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Anna Kronberg Thriller #2
La sonrisa del diablo
En el verano de 1889, cuando un cadáver con síntomas de la enfermedad del cólera aparece flotando en los depósitos de agua de Londres, Scotland Yard solicita la ayuda del doctor Anton Kronberg, el más eminente epidemiólogo del reino. Pero el riesgo de infección no va a ser su principal problema. Primero, porque hasta el lugar se ha desplazado un detective asesor de la policía llamado Sherlock Holmes, quien de inmediato descubre su gran secreto: Anton es en realidad Anna, y el engaño acerca de su identidad, caso de hacerse público, la llevaría a la cárcel. Pero, sobre todo, porque tras el caso se esconde una conspiración criminal que podría hacer tambalear los cimientos de la Inglaterra victoriana.
192 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2012
1268 people are currently reading
8095 people want to read
About the author
Annelie Wendeberg
22 books340 followersAnnelie Wendeberg likes to throw morally grey heroines into impossible situations just to watch disaster unfold. Her books have sold nearly a million copies worldwide in multiple languages through both independent and traditional publishing. When she's not writing, you can find her herding goats, making cheese, and saving owls and kangaroos from peril.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 566 reviews
September 22, 2015
DNF at 50%
**My opinion about this story has nothing to do with the fact that I don't read Sherlock Holmes retellings. Just thought I'd say so you know this review is unbiased.**
Why I couldn't finish this:
1. Holmes is not Holmes.
Sounds weird, but that's how it feels. Sure, he has the same name and lives in his famous house at 221B Baker Street, but that man only carries Sherlock's body. Now, where is his soul? Where are the traits that make Holmes one of my favourite fictional characters ever? Thing is, this so-called Sherlock Holmes says things Holmes would never say (and no, I'm not talking about the language, since Holmes always speaks plainly) and acts weird - so un-Holmes-like.
2. Couldn't connect with the narrator.
This is actually too bad because there was the opportunity of a feminist story, and in part, it was. The narrator is a woman who disguises herself as a man so she can live in the society as someone normal and work without problem. Sometimes she made remarks unusual to the era, and I like it, however, she felt flat to me, and... well, you know what happens when I can't connect with the characters.
3. Writing.
Ironically, I am complaining about this. Why ironically, you say? Well, because the writing doesn't shy away the gore, and I like when books are like that, but it felt tedious. It felt tedious not because it read like the typical Victorian novel but because it lacked of sentiment. I felt as if I was reading what a robot would say, not what a girl oppressed by the sexism of the era would.
4. The mystery wasn't quite... engaging.
Okay, I admit it: At the beginning, it was thrilling and to be honest, I wouldn't have started this if the premise didn't sound like something I might enjoy. However, the more I read, the more formulaic it felt for me, and it did not help the fact that I hated the only character I was expecting to love (aka Holmes).
That's pretty much everything. As for me, I won't read more non-canon Sherlock Holmes stories. It may sound stubborn or narrow minded for you, but no one will be able to capture Arthur Conan Doyle's Holmes. (This last paragraph is precisely the reason why I added the disclaimer at the beginning.)
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May 11, 2016
Anna Kronberg masquerades as a male doctor, Anton Kronberg to be able to practice medicine in London. He/she is called in when a dead body is found in the drinking water supply. Sherlock Holmes is also called in and he quickly discovers that Anton is a woman, but he doesn't reveal it to anyone. Soon Anna/Anton and Sherlock Holmes is working together in the case since the dead body is only the tip of the iceberg.
On the plus side; the book is so short it was a quick read. On the negative side; the book was so short that it lacked any depth to the story. The story wasn't that bad, the case was interesting, but I had problems with the writing and the characters. As I said before the book lacked any depth, and I can't help to compare it with Laurie R. King's Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell series but without likable characters and without Kings ability to entrance her readers with a fantastic story and a great writing. I love books that pull you into the story and don't let go. This one lacks the ability to do so.
Also, something that really feels wrong. Sherlock Holmes or the man Annelie Wendeberg calls Sherlock Holmes because he doesn't feel or act, or speak as Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes would do. I don't mind reading other people's stories about Sherlock Holmes, but when they twist him into a different person that doesn't feel like Sherlock Holmes anymore, well that's it for me.
Lucky for me I paid nothing for this book. Too bad that I bought the next book before I read this one. But it didn't cost me so much, only $2.99. So I will read it one day, but not now.
On the plus side; the book is so short it was a quick read. On the negative side; the book was so short that it lacked any depth to the story. The story wasn't that bad, the case was interesting, but I had problems with the writing and the characters. As I said before the book lacked any depth, and I can't help to compare it with Laurie R. King's Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell series but without likable characters and without Kings ability to entrance her readers with a fantastic story and a great writing. I love books that pull you into the story and don't let go. This one lacks the ability to do so.
Also, something that really feels wrong. Sherlock Holmes or the man Annelie Wendeberg calls Sherlock Holmes because he doesn't feel or act, or speak as Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes would do. I don't mind reading other people's stories about Sherlock Holmes, but when they twist him into a different person that doesn't feel like Sherlock Holmes anymore, well that's it for me.
Lucky for me I paid nothing for this book. Too bad that I bought the next book before I read this one. But it didn't cost me so much, only $2.99. So I will read it one day, but not now.
September 5, 2012
Dear Ruben,
here is my suggestion: Your email from this morning was so nice and everyone reading it will notice the joy you had writing it. So why not post this one as your review? All I'll do is to replace the quotes from the older draft with quotes from the final draft and put a note at the end (from me, explaining how this all happened). Here it is, tell me what you think:
Oh, Annelie!, you mean that I got a Samizdat Wikileaks copy of Devil's Grin? I'm so lucky!, I should rush to buy a lottery ticket!, but frankly, your novel is much better than a million dollars, let me tell you why, (you asked for it, so now you take it and like it! [This is a joke])
First things first; the last paragraph of the file I got is:
"...and I can only think that this is a bad sign, very bad indeed. His name was Professor James Moriarty."(1)
Is this the ending of the novel?, it certainly seems a very fine ending in a cliffhanger; I want to read your next Dr. Kronberg novel!
0-0-0-
There are many firsts in your novel, and I have read many detective novels, written by male and female authors, (and yet I didn't know Laurie King existed!), so all I can say is that judging from my experience, there are several impressive firsts in your novel.
0-0-0-
There are many fine points in your novel, let me tell you about one that stunned me, in my experience it is the first time a detective cries because of the horror he or she just experienced. Dr. Kronberg tells us that after discovering what was happening in Broadmoor's oven:
"I lay flat on the thick branch and wept."(2)
The humanity of Dr. Kronberg moved me.
0-0-0-
It is also the first time a detective discusses Jack The Ripper with Sherlock Holmes, and also the first time in my experience that a detective offers this new point of view upon the his crimes. Dr. Kronberg tells Holmes:
"Due to my occupation I do come across a rather large number of stab wounds and one of the peculiar things I noticed was that almost all women with knife wounds in their lower abdomen were victims of attempted rape. And all of those who survived the attack reported the rapist used a knife because he was unable to penetrate them, he was unable to produce an erection. Doesn’t that add a totally different angle to the Ripper’s motives?"(3)
Annelie, you are a great profiler!
0-0-0-
Ana Kronberg's lover is great:
"Sometimes, he with his orange mane and his coarse tongue and paws, made me think of a lion."(4)
0-0-0-
The way you situate Dr. Kronberg and Sherlock Holmes in the physical world is very memorable:
"Holmes’s face flushed in excitement and he slapped his hand on the table. Darkness fell. A loud clatter told us the silverware had jumped off the ledge."(5)
And:
"The glass I had spoken to had gotten cloudy."(6)
This is delicious:
"The horse bolted, the cabby shouted, and we were joggled about like chocolate candy in a box."(7)
0-0-0-
How so very English and so very Holmesian that this shocking scene only seems to impress Sherlock:
"Holmes stumbled two steps backwards. The sight of a naked woman, alabaster against an obsidian lake, seemed to have left an impression. "(8)
0-0-0-
But the best of the surprises of this fine novel, is the psychology of the detective. The author lets the reader glimpse the thoughts of Dr. Kronberg at intense moments in a marvelous and revealing way:
When Ana Kronberg is pursued by a group of menacing teenagers at night:
"I started running as fast as I could, trying to picture a forest around me, to make me feel safer or more self-assured."(9)
When she is injured in the back of her head:
"The bald patch there was as ugly as a scorched forest."(10)
It's only real people like Dr. Kronberg and me (Rubén) who confess:
"I have to confess Watson’s narrative annoyed me a little."(11)
Sometimes more than a little, but how human and perceptive and intelligent of Dr. Kronberg to be irritated by the same idiosyncrasies of Watson as me!
