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Warlock Holmes #2
The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles: Warlock Holmes 2
The game's afoot once more as Holmes and Watson face off against Moriarty's gang, the Pinkertons, flesh-eating horses, a parliament of imps, boredom, Surrey, a disappointing butler demon, a succubus, a wicked lord, an overly-Canadian lord, a tricycle-fight to the death and the dreaded Pumpcrow. Oh, and a hell hound, one assumes.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2017
100 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
G.S. Denning
8 books297 followersGabriel Denning was born and raised in Seattle. He has published articles for the popular games company Wizards of the Coast, worked as a editor, written a video-game script for Nintendo, and scripted and performed shows at the Epcot Center, Walt Disney World. He now lives in Las Vegas with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
June 6, 2020
This is a bacon book.
Like Vaughn Entwistle’s criminally underrated The Revenant of Thraxton Hall: The Paranormal Casebooks of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this book was written for an audience of me, a perfectly crisped piece of literary pig meat. In fact, toss Entwistle, with his imaginative reinterpretation of Sherlockian lore into a blender with a sprinkle of P.G. Wodehouse and his zany and relentlessly dry humor, a dash of Wilkie Collins and his mysterious machinations, and a generous dollop of H.P. Lovecraft and his mastery of the macabre (and minus his racist tendencies) and you’d get both a disgustingly undrinkable sludge of both fresh and long-since-deceased human body parts and one hell of a book: namely, this one.
If you’re a Sherlockian purist who can’t handle mixing the supernatural with the world’s greatest logic machine, well, stick to the Canadian bacon (which, as we all know, is really just ham in an apologetic disguise). If you’re disinclined to have your Victorian sleuths cracking wise with gut-busting regularity, settle for the sausage (just don’t ask what all is in there, or what that sheathe encasing it is made of).
As for me? Bacon, please, fried up exactly like this masterful mix of hilarity, horror, and homage (that list looks more alliterative than it really is, so don’t say it out loud; it’ll ruin the mood).
Bring on book three, please.
Like Vaughn Entwistle’s criminally underrated The Revenant of Thraxton Hall: The Paranormal Casebooks of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this book was written for an audience of me, a perfectly crisped piece of literary pig meat. In fact, toss Entwistle, with his imaginative reinterpretation of Sherlockian lore into a blender with a sprinkle of P.G. Wodehouse and his zany and relentlessly dry humor, a dash of Wilkie Collins and his mysterious machinations, and a generous dollop of H.P. Lovecraft and his mastery of the macabre (and minus his racist tendencies) and you’d get both a disgustingly undrinkable sludge of both fresh and long-since-deceased human body parts and one hell of a book: namely, this one.
If you’re a Sherlockian purist who can’t handle mixing the supernatural with the world’s greatest logic machine, well, stick to the Canadian bacon (which, as we all know, is really just ham in an apologetic disguise). If you’re disinclined to have your Victorian sleuths cracking wise with gut-busting regularity, settle for the sausage (just don’t ask what all is in there, or what that sheathe encasing it is made of).
As for me? Bacon, please, fried up exactly like this masterful mix of hilarity, horror, and homage (that list looks more alliterative than it really is, so don’t say it out loud; it’ll ruin the mood).
Bring on book three, please.
July 4, 2017
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2017/07/04/...
The thing about Warlock Holmes is, you can’t stop at just one. A Study in Brimstone was so much fun, I simply couldn’t bear the thought of letting book two go unread for one second longer. Almost as soon as I finished the first book, I fell upon the sequel The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles like a ravenous zombie on a fresh brain.
Last we left our characters, Warlock’s arch nemesis Moriarty had just revealed himself, setting off a chain of events that left the brilliantly dim detective in a strange state of dead-but-not-dead. Not knowing what to do with the inert and decomposing body, Dr. Watson has decided to conceal the truth behind his friend’s apparent passing—at least for the time being. After making up a cover story to explain Holmes’ whereabouts and filling their flat at 221b Baker Street with flowers to hide the smell, Watson sets his sights on finding a way to bring Warlock back to life.
This second novel closely mirrors the format of the first, containing a series of stories following Warlock Holmes’ eventual resurrection and recovery from a being a rotting corpse. From a not-so-relaxing jaunt to the peaceful countryside of Surrey to an outlandish tricycle race in Farnham, our characters are once again embarking upon a number of adventures inspired by the original tales by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. However, the book’s tour de force is without a doubt its title story “The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles” which makes up more than half its pages, and features the culmination of everything that has happened in the series so far.
I picked up this sequel expecting more hilarity and fun times, and I was definitely not disappointed. In fact, the author appears to have raised the humor to a whole other level—the situations Holmes and Watson find themselves in are even more extreme and absurd, and on the whole I found the jokes a lot less subtle. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword since I’ve always preferred my humor on the understated side, i.e. less overt and in-your-face, but I also can’t deny that when G.S. Denning does silliness, the results work a lot better for me.
More importantly, the increase in madcap humor is also balanced out by the darker, more macabre moments. There are more of those in this sequel as well, as the series is in the process of maturing in story scope and content. This is most obvious in “The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles”, based off of perhaps one of the most well-known Sherlock Holmes stories, and I am happy to report Denning does it justice. Giving depth to Warlock by filling in some of the details behinds his tragic backstory, we are gradually built up to a suspenseful climax filled with some pretty shocking twists.
