Richelle Mead, the New York Times bestselling author of The Vampire Academy series, was born in Michigan on November 12, 1976. The glamorous red-head comes from a "fairly ordinary" family background and says she wanted to write her "entire life." Now living in Seattle, Washington with her husband, Richelle attained a string of degrees on her way to becoming a bestselling author. They include a liberal arts degree from the University of Michigan, an MA in Comparative Religion from Western Michigan University and Master in Teaching degree from the University of Washington.

Richelle worked "briefly" as a middle school English teacher before her first book was accepted for publication. A life-long reader, she believes all her study prepared her for becoming an author. Richelle has always been fascinated with mythology and folklore. Often asked where she gets her ideas, Richelle, says: "It all comes from my head! That being said, the things in my head are fuelled by the world around me. I do a lot of research and often that triggers an idea."

Vampire Academy, loved by millions, has won honours from the American Library Association and is published in over 12 countries around the world. "A phenomenal fantasy and young adult series that blends intricately detailed fantasy with a contemporary setting, teen-relevant issues and a diverse range of characters," raved one reviewer of the award winning series that debuted in 2007.

Richelle enjoys bad reality TV, travelling, interesting cocktails and shopping for dresses she hardly ever wears.

Spirit Bound is the latest and fifth book in the Vampire Academy series.