Horowitz has done an excellent job writing in the style of Conan Doyle, although designed to bring Holmes to a new generation it certainly feels like it fits with the original books. Narrated, of course, by Dr Watson, the premise is that he is writing this story after the death of Holmes and puts it into trust to be opened 100 years later. His reasoning? The subject was just too scandalous for its time. The frame narrative is a hallmark of the Holmes canon but one modern day readers might find a little old-fashioned. Where events are not within Watson's first hand experience, other characters talk at length to describe them. Let's face it, it isn't very realistic, not many people talk in speeches, especially without interruption. However, fans of the original stories will have nothing to complain about and this is just an observation in regards to the claim that it's updating Holmes for a modern readership.
It's a good twisting plot and I didn't feel that I knew what was coming despite Watson's warning that it was taboo. I am not a rival for Holmes' intellect obviously!
You have been using a cigarette card as a bookmark. I have watched its tortuous progress from the first page to the last and I see it now lying on the table, finally released from its labours.
Have you read The House of Silk? Feel free to link to your review in the linky list below. I look forward to seeing your opinions.
Great review. I haven't read it, but it's on my Kindle wish list as I like Holmes stories and Anthony Horowitz is a cracking writer as seen in Foyle's War.
ReplyDeleteSo glad it got the thumbs up. I want to finish reading all the originals before I try this one though.
ReplyDeleteI read some ages ago and after watching Sherlock I'm tempted to go back and start reading from the beginning. I think I have the complete set on my Kindle.
DeleteThank you for posting your thoughts! I'm looking forward to reading this book.
ReplyDeleteThat's kind of awesome, I'd heard this book isn't so good. If I ever get into the Holmes I shall definitely make sure I check these out. Plus, gorgeous cover!
ReplyDeleteI think if you're expecting a modernised version you'd be disappointed. Maybe that's why others don't like it but I found it very Sherlocky :)
Deletegreat review, Ive been intrigued by this one for a while and think I might have to give it a go!
ReplyDeleteJust added my review of this book to your linky thing.
ReplyDeleteNice review of the book.
ReplyDeleteAnthony Horowitz is a great writer. I too liked this pastiche.
Always a pleasure to meet a Sherlockian :)
Cheers!