its compelling storytelling, memorable characters, and excellent pacing. On the whole, it is a quick read that one can devour while sunbathing or relaxing under a shade. Five sequels followed, and at least three movie adaptations. Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer so prolific, that one of his publishers claimed that he was behind a quarter of all books sold in England. An author, journalist and poet, he wrote countless novels, short stories, screen plays, stage plays, historical non-fiction, etc. Today, more than 160 films have been made from his work. He died suddenly in Hollywood in 1932, during the initial drafting of his most famous work, "King Kong".