Ignatius Brianchaninov (1807-1867) was a prolific author of Orthodox Christian ascetical works. Published toward the end of his life, his writings continued to grow in popularity long after his death. Along with his contemporary, St. Theophan the Recluse, Ignatius is now considered a foremost authority on Orthodox spirituality. He was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church in 1988. His writings have previously appeared in English as "The Arena" and "On the Prayer of Jesus". Nicholas Kotar is a translator as well as writer of fantasy novels inspired by traditional Russian folk tales.