When Dr. Kronberg is examining the prisoners:
"Anything but die on cholera while being strapped onto a bunk."(12)
The double life she lives affords deep insights:
"Living disguised as a man had given me a radically broader view on humanity... Sometimes I felt the insane urge to tell them all to cross-dress. How would the world change?"(13)
But the most extraordinary revelation of Ana Kronberg's soul comes from her dream:
"He stood behind me, planted a kiss on my shoulder, then opened my shirt with his left hand, and pulled it aside. His right hand held a knife. Slowly he slit my abdomen open; I meant to scream but could not make a single sound. Lazily he pulled my intestines out and draped them over both my shoulders."(14)
Why does she have this dream?
Literary folklore (which of course knows everything and is never wrong) says that Chekhov established the first rule of theatre: "If you show a gun in the first act, you have to shoot with it in the third", (I have never been able to discover exactly where did Chekhov wrote this rule, but someday I'll find where).
This dream of Ana Kronberg is the gun in the first act, so I candidly thought the author was going to shoot with it in the third and reveal the origin of Ana's dream; but the novel ended with that particular gun's virginity untouched, is the author going to reveal Ana's mystery to us in the next Kronberg novel?
Why is Ana dreaming Jack The Ripper murders her, but, please notice that before slitting her abdomen, Jack plants a kiss in her shoulder, why, why, why?
Why is Jack behind her?
Why is Jack murdering her?
Why couldn't she make a sound?
Ana Kronberg has other unexplained dreams, and that makes her mysterious and attractive, her soul is revealed, but the revelation is another alluring mystery to be investigated.
0-0-0-
I enjoyed Dr. Kronberg's visit to Robert Koch's laboratory in Berlin, I wish I could visit too.
0-0-0-
The clipped dialog between two extremely intelligent persons, Dr. Kronberg and Holmes, is extremely enjoyable:
"He didn’t even notice his getting cold. I had almost finished eating as he seemed to return to the present: ‘Do you think we can heard the Oriole’s call in the Berkshire?’
Hastily, I swallowed the last bit of pork before inhaling it accidentally, opened my mouth, and closed it again with a snap. After a moment of consideration I answered: ‘Broadmoor Lunatic Asylum? "(15)
And I think dialogue is the most authentic way an author can characterize, humanize and make believable her (his) characters, it is also the most difficult, and it is extremely difficult when one of them is Sherlock Holmes and the other is her character. However, Annelie Wendeberg aces with flying colors this obstacle and we feel Sherlock's reactions to Ana Kronberg are absolutely, palpably, genuine Sherlock Holmes in the flesh.
0-0-0-
Annelie, why is it that we admire Sherlock Holmes but we are unsatisfied with him?, we want him to be our friend, our lover, and we rewrite his story to make him almost human without changing his fascinating personality. I think you manage to make him a bit more humane and more likable than the original, without changing his personality, but let me tell you, Ana Kronberg interests me much more than Sherlock.
Is it because I already know Sherlock's story and I don't know Ana Kronberg's? The answer is no. Ana is fascinating, even when placed beside Sherlock Holmes, and that is an impressive achievement, congratulations.
0-0-0-
What I have said so far does not exhaust the many fine points that stand out of your novel, but I managed to ask the most poignant questions your novel and Dr. Kronberg forced me to wonder.
So you see I'm a big fan of yours, and as member of the jury I award you: First Place.
your fan:
Rubén
P.S. I enjoyed writing this letter to you. Hope you like it.
Note by the author: A few days ago I got an email from Ruben, telling me how very much he enjoyed the novel and quoted a line from chapter three. I almost got a heart attack! He had read the entire novel before its publication date, because one very tired night I had accidentially posted a full-length draft instead of the updated first chapter.
I swallowed, pulled the draft off Goodreads and posted chapter one again. But I got curious and asked Ruben what he thought about the novel. After all, he was my first reader. This morning I got his email. I loved it so much that I asked him whether he would like to post it as his text review. He happily agreed.
Thank you Ruben!
here is my suggestion: Your email from this morning was so nice and everyone reading it will notice the joy you had writing it. So why not post this one as your review? All I'll do is to replace the quotes from the older draft with quotes from the final draft and put a note at the end (from me, explaining how this all happened). Here it is, tell me what you think:
Oh, Annelie!, you mean that I got a Samizdat Wikileaks copy of Devil's Grin? I'm so lucky!, I should rush to buy a lottery ticket!, but frankly, your novel is much better than a million dollars, let me tell you why, (you asked for it, so now you take it and like it! [This is a joke])
First things first; the last paragraph of the file I got is:
"...and I can only think that this is a bad sign, very bad indeed. His name was Professor James Moriarty."(1)
Is this the ending of the novel?, it certainly seems a very fine ending in a cliffhanger; I want to read your next Dr. Kronberg novel!
0-0-0-
There are many firsts in your novel, and I have read many detective novels, written by male and female authors, (and yet I didn't know Laurie King existed!), so all I can say is that judging from my experience, there are several impressive firsts in your novel.
0-0-0-
There are many fine points in your novel, let me tell you about one that stunned me, in my experience it is the first time a detective cries because of the horror he or she just experienced. Dr. Kronberg tells us that after discovering what was happening in Broadmoor's oven:
"I lay flat on the thick branch and wept."(2)
The humanity of Dr. Kronberg moved me.
0-0-0-
It is also the first time a detective discusses Jack The Ripper with Sherlock Holmes, and also the first time in my experience that a detective offers this new point of view upon the his crimes. Dr. Kronberg tells Holmes:
"Due to my occupation I do come across a rather large number of stab wounds and one of the peculiar things I noticed was that almost all women with knife wounds in their lower abdomen were victims of attempted rape. And all of those who survived the attack reported the rapist used a knife because he was unable to penetrate them, he was unable to produce an erection. Doesn’t that add a totally different angle to the Ripper’s motives?"(3)
Annelie, you are a great profiler!
0-0-0-
Ana Kronberg's lover is great:
"Sometimes, he with his orange mane and his coarse tongue and paws, made me think of a lion."(4)
0-0-0-
The way you situate Dr. Kronberg and Sherlock Holmes in the physical world is very memorable:
"Holmes’s face flushed in excitement and he slapped his hand on the table. Darkness fell. A loud clatter told us the silverware had jumped off the ledge."(5)
And:
"The glass I had spoken to had gotten cloudy."(6)
This is delicious:
"The horse bolted, the cabby shouted, and we were joggled about like chocolate candy in a box."(7)
0-0-0-
How so very English and so very Holmesian that this shocking scene only seems to impress Sherlock:
"Holmes stumbled two steps backwards. The sight of a naked woman, alabaster against an obsidian lake, seemed to have left an impression. "(8)
0-0-0-
But the best of the surprises of this fine novel, is the psychology of the detective. The author lets the reader glimpse the thoughts of Dr. Kronberg at intense moments in a marvelous and revealing way:
When Ana Kronberg is pursued by a group of menacing teenagers at night:
"I started running as fast as I could, trying to picture a forest around me, to make me feel safer or more self-assured."(9)
When she is injured in the back of her head:
"The bald patch there was as ugly as a scorched forest."(10)
It's only real people like Dr. Kronberg and me (Rubén) who confess:
"I have to confess Watson’s narrative annoyed me a little."(11)
Sometimes more than a little, but how human and perceptive and intelligent of Dr. Kronberg to be irritated by the same idiosyncrasies of Watson as me!
