What do you think?
Rate this book
The Great Detective in Love #1
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess
Mirabella Hudson soon learns that the Great Detective has more in store for her than washing jars and labeling specimens: pistol shooting, fencing, boxing, and Jiu-Jitsu. This she can master, but Mirabella must face the greatest horror of all: Miss de Beauvais' Finishing School for Distinguished Young Ladies.
Sherlock Holmes gets more than he bargained for when he hires his landlady's young ward to keep his laboratory in order. Mrs. Hudson's niece might be clever, but Mirabella Hudson is insubordinate, talks too much, is an accident waiting to happen--and, worst of all, is distractingly pretty.
Unfortunately, 'pretty' is just what Sherlock Holmes needs.
Sherlock might be a master of disguise, but pretty he is not. The Great Detective requires a female operative to go under cover at London's premier finishing school where Princess Elena Petrovic-Njegos of Montenegro is a client--and the target of an assassination plot. If the inexperienced Miss Hudson and her employer do not succeed in saving the princess, there is trouble brewing across the globe that could potentially lead to war on a massive scale. Montenegro is a small Serbian country, but She has among her allies the Mother Russia.
One unsuccessful case could ruin this young detective's career before it starts. Above all, Sherlock must have work--and he must be in pursuit. Work is the blood in his veins. Work is life.
The game is afoot! And there can be no greater puzzle than what he receives in the form of one Mirabella Hudson--who might stump even Sherlock Holmes.
--mystery with romantic elements
Sherlock Holmes gets more than he bargained for when he hires his landlady's young ward to keep his laboratory in order. Mrs. Hudson's niece might be clever, but Mirabella Hudson is insubordinate, talks too much, is an accident waiting to happen--and, worst of all, is distractingly pretty.
Unfortunately, 'pretty' is just what Sherlock Holmes needs.
Sherlock might be a master of disguise, but pretty he is not. The Great Detective requires a female operative to go under cover at London's premier finishing school where Princess Elena Petrovic-Njegos of Montenegro is a client--and the target of an assassination plot. If the inexperienced Miss Hudson and her employer do not succeed in saving the princess, there is trouble brewing across the globe that could potentially lead to war on a massive scale. Montenegro is a small Serbian country, but She has among her allies the Mother Russia.
One unsuccessful case could ruin this young detective's career before it starts. Above all, Sherlock must have work--and he must be in pursuit. Work is the blood in his veins. Work is life.
The game is afoot! And there can be no greater puzzle than what he receives in the form of one Mirabella Hudson--who might stump even Sherlock Holmes.
--mystery with romantic elements
226 pages, Paperback
First published March 22, 2015
264 people are currently reading
1423 people want to read
About the author
Suzette Hollingsworth
10 books34 followersSuzette loves to hear from her readers.
Contact: http://suzettehollingsworth.com/contact/
Like her on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suzette-Holl...
Sign up for her newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bsJHXL
for new releases, sales, giveaways, and insider info.
Contact: http://suzettehollingsworth.com/contact/
Like her on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suzette-Holl...
Sign up for her newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bsJHXL
for new releases, sales, giveaways, and insider info.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 25, 2015
I received the audiobook free in exchange for an honest review. This is cute, especially for Holmes fans and explodes the stereotypes. At first I thought I was in a farcical adventure similar to the Amelia Peabody series from Elizabeth Peters. Sherlock is young and hunky and Mrs. Hudson is a trash-talking feminist. But you need a fast pace to pull that off, and this book slows down several times. Although it is obvious from the first couple of chapters that Mirabella has to go undercover to protect a princess, this is explained in detail more than once. I'm not sure if this is considered YA or romance, both genres where the authors tell you exactly what the characters think and feel, sometimes over and over. That doesn't mean I don't like those genres but I found I could follow the story just fine only half-listening to it. On paper I would have been skimming through. It looks like this is intended to be a series and it could be interesting to see how that develops.