The characters are generally more developed in this second installment, and I continue to enjoy their hilarious interplay. The premise of the series is that Holmes is actually a witless buffoon who couldn’t solve his way out of a paper bag if it weren’t for Watson’s levelheaded assistance, and it’s a joke that hasn’t worn out its welcome yet. In fact, the Warlock/Watson dynamic is better than ever, with their personalities playing off each other in more complex, meaningful ways. I really enjoyed the revelations into their friendship at the end of book, and I hope that Denning will continue exploring this aspect in the next installment.
Honestly, there’s not much left for me to say except I’m completely addicted to this series, and here’s hoping I won’t have too long to wait until my next Warlock Holmes fix! I’ll be waiting on pins and needles to see what Denning has in store for us in book three.
The thing about Warlock Holmes is, you can’t stop at just one. A Study in Brimstone was so much fun, I simply couldn’t bear the thought of letting book two go unread for one second longer. Almost as soon as I finished the first book, I fell upon the sequel The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles like a ravenous zombie on a fresh brain.
Last we left our characters, Warlock’s arch nemesis Moriarty had just revealed himself, setting off a chain of events that left the brilliantly dim detective in a strange state of dead-but-not-dead. Not knowing what to do with the inert and decomposing body, Dr. Watson has decided to conceal the truth behind his friend’s apparent passing—at least for the time being. After making up a cover story to explain Holmes’ whereabouts and filling their flat at 221b Baker Street with flowers to hide the smell, Watson sets his sights on finding a way to bring Warlock back to life.
This second novel closely mirrors the format of the first, containing a series of stories following Warlock Holmes’ eventual resurrection and recovery from a being a rotting corpse. From a not-so-relaxing jaunt to the peaceful countryside of Surrey to an outlandish tricycle race in Farnham, our characters are once again embarking upon a number of adventures inspired by the original tales by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. However, the book’s tour de force is without a doubt its title story “The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles” which makes up more than half its pages, and features the culmination of everything that has happened in the series so far.
I picked up this sequel expecting more hilarity and fun times, and I was definitely not disappointed. In fact, the author appears to have raised the humor to a whole other level—the situations Holmes and Watson find themselves in are even more extreme and absurd, and on the whole I found the jokes a lot less subtle. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword since I’ve always preferred my humor on the understated side, i.e. less overt and in-your-face, but I also can’t deny that when G.S. Denning does silliness, the results work a lot better for me.
More importantly, the increase in madcap humor is also balanced out by the darker, more macabre moments. There are more of those in this sequel as well, as the series is in the process of maturing in story scope and content. This is most obvious in “The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles”, based off of perhaps one of the most well-known Sherlock Holmes stories, and I am happy to report Denning does it justice. Giving depth to Warlock by filling in some of the details behinds his tragic backstory, we are gradually built up to a suspenseful climax filled with some pretty shocking twists.
The characters are generally more developed in this second installment, and I continue to enjoy their hilarious interplay. The premise of the series is that Holmes is actually a witless buffoon who couldn’t solve his way out of a paper bag if it weren’t for Watson’s levelheaded assistance, and it’s a joke that hasn’t worn out its welcome yet. In fact, the Warlock/Watson dynamic is better than ever, with their personalities playing off each other in more complex, meaningful ways. I really enjoyed the revelations into their friendship at the end of book, and I hope that Denning will continue exploring this aspect in the next installment.
Honestly, there’s not much left for me to say except I’m completely addicted to this series, and here’s hoping I won’t have too long to wait until my next Warlock Holmes fix! I’ll be waiting on pins and needles to see what Denning has in store for us in book three.
Read
December 11, 2018I am wolfing this series down as an antidote to current events. Apocalyptic insanity is so much more fun when it's fictional. A bit more serious than the first book, but still a lot of fun with some great jokes and much messing around with the Sherlock Holmes stories, as well as some increasingly spooky and ingenious fantasy. On to the third at which point I will have run out and have to wait for the next one to be published. I hate that.
Want to read
May 9, 2017If I don't win this giveaway I hope the people at Titan have their lives wrecked by the ghosts of donuts.
January 4, 2023
The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles
By G. S. Denning
This continues the story of the crazy Warlock Holmes and Dr Watson. Watson is the clue finder and Holmes has all the magic. This time most of the story is around an adventure with a Canadian Lord with a curse. Throw in a Hell-Hound, demon horses, a succubus, and a butler that turns out to be a demon, and a serial killer on the loose.
Holmes doesn't want to go to this house on the moors, he actually looked disturbed by the thought of going there. Watson goes alone to guard the Lord while Warlock finds a way to fix the curse.
Just like book one, giggles ensue, occasionally out right laughter! This book is hilarious, witty, and a joy to read or listen. I got the Graphics Audio addition from Chirp that has multiple narrators and sound effects. They are so good!
It's really funny when Watson describes Canadians or Americans.
By G. S. Denning
This continues the story of the crazy Warlock Holmes and Dr Watson. Watson is the clue finder and Holmes has all the magic. This time most of the story is around an adventure with a Canadian Lord with a curse. Throw in a Hell-Hound, demon horses, a succubus, and a butler that turns out to be a demon, and a serial killer on the loose.
Holmes doesn't want to go to this house on the moors, he actually looked disturbed by the thought of going there. Watson goes alone to guard the Lord while Warlock finds a way to fix the curse.
