Dame Daphne du Maurier, Lady Browning, born on 13 May 1907 in London, England, was a luminary in English literature. The second of three daughters to Muriel Beaumont, an actress, and Sir Gerald du Maurier, the notable actor-manager, Daphne was born into a world of theatrical prominence. Her grandfather, George du Maurier, was a distinguished writer and cartoonist known for creating the character Svengali in the novel Trilby. Daphne's early life was steeped in artistic influence, enabling her connections that would later aid her illustrious literary career.

Daphne du Maurier's works are celebrated for their moody and resonant atmosphere, often threading elements of the paranormal. Despite initial skepticism from critics who pigeonholed her as a romantic novelist, her stories have garnered an enduring respect for their narrative prowess. Her bestselling works include iconic novels such as Rebecca, Frenchman's Creek, My Cousin Rachel, and Jamaica Inn, alongside short stories like The Birds and Don't Look Now. Many of these stories have found their way to the silver screen, adapted by notable directors such as Alfred Hitchcock.

Aside from her literary achievements, du Maurier's personal life was equally as fascinating. In 1932, she married Frederick "Boy" Browning, with whom she had three children. Her life in Cornwall, which served as the backdrop for many of her narratives, saw her becoming increasingly reclusive as her fame ascended. Daphne du Maurier's legacy is that of a towering figure in British literature, whose works continue to captivate audiences worldwide. She was honored as a Dame of the British Empire before her death on 19 April 1989 in Fowey, Cornwall. After her passing, revelations about her bisexuality added further layers to the complex persona of this celebrated author.