Patricia "Patty" Aakhus (May 17, 1952 – May 16, 2012[2]), also known by her maiden name and pseudonym Patricia McDowell, was an American novelist and director of International Studies at the University of Southern Indiana.
[4] Other publications include Astral Magic in the Renaissance: Gems, Poetry and Patronage of Lorenzo de' Medici.
She also taught classes on classical and world mythology, the history of magic, and international studies.
[5] She died from cancer in Evansville, Indiana on May 16, 2012, the day before her 60th birthday.
She was survived by her husband, two children, three siblings, and other members of her extended family.