The Cursed Writer

The Baker Street Mysteries #2

by Holly Hepburn

The next instalment in Holly Hepburn's page-turning Baker Street Mystery series.

'When did you become aware something was wrong?’

‘When the screaming began…’

Harriet White is no stranger to odd correspondence. Ensconced in the basement of the Baker Street building society, her job is to reply to the mail they receive on behalf of Sherlock Holmes.

But while letters to the fictional sleuth may be plentiful, telegrams are rare, and so when she receives one describing the grave situation of celebrated author Philip St John, her interest is piqued. The writer describes St John as being consumed by terror, seeing ghostly apparitions on the fens, and only at ease in the company of his loyal wolfhound.

Before long, Harry finds herself in Cambridgeshire under the guise of being Holmes’ assistant. The residents of Thurmwell Manor believe their master is cursed. Harry is sure there must be a logical explanation, but inside the echoey halls of the grand gothic house, her confidence in science and reason begin to crumble…

Can Harry solve the mystery before the fens claim their next victim?

Join Harriet White in 1930's London for another glorious Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery, for fans of Nita Prose and Janice Hallett.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, British Literature, Crime, Historical Mystery

248 pages, Paperback

First published October 17, 2025

About the author

I’ve wanted to write books for adults for as long as I can remember but I was too scared to try. One day I decided to be brave and dipped a toe into the bubble bath of romantic comedy with my first novella, Cupidity, and I’ve never looked back. I often try to be funny to be funny, except for when faced with traffic wardens and border control staff. My favourite thing is making people smile.

I’ve tried many jobs over the years, from barmaid to market researcher and I even had a brief flirtation with modelling. These days I am mostly found writing.

I live near London with my grey tabby cat, Portia. We both have an unhealthy obsession with Marmite.

Reviews

[Tonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

According to the incomparable Sherlock Holmes, “Logic and deduction are the antidote to fear.” Once again, Harry, a secretary turned detective proves to be fearless and clever in the second book of the Baker Street Mysteries. I enjoyed joining Harry on her journey as the trusted assistant of Mr. Holmes. The mystery was cleverly calculated with surprises throughout. I loved my glimpse into 1930 London and look forward to book three of this entertaining and intriguing series. “ The game is once again afoot.” Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my copy.

[Valleri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joining Harriet White in 1930s London for a Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery was fun! I liked the premise of The Cursed Writer. Harry's job is to respond to letters sent to 221B Baker Street in London, begging "Sherlock Holmes" to help them. She informs the writers that Sherlock Holmes has retired. (It's now the address for the bank where Harry works.) She tells 99% of the people that Sherlock Holmes has retired ... but every once in a while, she is moved to take on one of the cases, herself, as the assistant to Mr. Holmes.

I liked Harry a lot. She is not only clever but also kind. And I loved the wolfhound!! There seems to be a bit of chemistry between Harry and Oliver. We'll see what happens in the next book...

I do wish I had read The Missing Maid first, as there were references to that case in The Cursed Writer that left me feeling a bit lost.

I'm looking forward to book 3!!

Big thanks to both #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of The Cursed Writer. This book is #2 in the Baker Street Mysteries series and it has an expected publication date of October 17, 2024.

#HollyHepburn #SherlockHolmes #Mystery #StrongFemaleProtagonist

[Steph LaPlante · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Curse Write by Holly Hepburn is the second novel in The Baker Street Mysteries series, and it’s a fantastic follow-up. I won’t lie, I was a little saddened to see there isn’t a third book out yet!

Not long after wrapping up her first mystery, Harry finds herself caught up in another one. With her cleverness and fearlessness, and a little help from Oliver, she dives headfirst into solving it.

These books are such a joy to read. They're fun, engaging, and often have me smiling or laughing out loud. Harry is a wonderful lead: smart, relatable, and easy to root for. The supporting cast is just as enjoyable, each character bringing something unique and entertaining to the story.

I especially love the relationship between Oliver and Harry. I'm definitely here for the slow burn… but not too slow, just saying!

I’ve been really enjoying this series so far and can’t wait for the next installment.

