Patricia Cornwell is a contemporary American crime writer. She is known for writing a best-selling series of novels featuring the heroine Dr Kay Scarpetta, a medical examiner. Her books have sold more than 100 million copies.

Quotes from her books include:

• "I believe the root of all evil is abuse of power"
• "I didn't invent forensic science and medicine. I just was one of the first people to recognize how interesting it is."
• "In my forties, my optimism was boundless. I had really good health and tremendous success which allowed me to do anything I wanted."

Warm up next to your fireplace, on your favourite sofa, with a copy of one of her books available at your Gansbaai Book Exchange!