W. Michael Gear, born William Michael Gear on May 20, 1955, is an esteemed American author and archaeologist. Renowned for his extensive work in historical fiction, he is famously known for the North America's Forgotten Past series, which he co-authors with his wife, Kathleen O'Neal Gear. His literary contributions have been embraced globally, with his novels being translated into 29 different languages.

Michael was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado. As a fourth-generation Colorado native, his early life was heavily influenced by his family's involvement in hard-rock mining, cattle ranching, and journalism. After his father's passing in 1959, his mother pursued a career in teaching after obtaining a Master’s degree in journalism. In 1962, the family moved to Lakewood, Colorado, and later to Fort Collins, where Michael’s stepfather continued his academic pursuits. It was during these formative years that Michael developed a profound love for history, anthropology, and motorcycles, interests that would deeply influence his future works.