Just like book one, giggles ensue, occasionally out right laughter! This book is hilarious, witty, and a joy to read or listen. I got the Graphics Audio addition from Chirp that has multiple narrators and sound effects. They are so good!
It's really funny when Watson describes Canadians or Americans.
February 8, 2018
Here we have a comical Holmes but it may be that but it is still one for the Holmes fans as if don't know SH this is waste of time.
In 1980s Tom Baker played Holmes in very bad version of The Hound even Tom said in Who on Earth is Tom Baker? that his Holmes stunk & that is what Warlock is because Watson poisoned him & shot him through the heart twice so gone off.
But that doesn't stop Holmes . What with Tolkien jokes & peg legs along with Flashman puns the first story is very funny. The second is...dead pile of horses flying knives & football fans here we learn that Lestrade is a Vampire you'll laugh out loud then we move on to Holmes get bad case of too much wind & how Watson gets his patients falling dead at his feet then it's off to...Mrs Hutson a horrible money grabbing landlady who brings up case of Miss Violet Smith a cyclist with strange obstion for beards & bikes Holmes is mad as Watson will lot him ride one A mad race.
The final story is not a short story but over 200ps.
It's funny that the Hound as all same people that Doyle had in it of all the stories this the best starts with huge sneeze & on to a missing boot that turns up in a very odd place . To really enjoy this you really do need to have read the 'real' book or miss all ghastly puns. Bit like Bored of the Rings or Soddit
Here we learn very different past of both Holmes and Moriarty as well as Holmes been over 250 ys old; I always said he last well .Don't think Peter Cushion ever looked that old .Along with very odd Hound too .Denning has enjoyed himself here creating a poetic licence with satirical look at Holmes & as not gone down the gay rot that some book on Holmes over years have thank goodness I really hate that.This just good laugh.
In 1980s Tom Baker played Holmes in very bad version of The Hound even Tom said in Who on Earth is Tom Baker? that his Holmes stunk & that is what Warlock is because Watson poisoned him & shot him through the heart twice so gone off.
But that doesn't stop Holmes . What with Tolkien jokes & peg legs along with Flashman puns the first story is very funny. The second is...dead pile of horses flying knives & football fans here we learn that Lestrade is a Vampire you'll laugh out loud then we move on to Holmes get bad case of too much wind & how Watson gets his patients falling dead at his feet then it's off to...Mrs Hutson a horrible money grabbing landlady who brings up case of Miss Violet Smith a cyclist with strange obstion for beards & bikes Holmes is mad as Watson will lot him ride one A mad race.
The final story is not a short story but over 200ps.
It's funny that the Hound as all same people that Doyle had in it of all the stories this the best starts with huge sneeze & on to a missing boot that turns up in a very odd place . To really enjoy this you really do need to have read the 'real' book or miss all ghastly puns. Bit like Bored of the Rings or Soddit
Here we learn very different past of both Holmes and Moriarty as well as Holmes been over 250 ys old; I always said he last well .Don't think Peter Cushion ever looked that old .Along with very odd Hound too .Denning has enjoyed himself here creating a poetic licence with satirical look at Holmes & as not gone down the gay rot that some book on Holmes over years have thank goodness I really hate that.This just good laugh.
September 8, 2017
This was really hilarious. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, or that there was a first book in this series. I just saw it at a bookshop, laughed at the title, read the first few pages, and, realizing this is exactly my kind of fun, was hooked.
I really loved the idea of Warlock Holmes, sorcerer and accidental detective (who was childish, impulsive, and somehow just adorable) whereas Watson is the master of deductive reasoning who has to clean up Holmes' messes and keep him from doing worse. The stories itself were quite brilliantly adapted IMO, changing just enough to still be recognizable as Doyle's classic tales. The humor was just my idea of hilarious and absurd, and I loved it! If you can live with a Holmes who sprouts horns and calls on demons to do his "detective" work while a hilariously exasperated Watson stands by, chiding and doing all the real work, definitely give this series a try!
I really loved the idea of Warlock Holmes, sorcerer and accidental detective (who was childish, impulsive, and somehow just adorable) whereas Watson is the master of deductive reasoning who has to clean up Holmes' messes and keep him from doing worse. The stories itself were quite brilliantly adapted IMO, changing just enough to still be recognizable as Doyle's classic tales. The humor was just my idea of hilarious and absurd, and I loved it! If you can live with a Holmes who sprouts horns and calls on demons to do his "detective" work while a hilariously exasperated Watson stands by, chiding and doing all the real work, definitely give this series a try!
June 24, 2019
This installment of Warlock Holmes finds Warlock and Watson coming to terms with the events of the last volume. They do this in a rather strange way. Pinkertons are involved but they are somewhat like a certain famous group of wearers of black.
The two Holmes stories that are used include, of course, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Silver Blaze, and the Solitary Cyclist. The Cyclist sequence is particularly funny while the Baskervilles give us more detail about Warlock. It isn’t quite as funny but there are some shining moments.
As always, the humor comes from the asides that Watson does. In this case, Watson deals with issues as complex as fake beards, tricycles, and Canadians. The charm of the series is Watson’s down to earth musings that deal with issues raised in the original stories – for instance walking sticks. So, it is like you have an urban historical fantasy novel with a high shot of realism.
If you like fantasy and Sherlock Holmes, you should read this series.
