Celebrated as a modern day James Bond, some suggest that the fictional character Jason Bourne has become more famous than his real-life creator, Robert Ludlum. One thing is for sure, Ludlum has written some of the bestselling books in the modern spy thriller genre. It is estimated that he has sold more than 400 million books around the world.

Ludlum's plots focus on international conspiracies that are usually stopped by a crusading hero, or by an unlikely champion who finds himself embroiled in the adventure without his initial knowledge. They involve the classic "good versus evil" theme but with the addition of more complex sub-plots which include lies, double agents and manipulation from government. This results in the reader being swept along in the all action plots, to be interrupted only with another subtle revelation or plot twist.

The formula is one that has clearly worked, with many of his stories being adapted successfully for TV and film. Such is the desire to continue his work, nearly as many books have been published in his name after his death than during his life. Since passing away in 2001, more than twenty books have been written either from his original manuscripts or by other authors under the Ludlum name.

The majority of Ludlum's books are standalone thrillers. Titles such as his debut work The Scarletti Inheritance in 1971 and The Icarus Agenda from 1988 sit alongside the original trilogy of Bourne books. For collectors, first editions of many of his books come on sale as partial collections. Prices are generally quite accessible with very few titles reaching more than a hundred dollars at auction.

With the fifth Bourne film released in 2016, the interest in the franchise continues to be high. While Ludlum is sadly no longer writing for his fans, the legacy he first created continues to give enjoyment to many. First editions of his books may yet start to enjoy even greater appeal.