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this series and am so glad I took a chance on it.

Harry [Harriet] is a great MC and I like her determination, and the pull to always do the right thing, and to right the wrongs that have happened to others. I love how she works with Oliver, yet, as of right now, there is no romance [and her swooning around over him] as she is very content to be her own person and on her own, but recognizes how Oliver can help her [she IS a woman in the 1920's after all and they weren't allowed to have TOO much independence], that she [mostly LOL] enjoys his help AND his company/friendship. It is really lovely to have two people who can work together for the betterment of others without swooning all over each other.

The mysteries were good [I really like how there is some carry over from Bk. 1 and that it seems that will continue in Bk.3], and while I did guess a couple of things, most of it was a HUGE surprise, and that was awesome, as was the non-rushed reveal [OH how I LOVE that]. I love how Harry never shames anyone for believing that Sherlock Holmes is real and just works with them within her own capacity. It is just so refreshing. I highly recommend this series and am very much looking forward to book 3!

Thank you to NetGalley, Holly Hepburn, and Boldwood Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[TF · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cursed Writer is the second book in the Baker Street Mystery series, and takes up straight after the conclusion of The Missing Maid - I love it when books do this!
Secretary to the fictitious Sherlock Holmes, once again, Harry (Harriet) White finds herself so intrigued by an appeal for help that she cannot resist investigating herself.
This time, a supernatural phenomenon appears to have cursed a well known author, and his nephew pleads for Holmes' help.
I really like that while this book built on the foundation of the first (although it could be read as a standalone) and we find out a little bit more about all the characters, the mystery that needed solving was something completely different! Harry also undertakes a very interesting side quest which was totally unexpected and very revealing.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy, I can't wait for the next installment!
#NetGalley #TheCursedWriter

[Clodagh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent follow up to The Missing Maid. This was definitely a spookier story, and the mystery was clever and a lot of fun. I enjoyed this even more than the first one, the characters were more developed, the plot was more intriguing and it felt like Hepburn is more confident in her writing. I liked how this built on story lines from the first book while also giving enough backstory and context to allow for it to be read as a standalone. I also enjoyed Harry's side missions and I'm keen to see how these will play out in the next installment. Overall, this is a perfect cosy mystery.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this eArc in exchange for an honest review.

[William · Rating 1 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery listening 🎉😎

This kindle ebook novel is from the Kindle Unlimited account book two of three coming in September

She is working as the secretary to Sherlock Holmes at the bank. She answers letters addressed to the detective. Then a telegram arrives which she responds to and the fun begins. 😊🙃

I would highly recommend this series and author to fans of Sherlock Holmes and readers of British mystery novels 😏🤔 2025 🏡😊

[M.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cursed Writer is the second book in the Baker Street Mysteries. I've read book 1.

Events start immediately after the end of book 1, with our detective Harry returning to her poky office after the thrilling ending to her first mystery. She could be forgiven for being a little glum when she finds herself typing the same reply to every message she receives, but never fear—an urgent telegram soon lifts her from her melancholy. It has her adopting her detecting hat once more.

This time, we're taken to the Fens in Cambridgeshire to investigate a strange mystery surrounding the sudden change in author Philip St John's demeanour. His nephew desperately seeks the aid of celebrated detective Sherlock Holmes at 221B Baker Street. So desperately, he's prepared to spend the money to send a telegram and not just a letter. And not just one, but two! While Harry tries to determine how she can uncover more about the telegram without revealing that Holmes is, of course, a fictional character, she is also embroiled in a few other little mysteries, which, for some time, appear irrelevant but offer excellent continuity from book one until they become increasingly relevant.

Harry's two trips to the Fens are very Holmesesque, providing us with an eerie atmosphere in the depths of winter, and it felt very true to form.

The mystery elements themselves are very well strung together, and while I might have guessed part of the solution, the eventual conclusion was even better than I could have hoped.

This was a thrilling continuation of the Baker Street Mysteries. I was entirely hooked and devoured the story in a few sittings.

