A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles' Adventures (ePub)

E. W. Hornung's 'A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles' Adventures' is a classic entry into the genre of gentleman thief literature, presenting an anthology of tales revolving around the charismatic and cunning A.J. Raffles. This collection highlights Raffles' wit and dexterity as he deftly navigates through society's upper crust, engaging in larceny with the utmost charm and stealth. Hornung's prose is both vivid and succinct, embodying the turn-of-the-century style that gives these stories their timeless appeal. Nestled within these pages, readers find a meticulously detailed portrayal of Edwardian England, offering both a sociocultural snapshot and a literary homage to the then-popular crime-adventure narratives.

Ernest William Hornung, often recognized for his creation of the anti-hero Raffles, was deeply inspired by his brother-in-law, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes. While imbuing his protagonist with equal parts gallantry and roguishness, Hornung crafts a paradoxical hero whose crimes reflect a critique of societal norms and the disparities of his time. Set against a backdrop of personal and professional experience, including his time in Australia, Hornung's work embodies a nuanced understanding of morality within the upper echelons of society.

'A Thief in the Night' is not merely an engaging series of escapades but is also a compelling examination of its era's social ethos and attitudes. This DigiCat edition, with its careful curation and restoration, invites literature aficionados and new readers alike to explore the complex figure of Raffles. Through the lens of Hornung's refined storytelling, this book is recommended for those who revel in the collision of high society and the intrigue of the criminal underworld, all woven together with impeccable narrative finesse.