Double Dan (ePub)

Edgar Wallace, born Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace on April 1, 1875, in Greenwich, London, was a prolific British writer and journalist. Known for his literary prowess, he penned numerous novels, plays, and articles, often delving into the thriller and crime genres. Wallace's upbringing was modest, raised by foster parents after being born to actors. His early career in the military as a medical staff sergeant allowed him to travel, a divine providence that went on to influence his myriad settings and plots. Apart from 'Double Dan,' a tale brimming with duplicity and the criminal psyche, Wallace is celebrated for his creation of 'The Four Just Men' (1905), a work emblematic of his ingenuity in suspense and moral quandaries. His creation of the character 'King Kong,' albeit more famed posthumously through the motion picture adaptation, further evidences the span of his imagination. Wallace's literary style is often characterized by fast-paced narrative and an acute perception of the underbelly of society, perhaps a reflection of his stint as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War. Edgar Wallace's indefatigable work ethic produced over 175 novels, 24 plays, and countless articles, bestowing upon the literary world a legacy of captivating storytelling. He passed away, quite fittingly, in the throes of writing a screenplay in Hollywood, on February 10, 1932, leaving an indelible mark on the thriller genre.