Edward Frederic Benson, commonly known as E.F. Benson, was a prolific English writer born on July 24, 1867, known for his sharp wit, supernatural fiction, and a series of satirical novels about English town life. He was the fifth child of Edward White Benson, Archbishop of Canterbury, and his wife Mary, and was educated at Marlborough and King's College, Cambridge. After graduating, Benson continued to burgeon as a writer, delving into various genres ranging from biographies to humorous fiction. 'The Luck of the Vails' (1901) is but one testament to his narrative prowess, intertwining themes of historical intrigue with familial drama, a hallmark that underscores Benson's adept skill at weaving seamlessly between genres. Beyond 'The Luck of the Vails', Benson is perhaps best known for his 'Mapp and Lucia' series, which chronicles the social rivalries in the fictional English town of Tilling. Despite his versatility, his narratives are often laced with keen observations on human behavior and social conventions, characteristics that have cemented his place within the Edwardian literary canon. Benson maintained a prolific output until his death on February 29, 1940. His works continue to be admired for their wit, character study, and occasionally, an eerie understanding of the supernatural.