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable read by Holly Hepburn, once again with Miss Harriet White and sidekick cousin Oliver solving the mystery of a recluse writer in the grips of nightmares and hallucinations for which Harry as assistant to the fictitious Sherlock Holmes and Oliver eventually solve.

Harriet White has been demoted in her employment due to her affirmative action against her sexually harassing boss. In standing up for herself she has landed a job in a cubicle off the mail room which is set in the basement of the bank that has moved into the address formerly known to be “Sherlock Holmes’” previous address. With so many letters for Mr Holmes it had been decided to answer all with the regrets that he had retired from investigating and taken up gardening. However, with Harry receiving an urgent telegram to Mr Holmes, as his “assistant” her intrigue is captured for which a meeting is organised with the sender of the telegram but with it being at a strictly gentlemens’ only club, she has no choice but to ask Oliver for assistance, he is a member so not too tricky for him.

Oliver again makes his disapproval known to Harry about getting involved but she knows that he secretly enjoys the subterfuge. John Archer, nephew to the author Philip St John of Thrumwell Manor is the person who has made the request to Sherlock Holmes, seemingly unaware that the detective is fictitious. Harry, now in contact with John Archer, goes to Thrumwell Manor where she sees first hand the effects of the hallucinations and nightmares that the author is experiencing. The area surrounding the Manor Is one of dangerous marshlands, “fens” for which adds to the mystery, with the weather freezing falling into the fens could be dire for anyone and with the author already in a weakened state, it is important to have to mystery solved quickly.

As it turns out it is at a meeting with a previous employee from the bank who had suffered greatly from the same sexual harassment as Harry when it's disclosed about a certain drug that sets Harry along the right path to solving Philip St John's hallucinations and the reasons for the bizarre events.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extremely enjoyable cosy crime mystery.

The story is set in the 1930’s. Hollie works in the basement of the Abbey Road Building Society, whose offices just happen to span the fictional address of Sherlock Holmes. Hollie’s job is to reply to all the letters received addressed to Sherlock Holmes, under the guise of his secretary, advising Mr Holmes has now retired. 

However, an urgent telegram piques her interest and her inner detective cannot be held back. With the help of her friend Oliver, she sets out to investigate.

The investigation takes her to a mansion on the fens, complete with wolfhound and a big nod to the most famous Holmes story, The Hound of the Baskervilles.

Harry is a very capable young lady with an excellent mystery solving skillset. She is wasted working in a building society!

I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the setting and the story which played out just like an actual Sherlock Holmes mystery! The addition of the myth of the ferryman added a supernatural hint to the story.

Brilliantly written it had me absolutely enthralled and I read it over two sittings.

I am definitely going to be reading the next in this series as well as reading the first book in the series too.

Many thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the blog tour.

[SJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars - An Enjoyable Mystery with a Holmesian Twist

As a huge Sherlock Holmes fan, The Cursed Writer by Holly Hepburn immediately caught my attention with its intriguing blurb, and I knew I had to dive in. The story delivered a solid mystery, but I found that some of the answers were a bit too obvious, which took away some of the suspense for me. I also wish the Ferryman character had been scarier to add a bit more tension to the plot.

That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish. It was a fun read that kept me engaged, and I would recommend it to any fellow fan of Holmes. Hepburn does a great job capturing the essence of a good mystery, and I’m looking forward to checking out more of her work.

#ARC #HollyHepburn #TheCursedWriter #NetGalley #AuthorsWhoRead #bookstagram

[Simon Mcleish · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second in the Baker Street Mysteries has basically the same idea - a great one - that when the Abbey National building society was based in Baker Street in a building which would have included the famous rooms at 221B; the consequence being that the bank would receive a deluge of post from those hoping that Sherlock Holmes would solve a mystery for them. The second book is more successful than the first, because the detection side of it is more interesting than it is in The Missing Maid .

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked book two in this series even better than book one. This is a really good series. I pretty much like everything about it!

Harry is a terrific main character. She is smart, spunky, capable and determined to do what she wants to do in spite of multiple people trying to convince her to do other things.

