LJ Smith, the beloved author behind The Vampire Diaries book series, passed away on March 8 at the age of 66. Her partner, Julie Divola, confirmed the news, revealing that Smith died in a hospital in Walnut Creek, California, after battling a rare autoimmune disease. The announcement was also shared on her official website.

Born Lisa Jane Smith on September 4, 1958, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, she later moved to Villa Park, California, where she grew up. From a young age, Smith was drawn to storytelling, inspired by literary giants J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. She studied experimental psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, earning a degree in 1982. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked as a kindergarten and special education teacher.

Smith’s writing journey began in high school when she penned her first fantasy novel, The Night of the Solstice. Her big break came when publishing company Alloy Entertainment commissioned her to write The Vampire Diaries, a young adult take on Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire. The first book in the series was released in 1991, introducing readers to the love triangle between Elena Gilbert and vampire brothers Stefan and Damon Salvatore.

The series gained immense popularity, especially when The CW adapted it into a television show in 2009. Starring Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, and Ian Somerhalder, the show became one of the most successful supernatural dramas of its time, further cementing Smith’s influence in the vampire fiction genre.

Despite her success, Smith faced difficulties in her career. She was unaware that her contract with Alloy Entertainment was a work-for-hire agreement, which eventually led to her being removed from writing The Vampire Diaries series. A ghostwriter continued the books in her place, which resulted in Smith taking a long break from publishing.

However, her passion for storytelling never faded. In the 2010s, she made a comeback, reclaiming her beloved characters through fan fiction and continuing to write despite her declining health. Her agent, John Silbersack, recalled her dedication: “She had been quite ill, but despite the difficulties and the pain, she was fiercely dedicated to continuing to write.”

Over her decades-long career, Smith authored more than 24 books, leaving behind three unpublished works. Her contribution to young adult fantasy and supernatural fiction remains significant, inspiring countless readers and writers. She is survived by her partner, Julie Divola.

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