George V. Higgins was an American author and lawyer, best known for his crime fiction novels. Born on November 13, 1939, in Boston, Massachusetts, he gained recognition for his unique writing style, which often featured sharp dialogue and complex characters. His most famous work, "The Friends of Eddie Coyle," published in 1972, is considered a classic in the crime genre. In addition to his novels, Higgins wrote screenplays and worked as a legal consultant. His background in law influenced his storytelling, providing a realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld. Higgins passed away on November 6, 1999, leaving a lasting impact on American literature.