The concept of Harry being responsible to respond to the regular letters that come to the bank she works at addressed to Sherlock Holmes because it is located at 221B Baker Street is clever and fun and offers so much opportunity for a variety of great mysteries. The author also includes subtle little easter egg nods to the original Holmes stories which are very well done.

This particular mystery offered Harry several mysteries to figure out and problems to solve and I very much enjoyed going along with her on this case. I am hoping the author is planning more books, especially since the ending of this book very much suggests there is more to come. Personally I can't wait!!!

[Georgina Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first in the series earlier this year and loved it, so jumped at the chance to get stuck into this one. Harry is still in her office answering letters that arrive at the bank for Sherlock Holmes - the Abbey building society’s offices take in his address, so fans and people with cases to be solved write to him and Harry gets to sort through them and respond. Occasionally something catches her eye, and a telegram inviting a meeting about a serious crime is the eyecatcher in this novel.

There’s a couple of stories in this one, she’s being followed and having her office tampered with, and a famous novelist is cursed - well, according to local superstition anyway. Off Harry goes to the country estate to see for herself what is going on. The story takes a turn once she’s there, and she must try to get to the bottom of it before Philip St John passes.

I really enjoyed this book, the writing flows so well and it’s such an engrossing read. I can’t wait to find out if there’s more in the future, fingers crossed!

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cursed Writer is the second in the Baker Street Mysteries from Holly Hepburn, and is another fun adventure with Harry and Oliver.
Holly has written another clever mystery and I loved how Harry and Oliver were drawn into the intrigue.
The house and surrounding fens added just the perfect amount of atmosphere to the puzzle and I loved seeing Harry begin to work through the clues, just as Mr Holmes would have done.
A brilliant follow-up to The Missing Maid where ‘the game is once again afoot’.

[ghostly_bookish · Rating 3 out of 5]

CAWPILE 6.71
3.5 STARS

Up to date with this series- I did enjoy this one more than the first but that is probably because it is based loosely on my favourite Sherlock Holmes story- The Hound of the Baskervilles.
The fens are really atmospheric and eerie, a perfect setting for both stories.

[Heatherinblack · Rating 5 out of 5]

She did a real good job

She is definitely clever like a detective. Follows the right logic and puts in the legwork. It appears that she and Oliver are continuing to advance their relationship. Beth is just wonderful. I worry about her keeping the job at the bank though. Will it start to stretch the imagination how she holds on to it? I will certainly read more.

[Fictionatnight · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Hepburn has done it again with The Cursed Writer. A deliciously atmospheric and utterly captivating addition to the Baker Street Mysteries. Set against the eerie backdrop of the Cambridgeshire fens, this historical cozy is a masterclass in blending suspense, humor, and heart.

We follow the indomitable Harriet White as she’s swept into a chilling case involving a tormented author, ghostly apparitions, and a manor steeped in secrets. Hepburn’s writing is razor-sharp and richly evocative, with just the right touch of gothic flair. The mystery is satisfyingly twisty, but it’s Harry who steals the show: clever, brave, and brimming with charm.

What I loved most was how the novel plays with the boundaries between fiction and reality. Harry’s role as a “fake” assistant to a fictional detective adds a delightful metafictional layer, and her growing doubts about logic and reason in the face of the supernatural are handled with nuance and flair.

[June Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Journey back with me to 1930s London. Harriet/Harry White has a job that sounds at once both mind numbing tedious and potentially exciting. She's answering letters sent to the fictional Sherlock Holmes because the company she's employed by just happens to be located at that, oh, so famous Baker Street address. And, oh, there's the little matter of it being a bit of a demotion after she refused to be the victim of sexual harassment by her overseer. Having not read the first book in the series, I was a bit wary of jumping into this one given the frequently puzzling, complicated cases that come to mind when one thinks Sherlock Holmes but, well, what can I say. That name alone and a mention of "Hound of the Baskervilles" was enough to pull me in. I'm glad it did as I very quickly liked Harry and the author quickly got us up to pace on the background from book one.

