Raffles: The Amateur Cracksman : Book Review

"Raffles" by E.W. Hornung is an incredibly captivating and adrenaline-pumping novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey following the exploits of Arthur Raffles, a charming gentleman thief. The story is set in late 19th century London, providing a unique perspective by showcasing a criminal as the protagonist. With its suspenseful plot, clever heists, and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The character of Raffles is intriguing and multi-faceted. He possesses an enigmatic charm and a secret double life, making him a captivating and memorable character. Despite being a criminal, Raffles is portrayed with a strong sense of honor, often justifying his actions as a response to the society he lives in. This moral ambiguity keeps readers torn between rooting for his success and hoping he gets caught.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is Hornung's vivid and detailed descriptions of 19th century London. The author skillfully immerses readers into the atmosphere of the city, capturing both its glamorous and gritty sides. The various settings, from opulent mansions to grimy back alleys, add depth to the story and enhance its captivating nature.

Hornung's writing style is elegant and evocative. His prose flows effortlessly, striking a perfect balance between suspenseful moments, character development, and witty dialogue. The pacing of the novel is masterfully crafted, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels readers to keep turning the pages.

Overall, "Raffles" is an enthralling and masterfully written novel that offers a fresh and intriguing take on the crime genre. Its compelling characters, thrilling storyline, and immersive setting have solidified its status as a timeless classic. Regardless of whether you enjoy mysteries, adventures, or simply appreciate a captivating narrative, "Raffles" is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be swept away into a world of suspense, intrigue, and the charismatic allure of a gentleman thief.

What are readers saying?

The book "Raffles" by E.W. Hornung has garnered mixed responses from readers. Reviews indicate a diverse range of opinions regarding the story, characters, and writing style.

Some readers highly praised the thrilling and suspenseful plot, highlighting the protagonist's clever schemes and heists. They found the book engaging, with the author's narrative keeping them hooked until the very end. Many reviewers enjoyed the adrenaline rush of the cat-and-mouse game between the protagonist, A.J. Raffles, and the authorities. Hornung's ability to create tension and suspense was commended, making for an exciting reading experience.

However, not all readers were satisfied with the book. Some criticized the lack of character development, especially in the case of Raffles himself. They felt that the protagonist lacked depth and complexity, making it difficult to connect with or root for him. Additionally, a few reviewers found the writing style to be outdated, which hindered their overall enjoyment of the book. They expressed that the language and descriptions were not as engaging or captivating as they had hoped.

Another point of contention among readers was the moral ambiguity of the main character. While some appreciated Raffles' antihero nature, finding it intriguing and refreshing, others were put off by his criminal activities and lack of remorse. The conflicting opinions on Raffles' moral compass created a divide among readers, with some finding it a fascinating aspect of the story and others finding it off-putting.

Many readers mentioned enjoying the historical backdrop of the novel and immersing themselves in the late 19th-century atmosphere. They appreciated the attention to detail in describing the setting and time period, which added an extra layer of depth to the story.

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