Josephine Tey, born Elizabeth MacKintosh (1896–1952), was a Scottish author best known for her mystery novels featuring Inspector Alan Grant of Scotland Yard. Tey began her writing career under the pseudonym Gordon Daviot, but she achieved lasting fame as Josephine Tey, a name under which her most memorable literary contributions were made. Her first novel in the Inspector Alan Grant series, 'The Man in the Queue' (1929), initiated a new style of crime fiction that moved away from the conventional 'whodunit' to a more character-driven and psychologically complex narrative. Tey's work reflected a deep understanding of human nature, showcased by her most celebrated novel, 'The Daughter of Time' (1951), in which Inspector Grant investigates the case of King Richard III while bedridden in a hospital. This particular novel has been cited for its ingenious plot, blending historical inquiry and crime solving, and it was named the greatest mystery novel of all time by the British-based Crime Writers' Association in 1990. Across the complete series, Tey's literary style is marked by her incisive wit, elegant prose, and the ability to blend mystery with a profound exploration of societal issues. Her contributions have cemented her as one of the greats within the golden age of detective fiction, influencing generations of writers in the genre. Although her career was cut short by her untimely death, Tey's novels continue to be read and admired for their timeless quality and literary merit.