The Riddle of the Night

by Thomas W. Hanshew

Overview

Reproduction of the original: The Riddle of the Night by Thomas W. Hanshew

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783989736085
Publisher:	Otbebookpublishing
Publication date:	03/17/2025
Series:	Classics To Go
Sold by:	Bookwire
Format:	eBook
Pages:	211
File size:	787 KB

About the Author

Thomas W. Hanshew, an American actor-turned-writer born in the mid-19th century, carved out a distinctive niche in popular fiction with his creation of the master detective Hamilton Cleek, a former criminal who turns his genius toward solving intricate mysteries in service of the law. Drawing from his theatrical background and transatlantic experiences—having worked in both the U.S. and England—Hanshew brought a vivid sense of drama and character to his storytelling, blending Victorian sensibilities with a touch of early modern psychological insight. His detective tales often explored themes of redemption, duality, and the battle between identity and morality, issues that still speak to readers today grappling with questions of personal reinvention and justice. At a time when the world was shifting into the complexities of the 20th century, Hanshew's stories offered both thrilling escapism and a comforting belief in the triumph of intellect and virtue. His legacy lives on in the enduring appeal of detective fiction, and his work continues to intrigue fans of classic mystery and those fascinated by characters who walk the line between darkness and light. Readers who enjoy vintage crime stories with sharp plots, theatrical flair, and a hint of moral ambiguity will find Hanshew's work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Thomas W. Hanshew was an American-born author and actor whose imaginative crime fiction captivated early 20th-century readers with its clever plots and charismatic detective characters. Drawing from his theatrical background, Hanshew infused his writing with a flair for drama and suspense, creating stories that combined intellectual intrigue with fast-paced entertainment. His work stood at the crossroads of classic mystery and early detective fiction, anticipating many of the genre’s later conventions while maintaining a distinct voice marked by wit and psychological tension. At a time when audiences craved escapism and the thrill of unraveling complex puzzles, Hanshew delivered narratives that entertained while also probing deeper questions of identity, justice, and morality. Today, in an era fascinated by true crime, mystery thrillers, and character-driven narratives, his fiction continues to appeal to readers who relish the timeless satisfaction of a well-crafted mystery. Fans of vintage detective stories and those interested in the roots of modern crime fiction will find Hanshew’s work both engaging and historically rich.