Linda Stratmann

In this series opener, a Doctor Stamford, a man in his sixties in the 1920s, writes a memoir of his first meeting with Sherlock Holmes in 1876 when both were studying medicine. Stamford went on to become a doctor - possibly a surgeon, as recommended by Dr John Watson, with whom he had studied for a while. In fact, Stamford explains that it was he who eventually introduced Watson to Holmes when the former was looking for lodgings to share with someone. At the point where Stamford and Holmes meet, Holmes is studying medicine and chemistry as part of his plan to train to become the world's first consulting detective.

Both men are drawn into an investigation at the British Museum, initially at the request of a friend of Stamford's whose uncle has had an unsettling experience there at night, when he saw what appeared to be a ghostly procession in one of the blacked-out galleries: no means of light was permitted at night due to the fear of fire. They soon find themselves involved in trying to solve the theft of the famous Rosetta Stone. An early appearance of Lestrade, as a sergeant serving a blinkered inspector, is of interest during the investigation as Holmes can make no impression on Lestrade's superior.

I found the story a little drawn out in places and guessed the big twist before Holmes. But it was a pleasant read, if not a memorable one. It did, at least, refrain from the violence to Holmes' character inflicted in another reimagined Holmes novel that I read recently. So overall I would rate this at 3 stars.… (altro)

The introduction of an extinct Great Auk specimen ignites accusations of fraud against the British Museum. Assigned to salvage the museum's reputation, Sherlock Holmes embarks on the case, only to encounter murder. Unconvinced by the police's theory of a random robbery, Holmes, alongside steadfast companion Mr Stamford, delves into the crime scene, driven to unveil potential hidden truths held by the museum. As the mystery unfolds, revolving around the Great Auk's legend and the controversy it incites, Holmes races to unearth the real danger threatening more lives.

Holmes is back in a case from his university days. This time, Stamford draws him into the case by inviting him to an unveiling at the museum. The initial conflict leads to a family history also shrouded in a mystery. Finding answers for one case means uncovering the past.

The details of the time period were interesting, and I’m impressed by the amount of research that must have gone into taxidermy and the history of the Great Auk. It’s not something I know much about.

I would recommend this book and the rest of the series to readers who enjoy seeing Sherlock Holmes as a young person learning his craft. I received an ARC through NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are my own.… (altro)

The first in the Early Casebook of Sherlock Holmes series featuring Mr Stamford, a medical student, as Holmes’ sidekick. The Rosetta Stone has been stolen from the British Museum but how and by whom?

This is a cosy, atmospherically written and entertaining mystery. There are some well drawn characters, including Holmes, whose personality is spot on - the author has really hit the nail on the head as Holmes seems very true to the original. Mr Stamford makes an interesting and likeable assistant and I’m looking forward to getting to know him more in future books. The plot is an intriguing one and flows along enjoyably. A good start to a new (to me) series.… (altro)