Wilkie Collins, born on January 8, 1824, in Marylebone, London, was a pivotal English novelist, playwright, and short story writer famed for his contributions to the mystery and suspense genres. With a legal education, Collins's narrative skills flourished under the mentorship of Charles Dickens, one of the era's literary titans, with whom he collaborated on several works. Influenced by his legal knowledge and astute insights into Victorian society, Collins is best known for his pioneering sensation novels like 'The Woman in White' and 'The Moonstone,' which are seen as precursors to the modern detective and suspense novel. 'The Complete Short Stories of Wilkie Collins' offers an expansive view of Collins's literary prowess beyond his famed novels, illustrating his mastery of building tension and exploring intricate character psychology in shorter form. Notably, Collins's literary style was characterized by intricate plots, attention to detail, and an emphasis on social critique and the plight of women in Victorian society. His works often pushed boundaries and challenged societal norms, which along with his unconventional personal life, made him a controversial figure during his time. Wilkie Collins's influence on the mystery genre can still be felt today, as he is often cited as a major innovator in incorporating elements of crime and intrigue into the realm of popular fiction. He died on September 23, 1889, but his rich legacy endures in the wealth of literature he left behind.