Dan Brown is an American author known for his popular novels that blend elements of history, conspiracy theories, and suspense. Born on June 22, 1964, in Exeter, New Hampshire, Brown developed an early interest in writing and storytelling. He attended Phillips Exeter Academy, a prestigious boarding school, before going on to study English at Amherst College.

After college, Brown pursued a career in music, playing in several bands and working as a songwriter. However, he also continued to write, and in 1998, he published his first novel, "Digital Fortress." The book was a techno-thriller that explored the world of government surveillance and cryptography. It was followed by "Angels & Demons" in 2000, which introduced readers to the character of Robert Langdon, a symbologist and professor of religious iconology.

However, it was Brown's third novel, "The Da Vinci Code," that catapulted him to global fame. Published in 2003, the book was a blockbuster success, selling millions of copies worldwide and sparking controversy over its claims about the life of Jesus and the history of the Catholic Church. The novel also spawned a series of successful film adaptations starring Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon.

Since "The Da Vinci Code," Brown has continued to write bestselling novels that explore the intersection of history, religion, and conspiracy theories. His other works include "The Lost Symbol," "Inferno," and "Origin," all of which feature Robert Langdon as the protagonist.

Brown's writing style is characterized by fast-paced action, intricate plots, and a fascination with the hidden meanings and symbols that underlie human history. His books often draw on real-world historical events and mysteries, such as the Illuminati, the Knights Templar, and the secrets of the Vatican.

However, Brown's novels have also been criticized for their accuracy and credibility, with some scholars and experts accusing him of promoting inaccurate or misleading information about history, religion, and science. Nevertheless, his books continue to be popular with readers around the world, and his work has helped to popularize the thriller genre in contemporary literature.

Overall, Dan Brown is a prolific and influential author whose novels have captivated readers with their blend of history, mystery, and suspense. His work has had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring countless imitators and cementing his status as one of the most successful authors of the 21st century.