Teresa Mendoza is a fictional character from the novel series "La Reina del Sur," written by Spanish author Arturo Pérez-Reverte. She is portrayed as a strong and resourceful woman who rises to power in the male-dominated world of drug trafficking. The story follows her journey from a humble background in Mexico to becoming one of the most influential figures in the drug trade. The character gained widespread recognition through the successful television adaptation, which starred Kate del Castillo as Teresa. The series highlights her struggles, intelligence, and resilience as she navigates dangerous situations and seeks to protect her loved ones while building her empire.