Anna Katharine Green (1846–1935) was an American poet and novelist who earned distinction as one of the earliest writers of detective fiction in the United States. Often referred to as "the mother of the detective novel," she is credited with shaping the genre with her well-plotted, legally accurate stories. 'Lost Man's Lane' is among her notable works, continuing the adventures of the spinster sleuth Amelia Butterworth, a character who appeared in that role even before Agatha Christie's Miss Marple was conceived. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Green's work is characterized by its attention to legal and procedural details, a legacy from her lawyer father, who influenced her deep interest in the judiciary system and its workings. Her first and most famous novel, 'The Leavenworth Case' (1878), was praised for its intricacy and was admired by notable figures such as Wilkie Collins. Green wrote more than 40 novels throughout her career, blending romantic subplots with her mysteries, a blend that contributed to her wide appeal and success. Her writing, although belonging to an earlier era of detective fiction, remains a significant and pioneering contribution to the genre, influencing a generation of writers and introducing staple tropes of detective characterization.