When Dr. Kronberg is examining the prisoners:
"Anything but die on cholera while being strapped onto a bunk."(12)
The double life she lives affords deep insights:
"Living disguised as a man had given me a radically broader view on humanity... Sometimes I felt the insane urge to tell them all to cross-dress. How would the world change?"(13)
But the most extraordinary revelation of Ana Kronberg's soul comes from her dream:
"He stood behind me, planted a kiss on my shoulder, then opened my shirt with his left hand, and pulled it aside. His right hand held a knife. Slowly he slit my abdomen open; I meant to scream but could not make a single sound. Lazily he pulled my intestines out and draped them over both my shoulders."(14)
Why does she have this dream?
Literary folklore (which of course knows everything and is never wrong) says that Chekhov established the first rule of theatre: "If you show a gun in the first act, you have to shoot with it in the third", (I have never been able to discover exactly where did Chekhov wrote this rule, but someday I'll find where).
This dream of Ana Kronberg is the gun in the first act, so I candidly thought the author was going to shoot with it in the third and reveal the origin of Ana's dream; but the novel ended with that particular gun's virginity untouched, is the author going to reveal Ana's mystery to us in the next Kronberg novel?
Why is Ana dreaming Jack The Ripper murders her, but, please notice that before slitting her abdomen, Jack plants a kiss in her shoulder, why, why, why?
Why is Jack behind her?
Why is Jack murdering her?
Why couldn't she make a sound?
Ana Kronberg has other unexplained dreams, and that makes her mysterious and attractive, her soul is revealed, but the revelation is another alluring mystery to be investigated.
0-0-0-
I enjoyed Dr. Kronberg's visit to Robert Koch's laboratory in Berlin, I wish I could visit too.
0-0-0-
The clipped dialog between two extremely intelligent persons, Dr. Kronberg and Holmes, is extremely enjoyable:
"He didn’t even notice his getting cold. I had almost finished eating as he seemed to return to the present: ‘Do you think we can heard the Oriole’s call in the Berkshire?’
Hastily, I swallowed the last bit of pork before inhaling it accidentally, opened my mouth, and closed it again with a snap. After a moment of consideration I answered: ‘Broadmoor Lunatic Asylum? "(15)
And I think dialogue is the most authentic way an author can characterize, humanize and make believable her (his) characters, it is also the most difficult, and it is extremely difficult when one of them is Sherlock Holmes and the other is her character. However, Annelie Wendeberg aces with flying colors this obstacle and we feel Sherlock's reactions to Ana Kronberg are absolutely, palpably, genuine Sherlock Holmes in the flesh.
0-0-0-
Annelie, why is it that we admire Sherlock Holmes but we are unsatisfied with him?, we want him to be our friend, our lover, and we rewrite his story to make him almost human without changing his fascinating personality. I think you manage to make him a bit more humane and more likable than the original, without changing his personality, but let me tell you, Ana Kronberg interests me much more than Sherlock.
Is it because I already know Sherlock's story and I don't know Ana Kronberg's? The answer is no. Ana is fascinating, even when placed beside Sherlock Holmes, and that is an impressive achievement, congratulations.
0-0-0-
What I have said so far does not exhaust the many fine points that stand out of your novel, but I managed to ask the most poignant questions your novel and Dr. Kronberg forced me to wonder.
So you see I'm a big fan of yours, and as member of the jury I award you: First Place.
your fan:
Rubén
P.S. I enjoyed writing this letter to you. Hope you like it.
Note by the author: A few days ago I got an email from Ruben, telling me how very much he enjoyed the novel and quoted a line from chapter three. I almost got a heart attack! He had read the entire novel before its publication date, because one very tired night I had accidentially posted a full-length draft instead of the updated first chapter.
I swallowed, pulled the draft off Goodreads and posted chapter one again. But I got curious and asked Ruben what he thought about the novel. After all, he was my first reader. This morning I got his email. I loved it so much that I asked him whether he would like to post it as his text review. He happily agreed.
Thank you Ruben!
January 3, 2014
I really wanted to enjoy this book. I mean, in my e-library, I have over 200 books I could choose, and I read this one, wanting a good Holmes-and-friend tale. What I got was a feminist mash-up with more problems than positives, and a "first book" that made me pity anyone who was willing to pay for a second.
Let's start out this way: Anna/Anton is an issue unto him/herself. No reason is given for a German woman to a) pretend to be a man to attend medical school in Germany, then b) travel to the U.S. to attend Harvard Medical (note: American women WERE attending medical schools by 1890, we know this, so this plot point made me actually dislike the inaccuracy and sullied the book), then c) come to London. Again, the character's motives are never made clear and for a story that is supposed to appeal to fans of Doyle, this is glaring. To add insult to injury, the narrator is unable to establish why we, the reader, should care about her success or failure. Big bad male doctors are preying on the poor and the heroine is going to stop them! Except she proves she is perfectly willing to lie, cheat, deceive, and even kill in the advancement of HER agenda, but she is supposed to be morally superior?
Second, the dialog is just WRONG! Never mind putting words into Holmes' mouth that the Master of Baker Street would never say, the dialog is stilted, bordering on the mechanical. This was actually the first thing that grabbed my attention from the opening of the novel. I get it: writing good dialog is hard enough in modern English, much less a period piece set in an environment that readers know very well. But if you are not up to the challenge, stick to modern scene and language.
Third: grinding predictability. I did not need to even look at the "sneak peak" at the second book. The big reveal is telegraphed in neon capital letters about 3 miles tall: MORIARTY! The author desperately tries to ride the coat-tails of Holmes and Watson, and when you have a "hidden leader" of The Group, is there any question about who that leader is?
Finally, and this is perhaps just me: the personal relationships that emphasize Anna is a "liberated woman." Between her casual sex with the thief, her constant attempts to outsmart Holmes, and using herself as "bait" with The Group," it was made crushingly clear that the author wants her character to be "thoroughly modern." But yet she sets it in Holmes' London immediately after the Ripper (and cannot help herself advancing the proto-feminist logic that the murders were a form of symbolic rape).
It is rare I can find so little to recommend in a book, especially one I selected myself. But I would not recommend this book, and certainly not advice anyone to purchase the sequel. If the first is this bad, how poor must its follow-up be?
Let's start out this way: Anna/Anton is an issue unto him/herself. No reason is given for a German woman to a) pretend to be a man to attend medical school in Germany, then b) travel to the U.S. to attend Harvard Medical (note: American women WERE attending medical schools by 1890, we know this, so this plot point made me actually dislike the inaccuracy and sullied the book), then c) come to London. Again, the character's motives are never made clear and for a story that is supposed to appeal to fans of Doyle, this is glaring. To add insult to injury, the narrator is unable to establish why we, the reader, should care about her success or failure. Big bad male doctors are preying on the poor and the heroine is going to stop them! Except she proves she is perfectly willing to lie, cheat, deceive, and even kill in the advancement of HER agenda, but she is supposed to be morally superior?
Second, the dialog is just WRONG! Never mind putting words into Holmes' mouth that the Master of Baker Street would never say, the dialog is stilted, bordering on the mechanical. This was actually the first thing that grabbed my attention from the opening of the novel. I get it: writing good dialog is hard enough in modern English, much less a period piece set in an environment that readers know very well. But if you are not up to the challenge, stick to modern scene and language.
Third: grinding predictability. I did not need to even look at the "sneak peak" at the second book. The big reveal is telegraphed in neon capital letters about 3 miles tall: MORIARTY! The author desperately tries to ride the coat-tails of Holmes and Watson, and when you have a "hidden leader" of The Group, is there any question about who that leader is?
Finally, and this is perhaps just me: the personal relationships that emphasize Anna is a "liberated woman." Between her casual sex with the thief, her constant attempts to outsmart Holmes, and using herself as "bait" with The Group," it was made crushingly clear that the author wants her character to be "thoroughly modern." But yet she sets it in Holmes' London immediately after the Ripper (and cannot help herself advancing the proto-feminist logic that the murders were a form of symbolic rape).
It is rare I can find so little to recommend in a book, especially one I selected myself. But I would not recommend this book, and certainly not advice anyone to purchase the sequel. If the first is this bad, how poor must its follow-up be?
