They are mystery/detective stories written by a woman who I think is/was an acdemic.
Not recent by a long chalk.
Protagonist is a female literary prof in America, and there is usually some literary connection. I think she goes out with a lawyer and later on marries him.
Thought I could remember at least one plot when I began this post, but am drawing a blank :(
Will recognise name and some titles when I see them.
Can anyone help?