February 27, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I've been a Sherlock Holmes fan since I was a child. So I was super excited to find and read this book. And it did not disappoint my expectations. A good book for my fellow Sherlock Holmes fans 😁
November 30, 2015
An utterly charming pastiche of Sherlock and Watson, with a new element in the household: the addition of the young Scottish niece of Mrs. Hudson who is hired as a maid at first but is drawn into one of Sherlock's investigations as an active participant. The male pair are younger (Watson 29 and Holmes 27), more exposed, and more imperfect than in most Sherlock pastiches. Sherlock is calculated, arrogant, and brilliant - but he is also more transparent (we see more of his planning and preparation) and more emotional (he seems to show real affection for Watson as well as for Mirabella). While I don't think that we needed a pastiche with a romantic triangle where Watson and Sherlock both seem to have feelings for the same woman, this was handled in a very proper, restrained way. Mirabella is a strong, feisty, good-hearted young lady and a fine female character intruding into the old boys' club of Baker Street. She gets put into peril by the case but she is also taught to fight, defend herself, and trust her own instincts. In fact, she gets a strong sidekick in the Princess of Montenegro (the Sword Princess of the title), who she is sent to watch over. Both of these ladies are smart and independent and capable. Mirabella and Sherlock banter and spar verbally, and she gives as good as she gets from the famous detective.
I thoroughly enjoyed all of this implausibly female-influenced Sherlock story. Though it is lighter in tone, it's still a Sherlock story. It's a bit of a pity that the female characters steal from the impact of the mystery itself, which took a backseat to the banter. This felt more like one of the Guy Richie Sherlock movies than the BBC Cumberbatch Sherlock episodes. It's sharper, sillier, and more violent.
The narration of this book is wonderfully done by Joel Froomkin, who does fantastic female voices and a killer Scottish accent.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author, narrator, or producer in exchange for an honest, unbiased review via AudiobookBlast dot com.
I thoroughly enjoyed all of this implausibly female-influenced Sherlock story. Though it is lighter in tone, it's still a Sherlock story. It's a bit of a pity that the female characters steal from the impact of the mystery itself, which took a backseat to the banter. This felt more like one of the Guy Richie Sherlock movies than the BBC Cumberbatch Sherlock episodes. It's sharper, sillier, and more violent.
The narration of this book is wonderfully done by Joel Froomkin, who does fantastic female voices and a killer Scottish accent.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author, narrator, or producer in exchange for an honest, unbiased review via AudiobookBlast dot com.
November 7, 2016
"I was provided a free audiobook by the author in exchange for an unbiased review." By Suzette Hollingsworth
I was interested in this book Sherlock Holmes & the Case of the Sword Princess after reading the blur.
I love Suzette Hollingsworth's writing style, I think she's the Next Sir Arther Conan Doyle.
"Sherlock meets his match in the form of "Mirabella Hudson!"
I was very surprised by this wonderful book. I loved the depths of personalities in the characters, and a greater departure from Holmes' signature lack of interest in women given that its series is titled The Great Detective in Love.
Well most women apart from "Irene Adler" who he was in love with but she's not in this story.
Mirabella Hudson is Mrs Hudson's niece, and in training with Holmes and Watson, being a strong, and funny woman, She made me laugh when ever She and Sherlock had a conversation.
I was interested in this book Sherlock Holmes & the Case of the Sword Princess after reading the blur.
I love Suzette Hollingsworth's writing style, I think she's the Next Sir Arther Conan Doyle.
"Sherlock meets his match in the form of "Mirabella Hudson!"
I was very surprised by this wonderful book. I loved the depths of personalities in the characters, and a greater departure from Holmes' signature lack of interest in women given that its series is titled The Great Detective in Love.
Well most women apart from "Irene Adler" who he was in love with but she's not in this story.
Mirabella Hudson is Mrs Hudson's niece, and in training with Holmes and Watson, being a strong, and funny woman, She made me laugh when ever She and Sherlock had a conversation.
April 21, 2015
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an Honest review.
First of let me just say I would love to assist Mr. Holmes in anyway, lol he's my book boyfriend I love reading Sherlock Holmes and look for anything I can get my hands on. So you know I had to have this book. You can almost smell the tobacco in Mr. Holmes house, I imagine tons of books everywhere, a fireplace,his desk with chemicals and such. So Mr. Holmes gets a maid and it's plain to see that they like each other by the odd way they act towards each other, however will she be right for the case? This book was well written I like how the author describes stuff in detail, I can't wait for the second book. On a personal note I don't read anything with any hint of romance just not my style of book I prefer blood and mysteries, but I'm a huge Sherlock Holmes fan so I had to go for it.
