Sherlock Holmes: These Scattered Houses
Review by Mark Mower
A previously untold adventure of the “Great
Hiatus”. Holmes, travelling in the guise of
Professor Keevan Sigerson, is being pursued
across Europe by Moriarty’s henchmen.
Narrowly escaping death for the umpteenth
time, he resolves to return to London, but is
forced instead to take passage to New York.
Seriously injured, he finds his way to
Poughkeepsie and takes refuge in the Vassar
Women’s College, where he is soon embroiled
in a mystery.
The pace of this novel is well-judged. From
the outset it is a gripping and colourful adventure
with lots of action. Clear respect for the Canon
is demonstrated in the many neat references and
affectionate nods to the characters, stories and
intrigues of the original texts, and some real-life
characters, such as Harry Houdini and Samuel
Morse, add further colour to the plot.
The author
demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of
Poughkeepsie history and the significance of
Vassar College. It provides a splendid backdrop
to a fast-paced story told with great care and
affection.
MX Publishing, 2019. 229pp. £10.99 (pbk)
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