June 4, 2015
¡QUÉ LIBRO!
Confieso que no he leído muchos libros de misterio o asesinatos, pero cuando vi la sinopsis de este quedé encantada. ¿Qué más le podía pedir a una historia que una mujer que se hace pasar por hombre para ejercer la medicina en Londres, un extraño caso sin resolver y la aparición de Sherlock Holmes? Todos los elementos me parecieron geniales.
Empecé a leer el libro... ¡y no pude soltarlo hasta terminarlo! Las páginas se pasan solas y la historia, sus personajes y los diálogos te van envolviendo lentamente. ¡Y qué diálogos! Adoré los momentos en los que Anna y Sherlock se enzarzan en conversaciones de ingenio y de "vamos a ver quién puede entrar a la mente del otro primero". Son sencillamente brillantes.
En mi opinión, el ambiente del Londres de finales del siglo XIX está muy bien construido. Todos los caminos que toma Anna para llegar a su casa, en uno de los lugares más pobres de Londres, contrastan increíblemente con sus recorridos hasta el número 221B de Baker Street (¿les suena de algo esta dirección? ;) ).
Además de la ambientación, los personajes son absolutamente creíbles. Por un lado está Anna/Anton con su doble personalidad e inteligencia; luego está Sherlock con su ingenio y su reticencia emocional; pasamos por la picardía de Garret; y llegamos a la malicia y perversidad de los miembros del "Club". En definitiva, los personajes son profundos y únicos, puedes distinguirlos fácilmente desde las primeras páginas.
Y bueno, ¡qué decir de la trama! Si bien no es la trama de crímenes y misterio más complicada de la historia de este tipo de novelas, está muy bien desarrollada. Creo que no se deja cabos sueltos y que mantiene su nivel de intriga hasta el punto necesario, para luego empezar a desenvolverse y resolverse.
Debo decir que nunca había leído un libro que involucrara a Sherlock Holmes y esta novela me ha animado a buscar las historias originales de Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Claramente, por el hecho de no haber leído estas historias, no sé qué tal fielmente retratada está la personalidad del Sherlock de Doyle en este libro, así que sobre eso no opino, jajaja.
Confieso que no he leído muchos libros de misterio o asesinatos, pero cuando vi la sinopsis de este quedé encantada. ¿Qué más le podía pedir a una historia que una mujer que se hace pasar por hombre para ejercer la medicina en Londres, un extraño caso sin resolver y la aparición de Sherlock Holmes? Todos los elementos me parecieron geniales.
Empecé a leer el libro... ¡y no pude soltarlo hasta terminarlo! Las páginas se pasan solas y la historia, sus personajes y los diálogos te van envolviendo lentamente. ¡Y qué diálogos! Adoré los momentos en los que Anna y Sherlock se enzarzan en conversaciones de ingenio y de "vamos a ver quién puede entrar a la mente del otro primero". Son sencillamente brillantes.
En mi opinión, el ambiente del Londres de finales del siglo XIX está muy bien construido. Todos los caminos que toma Anna para llegar a su casa, en uno de los lugares más pobres de Londres, contrastan increíblemente con sus recorridos hasta el número 221B de Baker Street (¿les suena de algo esta dirección? ;) ).
Además de la ambientación, los personajes son absolutamente creíbles. Por un lado está Anna/Anton con su doble personalidad e inteligencia; luego está Sherlock con su ingenio y su reticencia emocional; pasamos por la picardía de Garret; y llegamos a la malicia y perversidad de los miembros del "Club". En definitiva, los personajes son profundos y únicos, puedes distinguirlos fácilmente desde las primeras páginas.
Y bueno, ¡qué decir de la trama! Si bien no es la trama de crímenes y misterio más complicada de la historia de este tipo de novelas, está muy bien desarrollada. Creo que no se deja cabos sueltos y que mantiene su nivel de intriga hasta el punto necesario, para luego empezar a desenvolverse y resolverse.
Debo decir que nunca había leído un libro que involucrara a Sherlock Holmes y esta novela me ha animado a buscar las historias originales de Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Claramente, por el hecho de no haber leído estas historias, no sé qué tal fielmente retratada está la personalidad del Sherlock de Doyle en este libro, así que sobre eso no opino, jajaja.
March 29, 2013
The Devil's Grin is a fabulous foray into the world of Sherlock Holmes from a new and unexpected direction.
When a cholera victim is found floating in London's primary water source, pioneer bacteriologist Dr. Anton Kronberg and Sherlock Holmes join forces to determine who he is, how he arrived there and, most importantly, how he was infected with the diseases from which he died. Needless to say, the answers are not simple.
I am quite pleased to have chosen this book to read. As a Holmes fan from childhood, finding an author who can contribute to the Holmesian world in a credible way is quite a joy.
The story does justice to the original Holmes tales and graphically illustrates some of the social and ethical issues of those times that are often glossed over and forgotten. The tale also has a quite solid grounding in science and the scientific method.
I recommend this as entertaining, informative and a worthwhile read.
When a cholera victim is found floating in London's primary water source, pioneer bacteriologist Dr. Anton Kronberg and Sherlock Holmes join forces to determine who he is, how he arrived there and, most importantly, how he was infected with the diseases from which he died. Needless to say, the answers are not simple.
I am quite pleased to have chosen this book to read. As a Holmes fan from childhood, finding an author who can contribute to the Holmesian world in a credible way is quite a joy.
The story does justice to the original Holmes tales and graphically illustrates some of the social and ethical issues of those times that are often glossed over and forgotten. The tale also has a quite solid grounding in science and the scientific method.
I recommend this as entertaining, informative and a worthwhile read.
November 2, 2013
I enjoyed this (too short) novel from Annelie Wendeberg. It's flavor is very similar to Laurie King's Mary Russell series.
Wendeburg has created an interesting character in Anna Kronberg and I enjoyed getting to know her. A brave and dedicated doctor, she lives a double life. Having put herself through medical school, she's become a well-known bacteriologist, but because women are forbidden from practicing medicine she chooses to disguise herself as a man and lives as Dr. Anton Kronberg. Dr. Kronberg has been called to consult on a suspected case of contamination of London's water supply, a body was found, the cause of death may be cholera.
The mystery was well done and believable and I liked the way the author tied the protagonist to the story. If you're like me and you enjoy, rats and plague and filth you'll probably enjoy the cholera and tetanus that make an appearance here.
There were a few editorial errors and a couple of exchanges between characters that could have benefited from a little more refinement. I also felt like there were a few times when the story was less than smooth. But the two main characters were engaging and I really liked the way they worked together and I wanted to know how the hell they were going to get out of the jam they'd gotten themselves into.
I have a big pile of books that need to be read on the nightstand but after finishing this story this morning I kept wanting to read more about Dr. Kronberg and Holmes so, I bought the kindle version this afternoon.
I love that there are warnings listed on the purchase pages for these books. Warning: This book contains non-explicit sex-scenes, violence, and considerable female power.
I hope the next one is as fun as the first one was.
August 31, 2012
An interesting twist to the character of Watson creates a world of "new" possibilities in the Sherlock Holmes saga. Have only read one chapter so far but I do hope that the author is able to sustain the tension and intrigue. The language and style (true to the Victorian era) quite transports the reader back to England in the 19th century. A great appetizer so far - has one out with a bowl, asking like another Victorian character "Please Ma'am, can I have some more?"
May 6, 2013
The Devil's Grin by Annelie Wendeberg is the first book in the 'Kronberg Crimes' series.
Set in Victorian England, this book is a mix of fiction and historical facts. Disease coats the streets and Jack the Ripper haunts the alleys. People will do anything to survive.
The year is 1889 and Doctor Anton Kronberg has been asked for assistance in identifying a possible cholera victim at the Hampton Water Treatment Works by Scotland Yard's Inspector Gibson. Anton works at Guy's Hospital in London in the ward of infectious diseases. The best bacteriologist and epidemiologist in England. Cholera is one of many constant threats and the hospital is always packed three to a bed, leading to the further spread of disease.