Just as she seems to have done in book one, Harry responds personally, well, as Holmes instead of using her tried and true normal line as Holmes' secretary about him being retired and unable to help. This time she was intrigued by a telegram arriving rather than a letter, however. I won't detail the plot, it's too much fun to sort it all out as it happens, but it involves a nephew worried about the health, both physical and mental, of his uncle. Let's just say his uncle seems to be in turmoil, panicked, and unable to function. John Arbor, the sender of the telegram, hopes Holmes can help. And, from there, Harry's rash action of responding sets off a series of events involving not just her but Oliver Fortescue, a childhood friend who, from what I can gather, seems to be in the midst of a very slow burn wannabe-romance with Harry. Remember, the setting is in the 1930s, so things do tend to move slower overall,

Delightfully spooky, full of tales of a grim reaper of sorts known as the Ferryman, ghostly spirits on the marshy fen that surrounds the estate, and the poor, afflicted man's loyal wolfhound, abound.....and that's just the main story. Not only does the author give us a dose of Holmes, but there are other side stories, all of which Harry finds herself involved in investigating. Without giving away too much, let's just say they seem to tie back to book one but even without reading it, I had no problems sorting out what was what and who was who. I definitely liked Harry and have my fingers crossed Oliver will perhaps be bolder in future books. Again, remembering the date, no pressure, Oliver. Grin. Harry's courage and, yes, even rashness at times, not to mention there's so much going on that it has the sense of moving right along without too much time spent spinning our wheels. In other words, while cringing at the role of women of that time and Harry's mother's hopes for her marriage to a suitable man, I thoroughly enjoyed the book/mystery and am already looking forward to my next virtual trip back to Baker Street in the author's lovely time machine. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for allowing me this early peek into this case and introducing me to these fascinating people.

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

One Liner: I like this!

1930s London

Harriet White decides to stick to her job as Holmes’ secretary, sending the same standard reply to the countless letters received by the Baker Street building society. However, curiosity gets the better of her when she receives a cryptic telegram about the famous writer St John.

Turns out, Philip St John has been seeing ghostly apparitions and is inching closer to his demise. Some of the residents at the Thurmwell Manor believe it’s the curse. Harry (Harriet) takes up the case on behalf of the famous fictional detective. With Oliver helping her, she needs to save Philip before it’s too late. However, danger lurks everywhere!

The story comes in Harry’s third-person POV.

My Thoughts:

I like this better than the previous one!

The book should work as a standalone but it would help to read the first in the series since there’s a definite improvement overall. However, the little snippets (some repetition, which is necessary for new readers) provided whenever necessary do the job.

The story starts almost immediately after the previous case ends (maybe a few days later). The beginning (~10%) is a little slow but soon, we get into a steady pace.

The mystery doesn’t start right away, though we get some information about it. I like that the culprit is not immediately obvious but is easy to guess once you get some clues. It is well-handled for the genre and there’s no info dump.

There are two side tracks. Both take the lead from the previous book. While one is easier to follow, the other can cause a few questions if you haven’t read the book. I like the developments here. More will come (I hope), and we get what we’ve been waiting for!

The arcs of both characters (Harry and Oliver) are getting better, so my expectations from the series have climbed up a couple of inches. Romance hasn’t occurred yet. It will, so just have to wait and watch.

The book ends with a teeny yet strong lead for the next one. I am excited! After all… nope. Won’t reveal anything. ;)

To summarize, The Cursed Writer is a solid second entry in the series and feels much better than the previous one. Can’t wait for book three!

Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley #TheCursedWriter

[Brian Wilde · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is 1930's London, Miss Harry (Harriette) White works at the Abbey Road Building Society who's offices span the address 219-229 Baker Street, the world famous address of the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.

Harry's job at the bank is to respond to the hundreds of the letters addressed to Mr Holmes from those who believed him to be a real person. Her standard response is "Mr Holmes has retired to Sussex to keep bees and is regretfully unable to help."

At least, that is her reply to almost every letter.

A Telegram has been received " Sherlock Holmes. Philip St John at death's door. Time of the Essence. Reply Immediately."

