Liz Carlyle

Stella Rimington is the first woman to head the British Security Service, MI5. She served as Director-General from 1992 to 1996. Born in London in 1935, she studied modern languages at Cambridge University and joined MI5 in 1960. Stella Rimington became a prominent author in the world of spy fiction. Her literary debut, "At Risk," launched a popular series featuring the character Liz Carlyle, a high-ranking MI5 officer. The series has sold over 5 million copies worldwide and garnered critical acclaim for its authenticity and insights into the world of intelligence. In addition to her novels, Stella Rimington has authored several non-fiction books on intelligence and espionage. Her memoir, "Open Secret: The Autobiography of the Former Director-General of MI5," provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the British security service.