Charlaine Harris is an American author known for her bestselling urban fantasy novels, particularly the Southern Vampire Mysteries series, which inspired the popular TV series 'True Blood'. She was born in 1951 in Mississippi and began writing at a young age. Harris has received numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious Anthony Award. Her books have been translated into multiple languages and have captivated readers around the world with their unique blend of mystery, romance, and paranormal elements.