Edgar Wallace, born Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace on April 1, 1875, in Greenwich, London, was a prolific writer whose literary career spanned a wide range of genres, including crime, adventure, and journalism. A self-made man, Wallace left school at the age of 12 and, after a diverse series of jobs, joined the army at 21. His experiences there spurred his interest in writing, starting with poetry and later shifting to reporting and crime novels. His talent for storytelling quickly gained him popularity, and he became known for his ability to churn out books rapidly, sometimes working on several manuscripts simultaneously. Wallace's works, like 'Mr. Justice Maxell', showcase his fascination with the legal and criminal world, often featuring complex cases and intricate plots. 'Mr. Justice Maxell' is one such novel where Wallace blends suspense with judicial intricacy, unraveling the moral ambiguities within the British legal system of his time. Known for his fast-paced narrative and engaging writing style, Wallace helped shape the modern thriller genre. He was a founding member of the British Detection Club and contributed to the creation of King Kong's screenplay. Despite his passing on February 10, 1932, in Beverly Hills, Wallace left a legacy of over 170 novels, 18 stage plays, and numerous articles and short stories, securing his place as one of the early 20th century's most eminent writers.