Garston’s narration is particularly wonderful. He doesn’t do silly woman’s voices. His Watson sounds close enough to Edward Hardwicke to make a connection to Holmes seamless. His Holmes is not quite what you would think, but is brilliant nonetheless.
The two Holmes stories that are used include, of course, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Silver Blaze, and the Solitary Cyclist. The Cyclist sequence is particularly funny while the Baskervilles give us more detail about Warlock. It isn’t quite as funny but there are some shining moments.
As always, the humor comes from the asides that Watson does. In this case, Watson deals with issues as complex as fake beards, tricycles, and Canadians. The charm of the series is Watson’s down to earth musings that deal with issues raised in the original stories – for instance walking sticks. So, it is like you have an urban historical fantasy novel with a high shot of realism.
If you like fantasy and Sherlock Holmes, you should read this series.
Garston’s narration is particularly wonderful. He doesn’t do silly woman’s voices. His Watson sounds close enough to Edward Hardwicke to make a connection to Holmes seamless. His Holmes is not quite what you would think, but is brilliant nonetheless.
May 25, 2017
I pre-ordered this and was so looking forward to it but was ultimately disappointed. It’s not necessarily a fault which lies with the book itself, more that it wasn’t really what I was looking for.
I enjoyed the first in the series but this just felt like it was riding on the back of it, I found myself having to re-read whole sections as it just wasn't sinking in!
Not for me!
I enjoyed the first in the series but this just felt like it was riding on the back of it, I found myself having to re-read whole sections as it just wasn't sinking in!
Not for me!
April 24, 2019
I had some trouble with the reader in the first volume of this series and didn't think i would return for more but much of the humor and satire of the story stuck with me so here I am again. This time i listened and focused more on the story than the reader's voice and accent and really enjoyed the book more. If you are a Sherlock Holmes fan then this is a very nice humorous supernatural take on the original concept. Recommended
January 2, 2023
Originally reviewed at Thoughts Stained With Ink:
** I was given an early copy of the book by the G.S. Denning, because he's merciful and knows how eagerly I have been awaiting this book. He's also horrible. Read on to find out why.**
So, friends.
Warlock Holmes: The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles.
Holy shit.
If you read my review of Warlock Holmes: A Study in Brimstone, the first book in this series, you know how hard I've fallen for this retelling. How well the characters captivated my mind, captured my heart and did their best to give me abs (thanks to laughter--in case you had any idea that Warlock and his wacky impropriety or Watson and his esteemed passion for being properly English somehow encouraged me to work out. I confess that you are sadly mistaken and I'm still ab-less--but I might have laugh lines when I get older, just from this series alone).
I had really high expectations for this book. It does contain my favorite Holmes story, after all. And as I became, dare I label it, friends with the author, I became even more invested and my expectations continued to rise.
I'm delighted to report that those expectations were not disappointed.
(I would like to offer a little caveat real quick and let you know that being friends, per say, with the mind behind the madness does not taint the outcome of this review at all--which you might find hard to believe, considering this one is glowing. Nor does getting surprised with an early copy of the book. If you don't trust my word that is positive review is unbiased, why don't you check out the book and let me know what you think? I promise the story will speak for itself.)
First off, I absolutely love the way the book was organized. You get a couple, shorter sections covering various cases/stories before you get to the meat and potatoes of the book (which, in this case, involved the most interesting hell-hound I've ever encountered and a very unfortunate family). The stories before the main event were no filler or fluff, either. All of them were a joy to read and I actually read all four cases in one sitting, they were that un-put-down-able (because that's a word).
(I would like to take this moment to also formally deny that the lack of productivity at work last Thursday had absolutely no correlation to that reading-binge. None. At all.)
I actually annoyed one of my coworkers because I kept switching between giggling and suppressed snort-laughter for the entire two hours I read those first four cases. But I couldn't help it. You try and read about Grogsson's SPOILER SPOILER or Warlock SPOILER sneeze SPOILER or Watson SPOILER SPOILER dang Canadian SPOILER SPOILER or Mrs. Hudson SPOILER that smut did what? SPOILER and try not to laugh. It's practically impossible.
Mix in all of that humor, the clever one-liners and fantastic references, and you already have a recipe for a seriously awesome book. But then you read the tale of the Baskervilles and you get another element that you didn't see as much of in the first part of the book, yet it also didn't feel out of place sneaking its way into this case. Instead, it complemented this retelling and fulfilled all expectations.
The element of darkness.
Don't get me wrong: there's plenty of grotesque details that threads throughout the series that is utterly fantastic (and sometimes makes me question my decision to eat while reading), but the darkness that surrounded the twist in Baskervilles surprised me. And I immediately loved it, even if reading about it made my heart hurt a little. It gave the story even more depth than it already has and complicated Warlock's complexity. I finished the book feeling absolutely content.
Well, almost content.
I know what you're waiting for. Nicole, you mentioned that the author was horrible in the first paragraph. I'm dying to know why. Oh, I'll tell you why.
The ending.
That single bloody line.
How dare you, sir. *stares straight at Denning* That's right, I'm talking directly to you, now. You know what you did. You know exactly what. *grumbles about book three's unknown publication date and other spoiler-y unmentionables*
Now I realize that you, dear reader, have no idea what I'm talking about. Luckily, I have the perfect remedy for you. (Hint: it's reading the book, which could actually be pre-ordered (before May 16th) or purchased (after the 16th) here or here or here. You're welcome.)
