Melissa De la Cruz, born on July 9, 1971, in Manila, Philippines, immigrated to the United States with her family when she was just 12 years old. Her father worked as an investment banker, and her upbringing in the bustling city of Manila provided her with a unique perspective on life and culture.
Upon moving to the United States, De la Cruz pursued her education at Columbia University in New York City. Here, she studied art history and English, a combination of disciplines that would later shape her career as a writer. After graduating, she embarked on a career in the world of fashion and beauty, working as an editor for prestigious publications such as Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar, and Glamour.
Despite finding success in the fashion industry, De la Cruz's true passion lay in storytelling. She transitioned into the world of young adult fiction, where she would eventually become a bestselling author known for her captivating book series. Some of her most notable works include the Au Pairs series, Blue Bloods series, and The Ashleys series.
One of De la Cruz's most successful endeavors was her novel, Isle of the Lost, which served as a prequel to Disney's Descendants franchise. The book spent over 50 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, solidifying De la Cruz's reputation as a prolific and talented writer in the young adult genre.
Aside from her professional accomplishments, De la Cruz is also a family woman. She married Michael Johnston, with whom she co-wrote Frozen, the first installment in the Heart of Dread series. Their collaboration not only strengthened their bond as a couple but also showcased their shared passion for storytelling.
De la Cruz's influence extends beyond the pages of her novels. Her work has been adapted for the screen, with Lifetime airing a drama series based on her adult series novel, Witches of East End. The show featured acclaimed actresses Julia Ormond and Jenna Dewan, further solidifying De la Cruz's status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Moreover, De la Cruz's experience as a fashion writer for Marie Claire served as the inspiration for her novel, How to Become Famous in Two Weeks or Less. This novel not only showcased her versatility as a writer but also highlighted her ability to draw inspiration from her own life experiences.