P D James
Biography
P.D. James was a renowned British author best known for her two popular mystery series, featuring the detectives Adam Dalgliesh and Cordelia Gray. Born Phyllis Dorothy James on August 3, 1920, in Oxford, England, she began her writing career in the 1960s while working as a civil servant in the criminal section of the Home Office. Over the course of her prolific career, James published over 20 novels, many of which were adapted for television and film. Her intricately plotted mysteries, which often delve into psychological themes and explore the darker aspects of human nature, have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted readership. In addition to her career as a novelist, James served as a governor of the BBC and the British Broadcasting Corporation. She was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and received numerous awards for her contributions to literature, including the Diamond Dagger award from the Crime Writers' Association. P.D. James passed away on November 27, 2014, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most respected and influential crime writers of her generation.
Standalone Novels
Individual novels by P D James not part of a series
- Cover Her Face
- Death of an Expert Witness
- Devices and Desires
- Innocent Blood
- Original Sin
- Skull Beneath the Skin
- Unnatural Causes
- Unsuitable Job for a Woman
Classic Series
The series that started it all
- Cover Her Face
- A Mind to Murder
- Shroud for a Nightingale
- The Black Tower
- A Taste for Death
Recent Series
Latest works by the author
- The Murder Room
- The Lighthouse
- An Unsuitable Job for a Woman
- The Skull Beneath the Skin
Reading Order
Complete reading order for P.D. James's books
Frequently Asked Questions
What is P.D. James best known for?
P.D. James is best known for her mystery novels, particularly the Adam Dalgliesh series.
How many books are in the Adam Dalgliesh series?
There are 14 books in the Adam Dalgliesh series, starting with 'Cover Her Face' published in 1962.
What is the name of the protagonist in the Cordelia Gray series?
The protagonist in the Cordelia Gray series is Cordelia Gray, a young private detective.
What is unique about P.D. James' writing style?
P.D. James is known for her meticulous attention to detail, complex characters, and intricate plots.
Which of P.D. James' books was adapted into a TV series?
P.D. James' novel 'Death in Holy Orders' was adapted into a TV series in 2003.