Dan Brown is an American author known for his popular thriller novels, particularly his Robert Langdon series. He was born on June 22, 1964, in Exeter, New Hampshire. Brown grew up in a household of academics, as his father was a math teacher and his mother was a music professor.

After studying English and Spanish at Amherst College, Brown pursued a career as a songwriter and musician. He wrote songs for musicians such as Cher, Tina Turner, and Donna Summer. However, his passion for writing eventually led him to shift his focus towards novels.

Brown's breakthrough came in 2003 with the release of his novel "The Da Vinci Code." This religious and historical thriller, featuring the fictional character Robert Langdon, quickly became a worldwide bestseller. It attracted controversy due to its portrayal of religious institutions, but also received praise for its fast-paced plot and intriguing blend of art, history, and symbolism.

Following the success of "The Da Vinci Code," Brown went on to write several more novels featuring Robert Langdon, including "Angels & Demons," "The Lost Symbol," "Inferno," "Origin," and "The Da Vinci Code" sequel "The Lost Symbol." These books continue to captivate readers with their mix of suspense, puzzles, and intellectual themes.

Brown's writing style typically features short chapters, cliffhanger endings, and a blend of fact and fiction. He often incorporates elements of history, art, religion, and science into his stories, typically exploring themes of conspiracy and secret societies.

Overall, Dan Brown is a highly successful and influential author in the thriller genre. His novels have sold millions of copies worldwide, and many of them have been adapted into successful films.