Edward Frederic Benson (1867-1940) was an English biographer, memoirist, short story writer, and foremost, a novelist. Born to the father of an Archbishop of Canterbury, he was surrounded by brilliant and artistic brothers and sisters. Benson produced many novels and scholarly histories throughout his literary career, which most of which are sadly now out of print. He was a gifted writer, publishing his first book while still a student. Benson is chiefly known for his "Mapp and Lucia" series about Emmeline "Lucia" Lucas and Elizabeth Mapp. This satirical series portrays the dry British wit for which Benson became known for. "Queen Lucia," the first book in the series, introduces the unique Emmeline Lucas, a social authority and queen of the charming village, Riseholme. Lucia defends her throne as it is in jeopardy with the arrival of Olga Braceley, an opera singer.