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Mrs. Hudson #2
Mrs Hudson and the Malabar Rose
Sherlock Holmes and Mrs Hudson are faced with a new challenge...
Dangerous magicians! Precious gems! Dastardly Plans! Sherlock Holmes is just the man... But what if Holmes isn't the only brains at Baker Street?
As snow falls on Baker Street, the wintry city is abuzz with excitement: the Malabar Rose – a fabled and enormous ruby – has been sent as a gift to Queen Victoria by the Marharajah of Marjoudh. An extraordinary condition is attached: the gem must be displayed at London’s sumptuous Blenheim Hotel. How can the safety of this priceless jewel be assured? The authorities wisely enlist the help of Sherlock Holmes and his colleague Dr Watson… but fortunately for them, they are also on the receiving end of help from Holmes’s redoubtable housekeeper Mrs Hudson and her able assistant, Flotsam the housemaid.
The Malabar Rose isn’t the only exotic attraction stirring up excitement in the city, however. World famous magician the Great Salmanazar will be amazing the lucky few who can secure tickets at a once-in-a-lifetime spectacular. Not only that, but the world’s most beautiful woman – the glamorous, if rather risqué, fire dancer Lola Del Fuego – will be joining him on the bill.
With all this excitement and a peculiar disappearance in Ealing, Mrs Hudson and Flottie have their hands full this festive season. Their investigations take in snow-shrouded streets, a toyshop full of wonders, a tumultuous Covent Garden as the New Year rings in and even theatre dressing rooms in Stepney.
This fresh twist on classic Victorian mystery will delight fans and new readers alike.
Martin Davies grew up in north-west England. In addition to the Holmes & Hudson Mysteries, he is the author of four other novels, including The Conjurer’s Bird, which sold over 150,000 copies and was selected for the Richard & Judy Book Club and Havana Sleeping, which was shortlisted for the 2015 CWA Historical Dagger award. He works as a consultant in the broadcasting industry.
Dangerous magicians! Precious gems! Dastardly Plans! Sherlock Holmes is just the man... But what if Holmes isn't the only brains at Baker Street?
As snow falls on Baker Street, the wintry city is abuzz with excitement: the Malabar Rose – a fabled and enormous ruby – has been sent as a gift to Queen Victoria by the Marharajah of Marjoudh. An extraordinary condition is attached: the gem must be displayed at London’s sumptuous Blenheim Hotel. How can the safety of this priceless jewel be assured? The authorities wisely enlist the help of Sherlock Holmes and his colleague Dr Watson… but fortunately for them, they are also on the receiving end of help from Holmes’s redoubtable housekeeper Mrs Hudson and her able assistant, Flotsam the housemaid.
The Malabar Rose isn’t the only exotic attraction stirring up excitement in the city, however. World famous magician the Great Salmanazar will be amazing the lucky few who can secure tickets at a once-in-a-lifetime spectacular. Not only that, but the world’s most beautiful woman – the glamorous, if rather risqué, fire dancer Lola Del Fuego – will be joining him on the bill.
With all this excitement and a peculiar disappearance in Ealing, Mrs Hudson and Flottie have their hands full this festive season. Their investigations take in snow-shrouded streets, a toyshop full of wonders, a tumultuous Covent Garden as the New Year rings in and even theatre dressing rooms in Stepney.
This fresh twist on classic Victorian mystery will delight fans and new readers alike.
Martin Davies grew up in north-west England. In addition to the Holmes & Hudson Mysteries, he is the author of four other novels, including The Conjurer’s Bird, which sold over 150,000 copies and was selected for the Richard & Judy Book Club and Havana Sleeping, which was shortlisted for the 2015 CWA Historical Dagger award. He works as a consultant in the broadcasting industry.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2005
172 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Martin Davies
45 books91 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Martin Davies is a British author. He has written four novels about Sherlock Holmes' housekeeper and four other novels, including one about Joseph Banks and the Mysterious Bird of Ulieta, entitled The Conjuror's Bird, all of which have been published.
Martin Davies grew up in North West England. All his writing is done in cafes, on buses or on tube trains, and an aversion to laptops means that he always works in longhand. He has travelled widely, including in the Middle East and India, and substantial parts of THE UNICORN ROAD were written while travelling through Sicily. He works as a consultant in the broadcasting industry.
Martin Davies is a British author. He has written four novels about Sherlock Holmes' housekeeper and four other novels, including one about Joseph Banks and the Mysterious Bird of Ulieta, entitled The Conjuror's Bird, all of which have been published.
Martin Davies grew up in North West England. All his writing is done in cafes, on buses or on tube trains, and an aversion to laptops means that he always works in longhand. He has travelled widely, including in the Middle East and India, and substantial parts of THE UNICORN ROAD were written while travelling through Sicily. He works as a consultant in the broadcasting industry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
November 21, 2007
I a sucker for most anything Sherlock Holmes. I've read all the original stories, I've seen most TV adaptations, I've read spinoff books of various kinds, and even books where Doyle himself is a protagonist.