Going to inspect the dead man, Anton meets the famous Sherlock Holmes, who surprises both Anton and the reader by discovering that Anton Kronberg is in fact Anna Kronberg, a female doctor who earned her degree in Germany. Anna is reasonably upset. This is an era where women are forbidden to study medicine or become doctors. The only women in a medical field are nurses. Anna works very hard to keep her identity secret by changing her countenance and her appearance, even going as far as to keep a bag filled with water in her trousers so her colleagues can occasional see her 'peeing' at the urinals, to leave no doubt in their minds that she is a man. If her secret was ever revealed, she would be incarcerated for life.
Anna is just as sharp and observant as Sherlock. The two decide to work with each other (which neither of them are particularly used to or pleased about) after finding a few discrepancies on the body. The two will have to learn to deal with one another and try to get along with someone just as knowledgable as themselves. They will no doubt get on each other's nerves, but there is amicability and understanding there too.
As they begin to see more into the dark underworld and corrupt corporations that are involved, they begin to realise just how deep they're in. Could the man have been killed by tetanus? If so, how could he contract it without any deep wounds or without consuming a tetanus infected animal? Is it possible he was murdered? They must also learn to battle with their own dark demons and consider how far either of them are willing to go to find the truth, even if it means risking their lives or that of others.
The title of this book comes from one of the symptoms of a tetanus victim- a grin. It is a telltale sign of tetanus.
The characters are intriguing. Sherlock is Sherlock. What can I say about this character that isn't already known to every person under the sun? His depiction here is very similar to his original character. Obviously, there will be slight discrepancies, not just because of a different author, but also because he's interacting with people he's never met before. All people act differently depending on the person they're with, including Sherlock. For fans of Sherlock, don't worry, he is still true to himself, if not for the occasional phrase I couldn't quite picture him saying.
Sherlock himself is already a character who's interesting enough to carry the story, but Anna/Anton's character was equally compelling, to say the least. Forced to hide her gender, she spends so much time as a man, that she questions her identity. It's not that she's transgender or confused about her sexuality, but more that she has seen the pros and cons of being a member of each gender and she wonders which one it is better to be and which one she is more suited to. Add to that the fact that she must completely shed her female self, so as not to be discovered, and it's not wonder she's unsure.
Like Sherlock, she will push herself to her physical and mental limits to get an answer. Together, the chemistry these two characters share is palpable. I'm bringing it up because I'm sure people will wonder, but the only similarity between her and Irene is that the two are equally as intelligent as Sherlock himself. They can outwit him. But Irene is very sure of her gender and obviously loves being a woman and the ability to make Sherlock uncomfortable with it. Anna isn't even sure what gender she wants to be. Their personalities are very different and these two characters are not to be confused.
Anna and Sherlock can singlehandedly carry this story. The plot is interesting and dark, but even if it had been terrible, I believe that Anna and Sherlock would still make it work. They're just that entertaining and thought-provoking.
An incomplete ending, this is a series that connects all its stories through plot, not just characters. It is not often that the same story will continue through the series. The same villain perhaps, but generally when you start a new book, a new plot begins as well. For those who aren't fans of endings without resolution, there is enough of a conclusion to satisfy. We just aren't given the whole picture. The final line will leave fans of both this book's characters and Sherlock Holmes hurrying to the next instalment.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are 100% my own.
Set in Victorian England, this book is a mix of fiction and historical facts. Disease coats the streets and Jack the Ripper haunts the alleys. People will do anything to survive.
The year is 1889 and Doctor Anton Kronberg has been asked for assistance in identifying a possible cholera victim at the Hampton Water Treatment Works by Scotland Yard's Inspector Gibson. Anton works at Guy's Hospital in London in the ward of infectious diseases. The best bacteriologist and epidemiologist in England. Cholera is one of many constant threats and the hospital is always packed three to a bed, leading to the further spread of disease.
Going to inspect the dead man, Anton meets the famous Sherlock Holmes, who surprises both Anton and the reader by discovering that Anton Kronberg is in fact Anna Kronberg, a female doctor who earned her degree in Germany. Anna is reasonably upset. This is an era where women are forbidden to study medicine or become doctors. The only women in a medical field are nurses. Anna works very hard to keep her identity secret by changing her countenance and her appearance, even going as far as to keep a bag filled with water in her trousers so her colleagues can occasional see her 'peeing' at the urinals, to leave no doubt in their minds that she is a man. If her secret was ever revealed, she would be incarcerated for life.
Anna is just as sharp and observant as Sherlock. The two decide to work with each other (which neither of them are particularly used to or pleased about) after finding a few discrepancies on the body. The two will have to learn to deal with one another and try to get along with someone just as knowledgable as themselves. They will no doubt get on each other's nerves, but there is amicability and understanding there too.
As they begin to see more into the dark underworld and corrupt corporations that are involved, they begin to realise just how deep they're in. Could the man have been killed by tetanus? If so, how could he contract it without any deep wounds or without consuming a tetanus infected animal? Is it possible he was murdered? They must also learn to battle with their own dark demons and consider how far either of them are willing to go to find the truth, even if it means risking their lives or that of others.
The title of this book comes from one of the symptoms of a tetanus victim- a grin. It is a telltale sign of tetanus.
The characters are intriguing. Sherlock is Sherlock. What can I say about this character that isn't already known to every person under the sun? His depiction here is very similar to his original character. Obviously, there will be slight discrepancies, not just because of a different author, but also because he's interacting with people he's never met before. All people act differently depending on the person they're with, including Sherlock. For fans of Sherlock, don't worry, he is still true to himself, if not for the occasional phrase I couldn't quite picture him saying.
Sherlock himself is already a character who's interesting enough to carry the story, but Anna/Anton's character was equally compelling, to say the least. Forced to hide her gender, she spends so much time as a man, that she questions her identity. It's not that she's transgender or confused about her sexuality, but more that she has seen the pros and cons of being a member of each gender and she wonders which one it is better to be and which one she is more suited to. Add to that the fact that she must completely shed her female self, so as not to be discovered, and it's not wonder she's unsure.
Like Sherlock, she will push herself to her physical and mental limits to get an answer. Together, the chemistry these two characters share is palpable. I'm bringing it up because I'm sure people will wonder, but the only similarity between her and Irene is that the two are equally as intelligent as Sherlock himself. They can outwit him. But Irene is very sure of her gender and obviously loves being a woman and the ability to make Sherlock uncomfortable with it. Anna isn't even sure what gender she wants to be. Their personalities are very different and these two characters are not to be confused.
Anna and Sherlock can singlehandedly carry this story. The plot is interesting and dark, but even if it had been terrible, I believe that Anna and Sherlock would still make it work. They're just that entertaining and thought-provoking.
An incomplete ending, this is a series that connects all its stories through plot, not just characters. It is not often that the same story will continue through the series. The same villain perhaps, but generally when you start a new book, a new plot begins as well. For those who aren't fans of endings without resolution, there is enough of a conclusion to satisfy. We just aren't given the whole picture. The final line will leave fans of both this book's characters and Sherlock Holmes hurrying to the next instalment.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are 100% my own.
May 2, 2022
Me ha encantado. 4,5 estrellas.
Un error leerlo, me he quedado enganchada y no hay ninguno más publicado en español por ahora... qué se le va a hacer, soy fan incondicional de Sherlock Holmes...
Un error leerlo, me he quedado enganchada y no hay ninguno más publicado en español por ahora... qué se le va a hacer, soy fan incondicional de Sherlock Holmes...
September 1, 2014
I'm one of those despicable readers who really hates classics. For two main reasons. Firstly, I find most pre-20th century writing styles to be as boring as hell. Secondly, there is only a certain dosage of out-dated moral code I can take without throwing the book to the other side of the room. I yawn at the Brontes. I scoff at Dickens. And you would not believe the expression of disbelief on my face when my English teacher stated that Elizabeth Bennett was her favourite fictional heroine.
The works of Conan-Doyle are one of the rare anomalies of my Classic-hatred. I'm honestly a bit of a Holmes junkie, but don't tell anyone. And I wasn't convinced that this one would really work. I mean, Holmes, not portrayed by the (vaguely idiotic) Dr Watson?!? What is this sorcery?!?!
