Thomas W. Hanshew 
Detective Cleek Trilogy [EPUB ebook] 

Thomas W. Hanshew (1857–1914) was an American author, primarily known for his creation of the master detective Hamilton Cleek, often referred to as ‘the man of the forty faces’ for his myriad of disguises. Hanshew’s writing career blossomed in the shadow of the Sherlock Holmes phenomenon, offering readers a new sleuth to admire during the early 20th century. His titular ‘Detective Cleek Trilogy’ introduced Cleek in ‘Cleek, the Master Detective’ (1910), followed by ‘Cleek of Scotland Yard’ and ‘Cleek’s Government Cases, ‘ cementing Hanshew’s reputation in the detective fiction genre. While the facts of Hanshew’s life are sparser than those of his fictional detective, it is clear that he made a lasting impact on mystery literature with his dynamic and clever character. His works are often praised for their intricate plots and the cunning methods by which Cleek solves crimes, a reflection of the era’s fascination with intellectual detectives and ratiocination. Hanshew’s contribution to detective fiction remains notable, and his narratives exhibit a style that intertwines suspense with elements of early forensic science, reflecting the author’s interest in the burgeoning field of criminology and the public’s appetite for mystery and detective tales during that period.