I am, for lack of a better term, a Sherlock Holmes slut.
So, when I saw this book on the shelves at Library 2, I had to take it home and read it.
Sherlock Holmes is a great detective, honored by all and sundry. But what if his housekeeper was no slouch in the investigation field herself. When a man dissapears at the same time a valuable jewel is to be shown to the public, it's hard for one man to keep track of it all. Enter Mrs. Hudson, to see if things are as simple as they appear, leaving the important work to her employer. Or did she?
The story itself is told by a young female urchin that Mrs. Watson takes in, which works until the author needs to let us in on things she couldn't know first-hand, so we get a quickie third-person narration switch, with an all-too-convenient "So Dr. Watson (or whoever) told me later" thrown in to save face. That's a cheap trick that no editor should have allowed. Flotsam, Mrs. Hudson's Dr. Watson, helps her decifer the little domestic clues that Sherlock can't notice, starting off by trying to help a distressed mother-in-law and eventually seeing that the two seemingly disparate stories are quite linked. Throw in an exotic dancing girl, a famous magician, and some butterflies, and you have a tight story that more or less comes together without too much of a leap in logic. I do think he forgot to explain how the marked ace gets into the room, but that's not terribly important.
The trouble in all this is that while it's great that Mrs. Hudson can solve crimes as well as her boss, Holmes himself comes off as a bit of an idiot. He's missing links that should come naturally to him and not following his own detecting rules. But at least he's still smart, more than I can say for poor Dr. Watson, who gets put in the ghetto of comic relief. John Watson is a smart man, and we're told that repeatedly by Doyle. There was no need to dumb him down, and his scenes, such as they were, are painful to read.
Overall, I liked the plot a lot and I think the concept is sound. But there was a better way to get Mrs. Hudson involved than making Holmes look like an ass, and it should have either been totally third-person narration or totally first person. Writing 101 tells you to pick a narration style and deal with its limitations. Mr. Davies did not do that.
Trebby's Take: One for the Doyle fanboys, but if you're not hard-core Holmes, it's okay to pass on this one. I do plan to read Mr. Davies' other book in the series.
I am, for lack of a better term, a Sherlock Holmes slut.
So, when I saw this book on the shelves at Library 2, I had to take it home and read it.
Sherlock Holmes is a great detective, honored by all and sundry. But what if his housekeeper was no slouch in the investigation field herself. When a man dissapears at the same time a valuable jewel is to be shown to the public, it's hard for one man to keep track of it all. Enter Mrs. Hudson, to see if things are as simple as they appear, leaving the important work to her employer. Or did she?
The story itself is told by a young female urchin that Mrs. Watson takes in, which works until the author needs to let us in on things she couldn't know first-hand, so we get a quickie third-person narration switch, with an all-too-convenient "So Dr. Watson (or whoever) told me later" thrown in to save face. That's a cheap trick that no editor should have allowed. Flotsam, Mrs. Hudson's Dr. Watson, helps her decifer the little domestic clues that Sherlock can't notice, starting off by trying to help a distressed mother-in-law and eventually seeing that the two seemingly disparate stories are quite linked. Throw in an exotic dancing girl, a famous magician, and some butterflies, and you have a tight story that more or less comes together without too much of a leap in logic. I do think he forgot to explain how the marked ace gets into the room, but that's not terribly important.
The trouble in all this is that while it's great that Mrs. Hudson can solve crimes as well as her boss, Holmes himself comes off as a bit of an idiot. He's missing links that should come naturally to him and not following his own detecting rules. But at least he's still smart, more than I can say for poor Dr. Watson, who gets put in the ghetto of comic relief. John Watson is a smart man, and we're told that repeatedly by Doyle. There was no need to dumb him down, and his scenes, such as they were, are painful to read.
Overall, I liked the plot a lot and I think the concept is sound. But there was a better way to get Mrs. Hudson involved than making Holmes look like an ass, and it should have either been totally third-person narration or totally first person. Writing 101 tells you to pick a narration style and deal with its limitations. Mr. Davies did not do that.
Trebby's Take: One for the Doyle fanboys, but if you're not hard-core Holmes, it's okay to pass on this one. I do plan to read Mr. Davies' other book in the series.
July 11, 2016
The other mastermind in 221b...
Two clients turn up at Sherlock Holmes' rooms in 221b Baker Street – a woman whose son-in-law has gone missing, and a representative of the Home Office who is concerned for the safety of the Malabar Rose, a priceless ruby gifted to the Queen with the condition that it is put on public display. Rather dismissively, Holmes brushes off the woman, suggesting her daughter's husband has merely left her and will no doubt show up soon. He then turns his attention to ensuring the security of the ruby. Fortunately, Mrs Hudson doesn't share his lack of concern regarding the missing man and decides to undertake her own investigation, with the help of her servant, our narrator, young Flotsam. As the two cases proceed, it gradually appears that there may be some links between them...
