Charles Reade was an English author who wrote novels, plays, and non-fiction works in the 19th century. He is best known for his novel The Cloister and the Hearth, which was published in 1861. He also wrote a number of other popular works such as Hard Cash, A Terrible Temptation, and Put Yourself in His Place. Reade's works often focused on social issues and injustices, and he was a strong advocate for reform. He was a prolific writer, and his works remain popular to this day.