In 'The Tales of A. J. Raffles, A Gentleman-Thief' by E. W. Hornung, readers are introduced to the cunning and adventurous character of A. J. Raffles who leads a double life as a well-respected gentleman by day and a daring thief by night. The book is a collection of thrilling short stories that explore the moral ambiguity of Raffles' actions, combining elements of mystery, suspense, and wit. Hornung's writing style is engaging and fast-paced, immersing readers into Raffles' world of high-stakes heists and clever schemes within the late Victorian era. This clever blend of crime fiction and social commentary provides a unique perspective on the concept of the gentleman criminal in literature of the time. E. W. Hornung, as a close associate of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, drew inspiration from Doyle's creation of Sherlock Holmes to craft the character of A. J. Raffles. Hornung's personal experiences and observations of the societal norms of the era likely influenced his portrayal of Raffles as a complex and enigmatic figure. His deep understanding of human nature and motivations shines through in the intricate character development and plot twists present throughout the book. I highly recommend 'The Tales of A. J. Raffles, A Gentleman-Thief' to readers who enjoy classic crime fiction with a charismatic and morally ambiguous protagonist. Hornung's skillful storytelling and vivid depiction of the criminal underworld make this book a captivating and thought-provoking read.