Mario Reading, born in 1953, was a British author whose literary career spanned novels and non-fiction, with a particular focus on themes of prophecy and esoteric subjects. He received his education at Rugby School and the University of East Anglia, where he studied Comparative Literature. Reading gained significant recognition for his Antichrist Trilogy, a series that achieved international bestseller status, selling over a million copies across 39 countries. This acclaimed trilogy included titles such as The Nostradamus Prophecies, The Mayan Codex, and The Third Antichrist. He also developed a later series featuring the photojournalist John "The Templar" Hart, exploring related themes. Beyond his fiction, Reading authored several non-fiction works, including compilations and analyses of Nostradamus's prophecies, as well as books on cinema and dreams. His literary output often delved into mystical and prophetic interpretations, resonating with readers interested in these subjects. Mario Reading passed away in 2017 after a battle with cancer.

Mario Reading established himself as a prominent author, particularly known for his engagement with prophetic and esoteric themes. His Antichrist Trilogy, comprising The Nostradamus Prophecies, The Mayan Codex, and The Third Antichrist, achieved remarkable success, selling over a million copies globally. This series cemented his reputation for exploring apocalyptic narratives and historical prophecies. He further developed these interests in his John "The Templar" Hart series, which included The Templar Prophecy, The Templar Inheritance, and The Templar Succession, continuing his exploration of secret histories and foretelling events. His novels often blended historical elements with speculative fiction, appealing to a readership interested in hidden knowledge and future predictions.

A significant portion of Mario Reading's non-fiction work was dedicated to the prophecies of Nostradamus. Titles such as Nostradamus: The Complete Prophecies For The Future, Nostradamus: The Good News, and The Complete Prophecies Of Nostradamus demonstrate his deep dive into the quatrains of the 16th-century seer. He also authored The Watkins Dictionary Of Dreams, indicating a broader interest in symbolic and subconscious interpretations. His literary output suggests a fascination with uncovering hidden meanings and understanding patterns within historical and prophetic texts, positioning him as an author who bridged the gap between popular fiction and esoteric studies.