Well, I have to say that, despite all my anti-Holmes-pastiche prejudices and against all expectation, I thoroughly enjoyed this romp! It's very well written with a good plot, and the Victorian world as seen through the eyes of Flottie is believably depicted. It's a slightly cosier London than the one the original Holmes inhabited, but that works fine with the gentle humour in the book and the friendliness and support of the little community that surrounds Mrs Hudson and Flottie.
There is a tongue-in-cheek aspect to the portrayal of both Holmes and Watson, each with their well-known traits slightly exaggerated. Holmes, it transpires, is perhaps not quite the great mastermind we thought, or at least not the only one in the household. As Mrs Hudson's genius reveals itself, each of her discoveries is met by a knowing nod from Holmes as if to say he knew all along... but the reader isn't so sure! Watson seems to have upped his alcohol intake quite a lot, along with his buffoonery and his susceptibility to a finely-turned ankle. Normally, these things would have me frothing at the mouth and possibly even gnashing my teeth but, partly because Holmes and Watson aren't the central characters in the book, and partly because the mockery is done with warm affection for the originals, somehow it all works.
Flottie herself is a great character. A young orphan, Mrs Hudson took her in at a point when Flottie had been heading towards crime in order to survive. Flottie's gratitude and admiration for her benefactor make both characters very likeable. I was particularly impressed by the way Davies handles Flottie's 'voice'. Although she is a 14-year-old uneducated maidservant at the time of the case, Davies quickly lets the reader know that Flottie is in fact telling the story in retrospect from when she is much older. In the intervening years, Mrs Hudson set her on the path to a good education and a successful career. This allows her to speak with an educated voice and a good vocabulary – no faux Cockney maid talk! It also means she can be more insightful and humorous about events than would sound realistic from the mouth of a 14-year-old.
The plot takes us into the world of theatre with conjurers, exotic dancers, and elaborate trickery, and it all takes place around Christmas so we get some mouthwatering descriptions of the kind of Christmas fare Mrs Hudson whips up for her lodgers when she's not out detecting. The mystery is not so much whodunit as how was it done – or, in the case of the potential theft of the ruby, how will it be done and how can it be prevented. There are enough nods to the original stories to satisfy Holmes geeks, but catching these references isn't necessary to enjoying this story on its own account. All in all, excellent writing, a strong plot, some likeable characters and plenty of humour – one of the best spins on the Holmes stories I've come across, and I'll certainly be reading more in this series. Most enjoyable!
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, Canelo.
www.fictionfanblog.wordpress.com
Two clients turn up at Sherlock Holmes' rooms in 221b Baker Street – a woman whose son-in-law has gone missing, and a representative of the Home Office who is concerned for the safety of the Malabar Rose, a priceless ruby gifted to the Queen with the condition that it is put on public display. Rather dismissively, Holmes brushes off the woman, suggesting her daughter's husband has merely left her and will no doubt show up soon. He then turns his attention to ensuring the security of the ruby. Fortunately, Mrs Hudson doesn't share his lack of concern regarding the missing man and decides to undertake her own investigation, with the help of her servant, our narrator, young Flotsam. As the two cases proceed, it gradually appears that there may be some links between them...
Well, I have to say that, despite all my anti-Holmes-pastiche prejudices and against all expectation, I thoroughly enjoyed this romp! It's very well written with a good plot, and the Victorian world as seen through the eyes of Flottie is believably depicted. It's a slightly cosier London than the one the original Holmes inhabited, but that works fine with the gentle humour in the book and the friendliness and support of the little community that surrounds Mrs Hudson and Flottie.
There is a tongue-in-cheek aspect to the portrayal of both Holmes and Watson, each with their well-known traits slightly exaggerated. Holmes, it transpires, is perhaps not quite the great mastermind we thought, or at least not the only one in the household. As Mrs Hudson's genius reveals itself, each of her discoveries is met by a knowing nod from Holmes as if to say he knew all along... but the reader isn't so sure! Watson seems to have upped his alcohol intake quite a lot, along with his buffoonery and his susceptibility to a finely-turned ankle. Normally, these things would have me frothing at the mouth and possibly even gnashing my teeth but, partly because Holmes and Watson aren't the central characters in the book, and partly because the mockery is done with warm affection for the originals, somehow it all works.
Flottie herself is a great character. A young orphan, Mrs Hudson took her in at a point when Flottie had been heading towards crime in order to survive. Flottie's gratitude and admiration for her benefactor make both characters very likeable. I was particularly impressed by the way Davies handles Flottie's 'voice'. Although she is a 14-year-old uneducated maidservant at the time of the case, Davies quickly lets the reader know that Flottie is in fact telling the story in retrospect from when she is much older. In the intervening years, Mrs Hudson set her on the path to a good education and a successful career. This allows her to speak with an educated voice and a good vocabulary – no faux Cockney maid talk! It also means she can be more insightful and humorous about events than would sound realistic from the mouth of a 14-year-old.
