Picture a Filipina-American storyteller who spun vampire lore into a glittering New York saga—meet Melissa de la Cruz! Born in Manila in 1971, she’s a literary powerhouse whose Young Adult novels, like the bestselling Blue Bloods series, have captivated teens worldwide. From her immigrant roots to her rise as a New York Times bestselling author, Melissa’s journey is as enchanting as her stories.
The Making of Melissa de la Cruz
Melissa de la Cruz was born in Manila, Philippines, to Concepcion and Alberto de la Cruz, an investment banker. At 12, she immigrated to the United States, settling in San Francisco, where she excelled at Convent of the Sacred Heart High School. Her passion for writing sparked at 11, and she later studied art history and English at Columbia University. After graduating, she juggled jobs as a computer consultant and fashion editor, writing for Marie Claire and The New York Times, before penning her first novel at 22.
Melissa de la Cruz’s Unforgettable Stories
Melissa’s Young Adult novels blend glamour, fantasy, and relatable teen drama. Her breakout series, Blue Bloods, launched in 2006, follows Manhattan’s elite vampire families, weaving American history and romance into a thrilling saga. The Au Pairs series, inspired by her nanny work in the Hamptons, dives into the sun-soaked lives of three girls navigating wealth and romance. Witches of East End, a Blue Bloods spin-off, explores a magical family and was adapted into a Lifetime TV series. Her Descendants series, a prequel to Disney’s hit movie, topped bestseller lists with its tale of villainous offspring. Melissa’s style—lush, witty, and socially sharp—captures the pulse of youth culture, from fashion to forbidden love.
Her versatility shines in historical fiction like The Ring and the Crown and the Alex and Eliza trilogy, which reimagines the romance of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler. With over 50 books published in 20 countries, Melissa’s stories resonate globally, blending fantasy with real-world themes like identity and belonging.
Why Melissa de la Cruz Matters
Melissa de la Cruz has redefined Young Adult fiction by infusing it with diverse voices and bold themes. As a Filipina-American, she brings a unique perspective, subtly weaving her immigrant experience into works like the semi-autobiographical Fresh Off the Boat. Her novels tackle contemporary issues—LGBTQ+ identities, social hierarchies, and self-discovery—making her a beacon for teens seeking relatable heroes. As co-director of YALLFest and YALLWest, she champions young readers, fostering a vibrant literary community. Her global fanbase and critical acclaim, including starred reviews from Booklist, cement her as a trailblazer.
- Born: September 7, 1971, Manila, Philippines
- Key Works: Blue Bloods, Au Pairs, Witches of East End, Descendants
- Awards: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
- Fun Fact: She’s married to writer Michael Johnston, her co-author on the Heart of Dread series.
Ready to dive into a world of vampires, witches, and teen drama? Snag Blue Bloods or Descendants and lose yourself in Melissa de la Cruz’s dazzling storytelling!