Simon Templar is a fictional character created by Leslie Charteris who first appeared in the 1928 novel Meet the Tiger. Known universally as “The Saint,” Templar is a tall, handsome Englishman who operates as a gentleman thief and adventurer, stealing from criminals and helping those in need while staying just ahead of the law.
Templar is distinguished by his wit, charm, and strict personal code. Though he operates outside the law, he targets only those who deserve punishment—criminals, con artists, and corrupt businessmen. His trademark is a stick-figure drawing with a halo, which he leaves as a calling card. Inspector Claud Eustace Teal of Scotland Yard serves as his persistent but frequently outwitted nemesis.
The character became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring multiple film adaptations, radio dramas, comic strips, and television series. Roger Moore’s portrayal in the 1960s TV series introduced The Saint to millions of viewers and helped cement the character’s status as one of fiction’s great rogues.
Reading Order
See the complete Simon Templar reading order for all books in the series.