Read on!
PS: Also, that cover art? *drools*
** I was given an early copy of the book by the G.S. Denning, because he's merciful and knows how eagerly I have been awaiting this book. He's also horrible. Read on to find out why.**
So, friends.
Warlock Holmes: The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles.
Holy shit.
If you read my review of Warlock Holmes: A Study in Brimstone, the first book in this series, you know how hard I've fallen for this retelling. How well the characters captivated my mind, captured my heart and did their best to give me abs (thanks to laughter--in case you had any idea that Warlock and his wacky impropriety or Watson and his esteemed passion for being properly English somehow encouraged me to work out. I confess that you are sadly mistaken and I'm still ab-less--but I might have laugh lines when I get older, just from this series alone).
I had really high expectations for this book. It does contain my favorite Holmes story, after all. And as I became, dare I label it, friends with the author, I became even more invested and my expectations continued to rise.
I'm delighted to report that those expectations were not disappointed.
(I would like to offer a little caveat real quick and let you know that being friends, per say, with the mind behind the madness does not taint the outcome of this review at all--which you might find hard to believe, considering this one is glowing. Nor does getting surprised with an early copy of the book. If you don't trust my word that is positive review is unbiased, why don't you check out the book and let me know what you think? I promise the story will speak for itself.)
First off, I absolutely love the way the book was organized. You get a couple, shorter sections covering various cases/stories before you get to the meat and potatoes of the book (which, in this case, involved the most interesting hell-hound I've ever encountered and a very unfortunate family). The stories before the main event were no filler or fluff, either. All of them were a joy to read and I actually read all four cases in one sitting, they were that un-put-down-able (because that's a word).
(I would like to take this moment to also formally deny that the lack of productivity at work last Thursday had absolutely no correlation to that reading-binge. None. At all.)
I actually annoyed one of my coworkers because I kept switching between giggling and suppressed snort-laughter for the entire two hours I read those first four cases. But I couldn't help it. You try and read about Grogsson's SPOILER SPOILER or Warlock SPOILER sneeze SPOILER or Watson SPOILER SPOILER dang Canadian SPOILER SPOILER or Mrs. Hudson SPOILER that smut did what? SPOILER and try not to laugh. It's practically impossible.
Mix in all of that humor, the clever one-liners and fantastic references, and you already have a recipe for a seriously awesome book. But then you read the tale of the Baskervilles and you get another element that you didn't see as much of in the first part of the book, yet it also didn't feel out of place sneaking its way into this case. Instead, it complemented this retelling and fulfilled all expectations.
The element of darkness.
Don't get me wrong: there's plenty of grotesque details that threads throughout the series that is utterly fantastic (and sometimes makes me question my decision to eat while reading), but the darkness that surrounded the twist in Baskervilles surprised me. And I immediately loved it, even if reading about it made my heart hurt a little. It gave the story even more depth than it already has and complicated Warlock's complexity. I finished the book feeling absolutely content.
Well, almost content.
I know what you're waiting for. Nicole, you mentioned that the author was horrible in the first paragraph. I'm dying to know why. Oh, I'll tell you why.
The ending.
That single bloody line.
How dare you, sir. *stares straight at Denning* That's right, I'm talking directly to you, now. You know what you did. You know exactly what. *grumbles about book three's unknown publication date and other spoiler-y unmentionables*
Now I realize that you, dear reader, have no idea what I'm talking about. Luckily, I have the perfect remedy for you. (Hint: it's reading the book, which could actually be pre-ordered (before May 16th) or purchased (after the 16th) here or here or here. You're welcome.)
Read on!
PS: Also, that cover art? *drools*
July 13, 2025
Unfortunately didn’t enjoy this second book in the series as much as I enjoyed the first.
June 6, 2017
A wonderful follow up to the first book, The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles is fun, witty, and magical. Seriously, there's magic in it. Good magic, bad magic, magic that means well but gets in its own way every so often.
This is one of the few books that actually make me laugh out loud. If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes, good writing, better jokes, and a bit of demons and hellspawn, you can't go wrong with Warlock Holmes.
This is one of the few books that actually make me laugh out loud. If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes, good writing, better jokes, and a bit of demons and hellspawn, you can't go wrong with Warlock Holmes.
June 29, 2017
I was hoping that Denning could take this series to another level and he most certainly did that. Please go and check out my review of A Study In Brimstone (ASIB) before you read this review. The Hell Hound of the Baskervilles reverses the format of the previous novel, in which there are several smaller stories before a large 218 page main story, and I think this works much better. ASIB ended on a cliff-hanger of sorts and this novel picks up shortly after that. Holmes was taken over by Moriarty (they share the same body) and Watson decided, in everyone’s best interest, to kill Warlock and prevent any chaos from befalling the world. Being a Warlock, Watson’s multiple attempts to murder Holmes are never totally successful.
At the beginning of TH-HOTB Watson is trying to figure what to do with Warlock’s ‘corpse’ when a case comes straight to 221B Baker Street. A priceless and magical artifact has been stolen and Holmes/Watson are needed to solve the case. Watson sets out to figure out the case on his own and the outcome of the investigation reveals a way to cure Holmes. I thought this novel was even funnier than the last. Undead Holmes is hilarious and the duo antics are another level of brilliant. Denning’s writing is consistently hilarious and he even ventures out of the books comedy comfort zone towards the end. Adding some emotional depth to the main story was a welcomed (and somewhat sad) surprise. Denning’s confidence in the series definitely shows here as the cases are getting more far-fetched and complicated.
