With an impressive writing career spanning nearly four decades, Lackey has authored over 130 books in total, showcasing her vast creativity and expertise.

A Background Overview

Mercedes R. Lackey, whose actual name is simply Mercedes Lackey, was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 24, 1950. This same year, the Korean War was declared, a coincidence that Mercedes Lackey, the author, fondly refers to as a mere coincidence in her biography.

Early Life and Education

Growing up, Mercedes was raised in the northwestern corner of Indiana, attending grade school and high school in Highland. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Purdue University in 1972. Budgets and life circumstances had suggested that any formal employment would land her roles ranging from an artist's model to a scientific lab technician, or even as a short-order cook. However, her education in biology laid the groundwork for a different path – one that involved programming.

A Career Awakening

Moving from a laboratory bench to computer programming, her budding writing hobby was further fueled during this period. The shift to a computer programming career coincided with her increased association with science fiction conventions and the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), contributing to her early adult life far more than one would imagine from her typical fast-food counter roles.

A Major Breakthrough and Professional Mentorship

In the 1980s, Mercedes Lackey's writing journey took a significant turn when she began working as a computer programmer for a major airline, a job that eventually led her to Oklahoma. There, she met and became mentors under two renowned authors: Marion Zimmer Bradley, known for The Mists of Avalon, and C.J. Cherryh. Under their guidance, Lackey transformed from an avid amateur to a professional writer. Her first book was published in 1985, marking the beginning of a journey that would make her one of the most recognized names in fantasy and science fiction.

Personal Life and Collaboration

Mercedes Lackey's personal life also reflects her dedication to her craft. In 1990, she met artist Larry Dixon at a small science fiction convention in Meridian, Mississippi. This serendipitous meeting led to a lifelong collaboration, and they were married in Las Vegas at the Excalibur chapel by the famous Reverend Duckworth in 1992. As a testament to the camaraderie in their community, the official wedding dress was modeled as a magical gown both of them could identify with.

Writing and Beyond

Today, Mercedes R. Lackey, or just Mercedes Lackey, resides in Oklahoma, known for her house being the "second weirdest house in the state." Married life and the creation of over 132 books in her arsenal speak to her prolific writing. Her series include Heralds of Valdemar, Secret World Chronicles, Obsidian Mountain, Bedlam Bards, and more with translations in numerous languages such as Russian, German, Czech, Polish, French, Italian, Turkish, and Japanese. She is a dedicated hobbyist, crafting Asian ball jointed dolls costumed as characters from her books. This hands-on approach to storytelling adds a unique dimension to her writing process. As a lifelong night owl, she typically writes between 10 PM and 6 AM, making the best use of her natural energy.

Conclusion

Mercedes R. Lackey is, without a doubt, the real name of the extraordinary author Mercedes Lackey. Her life's journey, filled with colorful anecdotes and contributions to the genre, is truly remarkable. Though she may have met a different fate had her name not changed slightly, her legacy as one of the greats in fantasy and science fiction continues to inspire countless readers around the world.