"Why should I work when I could steal."

Thus speaks A.J.Raffles; gentleman, finest slow bowler of his generation and shameless thief.

When Bunny, an old school acquaintance, confesses that he will be dishonorably disgraced for writing cheques which his bank will not meet, Raffles persuades him to assist in a burglary. From that moment Bunny is locked into a life of crime and, fortunately for his audience, recounts their adventures in a most thrilling way.

With wit as sharp as his schemes, Raffles sees crime not as necessity, but as art: "Crime is only a sport to me, Bunny, a game to be played for the game's sake — and I honestly believe I love it more for the danger than for the loot."

This complete collection brings together all the thrilling adventures, from The Amateur Cracksman to Raffles' final, unforgettable chapter. Perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes who prefer their heroes a little more...rogue.

E.W. Hornung was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's brother in law but Raffles is the very antithesis of Sherlock Homes — yet still a hero — and one which the Victorians and succeeding generations, perhaps surprisingly, took to their hearts.