Dorothy L. Sayers Biography

Dorothy Sayers was a well-known English crime writer, playwright, poet, translator, and Christian humanist. Recognized as one of the greatest mystery writers of the 20th century, she is remembered for her series of mystery novels and short stories featuring sharp, charismatic amateur detective, ‘Lord Peter Wimsey.’ Born and raised in Oxford, England, in a religious family, she was one of the first women to receive a degree from Somerville College, Oxford University. Her first publication was a book of poetry, while her first mystery novel (‘Whose Body?’) was published in 1923. Working as a copywriter for an advertising agency, she made a name for herself with catchy slogans and jingles. ‘The Nine Tailors’ is considered by many as her finest literary achievement. She was a prolific writer and published on an average more than one novel every year for almost 15 years. She is also recognized for her plays and essays. She believed that the translation of Dante’s ‘Divina Commedia,’ or ‘Divine Comedy’ was her best work. During her later years, she wrote more about religious matters. She was married to writer-journalist Oswald Atherton ‘Mac’ Fleming. She died of a heart-attack at 64.