The plot takes us into the world of theatre with conjurers, exotic dancers, and elaborate trickery, and it all takes place around Christmas so we get some mouthwatering descriptions of the kind of Christmas fare Mrs Hudson whips up for her lodgers when she's not out detecting. The mystery is not so much whodunit as how was it done – or, in the case of the potential theft of the ruby, how will it be done and how can it be prevented. There are enough nods to the original stories to satisfy Holmes geeks, but catching these references isn't necessary to enjoying this story on its own account. All in all, excellent writing, a strong plot, some likeable characters and plenty of humour – one of the best spins on the Holmes stories I've come across, and I'll certainly be reading more in this series. Most enjoyable!
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, Canelo.
www.fictionfanblog.wordpress.com
December 30, 2018
Visit the locations through the eyes of Mrs Hudson
What would the world of cosy crime fiction be like if it turned out that Mrs Watson was just as much a sleuth as the man she worked for? Whilst Sherlock Holmes was out solving crime, so too was Mrs Hudson with her maid Flotsam. This is the second in a three book mystery series and to me, the best one of the lot.
Although light and entertaining reading, this is packed to the rafters with mystery, intrigue, dark shadows on cobbled streets and dubious figures hiding beside lampposts. There is also one very expensive ruby to be displayed in town, those intent on getting to it, and magicians and a circus nearby..ooh a strange disappearance.
The Victorian world as seen through the eyes of Flottie and Mrs Hudson is really well depicted. There's a slightly cosier feel to this London than the one the original Holmes inhabited, but this is from a different point of view and it works well with the commentary of young Flotsam as she learns from Mrs Hudson.
It's a great, jam-packed and exciting story with twists and turns galore. The mystery of the ruby is unique and I really enjoyed going on this adventure with two wonderful travel companions.
December 13, 2015
This is the second in the Mrs Hudson series, but my first. This is a light, entertaining book that engages the reader. It is a well plotted story packed to the seams with a range of characters, and scenarios.
There is a paradigm shift of the original Holmes and Watson duo so that here it is Mrs Hudson who is the star of the show. Holmes and Watson take on distinctly more background roles. Mrs Hudson is ably assisted by the house maid, Flotsam, who helps her solve clues and see connections between different storylines. We encounter a valuable ruby, magicians, and strange disappearances.
There is great atmosphere with snow on the streets of a Victorian London. A fun, humorous and enjoyable mystery. Many thanks to Canelo, the publishers for a ebook copy via netgalley.
There is a paradigm shift of the original Holmes and Watson duo so that here it is Mrs Hudson who is the star of the show. Holmes and Watson take on distinctly more background roles. Mrs Hudson is ably assisted by the house maid, Flotsam, who helps her solve clues and see connections between different storylines. We encounter a valuable ruby, magicians, and strange disappearances.
There is great atmosphere with snow on the streets of a Victorian London. A fun, humorous and enjoyable mystery. Many thanks to Canelo, the publishers for a ebook copy via netgalley.
May 3, 2016
Can't wait for the next one! This series is marvelous. Smart women solve the crimes with a little help from the menfolk.
March 28, 2018
Fun read! Sherlock Holmes, from point of view of his housekeeper, Mrs Hudson, who in fact is the clever one. Holmes just tries to keep up! (Own)
February 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this mystery, where both Sherlock Holmes and Mrs. Hudson both are geniuses at ferreting out the machinations of the criminal mind--and machinations of the criminal mind is a good description for this story. Dr. Watson doesn't fare so well. The story is told by Flotsam, a maid in Mrs. Hudson's employ who is sent to learn chemistry as part of her job from the son of an earl. Flottie is a delightful character, even with the far-fetched job description. This is the second in the series, and I have not read the first, and I didn't feel at all handicapped. I liked this so much, I've already bought the third book. I was a bit dismayed to see that they were written over ten years ago, and that the author has moved on to other topics, as I found the premise very fun.
September 10, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Lots of fun and cleverness.
Love it.
Lots of fun and cleverness.
Love it.
May 4, 2023
This book was enjoyable, but not quite as good as the first in the series. For one thing, it felt like both Mrs. Hudson and Sherlock Holmes were bit characters in the book. This has it's good points, as the other characters are interesting. Especially the observations of Miss. Peters. But it does seem odd that the two characters that the series is named after don't have more of a role.
But all in all, it was a fun romp with all turning out well in the end and the indominable Mrs. Hudson enjoying her a good drink at the end.
But all in all, it was a fun romp with all turning out well in the end and the indominable Mrs. Hudson enjoying her a good drink at the end.
April 24, 2019
Firstly, let’s take a moment to discuss book summaries. The one on the back of my copy was fine. The summary at the top of this page reveals what happens…on page 162! That is just shy of half way through! It’s ridiculous!
