The Retrospections of Sherlock Holmes

Book excerpt: Sherlock Holmes was London's first and foremost private consulting detective. Cases were taken on the basis of professional interest as an escape from ennui, with Holmes sometimes waving his fee altogether when the problem was stimulating enough. Now Thaddeus Tuffentsamer has delved into Watson's battered tin dispatch box to serve up a selection of six sparkling new adventures in 'The Retrospections of Sherlock Holmes'. All the familiar faces are here, from Mrs Hudson to Lestrade and the Baker Street Irregulars, and portrayed with feeling and an understanding of the characters. Whether in London or further afield, we see Holmes' talents of observation and deduction put to excellent use in cases that include murder, political shenanigans and abuse of power by corrupt officials. The selection concludes with an imaginative tale on Sherlock Holmes' origins, featuring Dr Joseph Bell. An enjoyable collection that evokes the spirit of Victorian London, whilst matching Holmes' wits against a satisfying array of criminals.S.F. BennettAuthor of: The Secret Diary of Mycroft Holmes: The Thoughts and Reminiscences of Sherlock Holmes's Elder Brother, 1880-1888