The Case of Emily V.

by Keith Oatley

Two manuscripts are found: one is a case related by Sigmund Freud, the other an investigation described by Sherlock Holmes. Unknown to each other, they were both investigating Emily V. Her manuscript describes how she was seduced by her guardian, who later tracks her down to Vienna, and disappears.

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction

407 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Keith Weaver · Rating 4 out of 5]

The preface sets up the situation, in that manuscripts have been delivered into the hands of the narrator of this story, these manuscripts being Emily’s diary, and Freud’s analysis notes. This is a very well constructed psychological novel. It moves slowly, somewhat in the nature of a psychological condition emerging or being resolved in analysis. It incorporates a good deal of psychological expertise. It also incorporates considerable reference to people prominent in the literary scene in Europe in the early 1990s.

Finally, it deals very well with the homosexual/lesbian (or pre-feminist) situation as it was emerging in the early 1900s. The writing, especially as it recounts material linked to Holmes, Freud, and Sara, reflects respectively the Victorian style of writing and speaking, Freud’s skill as a stylist, and the mannerisms and small errors typical of a German speaker in English; these effects are done very well.

An excellent read, especially for anyone who likes reflective prose rather than too much focus on action.

[Jillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read. First part is early Freud - interesting background to his theories. Second part is Sherlock Holmes - how his way of working resembles Freud in some way.