Marie Corelli (1855-1924), born Mary Mackay, was a British writer from London, England. Educated at a Parisian convent, she later worked as a pianist before embarking on a literary career. Her first novel, A Romance of Two Worlds was published in 1886 and surpassed all expectations. Corelli quickly became one of the most popular fiction writers of her time. Her books featured contrasting themes rooted in religion, science and the supernatural. Some of Corelli's other notable works include Barabbas: A Dream of the World's Tragedy (1893) and The Sorrows of Satan (1895).