Wilkie Collins was a prolific English novelist of the Victorian era, known for his witty social commentary and gripping mystery plots. Born on January 8, 1824, in London, he was the son of the well-known landscape painter William Collins. Raised in a creative environment, Wilkie developed a love for storytelling early on, and published his first book, "Iolani, or Tahiti as It Was" at the age of 19.

However, it was with his second novel, "Antonina," published in 1850, that Collins made his mark on the literary world. Soon after, he established himself as one of the leading writers in the genre of sensation fiction, which was characterized by its sensational plotlines, melodramatic twists, and intricate suspenseful narratives.

Collins' most famous novel, "The Woman in White," published in 1860, not only revolutionized the mystery genre but also established him as a master of psychological storytelling. The novel follows the story of a mysterious woman dressed in white who haunts a family and the devastating effects her actions have on their lives. Its complex plot and unconventional narrative structure make it a masterpiece of Victorian fiction.

Wilkie Collins was also a close friend of the renowned English novelist Charles Dickens, and the two collaborated on several projects, including the publication of "The Frozen Deep," a play written by Collins.

In addition to his literary achievements, Wilkie was a keen traveller and art collector, and his experiences abroad inspired several of his novels. He maintained a close relationship with his readers throughout his life and was known for responding to letters from his fans.

Despite his success and reputation, Wilkie Collins remained a humble and modest author who believed that the key to great storytelling lay in remaining true to the characters and their experiences. Today, his legacy lives on, and his novels continue to inspire and delight readers around the world.