This feels very similar to the first on; a fun adventure that is both easy to read and to enjoy. There are some really nice reveals in the story. Once again, Sherlock and Hudson remain smart, but in slightly different fashions. Davies lets Mrs Hudson’s point of view be the key to it, almost selling the idea that Holmes wouldn’t make the same deductions. The narrative balances the four characters well, making it an entertaining adventure, with a creepy moment towards the end.
It’s not all perfect. Flotsam has a little side story that doesn’t really connect to anything else and feels like a rehash of her side adventure in book one. A tiny detail concerning an event over Christmas is deliberately left unanswered, which I personally found irritating. There are also two out-of-character moments that come from a need to drive the plot forward, rather than being something the character would do in the real situation.
Despite these, I still would recommend this highly charming piece of writing. This is not five-star writing, but what it is in undeniably enjoyable with plenty of vivid description and heart to keep you reading and entertained to the end.
My 2 character issues:
This feels very similar to the first on; a fun adventure that is both easy to read and to enjoy. There are some really nice reveals in the story. Once again, Sherlock and Hudson remain smart, but in slightly different fashions. Davies lets Mrs Hudson’s point of view be the key to it, almost selling the idea that Holmes wouldn’t make the same deductions. The narrative balances the four characters well, making it an entertaining adventure, with a creepy moment towards the end.
It’s not all perfect. Flotsam has a little side story that doesn’t really connect to anything else and feels like a rehash of her side adventure in book one. A tiny detail concerning an event over Christmas is deliberately left unanswered, which I personally found irritating. There are also two out-of-character moments that come from a need to drive the plot forward, rather than being something the character would do in the real situation.
Despite these, I still would recommend this highly charming piece of writing. This is not five-star writing, but what it is in undeniably enjoyable with plenty of vivid description and heart to keep you reading and entertained to the end.
My 2 character issues:
August 18, 2015
Maybe closer to 2.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed the first in the series, but this was felt a bit plodding.
I still like Mrs. Hudson and Flotsam, but they become sort of utilitarian in this second in the series, and I still don't like Holmes looking a little silly. The mystery didn't work that well, either.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first in the series, but this was felt a bit plodding.
I still like Mrs. Hudson and Flotsam, but they become sort of utilitarian in this second in the series, and I still don't like Holmes looking a little silly. The mystery didn't work that well, either.
July 5, 2017
No way near as good as the first book in the series Mrs. Hudson and the Spirit's Curse.
April 17, 2023
This series is very entertaining!
March 9, 2025
While browsing the shelves of a charity shop last summer, I came across a copy of 'Mrs Hudson and The Malabar Rose'. The description indicated that it was a mystery featuring Sherlock Holmes’s housekeeper, which prompted me to add it to my reading list for future enjoyment.
This week, feeling the need to delve into the world of Sherlock Holmes beyond the Arthur Conan-Doyle canon, I decided that this novel would be an excellent choice. I was not mistaken. 'Mrs Hudson and The Malabar Rose' unfolds as a wintry tale narrated in the first person by Flottie, Mrs Hudson’s scullery maid. Flottie finds herself intricately involved in the daily operations at 221B Baker Street, working alongside Mrs Hudson, while also witnessing the various clients who seek the counsel of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
In this story, Holmes and Watson are commissioned by the government to ensure the security of a legendary ruby, the Malabar Rose, which is set to be publicly displayed after being gifted to Queen Victoria. Flottie and Mrs Hudson quickly become entangled in the unfolding events when Flottie narrowly escapes a pickpocketing attempt by a young street urchin who evokes memories of her past. Additionally, a woman approaches Sherlock Holmes to report her missing stepson. Although the master detective regards the missing person case as somewhat trivial, Mrs Hudson's suspicions intensify as security measures are heightened in anticipation of the Malabar Rose's unveiling, coinciding with the arrival of a magician and an exotic dancer who are expected to captivate London at a nearby theatre.
Martin Davies' narrative embodies the essential characteristics of classic Sherlock Holmes mysteries while skilfully incorporating a sophisticated depiction of Mrs. Hudson and Flottie's possible behind-the-scenes involvement in the master detective's adventures. The story encourages the reader to delve into a variety of captivating settings, including theatres, hotels, Victorian taverns, and a mysterious toyshop.
Notably, Flottie and Mrs. Hudson emerge as prominent figures, both independently and in their interactions with Holmes and Watson, actively engaging in the evolving plot to such an extent that one might perceive Holmes himself being occasionally eclipsed (though never diminished) by the ingenuity of his resourceful housekeeper and scullery maid. This work appears to be the second entry in the 'Sherlock Holmes and Mrs Hudson' series, yet it easily stands up as a work in its own right.
