The author of "War and Peace" is the great Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. The novel, which was first published in 1869, is a sweeping epic that follows the lives of several characters during the Napoleonic Wars and the French invasion of Russia. The novel is considered one of Tolstoy's greatest works, and is considered a masterpiece of world literature. "War and Peace" is known for its intricate plot, its psychological depth, and its exploration of themes such as love, death, and the meaning of life. It has inspired numerous adaptations, including a film, a television series, and a ballet.