But I actually thought it worked really well.
Yes, the plot was very action packed for a Holmes mystery and the writing was dotted with several anachronistic, modern, colloquial Americanisms, but I can forgive that for one main reason.
Anna Kronberg.
Our heroine. A 'I'll dress as a man and work as doctor if I want to' kind of girl, the leading bacteriologist in the UK, who everyone thinks is a man. This chick won't subscribe to the social norms or morals: she has an Irish thief lover and has no qualms about it. She treats the poor and starving of London and isn't afraid to work undercover in a fucked-up medical research organisation.
She does a Sherlock to Sherlock.
Her mental capacity is only a step below Holmes's, and she doesn't take shit from any man, including one who worked out her secret of actually being a woman. Nuh-uh. I want to throw this one at my English teacher to show what a proper heroine is like.
But despite dressing as a man, she doesn't despise being a woman. She goes out as Anna Kronberg at night, and disguises herself as Anton Kronberg during the day so she can practice medicine, not to deny being female.
It gives me a warm, fuzzy, feministic feeling inside.
Then there's her relationship with Holmes. The two frighteningly intelligent people are at arms a lot, but you can just tell that Anna will fall in love with him. I can't really blame her. I'm sort of in love with him as well. The two work on an un-Doyle-esque case with impressive efficiency, but which still ended far too soon in a 'aaannnddd now go buy the sequel' fashion. I probably won't buy the sequel. It's partly a protest that this plot can only really fill one book without getting utterly ridiculous and partly because I'm scared that my beloved Anna will just get more loved-up.
She isn't my favourite heroine, I've read Elizabeth Wein's books after all, but I definitely fell in love with her a little bit when she asked the question that we all want to ask of Sherlock:
The works of Conan-Doyle are one of the rare anomalies of my Classic-hatred. I'm honestly a bit of a Holmes junkie, but don't tell anyone. And I wasn't convinced that this one would really work. I mean, Holmes, not portrayed by the (vaguely idiotic) Dr Watson?!? What is this sorcery?!?!
But I actually thought it worked really well.
Yes, the plot was very action packed for a Holmes mystery and the writing was dotted with several anachronistic, modern, colloquial Americanisms, but I can forgive that for one main reason.
Anna Kronberg.
Our heroine. A 'I'll dress as a man and work as doctor if I want to' kind of girl, the leading bacteriologist in the UK, who everyone thinks is a man. This chick won't subscribe to the social norms or morals: she has an Irish thief lover and has no qualms about it. She treats the poor and starving of London and isn't afraid to work undercover in a fucked-up medical research organisation.
She does a Sherlock to Sherlock.
Her mental capacity is only a step below Holmes's, and she doesn't take shit from any man, including one who worked out her secret of actually being a woman. Nuh-uh. I want to throw this one at my English teacher to show what a proper heroine is like.
But despite dressing as a man, she doesn't despise being a woman. She goes out as Anna Kronberg at night, and disguises herself as Anton Kronberg during the day so she can practice medicine, not to deny being female.
It gives me a warm, fuzzy, feministic feeling inside.
Then there's her relationship with Holmes. The two frighteningly intelligent people are at arms a lot, but you can just tell that Anna will fall in love with him. I can't really blame her. I'm sort of in love with him as well. The two work on an un-Doyle-esque case with impressive efficiency, but which still ended far too soon in a 'aaannnddd now go buy the sequel' fashion. I probably won't buy the sequel. It's partly a protest that this plot can only really fill one book without getting utterly ridiculous and partly because I'm scared that my beloved Anna will just get more loved-up.
She isn't my favourite heroine, I've read Elizabeth Wein's books after all, but I definitely fell in love with her a little bit when she asked the question that we all want to ask of Sherlock:
“Mycroft? By Jove! Sherlock, Mycroft — what were your parents thinking?”
November 4, 2018
Novela con tramos que se me han hecho interminables y eso que es muy cortita. Dos Holmes en el mismo libro es demasiado, Watson tiene una razón de ser, hacer más ameno y entendible al detective. Pero, si le pones de partener a una mujer que se disfraza de hombre para poder ejercer la medicina, tanto o más inteligente que él puede llegar a ser muy pedante.
January 4, 2021
Can't believe I shipped Anna with Sherlock ehskldjkasg
I really quite enjoyed this! It wasn't anything groundbreaking, and after saying it was more gruesome than Jack the Ripper's murders I was kinda disappointed, but it was a nice listen anyways. Sad about the non-ending, but perhaps it gets mentioned in the next book as it seems it is continuing on from this one. And given the character in there, I'm assuming they're the one behind it all!
Cannot wait to get to that!
Anyways, Anna is a badass woman who pretends to be a man so she can be in the field of her choice in London, as it's illegal in Germany, where she's from, and solves crimes. In this case with Sherlock Holmes. I mean. Can I get an adaptation of this please and thank you?
Trigger warnings:
I really quite enjoyed this! It wasn't anything groundbreaking, and after saying it was more gruesome than Jack the Ripper's murders I was kinda disappointed, but it was a nice listen anyways. Sad about the non-ending, but perhaps it gets mentioned in the next book as it seems it is continuing on from this one. And given the character in there, I'm assuming they're the one behind it all!
Cannot wait to get to that!
Anyways, Anna is a badass woman who pretends to be a man so she can be in the field of her choice in London, as it's illegal in Germany, where she's from, and solves crimes. In this case with Sherlock Holmes. I mean. Can I get an adaptation of this please and thank you?
Trigger warnings:
March 28, 2019
Intensa y emocionante historia de detectives dónde aparece el ilustrísimo Sherlock para ayudar (o incordiar, según se mire) a la protagonista.
Video reseña con toda la información: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnD59...
Video reseña con toda la información: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnD59...
August 13, 2017
Época victoriana + una protagonista totalmente atípica + un misterio al estilo Sherlock Holmes = La sonrisa del diablo.
Era definitivamente mi tipo de libro y qué genial se siente haber acertado ;)
Era definitivamente mi tipo de libro y qué genial se siente haber acertado ;)
November 24, 2012
I quite liked this book. Anna was a believable, smart, and sympathetic heroine and Holmes was smart, slightly snarky, and had the right amount of condescension. I felt the other characters were well described and had specific voices and characteristics that made them distinctive. I also liked the plot - medical testing done on the less fortunate and a secret club performing the tests. Anna and Sherlock are on the case and trying to figure out who's doing what and why. Unfortunately, this isn't a stand alone book, but the first in a series. I was unaware of that before reading it, so instead of closure, you're left waiting until the next book comes out to find out what happens. Boo for me (and you) until that second book comes out.
There were two things I disliked. First was the change in point of view. The book is told in three parts - Anna, Anton, and Sherlock. Part one was told in Anna's first person POV. Considering Anna and Anton are the same person, you would expect those parts to be told from the same first person POV. Instead, part two switched to third person and occasionally slipped back into first person. Part three was also told in first person, but not Sherlock's so I don't entirely understand labeling each section with a different character since it doesn't change narrator. I thought perhaps part two was told in third person to make the reader feel like they were experiencing Anna/Anton watching her own actions without being attached to them, but I'm not entirely sure. If this was the intent, I guess it worked? Otherwise I felt it was kind of distracting.
The second thing that was bothersome to me was the editing. There were instances where the author meant to write were and wrote where instead. Same with loosing when losing was the correct word in the sentence. I realize that most people would overlook things like this, it just bothers me because it's simple spelling that's incorrect and it makes me stop and reread a sentence to determine what was meant.
There were two things I disliked. First was the change in point of view. The book is told in three parts - Anna, Anton, and Sherlock. Part one was told in Anna's first person POV. Considering Anna and Anton are the same person, you would expect those parts to be told from the same first person POV. Instead, part two switched to third person and occasionally slipped back into first person. Part three was also told in first person, but not Sherlock's so I don't entirely understand labeling each section with a different character since it doesn't change narrator. I thought perhaps part two was told in third person to make the reader feel like they were experiencing Anna/Anton watching her own actions without being attached to them, but I'm not entirely sure. If this was the intent, I guess it worked? Otherwise I felt it was kind of distracting.
