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Marie Belloc Lowndes (1868 - 1947) was a prolific British novelist and an acclaimed writer of the early 20th century. Born in Marylebone, London, she was the younger sister of the well-known historian and economist Hilaire Belloc, and part of a notable literary family. Lowndes began her storytelling career with journalism, contributing to periodicals such as 'Vanity Fair' before turning to fiction writing. Her literary style often delved into psychological analysis and the exploration of crime and mystery, a characteristic that bestowed depth and intricacy to her narratives.
Her most famous novel, 'The Lodger' (1913), is a psychological thriller inspired by the Jack the Ripper murders, and it stands out as an early and significant work in the crime fiction genre. The book has been adapted multiple times into films and plays, underscoring its enduring appeal and influence. Lowndes' insight into the human psyche and her adeptness at creating suspense was not confined to this novel alone; her expansive oeuvre, as captured in 'The Greatest Works of Marie Belloc Lowndes', showcases a range of themes from social commentaries to intimate character studies. In these works, her narrative voice often embodies a subtle irony and a profound understanding of the complexities of human experience, which has engaged readers and critics alike and has cemented her place in the canon of English literature.
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