Dan Brown is an American author known for his thriller fiction. He gained immense popularity with his 2003 bestselling novel, The Da Vinci Code. His novels, often treasure hunts set within a 24-hour timeframe, feature themes of cryptography, keys, symbols, codes, and conspiracy theories. Brown's works have been translated into 57 languages, selling over 200 million copies worldwide as of 2012.

Brown is particularly recognized for his Robert Langdon series, which includes Angels & Demons, The Da Vinci Code, The Lost Symbol, Inferno, Origin, and the upcoming The Secret of Secrets. These novels intertwine historical themes, Christianity, and fictional storytelling, generating both controversy and intellectual debate. Despite criticism, Brown declares his works as entertainment that encourages spiritual discussion, not as anti-Christian narratives.

His success has led to adaptations of several novels into films and a television series. In 2005, TIME Magazine included Brown in their list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, acknowledging his impact on the publishing industry and increased interest in historical and religious themes.

Born on June 22, 1964, in Exeter, New Hampshire, Brown is the son of a mathematics teacher and a church organist, raised on a prep school campus. He graduated from Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he also taught English before dedicating himself to writing full time. Brown resides in New England and continues to explore the interplay between science and religion through his novels.