LONDON — Prolific British crime writer Ruth Rendell is in critical but stable condition after suffering a stroke.

Her publisher said in a statement Thursday that Rendell had a serious stroke eight days ago. It said she's hospitalized while doctors choose treatment options.

The 84-year-old author and member of the House of Lords has written more than 60 novels. Her Inspector Wexford books became popular on TV.

She has also written many books under the pen name Barbara Vine.

Rendell has remained an active writer with a novel scheduled for publication later this year. She is a former newspaper journalist who has won many awards and a wide following.