Crime novelist PD James died in her Oxford home on Thursday.
The highly acclaimed queen of crime novels, PD James, has passed away on Thursday. She died "peacefully at her home in Oxford" according to her agent. She was 94.
James, who was the creator of the 'Adam Dalgliesh' series, is widely known for her detective novels. Since her breakout novel in 1962 entitled 'Cover Her Face', the famed crime novelist was able to publish 20 books throughout her lifetime.
According to James, who was born Phyllis Dorothy James, she created her first book in secrecy. She shared that it was only her husband, who was mentally ill at that time, knew of her project. Acknowledging herself as a "late starter", James published her first novel at the age of 42.
Despite her rather belated entry in the world of fiction, James still stood out as one of the best crime novelists in the country. In fact, her debut in the publishing industry gained much fanfare that her 'Adam Dalgliesh' books was adapted as a 10-part television show in 1983. Some of her other well-known works are 'The Murder Room', 'Death in Holy Orders', and 'The Children of Men.'
James served as a major influence to some aspiring writers, as well as an inspiration to her friends and family. Hence, her death was received with a heavy heart by those close who are to her and the public who adored her.
Faber and Faber, the publishers of James, shared that the news of her death saddened the publishing company.
"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."
Roy Marsden, who starred in the 1983 television adaptation of the 'Adam Dalgliesh' series, shared his sentiments on the writer's death. 'She was a gentle, slightly coquettish, but gentle woman. She was great, it's a great loss,' the now 73-year-old actor said.
Ian Rankin, another crime novelist, expressed his grief on James' passing via Twitter. "So sad about PD James. Every event I did with her was a joy. Sharp intellect, ready wit. She will be missed," the writer posted.
Chelsea Clinton also shared her sadness over the writer's demise and described James as "one of the all-time great mystery writers." Patricia Cornwell, another crime writer, thanked the 94-year-old novelist for "encouraging" her when she was "getting started."
The Reverend Canon Michael Hampel also expressed the congregation's grief as well. The Precentor of St. Paul's Cathedral shared that they have been "desperately sad" upon learning of James' passing.
James is survived by her two daughters, namely, Claire and Jane, and their families.