First of let me just say I would love to assist Mr. Holmes in anyway, lol he's my book boyfriend I love reading Sherlock Holmes and look for anything I can get my hands on. So you know I had to have this book. You can almost smell the tobacco in Mr. Holmes house, I imagine tons of books everywhere, a fireplace,his desk with chemicals and such. So Mr. Holmes gets a maid and it's plain to see that they like each other by the odd way they act towards each other, however will she be right for the case? This book was well written I like how the author describes stuff in detail, I can't wait for the second book. On a personal note I don't read anything with any hint of romance just not my style of book I prefer blood and mysteries, but I'm a huge Sherlock Holmes fan so I had to go for it.
Read
January 18, 2019This first Sherlock Holmes book by Suzette Hollingsworth is a very enjoyable book, suitable for readers of all ages. Mirabella Hudson, Holmes new lab assistant quickly becomes involved in the detective's cases and watching her bloom is a pleasure unto itself. Her journey from meek farmgirl to self confident woman is quite enchanting, and her banter with Holmes and Watson is not to be missed. (No one does banter quite like Suzette Hollingsworth.)
April 26, 2015
Very well written with a very likable protagonist: Belle Hudson. It has a very solid and entertaining story line. Unfortunately, this Holmes is not Arthur Conan Doyle's but Guy Ritchie's; from Holmes physical description to his rude behaviour, you know the author has Robert Downey Jr.'s portrait of the great detective in mind. That may not be an issue for other readers but it is for me.
October 8, 2018
I'm always up for another book or series featuring Holmes and Watson. Ms. Hollingsworth does a fine job of plot and dialogue here. I can almost hear the words being spoken by Jeremy Brett and Edward Hardwicke, even though the Holmes and Watson are still in their 20s, having just met 9 months before. Mirabella Hudson, niece of Mrs. Hudson, the famous landlady of Holmes and Watson, gets embroiled in a dangerous case at the request of the detectives. She infiltrates a finishing school for young women to help a young Serbian princess prepare for her future wedding to an Italian prince. I loved that Elena is based on a real-life princess who is very much like her character in this novel. Good fun to read. I guess the four stars would be mostly for a lack of editing, which made reading a bit of a challenge at times.
August 7, 2015
Vikki’s Musings
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess is a departure from my usual read. I received a copy of the audio version from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is a delightfully intriguing story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am so glad I took a change on this sweet read.
When Mirabella Hudson is hired as an assistant to Sherlock Holmes, the last thing she imagined is going undercover at a finishing school to help protect Princess Elena Petrocic-Njegos of Montenegro. While shocked and concerned at the prospect of this assignment, Mirabella embraces it, determined to fulfill her responsibilities.
Sherlock Holmes is enchanted by the vivacious, yet annoying Mirabella, the young woman he hires to assist him and keep him organized. He does not need the distraction of his pretty assistant, but when he sees the need for an undercover operative to protect the Princess of Montenegro, he decides Mirabella would be perfect for the assignment.
Will Mirabella not only save the princess, but little children from the orphanage as well, or will she fail at her mission?
Ms. Hollingsworth has penned a well-written and enchanting read. I enjoyed the sweet romance between Sherlock Holmes and Mirabella Hudson a great deal. While this is a romantic element and not the central theme of the book, I found it charming. There is also another romantic element in this book between the princess and her prince as well. The mystery thread is intriguing and captured my interest immediately and pulled me into the tale.
Mirabella is a great character. I loved her determination to pursue her goals and her desire to help others. Some of the scenes between her and the orphans she helps touched my heart. The bravery she shows is incredible, especially when she is so afraid for her charges. That scene had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen!
Ms. Hollingsworth moves from Mirabella’s point of view to Sherlock’s with ease, and her story line is expertly woven between the mystery and the romantic element. Her pacing is excellent and made this story a delight to read.
Since I listened to the audio version, I want to mention the narrator. Joel Froomkin is fantastic. He switches from one character to the next, giving each their distinctive voice. I especially loved his interpretation of the children. I will certainly look forward to listening to this talented narrator again.
If you enjoy a fascinating mystery with a sweet romance interwoven, then you will enjoy Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess. I highly recommend this wonderful book and great narration. Happy reading!
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess is a departure from my usual read. I received a copy of the audio version from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is a delightfully intriguing story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am so glad I took a change on this sweet read.
When Mirabella Hudson is hired as an assistant to Sherlock Holmes, the last thing she imagined is going undercover at a finishing school to help protect Princess Elena Petrocic-Njegos of Montenegro. While shocked and concerned at the prospect of this assignment, Mirabella embraces it, determined to fulfill her responsibilities.
