Kerry Greenwood is a prolific Australian author, best known for her crime fiction and historical mystery novels. She was born in the Melbourne suburb of Footscray and, after traveling and living in various places, she returned to settle in Melbourne. Greenwood has a degree in English and Law from Melbourne University and has worked in a variety of fields, including folk singing, factory work, directing, producing, translating, costume making, cooking, and practicing law.
Greenwood has written over twenty novels, several plays, and has contributed to and edited numerous anthologies. She has gained both commercial and critical success with her writing, which spans various genres, including crime fiction, children's books, and essays. Her Phryne Fisher series, which began in 1989 with Cocaine Blues, has been particularly well-received and she has written thirteen books in the series, with no plans to stop. In addition to her writing, Greenwood works as a locum solicitor for the Victorian Legal Aid and is the unpaid curator of a large collection of books, cats, and a computer.
Greenwood is also an award-winning children's book author and has a strong interest in science fiction and detective stories. She leads a quiet life with her "registered wizard" partner and enjoys reading and leisurely activities. Despite her many accomplishments, Greenwood remains humble and approachable, often found within second-hand bookshops and engaging in everyday activities. She continues to be a prominent and beloved figure in the Australian literary scene.