Harry takes up the case, pretending to be Sherlocks assistant, and visits Thrumwell Manor, home of Mr St John and his nephew John Archer, the sender of the telegram. Harry must question the staff and the locals to discover the origins of Philip St Johns mysterious illness before its too late.

Could this be related to the local myth of "The Ferryman". Anyone who see's his torch across the fens for three successive nights are compelled to follow, never to return.

The Manor is set in the fens and marshland, The Ferryman was a fascinating addition, causing genuine fear for locals venturing out at night. This book provoked memories of the classic Hound of the Baskervilles and was delightful.

I really enjoyed Holly Hepburns story telling and world building. I was really drawn into the period, especially the squalid streets of Brighton.

The mystery itself wasn't particular difficult to pick apart but was a very satisfactory conclusion, along with tying up all loose ends with the ending hopefully queueing up a third novel in the series.

A very enjoyable read, clearly targeting fans of Sherlock Holmes as well as Agatha Christie. I being a fan of both thought this book charming.

My thanks to the publishers and netgalley for this review copy. All opinions are my own.

[S.C. Skillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this cosy mystery set in the 1930s, starring Harry (Harriet) who is employed as secretary by the bank which occupies 221 Baker Street. It is her job to answer all the letters sent to Sherlock Holmes by people convinced he’s a real person. She has to reply with reasons why Mr Holmes is not able to take on the case, Apparently this is based on a real job held by an employee at that address for a considerable period of time.

It’s a wonderful plot idea which immediately appealed to me, especially as I have visited the present-day Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221B Baker Street and have a mug at home with the words ‘Sherlock Holmes: the man who never lived and will never die.’ Also I love Conan Doyle’s original stories. This novel holds the reader’s attention throughout as Harry becomes intrigued by the contents of a telegram, and decides to investigate the writer, whilst still keeping to the fiction that she is indeed the personal assistant of Mr Holmes (who has retired to Surrey to keep bees).

Harry despatches her handsome solicitor associate, Oliver, to meet John Archer, the writer of the telegram, in his all-male London Club and discovers he’s deeply worried about his famous writer uncle who has undergone a terrifying behavioural change which nobody can explain, often leading him to put his own life in danger.

The story becomes ever more intriguing as Holly sets off to the manor house in the mysterious and atmospheric Fens in order to investigate what is happening to the great and reclusive writer suffering from a frightening mental health disorder with hallucinations and periods of extreme terror. Staff members in the household believe he’s been cursed by the sinister supernatural figure in the Fens, ‘the Ferryman’.

There are some delightful subplots too, bringing to the fore the question of women’s rights at the time, and I loved the resolution at the end of the novel and the choice Harry makes about how she uses her payment for solving Mr Holmes’ latest case.

A hugely enjoyable novel.

[Maxine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The new headquarters of the Abbey Road Building Society have been built on 221B Baker St well known as the residence of the world’s most famous but definitely fictional detective. Harriet ‘Harry’ White works as a secretary there but after an unfortunate encounter between an overly amorous boss’ groin and her knee, she has been relegated to the basement to answer letters that arrive daily seeking the detective’s help. She replies with a stock answer explaining that Holmes has retired and is no longer available for consultations. However, when a telegram arrives seeking urgent aid for celebrated author, Philip St John, her interest is piqued and soon, she finds herself, with the reluctant help of her friend, Oliver, in Cambridge at the isolated Thurmwell Manor where St John suffers a mysterious illness, one caused, according to his servants, by the ferryman, a local legend who is said to curse anyone who has the misfortune of seeing him.

The Cursed Writer is the second historical cozy mystery in the Baker Street Mysteries by Holly Hepburn and it is an entertaining and atmospheric tale with a strong. Intelligent female protagonist, an interesting mystery, a touch of the gothic, a hint of the supernatural and, of course, a nod to the great detective himself. The story brings together several different plot lines, all of which are concluded satisfactorily and ends with a hint to future adventures for Harry and Oliver acting as Sherlock Holmes’ assistants. Definitely a fun read for Sherlock Holmes’ fans or anyone who enjoys a compelling historical cozy with interesting characters and plots.