Sherlock Holmes is enchanted by the vivacious, yet annoying Mirabella, the young woman he hires to assist him and keep him organized. He does not need the distraction of his pretty assistant, but when he sees the need for an undercover operative to protect the Princess of Montenegro, he decides Mirabella would be perfect for the assignment.
Will Mirabella not only save the princess, but little children from the orphanage as well, or will she fail at her mission?
Ms. Hollingsworth has penned a well-written and enchanting read. I enjoyed the sweet romance between Sherlock Holmes and Mirabella Hudson a great deal. While this is a romantic element and not the central theme of the book, I found it charming. There is also another romantic element in this book between the princess and her prince as well. The mystery thread is intriguing and captured my interest immediately and pulled me into the tale.
Mirabella is a great character. I loved her determination to pursue her goals and her desire to help others. Some of the scenes between her and the orphans she helps touched my heart. The bravery she shows is incredible, especially when she is so afraid for her charges. That scene had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen!
Ms. Hollingsworth moves from Mirabella’s point of view to Sherlock’s with ease, and her story line is expertly woven between the mystery and the romantic element. Her pacing is excellent and made this story a delight to read.
Since I listened to the audio version, I want to mention the narrator. Joel Froomkin is fantastic. He switches from one character to the next, giving each their distinctive voice. I especially loved his interpretation of the children. I will certainly look forward to listening to this talented narrator again.
If you enjoy a fascinating mystery with a sweet romance interwoven, then you will enjoy Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess. I highly recommend this wonderful book and great narration. Happy reading!
July 28, 2018
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Sword Princess was a delightful find at a local pop culture convention I attended. What makes it even better is Suzette Hollingsworth is a local author. I love supporting local authors!
I was intrigued by the idea of the legendary Sherlock Holmes having a crush on someone besides Irene Adler and I wondered what kind of character could possibly live up to Holme's vast expectations. Hollingsworth did not a disappoint in creating a well rounded, unique character, full of sass and spirit. Mirabella was an excellent well developed character who I would love to have a cup of tea with and talk about life. Raised on a farm as a hard working girl she moves in with her aunt who happens to be the landlady for the building where Holmes lives. Needing a job Mirabella agrees to work for Holmes doing everything from tiding up his study to cooking his meals. Dreaming of going to the university to go study science Mirabella impresses Holmes with her scientific mind and exceptional knowledge about a scientific laboratory.
After a couple chapters I was hooked and even when I was not reading I was thinking about the story and what would happen next. Mrs. Hollingsworth wrote a well rounded story that neatly tied up all the pieces of the mystery while leaving room for the next story to be slipped into place. The historical aspects were honored and I loved the part at the end presenting information about people who really lived and were represented in the story. I cannot wait to pick up Sherlock Holmes and the Dancing Tiger. I am eager to see how the relationship between Mirabella and Holmes develops.
I was intrigued by the idea of the legendary Sherlock Holmes having a crush on someone besides Irene Adler and I wondered what kind of character could possibly live up to Holme's vast expectations. Hollingsworth did not a disappoint in creating a well rounded, unique character, full of sass and spirit. Mirabella was an excellent well developed character who I would love to have a cup of tea with and talk about life. Raised on a farm as a hard working girl she moves in with her aunt who happens to be the landlady for the building where Holmes lives. Needing a job Mirabella agrees to work for Holmes doing everything from tiding up his study to cooking his meals. Dreaming of going to the university to go study science Mirabella impresses Holmes with her scientific mind and exceptional knowledge about a scientific laboratory.
After a couple chapters I was hooked and even when I was not reading I was thinking about the story and what would happen next. Mrs. Hollingsworth wrote a well rounded story that neatly tied up all the pieces of the mystery while leaving room for the next story to be slipped into place. The historical aspects were honored and I loved the part at the end presenting information about people who really lived and were represented in the story. I cannot wait to pick up Sherlock Holmes and the Dancing Tiger. I am eager to see how the relationship between Mirabella and Holmes develops.
July 16, 2015
Will Sherlock lose his heart to a feisty maid?
