Rachel Hawkins

Rachel Hawkins, born November 23, 1979, is an American author known for her young adult paranormal romance series, notably the best-selling Hex Hall trilogy. Originally from Newport News, Virginia, she moved to Dothan, Alabama, at a young age. After graduating from Houston Academy in 1998 and earning an English literature degree from Auburn University in 2002, she began her writing career while working as an English teacher. Her first novel, Hex Hall, emerged from this period. Hawkins has since expanded her bibliography to include other young adult series like the Rebel Belle trilogy and the Royals Series, as well as middle grade fiction. She also writes adult fiction, including thrillers such as The Wife Upstairs and Reckless Girls, and a supernatural-themed series, Graves Glen, under the pseudonym Erin Sterling. As of 2021, she resides with her family in Auburn, Alabama.

Rachel Hawkins established herself as a prominent voice in young adult literature with her Hex Hall series, which achieved best-selling status. This paranormal romance trilogy, beginning with Hex Hall in 2010, explored themes that resonated with a young audience. Hawkins later ventured into other young adult series, including the Rebel Belle trilogy and the Royals Series, further solidifying her presence in the genre. Demonstrating versatility, she also authored middle grade fiction. In recent years, Hawkins has also written adult thrillers, showcasing a broader range of her storytelling abilities. Notably, she utilizes the pseudonym Erin Sterling for a specific series of adult fiction, The Graves Glen Series, which includes titles like The Ex Hex and The Kiss Curse, often featuring supernatural or magical elements.

Born in Newport News, Virginia, Rachel Hawkins relocated to Dothan, Alabama, during her formative years. She completed her secondary education at Houston Academy, graduating in 1998. Her academic pursuits continued at Auburn University, where she obtained a degree in English literature in 2002. Hawkins's path to becoming a published author began while she was employed as an English teacher at Sparkman High School. It was during this time that she initiated the writing of her debut novel, Hex Hall, drawing inspiration from her professional and academic background.