This week, feeling the need to delve into the world of Sherlock Holmes beyond the Arthur Conan-Doyle canon, I decided that this novel would be an excellent choice. I was not mistaken. 'Mrs Hudson and The Malabar Rose' unfolds as a wintry tale narrated in the first person by Flottie, Mrs Hudson’s scullery maid. Flottie finds herself intricately involved in the daily operations at 221B Baker Street, working alongside Mrs Hudson, while also witnessing the various clients who seek the counsel of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
In this story, Holmes and Watson are commissioned by the government to ensure the security of a legendary ruby, the Malabar Rose, which is set to be publicly displayed after being gifted to Queen Victoria. Flottie and Mrs Hudson quickly become entangled in the unfolding events when Flottie narrowly escapes a pickpocketing attempt by a young street urchin who evokes memories of her past. Additionally, a woman approaches Sherlock Holmes to report her missing stepson. Although the master detective regards the missing person case as somewhat trivial, Mrs Hudson's suspicions intensify as security measures are heightened in anticipation of the Malabar Rose's unveiling, coinciding with the arrival of a magician and an exotic dancer who are expected to captivate London at a nearby theatre.
Martin Davies' narrative embodies the essential characteristics of classic Sherlock Holmes mysteries while skilfully incorporating a sophisticated depiction of Mrs. Hudson and Flottie's possible behind-the-scenes involvement in the master detective's adventures. The story encourages the reader to delve into a variety of captivating settings, including theatres, hotels, Victorian taverns, and a mysterious toyshop.
Notably, Flottie and Mrs. Hudson emerge as prominent figures, both independently and in their interactions with Holmes and Watson, actively engaging in the evolving plot to such an extent that one might perceive Holmes himself being occasionally eclipsed (though never diminished) by the ingenuity of his resourceful housekeeper and scullery maid. This work appears to be the second entry in the 'Sherlock Holmes and Mrs Hudson' series, yet it easily stands up as a work in its own right.
October 31, 2017
Mrs Hudson, Sherlock Holmes excellent housekeeper, is the heroine of this mystery, rather than the master detective himself. The Malabar Rose is the largest ruby ever found and has been gifted to Queen Victoria. It is the responsibility of Holmes, (and Dr. Watson), Lestrade, a military hero, and a minister of the cabinet to guard the precious gem and also supervise it during a display.
However, while Holmes and Watson are expecting the Colonel, a Mrs. Smithers comes to their door asking for help in finding her son-in-law, who has vanished before her eyes. Holmes, Lestrade, Watson, et. al. are far to busy to look into this case, but Mrs. Hudson and her assistant, Flotsam, an orphan and now Mrs. Hudson's assistant, look into this case. Soon it is clear to Mrs. Hudson and Flottie (as she is called) that the two cases are intertwined. How to prove it? As this takes place over Christmas week in a very snowy winter, things are ever more complicated, what with various Christmas entertainments taking place. Two of these are very provocative, a magician (a definite forerunner of Houdini) and a mysterious dancer, who performs in what these Victorians feel is practical nudity, but she is actually wearing what we might consider a long slip or sleeveless nightgown.
At any rate, the ruby disappears and it takes the combined talents of Mrs. Hudson and Holmes to retrieve it. (I'm not really giving anything away here, as you know that Holmes always gets his man (or in this case the jewel).
Can you deduce where the ruby is hidden?
However, while Holmes and Watson are expecting the Colonel, a Mrs. Smithers comes to their door asking for help in finding her son-in-law, who has vanished before her eyes. Holmes, Lestrade, Watson, et. al. are far to busy to look into this case, but Mrs. Hudson and her assistant, Flotsam, an orphan and now Mrs. Hudson's assistant, look into this case. Soon it is clear to Mrs. Hudson and Flottie (as she is called) that the two cases are intertwined. How to prove it? As this takes place over Christmas week in a very snowy winter, things are ever more complicated, what with various Christmas entertainments taking place. Two of these are very provocative, a magician (a definite forerunner of Houdini) and a mysterious dancer, who performs in what these Victorians feel is practical nudity, but she is actually wearing what we might consider a long slip or sleeveless nightgown.
At any rate, the ruby disappears and it takes the combined talents of Mrs. Hudson and Holmes to retrieve it. (I'm not really giving anything away here, as you know that Holmes always gets his man (or in this case the jewel).
Can you deduce where the ruby is hidden?
May 18, 2024
I really struggled to get through this book. I found the first half slow, repetitive and dull in places. Reading it felt like an endurance task rather than an enjoyment. Towards the end it became more enjoyable but also predictable. By the time it got to the big reveal, I didn’t care about the outcome for the characters anymore. The constant running around London seemed like an attempt of mock comedy and it felt like the characters brought out a drink for every mild surprise or gathering. I know that Mrs Hudson and Flottie are the characters that this series uses as the great solvers of mystery but it also felt like it was at the expense of losing the uniqueness of Sherlock Holmes’ abilities and instead he seemed slow and stupid whilst Dr Watson just tagged along for the ride but wouldn’t have been missed if he hadn’t been included. I also found the idea that the police could be persuaded to order officers to leave their duties for a party at the request of a simpering woman who just walked in off the street, a little bit far fetched.
October 29, 2017
The "Mrs Hudson" series has been my go-to bedtime stories lately. It's the perfect ratio of mystery/drama and relaxes me to sleep (in a good way).
