Talbot Mundy, born William Lancaster Gribbon on April 23, 1879, was an English-born American writer of adventure fiction. Primarily known for his works set in India or the Middle East, which reflect the time he spent in these regions, Mundy has garnered a reputation as one of the literary progenitors of the lost world genre. His most acclaimed work, 'King—of the Khyber Rifles' (1916), encapsulates his expertise in capturing the essence of British India and the geopolitical intricacies of its frontier with Afghanistan. Mundy's novels are often characterized by their detail-rich settings and his ability to intertwine adventure with a deeper understanding of the complexities of colonialism and Eastern mysticism. His literary style is marked by a blend of romantic realism and a quest for spiritual understanding, sometimes drawing from theosophical themes, as reflected in his association with the Theosophical Society. Despite his early death on August 5, 1940, Mundy's influence persisted in the adventure genre, inspiring future generations of writers who sought to emulate his captivating blend of exoticism, action, and intrigue.