Richelle Mead was born in Michigan on November 12, 1976. She received a liberal arts degree from the University of Michigan, an MA in comparative religion from Western Michigan University, and a Master in teaching (middle & high school English) degree from the University of Washington. Before becoming a full-time author, she taught eighth grade social studies and English. She writes the Georgina Kincaid series and the Dark Swan series for adults and the Vampire Academy series for young adults.