I enjoyed the second instalment a lot more than the first. I'm not sure if it was due to the plot (magicians!) or character development. The pacing was almost perfect in this book, I felt it dragged a little in the first one.
Holmes seemed less "bumbling" this time round and (despite the fact she spent way too much time crying in the novel), I liked that Flottie's growth was demonstrated with some well-showcased observational skills. There's a solid cast of minor characters in the series and while I'm secretly rooting for Flottie and Rupert, I've even grown to appreciate Hetty.
It's been years since I've read an actual Sherlock Holmes book, but I'm loving this Hudson/Holmes universe and have already made a start on the third book.
If you liked the first book would happily recommend this one too. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed on its own as a stand alone.
I enjoyed the second instalment a lot more than the first. I'm not sure if it was due to the plot (magicians!) or character development. The pacing was almost perfect in this book, I felt it dragged a little in the first one.
Holmes seemed less "bumbling" this time round and (despite the fact she spent way too much time crying in the novel), I liked that Flottie's growth was demonstrated with some well-showcased observational skills. There's a solid cast of minor characters in the series and while I'm secretly rooting for Flottie and Rupert, I've even grown to appreciate Hetty.
It's been years since I've read an actual Sherlock Holmes book, but I'm loving this Hudson/Holmes universe and have already made a start on the third book.
If you liked the first book would happily recommend this one too. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed on its own as a stand alone.
January 16, 2019
In 'Mrs Hudson and the Malabar Rose' Martin Davies continues the clever idea of having Mrs Hudson play the detective in support of Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson, supported by her assistant Flotsam.
A valuable ruby, The Malabar Rose, has been gifted to Queen Victoria and is to be displayed to the public at Christmas. Holmes is asked to ensure the safety of the jewel by the government. However there is a plot to steal the gem apparently linked to the world famous magician, the great Salmanazar. While Holmes and Dr Watson plan to guard the jewel, it is Mrs Hudson who begins to understand how the disappearance of a man from Ealing is part of a wider plot.
Set around Christmas, with descriptions of London in the snow, the novel focuses on the detective work of Mrs Hudson, who with her extensive contacts at all levels of society is ahead of the game at all times. Flotsam works with her as they solve the mystery and reach an outcome that is right and just for all those involved.
A valuable ruby, The Malabar Rose, has been gifted to Queen Victoria and is to be displayed to the public at Christmas. Holmes is asked to ensure the safety of the jewel by the government. However there is a plot to steal the gem apparently linked to the world famous magician, the great Salmanazar. While Holmes and Dr Watson plan to guard the jewel, it is Mrs Hudson who begins to understand how the disappearance of a man from Ealing is part of a wider plot.
Set around Christmas, with descriptions of London in the snow, the novel focuses on the detective work of Mrs Hudson, who with her extensive contacts at all levels of society is ahead of the game at all times. Flotsam works with her as they solve the mystery and reach an outcome that is right and just for all those involved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2023
Sherlock Holmes’ housekeeper, Mrs. Hudson, and her protégé, Flotsam, assist their employers once more. When a distraught mother-in-law approached them with the disappearance of her son-in-law, Holmes turns her away because a much larger case requires all his attention—the protection of a priceless ruby. Undeterred, Mrs. Hudson helps both her boss and the woman, bringing Flotsam along as well. Soon, the pair finds their holiday filled with such festive visions as jewels, astonishing blue eyes, unique moving dolls, acrobats, magicians, foreign dancers, and eve fire. But will the Malabar Rose disappear in the holiday excitement?
I enjoyed traipsing along with Flotsam as she tried to make sense of clues dropped in Mrs. Hudson’s wake. Plus the cast of characters in this installment livened things up.
I enjoyed traipsing along with Flotsam as she tried to make sense of clues dropped in Mrs. Hudson’s wake. Plus the cast of characters in this installment livened things up.
October 19, 2018
An entertaining "trifle". Well done, like a Christmas fruit cake with icing.
Holmes and Watson are mostly peripheral characters, with Mrs. Hudson the lead as detecting housekeeper assisted by her parlour maid Flotsom.
Much nonsense about a diamond from India that is a gift for Queen Victoria. Mayhem ensues. I recommend this as a tonic to violent mysteries and the travails of the world. I enjoy mature novels, but enjoy a simpler narrative on occasion, just to cleanse the palate, so to speak.
Holmes and Watson are mostly peripheral characters, with Mrs. Hudson the lead as detecting housekeeper assisted by her parlour maid Flotsom.
Much nonsense about a diamond from India that is a gift for Queen Victoria. Mayhem ensues. I recommend this as a tonic to violent mysteries and the travails of the world. I enjoy mature novels, but enjoy a simpler narrative on occasion, just to cleanse the palate, so to speak.
February 24, 2022
Second one of this series I have read which is non Conan Doyle Holmes related stuff and though not bad...well it wasn't big on detection.
It doesn't really take any big detours from an earlier premise on how the Malabar Rose diamond was likely to go missing and whom may be involved.
