Author: Mary E. Hanshew

Thomas W. Hanshew (1857 – 1914) was an American-born actor and writer, particularly known for his contributions to the mystery and detective fiction genres. Hanshew started his career on stage but later transitioned to literature, where he found a niche and audience for his suspenseful narratives. He created one of his most enduring characters, the gentleman detective Hamilton Cleek, who appeared in a series of novels and short stories, commencing with “Cleek, the Master Detective” in 1910. Hanshew”s work in this domain helped shape early detective fiction, offering intricate plots and the recurrent motif of disguise and transformation that would become a trademark component of his protagonist, Cleek. “The Riddle of the Purple Emperor”, one of Hanshew”s later works, exemplifies his literary style that combines elements of adventure, mystery, and romance, intriguing readers with its complex storylines and engaging character development. Much of Hanshew”s writing reflects his theatrical background, imbuing narratives with dramatic flair and attention to character expressivity. While he may not be as widely recognized as contemporaries Doyle or Christie in the genre, Hanshew played a distinguished part in the development of detective fiction at the turn of the century. His work remains of interest to scholars exploring the roots and evolution of the detective novel.