Stingaree by E. W. Hornung

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(3 User reviews) 846

By Aria Campbell Posted on Mar 18, 2026

In Category - Medieval Literature

Authors: Hornung, E. W. (Ernest William), 1866-1921 Published By : Hornung, E. W. (Ernest William), 1866-1921

Book Language: English

Ever heard of a gentleman thief who's more like a folk hero? Meet Stingaree. He's not your typical criminal—he's a charming, violin-playing bushranger who robs from the rich in the Australian outback, but always with style and a surprising sense of honor. The real mystery isn't just about his next heist. It's about the man behind the mask. Why does he do it? And what happens when the brilliant, relentless Inspector Kilpatrick gets dangerously close to catching him? This isn't a simple cops-and-robbers chase. It's a witty, surprising game of cat and mouse where you might just find yourself rooting for the mouse. If you like your adventures with a dash of charm and a character you can't easily pin down, give this classic a try.

File: Stingaree by E. W. Hornung

First published in 1905, Stingaree is a collection of linked stories about Australia's most infamous—and oddly polite—outlaw. We follow his exploits across the dusty plains and remote stations, where he stages audacious robberies that feel more like theatrical performances. His trademark? A violin case and a refusal to be merely cruel. The narrative builds as Inspector Kilpatrick of the New South Wales police makes it his life's mission to hunt Stingaree down, leading to a series of close calls and clever escapes that define their rivalry.

The Story

The book is less one continuous plot and more a series of brilliant episodes. In one, Stingaree holds up a stagecoach and ends up discussing poetry with a passenger. In another, he impersonates a famous musician. Each story shows a different facet of his character: sometimes a rogue, sometimes a protector, always an enigma. The through-line is Kilpatrick's pursuit, which grows more personal with every failed capture. The stakes get higher, the encounters more daring, until their final confrontation forces both men to question everything.

Why You Should Read It

What hooked me was Stingaree himself. Hornung (who famously created Raffles, the gentleman thief in London) gives us a character who defies easy labels. He's a criminal, yes, but with a code that often seems fairer than the society he's rebelling against. The writing is sharp and moves quickly, full of dry humor and vivid scenes of the Australian wilderness. It's also a fascinating look at colonial Australia, not as a history lesson, but as a living, breathing setting for adventure.

Final Verdict

Perfect for fans of classic adventure tales who want something a little different. If you enjoy characters like Robin Hood or Zorro—flawed heroes operating outside the law—you'll find a kindred spirit in Stingaree. It's also a great pick if you're curious about older stories that still feel fresh and surprisingly fun. Just be warned: you might start wondering if the 'bad guy' is actually the most honorable man in the room.