I received an e-arc of the book from Netgalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review

[Devi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cursed Writer is a cozy mystery with a strong Hound of Baskerville vibe, perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans. Holly Hepburn brings classic detective energy to Harriet ‘Harry’ White, a sharp and determined protagonist, who handles a gripping investigation with the finesse of Sherlock Holmes.

Set in 1930s London, the novel beautifully evokes the era’s atmosphere, while offering an empowering outlook on women’s roles through Harry’s confident and resourceful character. The plot maintains a steady pace with clever deductions and well-crafted suspense. As the second book in the Baker Street Mystery series, The Cursed Writer builds on the first installment and sets the stage for a promising third.

A special highlight of the audiobook is Sophie Roberts’ narration. Her authentic old English accent vividly brings to life the setting from London’s bustling streets to the long-forgotten villages and outskirts. Her voice enriches the immersive experience of this classic detective tale.

Overall, this book is a rewarding read (and listen, if you are an audiobook lover like me) for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy clever plots, engaging characters, and atmospheric storytelling. Holly Hepburn is an amazing talent in the genre, and with narrators like Sophie Roberts bringing her work to life, the series promises to captivate fans for years to come.

If you enjoyed this review (or just love chatting about books), hop over to my blog for more thoughts, recommendations, and quirky takes on everything bookish. I’d love to see you there and hear what you think! 📖✨ Views She Writes - Book Reviews

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in the 1930’s this is the second in the Baker Street Series. Harriet ‘Harry’ White works in the basement of a bank in Baker Street, London answering correspondence sent to Sherlock Holmes. However, when her interest is piqued she replies to a telegram introducing herself as Sherlock’s assistant and arranges to go and meet the sender. The additional threads following on from events in book one were also really good. Whilst this reads well as a standalone I would recommend reading book one for the ongoing storylines. Written in a classic golden age detective style this was a compelling read.

Briefly, travelling to Thurmwell Manor in Cambridgeshire, the remote home of author Philip St John, Harry sees at first hand the situation with St John. He seems to be possessed and in terror of something that nobody else can see. His nephew, the housekeeper, the Cook and the chauffeur/groundsman are the only other people that live in the manor house. There is something strange going on on the fens and Harry doesn’t believe it’s ’the ferryman’! Harry is convinced that someone in the house is responsible for St John’s condition, but which one, how and why?

The notes at the end do confirm that this was written as an homage to Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles and it certainly gives a similar vibe. Harry is a great character, kind and thoughtful as well as being clever and resourceful but I also really like her sidekick Oliver. A very enjoyable and entertaining cosy mystery and I’m looking forward to book 3.

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cursed Writer by Holly Hepburn

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Harriet White is no stranger to odd correspondence. Ensconced in the basement of the Baker Street building society, her job is to reply to the mail they receive on behalf of Sherlock Holmes.

But while letters to the fictional sleuth may be plentiful, telegrams are rare, and so when she receives one describing the grave situation of celebrated author Philip St John, her interest is piqued. The writer describes St John as being consumed by terror, seeing ghostly apparitions on the fens, and only at ease in the company of his loyal wolfhound.

Before long, Harry finds herself in Cambridgeshire under the guise of being Holmes’ assistant. The residents of Thurmwell Manor believe their master is cursed. Harry is sure there must be a logical explanation, but inside the echoey halls of the grand gothic house, her confidence in science and reason begin to crumble…

Can Harry solve the mystery before the fens claim their next victim?

My Opinion

This is the first book I have read in the series but I was still able to enjoy the book. When an urgent telegram is delivered to Harry, she is eager to investigate. This was such an interesting premise and whilst I was a bit on the fence from the blurb, I found myself enjoying the book more than I originally thought. With an enjoyable writing style, Holly Hepburn has once again written a delightful book.

Rating 4/5

[Steph Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harry returns for another adventurous homage to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s great detective, to take on another case intended for the fictional Holmes with the help of the slightly-less-reluctant Oliver Fairclough.

This one takes place on the fens and features a large dog, a curse and a man apparently frightened half to death, but from these familiar materials Holly Hepburn has created an entirely new mystery for Harry, and readers, to solve.

