Barbara Parker

Barbara Parker was a distinguished American author, renowned for her mystery novels. She was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, but later moved to Florida with her family. Parker attended the University of South Florida, where she majored in Theatre Arts, before going on to earn her legal degree from the University of Miami School of Law. After graduation, she worked as a prosecutor in the Florida State Attorney’s office and later established her own legal practice, which she ran for eight years.

Parker’s interest in writing emerged as a way to provide an alternative to her legal career and to create engaging material for her son to read. She eventually left her legal practice to work as a paralegal, allowing her more time to focus on her writing. Parker’s first novel, Suspicion of Innocence, was a finalist in the Edgar Allan Poe Awards, which showcased her exceptional writing skills and marked the beginning of her successful career as an author.

Parker’s writing career spanned over a decade, during which she wrote twelve best-selling mystery novels. She was an active member of the Mystery Writers of America’s national board and chaired its membership committee for two years. Parker’s writing was not limited to fiction, as she also earned a master’s degree in creative writing in 1993. Her legal background was often reflected in her novels, which featured legal themes and intricate plots.

Parker’s work was widely recognized and acclaimed for its quality and originality. Her novels, including the Gail Connor and Anthony Quintana series, captivated readers with their suspenseful storylines and complex characters. Parker’s unique writing style, combined with her legal expertise, made her a standout author in the mystery genre. Sadly, Parker passed away on March 7, 2009, in Boca Raton, Florida, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of literature.