The second thing that was bothersome to me was the editing. There were instances where the author meant to write were and wrote where instead. Same with loosing when losing was the correct word in the sentence. I realize that most people would overlook things like this, it just bothers me because it's simple spelling that's incorrect and it makes me stop and reread a sentence to determine what was meant.
February 19, 2017
Rounding up from a 4.5. I found Anna's matching of Sherlock humorous. The story puts Sherlock out of his normal MO a bit, but if you know Sherlock he thinks himself superior so meeting his match is a source of frustration.
February 26, 2014
What a unique and interesting twist to the Homes genre. Annelie Wendeberg in “The Devil’s Grin” creates a genuinely new “Watson-like” character, and then she creates a world of "new adventures” for both “Watson” and Holmes. With a unique plot and some clever twists, the story starts off on a familiar note – murder? If you enjoy a well crafted and very original Sherlock Holmes mystery, go no further - this is it! The book is fast-paced, engaging, atmospheric, and I'm really fascinated with Anna's character.
In Victorian London, a series of murders remains undiscovered until a cholera victim is found floating in the city's drinking water supply. Dr Anton Kronberg, England's best bacteriologist, is called upon to investigate and finds evidence of abduction and medical maltreatment. While Scotland Yard has little interest in pursuing the case, Kronberg pushes on and crosses paths with Sherlock Holmes, and a new “Watson-like” character is born.
“The Devil’s Grin” is a well crafted mystery. The language is true to the Victorian era, and the atmosphere which Wendeberg creates transports the reader back to foggy England in the 19th century. The new protagonist Anna has deductive talents that equal those of Holmes. That along with the feminist slant and a strong female protagonist makes this story reminiscent of Laurie King's Mary Russell series. Although not quite as strong as King’s writing, the “Devil’s Grin” still is a must read for Sherlock and mystery fans alike. I strongly recommend it with the following minor reservations. Warning: This book does contain some scenes that are disturbing: some language, non-explicit sex, and some graphic dissection scenes.
In Victorian London, a series of murders remains undiscovered until a cholera victim is found floating in the city's drinking water supply. Dr Anton Kronberg, England's best bacteriologist, is called upon to investigate and finds evidence of abduction and medical maltreatment. While Scotland Yard has little interest in pursuing the case, Kronberg pushes on and crosses paths with Sherlock Holmes, and a new “Watson-like” character is born.
“The Devil’s Grin” is a well crafted mystery. The language is true to the Victorian era, and the atmosphere which Wendeberg creates transports the reader back to foggy England in the 19th century. The new protagonist Anna has deductive talents that equal those of Holmes. That along with the feminist slant and a strong female protagonist makes this story reminiscent of Laurie King's Mary Russell series. Although not quite as strong as King’s writing, the “Devil’s Grin” still is a must read for Sherlock and mystery fans alike. I strongly recommend it with the following minor reservations. Warning: This book does contain some scenes that are disturbing: some language, non-explicit sex, and some graphic dissection scenes.
November 9, 2013
At the turn of the 19th century, bacteriological research has made a tremendous leap. When epidemics were still untamed and claimed thousands of lives, Pasteur and Koch isolated deadly bacteria to develop vaccines. Biological warfare was but a small step away...
In Victorian London's cesspool of crime and disease, a series of murders remains undiscovered until a cholera victim is found floating in the city's drinking water supply. Dr Anton Kronberg, England's best bacteriologist, is called upon to investigate and finds evidence of abduction and medical maltreatment. While Scotland Yard has little interest in pursuing the case, Kronberg pushes on and crosses paths with Sherlock Holmes. The detective immediately discovers Kronberg's secret - a woman masquerading as a man in order to practice medicine - a criminal deed that could land her in prison for years to come. But both must join forces to stop a crime so monstrous, it outshines Jack the Ripper's deeds in brutality and cold-bloodedness.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The fact that it would also include the character of Sherlock Holmes made me slightly wary. I am pleased to say that he was written in such a believable way that my worries were unfounded. Even if you are a staunch Conan Doyle fan i would still recommend this book to you. I am varying between 4 and 5 stars for this, I think that 4.5 would be a fair reflection. Definitely one of the better books that I have read this year
In Victorian London's cesspool of crime and disease, a series of murders remains undiscovered until a cholera victim is found floating in the city's drinking water supply. Dr Anton Kronberg, England's best bacteriologist, is called upon to investigate and finds evidence of abduction and medical maltreatment. While Scotland Yard has little interest in pursuing the case, Kronberg pushes on and crosses paths with Sherlock Holmes. The detective immediately discovers Kronberg's secret - a woman masquerading as a man in order to practice medicine - a criminal deed that could land her in prison for years to come. But both must join forces to stop a crime so monstrous, it outshines Jack the Ripper's deeds in brutality and cold-bloodedness.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The fact that it would also include the character of Sherlock Holmes made me slightly wary. I am pleased to say that he was written in such a believable way that my worries were unfounded. Even if you are a staunch Conan Doyle fan i would still recommend this book to you. I am varying between 4 and 5 stars for this, I think that 4.5 would be a fair reflection. Definitely one of the better books that I have read this year
October 20, 2021
For some reason my review got deleted. So it me do the notes. Women could be doctors in Germany. Women had become doctors in the United States. It was really hard work but women did it. Dressing like a man to fit in was not required and is bad history to just say that no one would have let her be a doctor. The background also makes no sense.
Main person is the best at everything it feels like. This is a mark of bad writing. Yes it can be pulled off by showing how they are just the great or showing hard work to that point. But this is not in the novel. In fact this novel has the backstory that everyone tells you Not To Do. It has rape, crossing the ocean to far off lands, doing rich people things things with no money, and no ending really to the plot we wanted to know. Oh and everyone finds out lead charming or is stupid or bad. Seriously sometimes people just cannot stand others and from the way out lead was written I found her insufferable and yet I do not go around kicking puppies.
Not well written in terms of actual writing. Not horrible but not really good either.
I wanted to like this book but it is not good at all. And I am slightly worried about the fact my earlier review was taken down.
Main person is the best at everything it feels like. This is a mark of bad writing. Yes it can be pulled off by showing how they are just the great or showing hard work to that point. But this is not in the novel. In fact this novel has the backstory that everyone tells you Not To Do. It has rape, crossing the ocean to far off lands, doing rich people things things with no money, and no ending really to the plot we wanted to know. Oh and everyone finds out lead charming or is stupid or bad. Seriously sometimes people just cannot stand others and from the way out lead was written I found her insufferable and yet I do not go around kicking puppies.
Not well written in terms of actual writing. Not horrible but not really good either.
I wanted to like this book but it is not good at all. And I am slightly worried about the fact my earlier review was taken down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2012
A good strong book. The crime aspect is kept in the foreground and not made secondary to the personal life of the narrator. The writing is very good- a nice period feel, but none of the common flaw of overloading a narrative with fussy period detail.
I do have a few problems- they are all minor. It isn't always made very clear when Anna is Anton, particularly when out of the hospital. Some of the language and idioms are more 20th than 19th C. (was "Blown away" used in the way we use it?)and in a novel set in the 1880's the term "Victorian villa" is a little redundant- Kronberg would have called it a modern villa. I don't understand why the point of view shifts suddenly from 1st person to 3rd person- it does allow for more description, but it doesn't match up very well with the premise that Dr. Kromberg has written his own narrative. Also- the narrative switches back to the 1st person on occasion- this annoys me.
None of this is fatal to the book- I'm enjoying it. I will definitely read the sequel when it comes out.
I do have a few problems- they are all minor. It isn't always made very clear when Anna is Anton, particularly when out of the hospital. Some of the language and idioms are more 20th than 19th C. (was "Blown away" used in the way we use it?)and in a novel set in the 1880's the term "Victorian villa" is a little redundant- Kronberg would have called it a modern villa. I don't understand why the point of view shifts suddenly from 1st person to 3rd person- it does allow for more description, but it doesn't match up very well with the premise that Dr. Kromberg has written his own narrative. Also- the narrative switches back to the 1st person on occasion- this annoys me.
