Robert Ludlum was an American author known for his thrilling novels that have captivated readers worldwide. With a career spanning several decades, Ludlum authored 27 thriller novels, including the iconic Jason Bourne series which includes The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy, and The Bourne Ultimatum. His remarkable storytelling has left a lasting legacy, with an estimated 300 to 500 million copies of his books in print. These works have been translated into 33 languages and published across 40 countries, demonstrating his global appeal.

Besides his original works, Ludlum also published books under the pseudonyms Jonathan Ryder and Michael Shepherd. This versatility in writing style and genre further cemented his place in the literary world. Some of Ludlum's other notable works include The Scarlatti Inheritance, The Chancellor Manuscript, and numerous others that have consistently found their way onto the New York Times bestseller list.

Robert Ludlum's influence extends beyond the page, with several of his novels adapted into films and mini-series. This includes adaptations of The Osterman Weekend, The Holcroft Covenant, The Apocalypse Watch, as well as the Bourne series which has become a staple in spy cinema. Ludlum's legacy is not just in his written works but also in the lasting impact they have had on thriller literature and film.