As usual there are sub plots that fit in with the main narrative and we do get a 'the games afoot' ..so extra points there😂
It's also a fun take having Holmes housekeeping staff as characters as formidable as the man himself.
So good fun..plods a bit midway through but I would read more in the series.
It doesn't really take any big detours from an earlier premise on how the Malabar Rose diamond was likely to go missing and whom may be involved.
As usual there are sub plots that fit in with the main narrative and we do get a 'the games afoot' ..so extra points there😂
It's also a fun take having Holmes housekeeping staff as characters as formidable as the man himself.
So good fun..plods a bit midway through but I would read more in the series.
September 14, 2022
Another excellent adventure.
I am really enjoying this series and the incredible expanded character of Mrs. Hudson. I also enjoy the new member of the 221b Baker Street: Miss Flotsom. Very creative and engrossing tales.
I do have one complaint, though. This author portrays Dr Watson as a bumbling dimwit - far from the Dr Watson in the Conan Doyle cannon. It appears that this Watson is based on the slow, elderly version portrayed by Nigel Bruce in the Basel Rathbone movies from the 1930s and 1940s. A real shame.
I am really enjoying this series and the incredible expanded character of Mrs. Hudson. I also enjoy the new member of the 221b Baker Street: Miss Flotsom. Very creative and engrossing tales.
I do have one complaint, though. This author portrays Dr Watson as a bumbling dimwit - far from the Dr Watson in the Conan Doyle cannon. It appears that this Watson is based on the slow, elderly version portrayed by Nigel Bruce in the Basel Rathbone movies from the 1930s and 1940s. A real shame.
July 4, 2020
This is a great book! For those how love Sherlock Holmes, it is an additional delight. The story focuses on his housekeeper and maid, and tells how they helped to solve the theft of a large ruby called the Malabar Rose. There are plots within plots, and it is interesting to watch as things unfold under the positive machinations of the redoubtable Mrs. Hudson. Told from the maid's point of view, the story is just delightful, and one that will intrigue mystery lovers of any sort.
December 5, 2022
Surprised delight!
Mrs. Hudson is a delightful, refreshing twist on the cozy mystery. Her resourcefulness and insight through the simple clues of housekeeping details are as brilliant as Holmes' with cigar ashes and bullet holes. Flotsam is a stalwart and true, just like Watson.
The only drawback is the secondary characters. They need to have their stories a little clearer told, not just snippets told to further the story along.
Mrs. Hudson is a delightful, refreshing twist on the cozy mystery. Her resourcefulness and insight through the simple clues of housekeeping details are as brilliant as Holmes' with cigar ashes and bullet holes. Flotsam is a stalwart and true, just like Watson.
The only drawback is the secondary characters. They need to have their stories a little clearer told, not just snippets told to further the story along.
July 9, 2017
The very large Malabar Rose ruby is brought to London to be put on show, and Holmes and Watson are asked to make sure that it is not stolen. Meanwhile Mrs Hudson and Flotsam look into the disappearance of James Phillimore, a clerk.
Well-written with a good mystery with some likeable characters.
Well-written with a good mystery with some likeable characters.
October 26, 2017
Intersting
Pastiche s of the Sherlock stories vary from OK to excellent. This one is a!most interesting twist. !rs Hudson is throtagonistn and her helper. It take a bit of getting used to but end up being a pleasant read.
Pastiche s of the Sherlock stories vary from OK to excellent. This one is a!most interesting twist. !rs Hudson is throtagonistn and her helper. It take a bit of getting used to but end up being a pleasant read.
February 26, 2018
It takes a village to solve a crime
Mrs Hudson is a very sharp person. Her abilities rival those of Sherlock Holmes. Together with her helpers Scaggs and Flotsam, she foils the criminals and arranges an appropriate ending for each of the players
Mrs Hudson is a very sharp person. Her abilities rival those of Sherlock Holmes. Together with her helpers Scaggs and Flotsam, she foils the criminals and arranges an appropriate ending for each of the players
April 20, 2018
Loved the fun perspective of the story told from the the scullery maid's point of view. She works in Sherlock Holmes' household and assists the housekeeper in solving mysteries. There are some light-hearted parts to it that had me laughing out loud.
February 6, 2019
i enjoyed this book much more than the first one.
the story was better as was the writing. i managed to convince myself that it was a coincidence that mrs hudson worked for two gentlemen called holmes and watson and that she was a completely different person.
the story was better as was the writing. i managed to convince myself that it was a coincidence that mrs hudson worked for two gentlemen called holmes and watson and that she was a completely different person.
December 21, 2019
Child read great characters with the added bonus of Holmes in there as well. Mrs Hudson is a worthy extra in the Holmes world.
Superb read good plot line just like a Holmes book of the olden times. Mrs Hudson is a worthy extra in the Holmes world
Superb read good plot line just like a Holmes book of the olden times. Mrs Hudson is a worthy extra in the Holmes world
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