As before, the whole concept of people writing to the fictional detective for help and certain cases catching the eye of the secretary assigned to deal with rebuffing them is so clever and works really well, and I love the double layer of Harry having to deal with ‘real-life’ problems like Simeon Pemberton alongside her forays into private detection. (I can’t wait for that odious man to get his eventual comeuppance!)

I do think it best to read The Missing Maid first, as that introduces the main characters and set-up of the series, and events there impact on some aspects of this story, although the author does recap the essential points here.

For me, the main attraction in this series is Harry’s character, and this slightly spooky story is the perfect setting for her blend of quick wits, resourcefulness, bravery and insatiable curiosity to show at its best.

This is a fun, action-and-intrigue-packed historical mystery that I would thoroughly recommend to fans of classic Golden-Age detective fiction as a delightful slightly-more-modern tribute to the genre and an entertaining series in its own right.

[Haley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had not read the first book in this series but was intrigued by the description & excited to be offered the chance to read the ARC by Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. I had a really good time with this book! It was not your typical cozy mystery in the best way & I really liked the protagonist, Harry. I think you will enjoy the book more if you have read the first one as there are several references to it and characters from it make appearances, but it is still very good as a standalone. I will be reading the first one to get the full lay of the land in anticipation of the next book in the series. The one thing that bothered me, which is an issue in more books than I'd like it to be not just this one, is the lack of attention to basic math in figuring out the ages of characters. This was particularly glaring for me with the character of John Archer, who was supposed to be in his mid-thirties in 1932 yet was also supposedly a child when his uncle was slaving away over his first novel that published in 1920. That is just not mathematically possible. I also couldn't figure out how old Harry & Oliver were supposed to be, so that didn't help either. However, neither of those things will keep me from reading the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book if you love an English cozy mystery with a strong female lead as much as I do!

Thanks again to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for a review.

[Bargain Sleuth Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily. I love reading Sherlock Holmes and Sherlock-adjacent mysteries, and somehow, I missed the first book in this series. I promptly borrowed it from my library and loved it, so I was happy to continue this series. However, just because you might not have read the first volume does not mean you cannot enjoy this book; it holds up a standalone novel as well.

It’s the 1930s in London, and Harriet is working for the company that happens to inhabit the buildings along Baker Street, which includes the infamous 221B. It seems many people think Sherlock Holmes is real and write to him at the address. Harry’s job is to read the letters and respond with the company line–that Sherlock Holmes has retired to the Sussex Downs and is no longer accepting cases. However, for now the second time, a particular correspondence (this time a telegram) leads Harry to believe she should try to solve the mystery herself.

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical cozy mystery that added a touch of the supernatural to the story without abandoning science and fact to get to the bottom of the problem. It keeps the spirit of the Sherlock stories alive through the capable hands of a woman. What would Holmes think of that?

I can’t wait to read more volumes in The Baker Street Mystery series!

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harriet had the temerity to thwart the unwanted attentions of her boss and was demoted. Really demoted. She now mans the desk for the letters addressed to Sherlock Holmes that arrive daily at the bank that shares his famous address. She has a polite formal response that she sends to those people who cannot separate fiction from real life. That is until something arrives to tweak her interest. An urgent telegram, followed by a second one has the entire office buzzing and Harriet intrigued. She manages to finagle the assistance of Oliver to meet with the enquiring gentleman at his club and before long both he and Harriet are ensnared in a mystery fit for the great detective.

When Harriet arrives at the mansion in the country, she discovers the master of the estate is in horrible shape. Questions about his wellbeing, even his sanity, are on her mind and she is determined to discover the cause. Some try to convince her there are supernatural forces at work but level headed Harriet discovers an altogether more earthbound cause and in the process solves not one but two crimes.

She also uncovers more nefarious deeds by said former boss and takes action to right some wrongs as well as collect ammunition if he should dare to try to take her down. He does not recognize the formidable enemy he has engaged.

Our plucky heroine is smart, capable and efficient. Sherlock would be proud. Five purrs and two paws up.