Marie Belloc Lowndes (1868 – 1947) was a prolific English novelist and writer, acclaimed for her psychological thrillers and mystery novels. Born in Marylebone, London, she was the daughter of French barrister Louis Belloc and English feminist Bessie Parkes Belloc. Her early literary endeavors were influenced by her brother, the poet and author Hilaire Belloc, and she eventually carved out a distinct niche for herself in the literary world. Lowndes is best recognized for her novel 'The Lodger' (1913), which was inspired by the Jack the Ripper murders and has seen various adaptation forms, including Alfred Hitchcock's 1927 silent film 'The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog.' Another notable work, 'Good Old Anna' (1915), showcases her ability to delve into the human psyche, reflecting societal attitudes during the First World War through the eyes of its German protagonist. Lowndes was renowned for her acute observation and complex characterizations, contributing over forty novels and numerous short stories to English literature. Her works are characterized by a haunting narrative style and an exploration of the darker sides of humanity, which established her as an influential figure in the development of the early 20th-century mystery and thriller genres.