The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word CAPOTE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
C
A
P
O
T
E
More clues leading to the result CAPOTE
- US author’s old books received by head
- What soldier may have worn to pace around
- US writer, one first off to receive a prize
- Better message initially lacking in US author
- Writer and manic-depressive top actor covers up
- Writer playing ace gets poker prize
- Overcoat dad folded over in shelter
- Author's old set of books in prominent position
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "US author" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case us author = capote.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CAPOTE mean?
CAPOTE noun- A long coat or cloak with a hood.
- A coat made from a blanket, worn by 19th-century Canadian woodsmen.
- A close-fitting woman's bonnet.