Robert Ludlum ​

Robert Ludlum was an American author of 27 thriller novels, best known as the creator of Jason Bourne from the original Bourne Trilogy series. The number of his books in print is estimated to be between 300 million and 500 million, showing his influence and success in the suspense and intrigue genres.

Quick Facts ​

• Published 27 thriller novels, many of which have been made into films.
• His books have been translated into 33 languages.
• Classics such as "The Bourne Identity," "The Bourne Supremacy" and "The Bourne Ultimatum" are among his works.
• More than 300 million of his copies have been sold.
• The Bourne series continues to be produced since his death, making him the author with the most posthumous books.

Background ​

Ludlum was born in 1927 in New York City and raised in New Jersey. He received a B.A. in Drama from Wesleyan University and later served as a United States Marine. After his service, he worked as an actor and producer in theater as well as in television. He started to write in his spare time and then worked as an author full-time after his thriller, The Scarlatti Inheritance, was published in 1971. He is known for writing the Bourne series of novels, which were later made into a highly popular series of movies. He also wrote under both his own name and using several pseudonyms. He passed away in 2001.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Ludlum's writing style is often characterized by intricate plotting, fast-paced action, and detailed descriptions. His work is typically full of international espionage and conspiracy theories, which has attracted a wide range of readers. Despite criticisms of excessive complexity in his plots and flat characterization, his work has had a significant influence on the thriller genre.

Notable Works ​

• The Bourne Identity (1980)
• The Bourne Supremacy (1986)
• The Bourne Ultimatum (1990)
• The Matlock Paper (1973)
• The Gemini Contenders (1976)
• The Chancellor Manuscript (1977)