St. George Rathborne (1854-1938) was an American author renowned for his adventure stories and dime novels that enchanted readers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notably prolific, Rathborne penned upwards of 300 novels under his own name and various pseudonyms. His literary style was characterized by fast-paced narratives, a flair for dramatic scenes, and often featured elements of romance and mystery. Among the vast catalogue of his works, 'Old Broadbrim Into the Heart of Australia or, A Strange Bargain and Its Consequences,' stands out as a testament to Rathborne's ability to captivate with tales of exotic locales and thrilling escapades. The novel exemplifies Rathborne's skill in weaving intricate plots around well-crafted characters embarking on dangerous quests, reflective of the period's fascination with exploration and discovery. His works are emblematic of the dime novel genre, a form of popular literature that provided escapism and adventure to a wide audience during an era of rapid industrialization and social change in the United States. Rathborne's stories left an indelible imprint on the adventure and detective genres, offering an intriguing window into the popular culture and literary tastes of his time.