Elizabeth Taylor (1) [1912–1975]

Elizabeth Taylor, née Coles, was born in Reading, Berkshire, the daughter of Oliver Coles, an insurance inspector, and his wife, Elsie May Fewtrell. She was educated at The Abbey School, Reading and after graduation worked as a governess, tutor, and librarian. In 1936, she married John Taylor, the owner of a confectionery company. She was briefly a member of the British Communist Party, then a lifelong supporter of Labour. Her debut novel, At Mrs. Lippincote's, was published in 1945 and was followed by 11 more. She also wrote short stories that were published in magazines and collected in four volumes, and a children's book.