Wilkie Collins, born William Wilkie Collins on January 8, 1824, in London, England, was an eminent English novelist, playwright, and author of short stories. He is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of the detective fiction genre and for his mastery in crafting suspenseful narratives. The son of painter William Collins, Wilkie was exposed to the arts from a young age and later pursued law, although his passion remained in writing. Collins garnered critical acclaim with works such as 'The Woman in White' (1860) and 'The Moonstone' (1868), which is often cited as the first detective novel in the English language. His unique literary style combines elements of Gothic horror with realistic social commentary and intricate plots. Throughout his career, Collins also touched upon various social issues, including the plights of women and the injustices of Victorian society. His novel 'Jezebel's Daughter' (1880), although lesser-known than his opus, embodies his trademark blend of suspense and social critique. Collins's narrative strategies and character development significantly influenced the development of detective fiction as we know it today. His works continue to be studied and celebrated for their innovation and contemporary relevance, and his contributions to literature remain undisputed. Collins passed away on September 23, 1889, in London, leaving behind a legacy as an integral figure in 19th-century literature.