E. W. Hornung 
A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles’ Adventures 

In E. W. Hornung’s ‘A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles’ Adventures’, readers are transported into the world of the gentleman thief A. J. Raffles, who leads a double life as a celebrated cricketer by day and a daring burglar by night. This collection of short stories showcases Hornung’s unique blend of suspense, humor, and moral ambiguity, making it a prime example of late 19th-century crime fiction. The stories are characterized by their clever plot twists and Raffles’ charismatic yet enigmatic persona, providing readers with a captivating reading experience. Hornung’s concise and engaging writing style keeps readers on the edge of their seats, as they follow Raffles’ exploits across London’s high society and underworld. E. W. Hornung, as the brother-in-law of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, drew inspiration from Doyle’s creation Sherlock Holmes in crafting the character of Raffles. Hornung’s own experiences as a colonial adventurer in Australia and his keen interest in cricket also influenced his writing, adding depth and authenticity to the stories. ‘A Thief in the Night’ is not only a thrilling read but also a fascinating glimpse into the societal issues and moral dilemmas of the Victorian era. Fans of classic mysteries and antiheroes will find this collection a delightful and thought-provoking read.