L. J. Smith

Lisa Jane Smith (September 4, 1958 – March 8, 2025) was an American author of young adult fiction, best known for her best-selling series The Vampire Diaries, which was adapted into a successful television show. Her books often combine elements of supernatural, horror, science fiction, and romance, featuring young human and supernatural characters in conflicts between light and darkness. Smith's works have been featured on The New York Times Best Seller list and nominated for awards. She also wrote The Secret Circle, Night World, The Forbidden Game, Dark Visions, and Wildworld series. Smith passed away on March 8, 2025, after a long illness.