“By prolonged and continued fellowship, the sheep who follow nearby enjoy the shepherd's presence and become his familiar companions. To those closest to him, he shares the choicest portions of the food he's gathered. These happy and content sheep are never in danger. Why? Because they are near the shepherd!”

Novelist and historian from the United States, writing from the 1980s onward. She is best known for her bestselling historical fiction series, *The Inspector Lynley Mysteries*, which blends meticulous research with gripping crime narratives. Her work also includes nonfiction, particularly her influential writing on writing itself.