E. W. Hornung 
The Amateur Cracksman 
Gentleman Thief Unveiled: Classic Victorian Crime Tales

E. W. Hornung’s ‘The Amateur Cracksman’ is a classic collection of short stories featuring the gentleman thief, A. J. Raffles. Set in late 19th-century London, the book combines elements of mystery and romance with a unique focus on the anti-hero protagonist. Hornung’s writing style is characterized by its wit and clever plot twists, reminiscent of his contemporary, Arthur Conan Doyle. The stories explore themes of morality, class, and the thrill of the chase, making it a compelling read for fans of detective fiction. In the literary context of the time, ‘The Amateur Cracksman’ stands out as a progressive take on the traditional crime genre, blurring the lines between hero and villain.