PD James (real name Phyllis Dorothy James) is known for penning crime novels featuring fictional sleuth Adam Dalgliesh. With almost 20 books to her name, the author finally lay down to rest.
Author PD James, who was known for her novels "The Children of Men," "The Murder Room," and "Death Comes to Pemberley" (a Pride and Prejudice spin-off), died peacefully at the ripe age of 94 in her home Thursday morning.
The author, who spoke with BBC last year, said that she was working on another book, and was intent on finishing one more. She said, "With old age, it becomes very difficult. It takes longer for the inspiration to come, but the thing about being a writer is that you need to write. I hope I would know myself whether a book was worth publishing. I think while I am alive, I shall write. There will be a time to stop writing but that will probably be when I come to a stop, too."
James's publishers from Faber and Faber were saddened by the news, saying in a statement (as printed by BBC), "This is a very sad day for us at Faber. It is difficult to express our profound sadness at losing PD James, one of the world's great writers and a Faber author since her first publication in 1962.
"She was so very remarkable in every aspect of her life, an inspiration and great friend to us all. It is a privilege to publish her extraordinary books. Working with her was always the best of times, full of joy. We will miss her hugely."
The New York Times noted that many critics have commended James's works due to plot complexity, as well as the deep psychological intricacies of her characters. Add the morality in which she viewed violence, and James has set a high standard for crime literature.
What made James a good crime novelist is the fact that she has also worked in the Department of Home Affairs as an administrator in forensic science and criminal law divisions. This job gave her the ability and opportunity to supply realistic details to her novels, a feat that she prided herself for.
The literary world mourned James's passing, with crime writer Ian Rankin paying tribute via Twitter, saying, "So sad about PD James. Every event I did with her was a joy. Sharp intellect, ready wit. She will be missed."
Fellow crime writer Patricia Cornwell also said, "RIP PD James and thanks for encouraging me when I was getting started."
Are you a PD James fan? Which of her novels are your favorites?