Mary Roberts Rinehart was an American author born on August 12, 1876, in Allegheny, Pennsylvania. She is best known for her mystery novels and is often referred to as the "American Agatha Christie." Rinehart's writing career began in the early 1900s, and she gained popularity for her engaging storytelling and strong female characters. Throughout her career, Rinehart published numerous works, including novels, short stories, and plays. Some of her most famous books include The Circular Staircase and The Bat. Rinehart's influence on the mystery genre paved the way for future writers, and she remains a significant figure in American literature.