The array of stories in TH-HOTB is wide and varied. With ancient artifacts, portals into other realms and battle tricycles being just some of the acts on show here, you will never be bored. I do think that, for me, the book peaked a bit early. My favourite story in this novel is most definitely the second outing, where Undead-Holmes and Watson set out to solve the disappearance of a race-horse before it is set to race that day. In the 20 mins they have to find the horse, Holmes goes wild with his abilities and it is belly-achingly funny. The imagery that Denning can conjure up at a moments notice is superb. I was slightly confused about the other smaller stories, I think Denning went a tad over complicated with a few of the ideas/plot-lines. But I did manage to follow most of the story-lines and was pleased with where Denning has taken this series. The smaller cases are certainly more bold and ludicrous than the previous novel but I think Denning handled it well.
The most important element of this book is the main plot which I felt was much better than the first book. The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles takes up 218 pages of this novel and it is a well rounded, entertaining and emotional (at times) adventure that touches on quite a bit of the original Sherlock lore. The same cast of characters return to join in, Lestrade, Grogsson and Moriarty are all involved and they are as menacing as ever. The illustrations are even better this time round too, capturing amusing and insightful moments.
I highly recommend this series to all those readers who love a good laugh and have an open mind for fantasy. I don’t limit my recommendation to those who have a previous understanding of Sherlock Holmes. This series is inspired by the classic lore but it has its own soul and merits. I cannot wait for the third entry in this series, I think that will be 2018 but I will remain keenly aware of its impending release. Denning has crafted an ingenious alternative to a tried and tested formula. This will please Sherlock fans, fantasy fans and people who just love to laugh.
At the beginning of TH-HOTB Watson is trying to figure what to do with Warlock’s ‘corpse’ when a case comes straight to 221B Baker Street. A priceless and magical artifact has been stolen and Holmes/Watson are needed to solve the case. Watson sets out to figure out the case on his own and the outcome of the investigation reveals a way to cure Holmes. I thought this novel was even funnier than the last. Undead Holmes is hilarious and the duo antics are another level of brilliant. Denning’s writing is consistently hilarious and he even ventures out of the books comedy comfort zone towards the end. Adding some emotional depth to the main story was a welcomed (and somewhat sad) surprise. Denning’s confidence in the series definitely shows here as the cases are getting more far-fetched and complicated.
The array of stories in TH-HOTB is wide and varied. With ancient artifacts, portals into other realms and battle tricycles being just some of the acts on show here, you will never be bored. I do think that, for me, the book peaked a bit early. My favourite story in this novel is most definitely the second outing, where Undead-Holmes and Watson set out to solve the disappearance of a race-horse before it is set to race that day. In the 20 mins they have to find the horse, Holmes goes wild with his abilities and it is belly-achingly funny. The imagery that Denning can conjure up at a moments notice is superb. I was slightly confused about the other smaller stories, I think Denning went a tad over complicated with a few of the ideas/plot-lines. But I did manage to follow most of the story-lines and was pleased with where Denning has taken this series. The smaller cases are certainly more bold and ludicrous than the previous novel but I think Denning handled it well.
The most important element of this book is the main plot which I felt was much better than the first book. The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles takes up 218 pages of this novel and it is a well rounded, entertaining and emotional (at times) adventure that touches on quite a bit of the original Sherlock lore. The same cast of characters return to join in, Lestrade, Grogsson and Moriarty are all involved and they are as menacing as ever. The illustrations are even better this time round too, capturing amusing and insightful moments.
I highly recommend this series to all those readers who love a good laugh and have an open mind for fantasy. I don’t limit my recommendation to those who have a previous understanding of Sherlock Holmes. This series is inspired by the classic lore but it has its own soul and merits. I cannot wait for the third entry in this series, I think that will be 2018 but I will remain keenly aware of its impending release. Denning has crafted an ingenious alternative to a tried and tested formula. This will please Sherlock fans, fantasy fans and people who just love to laugh.
September 29, 2021
Can I have more please? I want more, like right now! Please, please, please^^
I love it. Oh man, talking horses, demons, a love-stricken Torg and magic everywhere. Holmes half-dead at the beginning and end. And Watson in-between. I would've loved more Torg and Lestrade but a girl cannot have everything, sadly^^
Anyway, I cannot wait for part 3 next year. I really thing, that Benedict Cumberbatch is the perfect Warlock, even when you don't squint looking at Dr Strange and Holmes at once^^
I love it. Oh man, talking horses, demons, a love-stricken Torg and magic everywhere. Holmes half-dead at the beginning and end. And Watson in-between. I would've loved more Torg and Lestrade but a girl cannot have everything, sadly^^
Anyway, I cannot wait for part 3 next year. I really thing, that Benedict Cumberbatch is the perfect Warlock, even when you don't squint looking at Dr Strange and Holmes at once^^
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2018
* * * *
4 / 5
~review to come~
http://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.com
Just as good as the first one :)
4 / 5
~review to come~
http://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.com
Just as good as the first one :)
July 2, 2017
There are very few authors where I feel compelled to keep reading until I've finished the book. G.S. Denning has now joined that list. I basically started this late yesterday morning and I've just finished it at about 5pm this afternoon.