Fans of Sherlock and Watson will surely enjoy this story. When Mrs. Hudson's niece, Mirabella, arrives to keep Sherlock's laboratory clean and organize his collection of fingerprints, she becomes embroiled in an important case and must guard a princess from the inside of Miss de Beauvais' Finishing School for Distinguished Young Ladies. How can a young woman, raised on a farm pass, pass herself off as a member of society, learn self defense, and protect the life of a foreign princess? She immediately stirs things up and almost gets booted out of the school.
Sherlock once let down his guard and fell in love with Irene Adler, but will he be tempted by this feisty young woman who simply can't keep her comments to herself? The tale reminds one of Eliza Doolittle in "My Fair Lady" being tutored by Henry Higgins, but it has the added note of danger and adventure. I loved the story and hope more books will soon by written by this talented author. Of course I'm an impossible romantic and a big fan of Sherlock Holmes. I could almost see Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law in another film.
Fans of Sherlock and Watson will surely enjoy this story. When Mrs. Hudson's niece, Mirabella, arrives to keep Sherlock's laboratory clean and organize his collection of fingerprints, she becomes embroiled in an important case and must guard a princess from the inside of Miss de Beauvais' Finishing School for Distinguished Young Ladies. How can a young woman, raised on a farm pass, pass herself off as a member of society, learn self defense, and protect the life of a foreign princess? She immediately stirs things up and almost gets booted out of the school.
Sherlock once let down his guard and fell in love with Irene Adler, but will he be tempted by this feisty young woman who simply can't keep her comments to herself? The tale reminds one of Eliza Doolittle in "My Fair Lady" being tutored by Henry Higgins, but it has the added note of danger and adventure. I loved the story and hope more books will soon by written by this talented author. Of course I'm an impossible romantic and a big fan of Sherlock Holmes. I could almost see Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law in another film.
August 10, 2015
I enjoy all the various iterations of the Sherlock Holmes character.
Some work well, some are, shall we say, less successful.
This is a delightfully almost tongue in check version.
Pairing him with an intelligent woman is always good for entertainment and this is no exception. Here he has a young woman who comes as his house cleaner, but is much too smart to do only that.
First she manages to add order to the chaos of his living quarters, then she becomes indispensable in the case.
In the end there is an impressive collection of women and girls who are key in foiling the evil doers.
All in all, a fun read.
Conan Doyle might take exception to this, but I think it is good fun.
Some work well, some are, shall we say, less successful.
This is a delightfully almost tongue in check version.
Pairing him with an intelligent woman is always good for entertainment and this is no exception. Here he has a young woman who comes as his house cleaner, but is much too smart to do only that.
First she manages to add order to the chaos of his living quarters, then she becomes indispensable in the case.
In the end there is an impressive collection of women and girls who are key in foiling the evil doers.
All in all, a fun read.
Conan Doyle might take exception to this, but I think it is good fun.
March 4, 2016
Really great story!!!
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. The idea of having a girl undercover in a finishing school was different and the bit with the orphans I really enjoyed. I thought mirabella was too overdone with guilt and I had a hard time seeing Dr Watson as a ladies man. I am going to buy the next book in the series. The ending of the story was especially good.
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. The idea of having a girl undercover in a finishing school was different and the bit with the orphans I really enjoyed. I thought mirabella was too overdone with guilt and I had a hard time seeing Dr Watson as a ladies man. I am going to buy the next book in the series. The ending of the story was especially good.
April 25, 2015
Best Holmesian Book of 2015
Insights in her depictions of Holmes and Watson; the pair are more accessible than most other non-canonical efforts. The character of Mirabella Hudson is so artfully conceived that one can hardly wait for more and more of her exploits in Sherlockian London!
Insights in her depictions of Holmes and Watson; the pair are more accessible than most other non-canonical efforts. The character of Mirabella Hudson is so artfully conceived that one can hardly wait for more and more of her exploits in Sherlockian London!
December 17, 2015
A very enjoyable well-written book that continues the story of Sherlock Holmes. It was fun reading this alternative side of Sherlock and Mirabella's Hudson's surprising change in her life by being at the his track!
