"War and Peace," the epic novel exploring themes of fate, free will, and the complexities of human relationships during the Napoleonic Wars, was written by the Russian author Leo Tolstoy. First published in 1869, the novel is renowned for its historical detail and philosophical insights, weaving together the lives of various characters across Russian society. Tolstoy delves into the effects of war and the intricacies of personal relationships, making the book a profound exploration of life and conflict. Its depth and breadth have earned it a place as one of the greatest works in world literature.