Richelle Mead is an American author best known for her young adult fantasy series, particularly the Vampire Academy series. Born on November 12, 1976, in Michigan, she has a background in religious studies and has worked as a teacher. Her writing often features strong female protagonists and explores themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. In addition to the Vampire Academy series, Mead has written several other popular series, including Bloodlines and Age of X. Her books have gained a large following and have been translated into multiple languages, contributing to her reputation as a prominent figure in the young adult genre.