October 28, 2015
Doyle would be impressed
Ms. Hollingsworth does an admirable job taking on the challenge of continuing the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
Ms. Hollingsworth does an admirable job taking on the challenge of continuing the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
August 19, 2018
Sherlock Holmes hires a new young lady to help keep his laboratory clean and up to date but he didn't bank on her being a clever, insubordinate modern woman who wants to be a scientist. Miss Mirabella Hudson is a young woman who gets more than she bargained for with the great Sherlock Holmes who is a lunatic In her eyes at first. She begins to appreciate him more when he starts to teach her about science which is her true love. Soon Sherlock and the loveable Dr.John Watson get a new case involving protection of Princess Elena from the small country of Montenegro who is possibly going to marry a prince from Italy. Princess Elena is set to go to a women's finishing school in London for 10 weeks. The only way to protect her is to have an insider so Sherlock trains Mirabella to be the insider. Danger follows and an attack is made on Princess Elena. Will Sherlock and Mirabella be able to save the princess? Will there be a happy ending for the couple? Will Sherlock's training allow Mirabella to survive? This is an excellent detective story and I loved it right to the exciting ending. It is worthy of the original Sherlock Holmes series and well worth the read.
February 21, 2019
Nice Addition to the Sherlock Holmes Character Oeuvre
Enjoyed the new character of Mrs. Hudson’s niece and her interaction with Holmes and Watson. The mystery was a little choppy at times and there was some repetition in Bella’s thoughts about Holmes. However, I found the book enjoyable and will probably read the next one in the series.
Enjoyed the new character of Mrs. Hudson’s niece and her interaction with Holmes and Watson. The mystery was a little choppy at times and there was some repetition in Bella’s thoughts about Holmes. However, I found the book enjoyable and will probably read the next one in the series.
December 7, 2018
I love it.. Definitely recommending to everyone who likes a light love story mixed with crime-solving and sherlock holmes!!
January 28, 2021
Something new to love about Sherlock
I like Mrs Hudson's niece, she has a mind of her own, and her own goals. The finishing school, mixed with tea for the orphanage was so sweet. Mirabella assessment of her fellow students at the finishing school, showed a keen sense of insight. Read and enjoy!
I like Mrs Hudson's niece, she has a mind of her own, and her own goals. The finishing school, mixed with tea for the orphanage was so sweet. Mirabella assessment of her fellow students at the finishing school, showed a keen sense of insight. Read and enjoy!
February 14, 2016
Mirabella Hudson soon learns that the Great Detective has more in store for her than washing jars and labeling specimens: pistol shooting, fencing, boxing, and Jiu-Jitsu. This she can master, but Mirabella must face the greatest horror of all: Miss de Beauvais' Finishing School for Distinguished Young Ladies.
Sherlock Holmes gets more than he bargained for when he hires his landlady's young ward to keep his laboratory in order. Mrs. Hudson's niece might be clever, but Mirabella Hudson is insubordinate, talks too much, is an accident waiting to happen--and, worst of all, is distractingly pretty.
Unfortunately, 'pretty' is just what Sherlock Holmes needs.
Sherlock might be a master of disguise, but pretty he is not. The Great Detective requires a female operative to go under cover at London's premier finishing school where Princess Elena Petrovic-Njegos of Montenegro is a client--and the target of an assassination plot. If the inexperienced Miss Hudson and her employer do not succeed in saving the princess, there is trouble brewing across the globe that could potentially lead to war on a massive scale. Montenegro is a small Serbian country, but She has among her allies the Mother Russia.
One unsuccessful case could ruin this young detective's career before it starts. Above all, Sherlock must have work--and he must be in pursuit. Work is the blood in his veins. Work is life.
The game is afoot! And there can be no greater puzzle than what he receives in the form of one Mirabella Hudson--who might stump even Sherlock Holmes.
--mystery with romantic elements.
This first Sherlock Holmes book by Suzette Hollingsworth is a very enjoyable book, suitable for readers of all ages.
Sherlock Holmes gets more than he bargained for when he hires his landlady's young ward to keep his laboratory in order. Mrs. Hudson's niece might be clever, but Mirabella Hudson is insubordinate, talks too much, is an accident waiting to happen--and, worst of all, is distractingly pretty.
Unfortunately, 'pretty' is just what Sherlock Holmes needs.
Sherlock might be a master of disguise, but pretty he is not. The Great Detective requires a female operative to go under cover at London's premier finishing school where Princess Elena Petrovic-Njegos of Montenegro is a client--and the target of an assassination plot. If the inexperienced Miss Hudson and her employer do not succeed in saving the princess, there is trouble brewing across the globe that could potentially lead to war on a massive scale. Montenegro is a small Serbian country, but She has among her allies the Mother Russia.
