A Study in Sherlock

A Study in Sherlock presents a collection of short stories from writers who draw inspiration from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes canon. The anthology features contributions from established authors across multiple genres, including mystery, thriller, and literary fiction. Each story takes a unique approach to the Holmes legacy, with some featuring the detective himself while others explore related characters or themes from the original works. The collection includes traditional detective tales as well as contemporary interpretations that transport Holmes-inspired elements into modern settings. The authors experiment with different narrative styles and perspectives, moving beyond simple pastiche to create original works that stand on their own merit. Some entries focus on puzzles and deduction, while others examine relationships between characters or explore the nature of observation itself. These stories demonstrate how the fundamental aspects of Holmes - logic, keen observation, and the pursuit of truth - continue to resonate with modern readers and writers. The collection serves as both tribute and reimagining of the detective genre's most enduring figure.

Readers found this anthology of Sherlock Holmes-inspired stories uneven in quality. Many noted that standout entries came from Neil Gaiman, Lee Child, and Laura Lippman, while other stories felt forced or disconnected from Holmes' character. Likes: - Creative interpretations that expanded beyond traditional Holmes pastiches - Authors brought unique voices while maintaining Holmes' spirit - Mix of modern and historical settings Dislikes: - Several stories had minimal connection to Holmes universe - Quality varied significantly between entries - Some felt too experimental or strayed from mystery genre Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4/5 (200+ ratings) Common reader comment: "About 1/3 of the stories are excellent, 1/3 are decent, and 1/3 miss the mark entirely." Multiple reviewers noted they expected more traditional Holmes mysteries rather than contemporary reinterpretations, leading to disappointment.

The Seven-Per-Cent Solution by Nicholas Meyer Sherlock Holmes meets Sigmund Freud in Vienna to tackle both a case and his cocaine addiction while Watson chronicles their adventure.

The House of Silk by Anthony Horowitz A previously untold Holmes case, narrated by Watson, leads the duo through London's darkest corners to uncover a criminal enterprise that reaches into the highest levels of society.

The Last Sherlock Holmes Story by Michael Dibdin Holmes pursues Jack the Ripper through Victorian London's fog-shrouded streets, leading to revelations that challenge everything readers know about the detective.

The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie R. King A retired Sherlock Holmes meets a teenage girl with matching intellect and takes her as his apprentice to solve cases in early 20th century England.

Dust and Shadow by Lyndsay Faye Sherlock Holmes confronts Jack the Ripper in a meticulously researched account that blends historical facts with Holmes' methods of deduction.

🔍 The book contains stories from 16 different authors who were tasked with writing tales inspired by the Sherlock Holmes canon, but without actually featuring Holmes or Watson as characters. 📚 Co-editor Laurie R. King is well-known for her Mary Russell series, which features a young female apprentice to Sherlock Holmes who eventually becomes his wife and partner in detection. 🎬 Several contributors to the anthology have significant Hollywood connections, including screenwriter Lee Child (Jack Reacher) and TV producer Alan Bradley (Masterpiece Theatre). 📖 The collection's title is a play on "A Study in Scarlet," the very first Sherlock Holmes story written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in 1887. 🏆 The book received the Agatha Award nomination for Best Mystery Short Story Collection in 2011 and was praised for its innovative approach to honoring Holmes's legacy without directly recreating his character.