In an unusual move, HarperCollins has fired L.J. Smith, the author of the bestselling VAMPIRE DIARIES novels. Another writer will complete the series.

The Wertzone reported on Smith’s dismissal. THE VAMPIRE DIARIES is unusual in that the series’ premise was apparently conceived by HarperCollins and given to Smith as a work-for-hire project. Although Smith conceived of the characters, the world and the rules, HarperCollins owned the project and its copyright in their entirety. The reason for the move is rumored to be HarperCollins’ concern over Smith’s moving away from certain character interrelationships that HarperCollins considered the core of the series. On her website, Smith suggested that fans continue to read the books. Additionally, the CW’s VAMPIRE DIARIES TV series will apparently not be affected by this decision.