Hilary Mantel was a British author known for her historical fiction, particularly her acclaimed trilogy about Thomas Cromwell, which includes the novels Wolf Hall, Bring Up the Bodies, and The Mirror and the Light. Born on July 6, 1952, in Glossop, England, she received numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious Man Booker Prize twice. Mantel's writing often explores themes of power, politics, and personal ambition, set against richly detailed historical backdrops. Her ability to bring historical figures to life has made her one of the most respected contemporary authors in the genre. She passed away on September 22, 2022.