One unsuccessful case could ruin this young detective's career before it starts. Above all, Sherlock must have work--and he must be in pursuit. Work is the blood in his veins. Work is life.
The game is afoot! And there can be no greater puzzle than what he receives in the form of one Mirabella Hudson--who might stump even Sherlock Holmes.
--mystery with romantic elements.
This first Sherlock Holmes book by Suzette Hollingsworth is a very enjoyable book, suitable for readers of all ages.
June 9, 2015
When Sherlock Holmes hires his landladies ward she presents him with a problem. She has aspirations of going to university and becoming a scientist. She does good work cleaning up the lab and cataloging the fingerprint cards, but when Sherlock and Watson decide that she is the perfect person to go under cover to a high browed finishing school for young ladies of breeding things get more difficult for her. She is well out of her class of society and she is to make fiend with a Princess for whom Sherlock has been contracted to provide protection.
Being taught social graces at the school and martial arts and self protection by Sherlock, she soon is called to put them to use. A light and enjoyable romp through Holmes' London.
Being taught social graces at the school and martial arts and self protection by Sherlock, she soon is called to put them to use. A light and enjoyable romp through Holmes' London.
May 3, 2016
*note: I received a free copy of the book from the author*
This was a very charming story. It had the intrigue and mystery I expected. Additionally it had some great back and forth between Sherlock and Watson, as well as Sherlock and Mirabella. I really enjoyed Mirabella as a character and I felt that Hollingsworth wove her neatly into their world.
The case at hand was interesting and kept me guessing as the story progressed. I loved the additional historical information provided after the text of the book, it made the whole situation feel more real.
A charming book!
This was a very charming story. It had the intrigue and mystery I expected. Additionally it had some great back and forth between Sherlock and Watson, as well as Sherlock and Mirabella. I really enjoyed Mirabella as a character and I felt that Hollingsworth wove her neatly into their world.
The case at hand was interesting and kept me guessing as the story progressed. I loved the additional historical information provided after the text of the book, it made the whole situation feel more real.
A charming book!
December 22, 2016
Sherlock takes on a young female protege, Mirabella, who is brainy with a bit of spunk. She endures trials and training from the detective duo to prove her worth.
Throughout the story we get Mirabella's adoration of a handsome, dreamy Dr. Watson and love/hate attitude towards Sherlock.
I enjoyed the scenes and doings at a finishing school.
Throughout the story we get Mirabella's adoration of a handsome, dreamy Dr. Watson and love/hate attitude towards Sherlock.
I enjoyed the scenes and doings at a finishing school.
September 20, 2016
This was a really fun read. Lots of dialogue and I wasn't sure how the orphanage tied into the story line until closer to the ending. Loved the character of Miss Hudson. Will be checking out subsequent Sherlock Holmes titles by this author.
June 19, 2023
“It is dangerous work Miss Mirabella. It was an ill conceived notion. Upon further reflection, I seriously don’t think…”
“Dangerous for Whom? Miss Hudson or the criminal? Personally my pity goes out to the criminal”.
Mirabella Hudson it’s saving money to pursue her dream of attending London University, so when her aunt told her that the famous detective was looking for someone to keep his laboratory in order, she immediately accepts the job.
Mirabella has a good heart and is passionate about science but can also be insubordinate and has no problem openly biting back at Sherlock when he’s being rude.
Sometimes Sherlock doesn’t know what to do with her but, cancel appears, her impetuous behavior may come in handy now that he needs an undercover operative. So Mirabelle finds herself attending one of the best London finishing schools where Princess Elena of Montenegro is a client and the target of an assassination plot.
It’s always fun to read new variations of Sherlock, this reminded me of the BBC Sherlock adaptation, with a mix of Jude Law’ Watson, who apparently got most of the ladies' attention with his gentleman manners and charm.
For Mirabelle, if you have in mind that scene from s3 where Molly slaps Sherlock… well I think they would really get along.
What disappointed me a bit was that this was described as a romance but there’s very little of it. There’re hints that the characters are developing a crush and with a character like Sherlock you definitely need more than 200 pages to develop his feelings on that side so I wasn’t expecting anything too exaggerated in this first book but the time they spent together, quality time, still felt too little, missing scenes that could have a deep emotional impact.
"Is something wrong Miss Belle?"
"Yes. I suppose sometimes I would like an honest answer from you, Sherlock. From the heart."
“Dangerous for Whom? Miss Hudson or the criminal? Personally my pity goes out to the criminal”.
