Patricia Robins, British writer and WAAF officer (d. 2016).

Patricia Robins (1 February 1921 – 4 December 2016) was a highly prolific and commercially successful British writer, whose remarkable literary career spanned over eight decades, from 1934 until her passing. Renowned primarily for her contributions to the romance genre, she authored more than 80 novels and numerous short stories. To distinguish her work or explore different narrative styles, Robins also published under the widely recognized pseudonym Claire Lorrimer, achieving collective sales of over ten million copies of her books worldwide.

Beyond her literary achievements, Patricia Robins demonstrated unwavering dedication during a critical period of history. She served as an officer in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) throughout World War II. In this vital role, she was directly involved in critical operations, notably tracking Nazi bombers, a testament to her courage and contribution to the Allied war effort, providing essential support to the Royal Air Force.

A Distinguished Artistic and Literary Heritage

Patricia Robins was born into a family deeply embedded in the arts and literature, inheriting a rich creative legacy that spanned multiple generations. This familial background undoubtedly influenced her own prodigious writing career.

Who was Patricia Robins' mother?

Her mother was the extraordinarily popular romance writer Denise Robins. Denise Robins achieved monumental global success, selling over one hundred million copies of her novels, making her one of the most commercially successful authors of her time. Her influence extended beyond sales figures; she was also a foundational figure in the literary community, serving as the first president of the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) from its inception in 1960 until 1966. The RNA is a prominent organization dedicated to championing romantic fiction and supporting its authors.

Were other family members also writers or artists?

Indeed, the artistic lineage was extensive. Patricia's maternal grandmother was K. C. Groom, herself a published writer, further cementing the family's literary ties. Her maternal grandfather was Herman Klein, a highly respected musician, renowned music critic, and journalist of his era, known for his significant contributions to musical discourse in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The family's creative talents branched out even further, with her maternal uncle, Adrian Cornwell-Clyne, making notable contributions as an author of influential books on photography and cinematography. Another uncle was an accomplished artist, a tradition that continued into the next generation, as Patricia Robins' own daughter also pursued a career as an artist, showcasing the enduring artistic spirit within the family.