Edward Phillips Oppenheim (1866–1946), an English novelist, was renowned for pioneering the spy fiction genre with books such as 'The Great Impersonation' (1920), a classic that exemplifies his mastery in weaving intrigue and suspense. Born in London, Oppenheim worked in his father's leather business before dedicating himself entirely to writing. His early works were not immediately successful, but his relentless pursuit of weaving thrilling stories of espionage eventually earned him significant fame. With over 100 novels to his name, Oppenheim's prolific output and the commercial success of his writings earned him the title 'the prince of storytellers.' Notably, 'The Great Impersonation' has been considered one of the best spy novels of the early 20th century, engaging readers with its complex plot and its exploration of identity and deception. Oppenheim's literary style is characterized by fast-paced narratives, intricate plots, and a keen insight into European geopolitics of his time, which often served as the backdrop for his tales of international intrigue. His influence on the spy genre is profound, and his works remain a study in the genre's early development.