W. Somerset Maugham was one of the twentieth century's most popular novelists, as well as a celebrated playwright, critic, and short story writer. He was born in Paris but grew up in England and served as secret agent for the British during World War I. He wrote many novels, including the classics Of Human Bondage, The Razor's Edge, Cakes and Ale, Christmas Holiday, Moon and Sixpence, Theatre, and Up at the Villa.