Mirabella Hudson it’s saving money to pursue her dream of attending London University, so when her aunt told her that the famous detective was looking for someone to keep his laboratory in order, she immediately accepts the job.
Mirabella has a good heart and is passionate about science but can also be insubordinate and has no problem openly biting back at Sherlock when he’s being rude.
Sometimes Sherlock doesn’t know what to do with her but, cancel appears, her impetuous behavior may come in handy now that he needs an undercover operative. So Mirabelle finds herself attending one of the best London finishing schools where Princess Elena of Montenegro is a client and the target of an assassination plot.
It’s always fun to read new variations of Sherlock, this reminded me of the BBC Sherlock adaptation, with a mix of Jude Law’ Watson, who apparently got most of the ladies' attention with his gentleman manners and charm.
For Mirabelle, if you have in mind that scene from s3 where Molly slaps Sherlock… well I think they would really get along.
What disappointed me a bit was that this was described as a romance but there’s very little of it. There’re hints that the characters are developing a crush and with a character like Sherlock you definitely need more than 200 pages to develop his feelings on that side so I wasn’t expecting anything too exaggerated in this first book but the time they spent together, quality time, still felt too little, missing scenes that could have a deep emotional impact.
"Is something wrong Miss Belle?"
"Yes. I suppose sometimes I would like an honest answer from you, Sherlock. From the heart."
September 2, 2019
An interesting blend of Mary Sue and Sherlock but...
I admit to reading fan fiction in part because it already lets me vent a bit. Usually the world the fan fiction is set in is explained but a good author can find a corner that hasn’t had any light cast upon it and flesh it out in such a way that it doesn’t break the world.
This isn’t that. This is all the poor fan fiction tropes of adding a stand in for the author that lets the writer basically daydream about being in a known fictional world. This one has all the world bending traits one sees in a bad Mary Sue fanfic. The new character is nearly infallible, super good at things that get fawned over and becomes a new peg in any romantic triangles. Even someone as famously asexual as Sherlock Holmes. Other aspects of canon get handwaved away if they contradict where the author wants to take the tale...
Bits show promise that, perhaps, in a other world. But I don’t suggest people pick this up unless they also hate/love Sherlock fan fiction.
I admit to reading fan fiction in part because it already lets me vent a bit. Usually the world the fan fiction is set in is explained but a good author can find a corner that hasn’t had any light cast upon it and flesh it out in such a way that it doesn’t break the world.
This isn’t that. This is all the poor fan fiction tropes of adding a stand in for the author that lets the writer basically daydream about being in a known fictional world. This one has all the world bending traits one sees in a bad Mary Sue fanfic. The new character is nearly infallible, super good at things that get fawned over and becomes a new peg in any romantic triangles. Even someone as famously asexual as Sherlock Holmes. Other aspects of canon get handwaved away if they contradict where the author wants to take the tale...
Bits show promise that, perhaps, in a other world. But I don’t suggest people pick this up unless they also hate/love Sherlock fan fiction.
September 25, 2017
A story with Sherlock Holmes in it. Not a Sherlock Holmes story.
The story is cute enough, but the depiction of Holmes becoming smitten is just TOO out of character; Her curves, her fluttering eyelashes, oh damn these feelings! Oh please. I think the story would be a fairly enjoyable YA historical fiction if it were only written as a stand-alone.
The story is cute enough, but the depiction of Holmes becoming smitten is just TOO out of character; Her curves, her fluttering eyelashes, oh damn these feelings! Oh please. I think the story would be a fairly enjoyable YA historical fiction if it were only written as a stand-alone.
July 29, 2024
lovely quite readable
I’m not as good at book reports as are some. Sherlock and Doctor Watson are just beginning their time together. I don’t feel like Sherlock is quite in love yet. I try to always be generous with the stars, especially on the shopping app. I really think everyone will enjoy this book.
I’m not as good at book reports as are some. Sherlock and Doctor Watson are just beginning their time together. I don’t feel like Sherlock is quite in love yet. I try to always be generous with the stars, especially on the shopping app. I really think everyone will enjoy this book.
August 11, 2019
Enjoyable read true to the original characters
All her books written in the style of Sherlock Holmes stay true to the original characters while having their own place. I am waiting for the next book
All her books written in the style of Sherlock Holmes stay true to the original characters while having their own place. I am waiting for the next book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews