Charlotte Dacre
English novelist (1771/1772–1825)
Charlotte Dacre was a British novelist and poet, born Charlotte King, with her birth year recorded as either 1771 or 1772. She is known for her contributions to the Gothic novel genre, and her literary career was marked by the use of pseudonyms, including "Rosa Matilda" and a second, unidentified name, which she adopted to evade criticism. In 1815, she married Nicholas Byrne, taking the surname Byrne.
Dacre's literary output includes four novels and three books of poetry, one of which was co-authored with her sister, Sophia King. Her novels, published between 1805 and 1811, are titled Confessions of the Nun of St. Omer, Zofloya, The Libertine, and The Passions. Through her writings, Dacre established herself as a notable figure in English literature, with her works reflecting the Gothic style that was popular during her time. She passed away in 1825, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be recognized today.