In E. W. Hornung's 'The Amateur Cracksman', readers are taken on a thrilling journey into the world of a gentleman thief named A. J. Raffles. This collection of short stories showcases Hornung's literary style of mixing elements of crime fiction with a touch of humor and wit, making it a unique read in the late 19th century literary context. The book delves into the moral ambiguity of Raffles' character, blurring the lines between right and wrong in a way that captivates the reader from start to finish. With intricate plots and clever twists, 'The Amateur Cracksman' offers a refreshing take on the classic heist story. E. W. Hornung, being the brother-in-law of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, drew inspiration from Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories to create the character of A. J. Raffles. Hornung's own experiences and observations of the upper-class society in England also influenced the development of Raffles as a complex and intriguing protagonist. Through this book, Hornung explores themes of morality, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. I recommend 'The Amateur Cracksman' to readers who enjoy classic crime fiction with a twist. Hornung's masterful storytelling and character development make this book a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a fresh perspective on the idea of the gentleman thief.

Ernest William Hornung, known professionally as E. W. Hornung, was an English author and poet best recognized for his creation of the gentleman thief A.J. Raffles, who first appeared in 'The Amateur Cracksman' (1899). Born on June 7, 1866, in Middlesbrough, England, Hornung spent his early years in England before traveling to Australia, which influenced much of his later writing. Hornung's literary career flourished during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, where he established himself as a notable writer within the crime fiction genre. 'The Amateur Cracksman' is a collection of stories that follows the criminal adventures of Raffles, a character that has been cited as a counterpoint to Hornung's brother-in-law Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famed detective Sherlock Holmes. Hornung's portrayal of Raffles has been viewed as a commentary on British social structure and morality during the turn of the century, often challenging notions of gentlemanly conduct and the infallibility of the British upper class. Aside from the Raffles series, Hornung wrote numerous novels, short stories, and plays, extending his exploration of genres to include adventure, romance, and war narratives. He was also known for his patriotic verse during the First World War following the death of his son, Oscar. Hornung's impact on the crime and adventure genres, as well as his reflections on society in his works, render him a significant but sometimes overlooked figure in English literature. He passed away on March 22, 1921, leaving behind a legacy of literary contributions that continue to be discovered and appreciated by new generations of readers.