The Raffles Megapack: The Complete Tales of the Amateur Cracksman, Plus Pastiches and Continuations

by E.W. Hornung, John Kendrick Bangs

This mammoth compilation of Raffles works presents 26 short stories -- all the tales from the original 3 collections, "The Amateur Cracksman," "The Black Mask," and "A Thief in the Night" -- plus the novel "Mr. Justice Raffles." Also included are 20 additional, related stories by E.W. Hornung and John Kendrick Bangs (including the adventures of Raffles' grandson), plus introductions, book covers, and notes. Whether you're an established fan of the "amateur cracksman" or a newcomer to E.W. Hornung's classic gentleman-thief, you'll find something new and entertaining in this volume!
Included are:
THE IDES OF MARCH
A COSTUME PIECE
GENTLEMEN AND PLAYERS
LE PREMIER PAS
WILFUL MURDER
NINE POINTS OF THE LAW
THE RETURN MATCH
THE GIFT OF THE EMPEROR
NO SINECURE
A JUBILEE PRESENT
THE FATE OF FAUSTINA
THE LAST LAUGH
TO CATCH A THIEF
AN OLD FLAME
THE WRONG HOUSE
THE KNEES OF THE GODS
OUT OF PARADISE
THE CHEST OF SILVER
THE REST CURE
THE CRIMINOLOGISTS' CLUB
THE FIELD OF PHILLIPI
A BAD NIGHT
A TRAP TO CATCH A CRACKSMAN
THE SPOILS OF SACRILEGE
THE RAFFLES RELICS
THE LAST WORD
MR. JUSTICE RAFFLES
A VOICE IN THE WILDERNESS
THE BLACK HOLE OF GLENRANALD
"TO THE VILE DUST"
A BUSHRANGER AT BAY
THE TAKING OF STINGAREE
THE HONOR OF THE ROAD
THE PURIFICATION OF MULFERA
A DUEL IN THE DESERT
THE VILLAIN-WORSHIPPER
THE MOTH AND THE STAR
THE ADVENTURE OF THE DORRINGTON RUBY SEAL
THE ADVENTURE OF MRS. BURLINGAME'S DIAMOND STOMACHER
THE ADVENTURE OF THE MISSING PENDANTS
THE ADVENTURE OF THE BRASS CHECK
THE ADVENTURE OF THE HIRED BURGLAR
THE REDEMPTION OF YOUNG BILLINGTON RAND
THE NOSTALGIA OF NERVY JIM THE SNATCHER
THE ADVENTURE OF ROOM 407
THE MAJOR-GENERALS PEPPER-POTS

805 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 30, 2013

About the author

Ernest William Hornung known as Willie, was an English author, most famous for writing the Raffles series of novels about a gentleman thief in late Victorian London.

In addition to his novels and short stories Hornung wrote some war verse, and a play based on the Raffles stories was produced successfully. He was much interested in cricket, and was "a man of large and generous nature, a delightful companion and conversationalist".

Reviews

[Rob Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Raffles Megapack: The Complete Tales of the Amateur Cracksman, Plus Pastiches and Continuations" by E.W. Hornung is a literary treasure trove that caters to both seasoned enthusiasts of the "amateur cracksman" and those venturing into the captivating world of Hornung's classic gentleman-thief for the first time. This monumental compilation is a testament to the enduring allure of Raffles, showcasing 26 short stories, including all the tales from the original three collections, "The Amateur Cracksman," "The Black Mask," and "A Thief in the Night."

One notable feature of this megapack is the inclusion of the novel "Mr. Justice Raffles," adding depth and complexity to the character's narrative. Moreover, the addition of 20 related stories by E.W. Hornung and John Kendrick Bangs, featuring the adventures of Raffles' grandson, expands the scope of the collection, offering readers a richer and more immersive experience.

The selection of stories is diverse, ranging from gripping heists to intricate plots, all woven with Hornung's signature style that effortlessly combines wit, suspense, and a touch of moral ambiguity. Each narrative is a testament to Hornung's ability to craft compelling tales of crime and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.

The comprehensive nature of this compilation is further enhanced by the inclusion of introductions, book covers, and notes, providing valuable context and insights into the creative process behind the stories. This attention to detail adds depth to the reading experience, making the megapack not merely a collection of stories but a curated exploration of Hornung's literary legacy.

For both aficionados and newcomers alike, "The Raffles Megapack" offers a captivating journey into the world of a charismatic and enigmatic anti-hero. Hornung's masterful storytelling, coupled with the extensive content of this compilation, ensures that readers will find something new and entertaining with each turn of the page. Whether one is drawn to the charm of Raffles or the intricacies of well-crafted crime fiction, this megapack stands as a commendable celebration of E.W. Hornung's enduring contribution to the genre.

[Greg Redman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, if dated read

Very easy to dip in and out of, although I read this until I'd finished it, without pause! Fun stories, even the last two books which aren't properly part of the Raffles series, the character in one being obviously based our hero and the other using the name. But both are enjoyable despite that. Similar to the Sherlock Holmes books, (Hornung was Conan Doyles brother in law), but far better, in my opinion. Beware of dated references, if you're easily offended but there aren't too many. To be honest, I wasn't expecting much from this collection as usual reading is military history and SF, but I really enjoyed this and have downloaded several more books by Hornung. Recommended

[Mary Pagones · Rating 2 out of 5]

I admit to not reading the entire 800+ page omnibus, but read enough of the original short stories to be pretty disappointed. After hearing so much about the great Raffles and Bunny (who are often compared with Holmes and Watson) the tales were a great letdown. The IDEA of a honorable, gentlemanly cracksman is top-notch, but the execution is subpar. The stories are sort of meandering and dull, without any of the witty turns of phrase or psychological insight present in Doyle.

[Vivi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rather long read, but it worked well, and I must say I enjoyed the continuations as well.

[John McDonnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A damn good read.