Leo Frankowski is widely known for the popular Adventures of Conrad Stargard series, which has gone through seven novels to date, with translated editions in Italy, Spain, and Poland. He has now written fourteen successful science fiction novels, and, following the publication of his first novel, was nominated for the John W. Campbell award for best new writer.

Before he began writing, he held more than a hundred different positions, ranging from scientist in an electro-optical research lab, to chief engineer, to company president. His work in chemical and optical instrumentation has earned him several patents. In addition, his wide technical expertise shows through in his science fiction, lending a strong sense of realism to his writing.

He moved to Russia a few years ago, where he and his Russian wife have spent the last few years building a castle on the banks of the Volga River (Yes, THAT Volga River!). Even though it will not be finished for several more months, the huge castle has already become a landmark on that part of the river.

In addition to writing new books, Mr Frankowski has become a well known character on Russian talk shows. Not bad for a man who does not speak any Russian.