I adore these books. I read these with a huge smile on my face. They match my sense of humour completely.
This one starts with Watson trying to keep Holmes's corpse under wraps, by filling his rooms with flowers. Yes, Holmes is dead - or at least he would be if his heart would stop beating. His body is decomposing, but his heart continues to beat sporadically. Who on earth has tried to kill him??
Watson - but in his defence Holmes wasn't himself at the time (you remember what happened at the end of the first book - Moriarty had taken control of Holmes and declared Watson to be his property). Well, Watson poisoned him, then kicked a fireball in his face, then just to be sure shot him twice. And he still won't die. Watson has to do something before the stench gives him away.
Watson does manage to re-animate Holmes - who spends a fair amount of the book recomposing. There are 4 shorter tales in the book, one that explains how Holmes comes back to life, another explains the fate of Silver Blaze a missing racehorse. Then you have the tale of the ill-advised trip to the country (which was supposed to be for Holmes's health), where they find that Surrey is the most boring place on earth. The last tale before the main event involves a man and his obsession with a tricycle.
The main event though is The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles. Where Sir Henry Baskerville (Canadian) is in danger of loosing his life to a monstrous hound that has cursed his family. Watson however feels its more important to school Henry in the finer points of aristocratic behaviour. Holmes point blank refuses to help - the reasons why are uncovered later in the story - as it reveals Holme's origins.
Holmes uses his magic indiscriminately with little thought for the consequences - evidenced in the tale of Silver Blaze where he ends up with a pile of dead horses and one dead man on his coffee table. It doesn't matter how much Watson pleads with him to stop.
With that kind of attitude things can only go one way can't they - how long before Moriarty makes another appearance??
I am now impatiently waiting for the next installment. May 2018 is a long way away!
I adore these books. I read these with a huge smile on my face. They match my sense of humour completely.
This one starts with Watson trying to keep Holmes's corpse under wraps, by filling his rooms with flowers. Yes, Holmes is dead - or at least he would be if his heart would stop beating. His body is decomposing, but his heart continues to beat sporadically. Who on earth has tried to kill him??
Watson - but in his defence Holmes wasn't himself at the time (you remember what happened at the end of the first book - Moriarty had taken control of Holmes and declared Watson to be his property). Well, Watson poisoned him, then kicked a fireball in his face, then just to be sure shot him twice. And he still won't die. Watson has to do something before the stench gives him away.
Watson does manage to re-animate Holmes - who spends a fair amount of the book recomposing. There are 4 shorter tales in the book, one that explains how Holmes comes back to life, another explains the fate of Silver Blaze a missing racehorse. Then you have the tale of the ill-advised trip to the country (which was supposed to be for Holmes's health), where they find that Surrey is the most boring place on earth. The last tale before the main event involves a man and his obsession with a tricycle.
The main event though is The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles. Where Sir Henry Baskerville (Canadian) is in danger of loosing his life to a monstrous hound that has cursed his family. Watson however feels its more important to school Henry in the finer points of aristocratic behaviour. Holmes point blank refuses to help - the reasons why are uncovered later in the story - as it reveals Holme's origins.
Holmes uses his magic indiscriminately with little thought for the consequences - evidenced in the tale of Silver Blaze where he ends up with a pile of dead horses and one dead man on his coffee table. It doesn't matter how much Watson pleads with him to stop.
With that kind of attitude things can only go one way can't they - how long before Moriarty makes another appearance??
I am now impatiently waiting for the next installment. May 2018 is a long way away!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2019
3.45 stars - basically 4, but I cut it a little short for the slight drop in pace in the middle. It started off really well, summing up the cliffhanger from the first book, before getting a bit ridiculous and slow in the middle. BUT THE END.
I know why it’s the last story in the book but wow I almost wish Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles was the first story because it’s SO good.
Ironically, for a satirist work, this final story delved into the more darker back story of Warlock and it was greatly needed after so much fluff and humour. It was the added difference to jump this up from a sequel-syndrome-2-star to a pleasantly-surprised-basically-4-star rating.
I’m now more invested in Warlock and it successfully gave me all the feels for these ridiculously loveable characters.
Also Foofy? How dare you make me feel sorry for a hell-hound, Denning.
👏🏻👏🏻
I know why it’s the last story in the book but wow I almost wish Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles was the first story because it’s SO good.
Ironically, for a satirist work, this final story delved into the more darker back story of Warlock and it was greatly needed after so much fluff and humour. It was the added difference to jump this up from a sequel-syndrome-2-star to a pleasantly-surprised-basically-4-star rating.
I’m now more invested in Warlock and it successfully gave me all the feels for these ridiculously loveable characters.
Also Foofy? How dare you make me feel sorry for a hell-hound, Denning.
👏🏻👏🏻
August 9, 2025
I have to be honest: the only reason I read this is because my roommate snagged it from a little free library and brought it back for me. Like most of the Western world, I'm a big Sherlock Holmes fan, but I've been burned too many times by silly mashups! In the end, though, this was way more entertaining than I ever expected. True, this series will never be a purist's cup of tea. The world is filled with magical and supernatural elements; the characters are blatantly different from their originals. (Holmes is big old softy who cares about people, while Watson is the one who logically puts together pieces of evidence? Whaaat? Also, Lestrade is a vampire.) But somehow, it all works! The stories are turned off-kilter with a wink, and you can tell that there's respect for the source material underneath it all. The zany shenanigans are dumb and fun, and the book made me laugh more than once. I don't know that I'll go seek out more entries from this series, but if I happen to see one in a little free library...well, I'll probably give it a chance! 3.5 stars.
