Kate Wilhelm is an American author of science fiction and mystery novels. She began her writing career in 1956 with a series of science fiction short stories. Her debut novel was published in 1963 and was a mystery book titled More Bitter Than Death. Wilhelm’s best known series include the Barbara Hollowar mysteries and the Constance Leidl and Charlie Meiklejohn Mysteries. In 2003 she was inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. She won her first nebula award in 1968 for her short story The Planners and won her first Hugo Award for her novel Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang.