THE COMPLETE RAFFLES SERIES – 45+ Short Stories & A Novel in One Volume

THE COMPLETE RAFFLES SERIES brings together an expansive array of stories and a novel that delve into the enthralling exploits of the gentleman thief, A.J. Raffles. This comprehensive anthology captures the blend of adventure and wit characteristic of late Victorian and Edwardian literature. The collection's rich tapestry ranges from exhilarating heists to cunning escapades, each story carefully crafted with sharp observations of class and society. A standout piece, without attributing to an individual author, exemplifies the intrigue of outsmarting society's constructs while maintaining the elusive aura of charm and danger. The anthology features the works of John Kendrick Bangs and E.W. Hornung, whose contributions to the literary landscape of crime fiction are pivotal in the foundation of this genre. These authors draw from cultural shifts and the emerging fascination with anti-heros during their time to breathe life into the sophisticated and morally ambiguous narratives of Raffles. The series aligns with the literary movements that celebrated clever and flawed protagonists, offering a variety of perspectives on morality and the human condition. This collection is an invaluable resource for readers eager to explore the multifaceted dimensions of crime fiction through a multitude of voices and styles. It provides a platform for engaging with the complexities of thrill and wit found within Raffles' capers. The anthology not only entertains but also prompts reflection on themes of ethics and societal norms, making it an essential read for those seeking to appreciate diverse literary craftsmanship within the crime genre.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- An Introduction draws the threads together, discussing why these diverse authors and texts belong in one collection.
- Historical Context explores the cultural and intellectual currents that shaped these works, offering insight into the shared (or contrasting) eras that influenced each writer.
- A combined Synopsis (Selection) briefly outlines the key plots or arguments of the included pieces, helping readers grasp the anthology's overall scope without giving away essential twists.
- A collective Analysis highlights common themes, stylistic variations, and significant crossovers in tone and technique, tying together writers from different backgrounds.
- Reflection questions encourage readers to compare the different voices and perspectives within the collection, fostering a richer understanding of the overarching conversation.

John Kendrick Bangs (1862–1922) was an American author, humorist, editor, and satirist, renowned for his idiosyncratic blend of comedic fantasy and nonsensical escapism. His contributions to the landscape of American literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by a unique literary style that combined wit and whimsy to charm his readers. Bangs penned several books across different genres but is best known for his creation of the 'Bangsian fantasy' genre—a niche of storytelling that revolves around the concept of the afterlife being similar to the social world of the living, wherein famous historical characters interact in whimsical scenarios. His mastery of this genre is exemplified in his series of stories about Raffles Holmes, the son of Sherlock Holmes' nemesis Raffles, which has been compiled in 'THE COMPLETE RAFFLES SERIES – 45+ Short Stories & A Novel in One Volume.' His contribution to the canon of detective fiction is noted for its light-heartedness and continues to entertain readers with its clever plots and engaging dialogue. Bangs served as the editor of several magazines including Harper's Weekly, and his legacy in the literary world persists through the ongoing enjoyment and study of his extensive body of work.