None of this is fatal to the book- I'm enjoying it. I will definitely read the sequel when it comes out.
September 22, 2014
I love the premise of this novel - a woman forced to impersonate a man in order to practice medicine.Having a husband who is a keen Sherlock fan, and therefore having watched and read most of the Holmes stuff around, i was delighted to discover this novel, where the great man himself is a foil to a woman, one equally as discerning and intelligent as he is. It takes some skill to incorporate such a well-known figure as Sherlock Holmes into a story, and he loses none of his mystery, and I feel the author ensure he stays true to his original character, whilst at the same time not being the focus of the novel.
The author's writing style is a glorious mix of sparsity and detail, allowing the reader to insert themselves into Anna's head. The writing is fluid and easy on the eye and mind, but at the same time adult and complex. Anna is almost a female Dr Watson, with all the emotional intrigue that this entails, and I thoroughly enjoyed the sexual frisson between her and Sherlock.
This is a richly dark and Victorian piece of fiction, and I can't wait to read the next one.
The author's writing style is a glorious mix of sparsity and detail, allowing the reader to insert themselves into Anna's head. The writing is fluid and easy on the eye and mind, but at the same time adult and complex. Anna is almost a female Dr Watson, with all the emotional intrigue that this entails, and I thoroughly enjoyed the sexual frisson between her and Sherlock.
This is a richly dark and Victorian piece of fiction, and I can't wait to read the next one.
December 29, 2012
The only negative thing I have to say about this book is how long we have to wait before the second Kronberg book is released. I love my books to be creepy and though-provoking with well-developed characters and this delivered on all counts. I will even go so far as to say that Wendeberg's Holmes was slightly more interesting that Doyle's. This book was purchased while it was being offered for free off of Amazon but after reading it multiple times, I would have gladly paid for it and it would have been well worth the money. It's obvious that the author knows her stuff when it comes to microbiology and bacteriology and her research involved to accurately describe the macabre medical practices of the 19th century is impeccable. The story that Anna/Anton told flowed very well and it was fascinating seeing his descent into becoming the worst kind of human being for all the right reasons. This book will grab you and suck you in from the very beginning and make you wish for more.
May 1, 2016
4/5
Ha sido una lectura que tenía todos los ingredientes que me podían gustar: misterios, Londres victoriano y Sherlock Holmes. Lo cierto es que esta historia me ha sorprendido para bien porque no la imaginaba que fuera a ser tan cruel y que me la fueran a contar sin ningún tapujo; eso ha hecho que la disfrute muchísimo más. Los personajes en sí me han encantado, aunque lo que es cierto es que no puedo comentar mucho del de Holmes, ya que no he leído nada de Doyle acerca de este personaje; pero tal y como me lo muestran en esta novela ha hecho que quede encantada con él.
El misterio que se desarrolla en la historia no se hace nada pesado a pesar de contar con términos algo complejos, todo lo contrario: hace que su lectura sea ligera por saber qué hay detrás del crimen.
Solo puedo decir que ha sido una lectura ligera y amena con la que he podido desconectar y disfrutar. Y desde luego que deja con las ganas de saber qué pasará después.
Ha sido una lectura que tenía todos los ingredientes que me podían gustar: misterios, Londres victoriano y Sherlock Holmes. Lo cierto es que esta historia me ha sorprendido para bien porque no la imaginaba que fuera a ser tan cruel y que me la fueran a contar sin ningún tapujo; eso ha hecho que la disfrute muchísimo más. Los personajes en sí me han encantado, aunque lo que es cierto es que no puedo comentar mucho del de Holmes, ya que no he leído nada de Doyle acerca de este personaje; pero tal y como me lo muestran en esta novela ha hecho que quede encantada con él.
El misterio que se desarrolla en la historia no se hace nada pesado a pesar de contar con términos algo complejos, todo lo contrario: hace que su lectura sea ligera por saber qué hay detrás del crimen.
Solo puedo decir que ha sido una lectura ligera y amena con la que he podido desconectar y disfrutar. Y desde luego que deja con las ganas de saber qué pasará después.
April 24, 2014
It’s 1889 Victorian London and Sherlock Holmes has found his match in Anna Kronberg, a bacteriologist who disguises herself as a man in order to practice her field without harm or threat of jail. Like him she’s competent, arrogant, and highly observant. They cross paths when a dead body infected with both cholera and tetanus is found near a city reservoir. When more infected corpses show up, it’s obvious to them that something evil is afoot and those behind it must be stopped. At first, their relationship is rocky. But they soon begin to respect the other’s courage and expertise.
The writing is fluid and even. The story is clever. And the characters are fresh and well developed. The Devil’s Grin is an interesting tale and a very good read.
The writing is fluid and even. The story is clever. And the characters are fresh and well developed. The Devil’s Grin is an interesting tale and a very good read.
November 10, 2012
For those who enjoy a well written Sherlock Holmes story, this is it. Wendeberg adds a new character to the world of Holmes that while far fetched, is laid out well enough to make it believable. As the first book in what I hope is a long series, it grabs you fairly quickly, and stays true to what I believe is the essence of Holmes. Perhaps it's because Wendeberg does so well with creating an intriguing multi layered character such as Dr. Kronberg that's as layered as the Great Detective.
Finally, for those who enjoyed Laurie King's early Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes novels, this is a great one to pick up.
I'm eagerly looking forward to the next installment!
Finally, for those who enjoyed Laurie King's early Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes novels, this is a great one to pick up.
I'm eagerly looking forward to the next installment!
July 20, 2016
my first thought: "Omg woman dressed as a man outsmarting Sherlock Holmes!!!This is the book i didn't know i wanted!"
my second thought: "Oh god tragic backstory, complete with rape-really???"
my third thought: "Oh god UNNECESSARY HETERO ROMANCE SUB-PLOT"
last thought: "wait what did this book really just end? with zero closure??"
REALly??? why give me such an incredible strong, cross-dressing!! female character and have her fall in love with a male character who is like 90% confirmed gay bachelor?????
JUST GIVE ANNA A WOMAN LOVE INTEREST THAT"S ALL I WANTED IN THIS BOOK??!!
my second thought: "Oh god tragic backstory, complete with rape-really???"
my third thought: "Oh god UNNECESSARY HETERO ROMANCE SUB-PLOT"
last thought: "wait what did this book really just end? with zero closure??"
REALly??? why give me such an incredible strong, cross-dressing!! female character and have her fall in love with a male character who is like 90% confirmed gay bachelor?????
JUST GIVE ANNA A WOMAN LOVE INTEREST THAT"S ALL I WANTED IN THIS BOOK??!!
June 20, 2017
Awsome start. As a Sherlock Holmes fan I was unsure what to expect; however I need not have been concerned. This has got to be one of the most exciting things to happen within The Sherlock Holmes writing community in years.
I suspect Hollywood will come a knocking soon.
A.E.'s knowledge in the Sciences oozies out the pages, just as much as the late great Sir Arthur Conan Doyle did.
Great reading.
David Reynolds
I suspect Hollywood will come a knocking soon.
A.E.'s knowledge in the Sciences oozies out the pages, just as much as the late great Sir Arthur Conan Doyle did.
Great reading.
David Reynolds
January 15, 2013
I really enjoyed this book as the mystery developed from the beginning and kept going throughout the story. I am definitely looking forward to Book 2.
I thought the apprehension of the bad guys was wrapped up too quickly and I was confused, so 4.5 stars instead of 5, because I just didn't quite get that part.
The author is very passionate about this book series, and she has offered great mentoring advice to new writers. I am very excited to read what Ms. Wendeberg comes up with next.
I thought the apprehension of the bad guys was wrapped up too quickly and I was confused, so 4.5 stars instead of 5, because I just didn't quite get that part.
The author is very passionate about this book series, and she has offered great mentoring advice to new writers. I am very excited to read what Ms. Wendeberg comes up with next.
September 10, 2015
A pesar de las escasas 188 páginas que tiene este primer volumen de la trilogía, la novela es entretenida e interesante. No se entretiene en temas y detalles sin importancia, va al grano y a los puntos importantes para el argumento de la novela y el continuar leyendo
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