Susan Howatch is an author who writes in a variety of genres, including mystery, romance, and historical fiction. Born on July 14, 1940 in England, she graduated from the University of London in 1961 and served as a law clerk and secretary in the early 1960s before turning to writing full-time. Howatch first gained attention in 1965 with the publication of The Dark Shore, the first of several mystery novels. Replete with Gothic figures, this, and other works, such as April's Grave, feature sassy heroines falling headlong into murder, mayhem, and often romance. With the publication of Penmarric in 1971, Howatch established herself as a multitalented writer, creating modern characters based… on historical figures. She also completed the six-volume Starbridge series which revolves around the Anglican Church and several clergy members. With these books, she gained wider critical acclaim as a serious writer posing important theological and philosophical questions.