LJ Smith, the author of The Vampire Diaries book series, has died at the age of 66. Her novels, which were later adapted into a popular TV show, made her a key figure in supernatural fiction.
Smith first published The Vampire Diaries in 1991 and 1992, introducing readers to the story of two vampire brothers and their love for a young woman. She later wrote more books in the series between 2009 and 2011.
However, in 2011, Smith lost the rights to her own series when publishers replaced her with ghostwriters. Despite this, she continued to write Vampire Diaries stories unofficially as fan fiction.
Her books were part of a wave of vampire-themed entertainment, alongside Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Twilight, and True Blood. When The Vampire Diaries was adapted for television in 2009, it became a massive hit, running for eight seasons and winning 30 Teen Choice Awards.
The TV show starred Nina Dobrev as Elena, with Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder playing the vampire brothers Stefan and Damon Salvatore.
Smith also wrote other supernatural book series, including The Night World, The Secret Circle, Dark Visions, and The Forbidden Game.
A statement on her website described her as “a kind and gentle soul” who will be remembered for her “brilliance, creativity, resilience, and empathy.”
Her work continues to influence supernatural fiction, and fans around the world mourn her passing.