October 13, 2023
The wackiness and shenanigans continue in book two of the Warlock Holmes series. Mystery and mayhem and all the strange happenings. You also get to know a bit of the origin story of Warlock Holmes which is pretty weird and wondrous. I am loving this series in all its absolute ridiculousness!
November 1, 2020
Just as the first in the series this is a very entertaining retelling with dry humor and a rather whiney Holmes. The audiobook is well done and a great companion on my walks.
June 7, 2017
Not as funny as the first book
November 29, 2022
if Watson knew the British Empire collapsed, he would drown on his tea
Also what was that lore???? Sherlock childhood abuse came from wHERE?????
Also what was that lore???? Sherlock childhood abuse came from wHERE?????
October 19, 2025
The Hell-hound of the Baskervilles takes place not long after the first book, A Study in Brimstone, ends, and I've been waiting since then to get my hands on this book! Unlike the first book the main story takes place at the end. Believe me it's worth the wait. The short stories that G.S. Denning chose were ones I haven't read in years. In fact most I haven't read more than once.
This book is everything I loved about the first book, and more. Watson has always been my favorite of the duo, and G.S. Denning writes one of my favorite versions of Dr. John Watson. So I loved that he got the first story all to himself. However, it wasn't my favorite my story. That goes to the The Adventure of the Solitary Tricyclist. It was seriously adorable and I love Grogsson. He's so precious.
So what did I love about this book?
Well I love the paranormal take on Sherlock Holmes, in fact I'm a sucker for it. Add in the comedy and I'll just throw my money at you. However, what I adore about this book is Warlock himself. I love the bumbling and confused Detective of Baker Street. I love how Watson has to constantly remind Warlock how to do things like a mortal and stop having demons toss dead horses into their living room. Also, we finally get to see how Warlock Holmes became the, well, warlock that he is.
Warlock's backstory comes at the end of the book the Hell-hound of the Baskervilles, and it was wonderful. The original version is my favorite of all the Sherlock Holmes stories, because it was the first I ever read. And I loved G.S. Denning's version of that story. It had everything I loved about the original, plus so much more.
Another thing I love is the humor in this book. Waston's narrative is always fun and full of sass. I love the back and forth between Warlock and Watson, how comfortable they are with each other. But, what I liked the most was how much Watson had grown into the paranormal world since the first book. While he's still uncomfortable with most of it, he's started taking some of it with stride. Not much had changed with Warlock, except for the missing bits, but that was okay. I like Warlock the way he is. Strange and unusual.
Honestly, there wasn't much I didn't like about the The Hell-hound of the Baskervilles. The stories all flowed well together. Each happening not long after the other, and I felt like each one flowed without pause. I think my biggest upset was the fact I have to wait a while for the third book, but I'm super excited. There might be more Moriarty in the next one!
P.S. I love that the book is orange!
Buy, Borrow, and Skip: Buy! Buy them both! Read them and love them and then share them with all your friends!
This and other bookish things can be found at my blog, Bookish Whisperst!
This book is everything I loved about the first book, and more. Watson has always been my favorite of the duo, and G.S. Denning writes one of my favorite versions of Dr. John Watson. So I loved that he got the first story all to himself. However, it wasn't my favorite my story. That goes to the The Adventure of the Solitary Tricyclist. It was seriously adorable and I love Grogsson. He's so precious.
So what did I love about this book?
Well I love the paranormal take on Sherlock Holmes, in fact I'm a sucker for it. Add in the comedy and I'll just throw my money at you. However, what I adore about this book is Warlock himself. I love the bumbling and confused Detective of Baker Street. I love how Watson has to constantly remind Warlock how to do things like a mortal and stop having demons toss dead horses into their living room. Also, we finally get to see how Warlock Holmes became the, well, warlock that he is.
Warlock's backstory comes at the end of the book the Hell-hound of the Baskervilles, and it was wonderful. The original version is my favorite of all the Sherlock Holmes stories, because it was the first I ever read. And I loved G.S. Denning's version of that story. It had everything I loved about the original, plus so much more.
Another thing I love is the humor in this book. Waston's narrative is always fun and full of sass. I love the back and forth between Warlock and Watson, how comfortable they are with each other. But, what I liked the most was how much Watson had grown into the paranormal world since the first book. While he's still uncomfortable with most of it, he's started taking some of it with stride. Not much had changed with Warlock, except for the missing bits, but that was okay. I like Warlock the way he is. Strange and unusual.
Honestly, there wasn't much I didn't like about the The Hell-hound of the Baskervilles. The stories all flowed well together. Each happening not long after the other, and I felt like each one flowed without pause. I think my biggest upset was the fact I have to wait a while for the third book, but I'm super excited. There might be more Moriarty in the next one!
P.S. I love that the book is orange!
Buy, Borrow, and Skip: Buy! Buy them both! Read them and love them and then share them with all your friends!
This and other bookish things can be found at my blog, Bookish Whisperst!
June 7, 2017
Never on this earthly plane would I have thought I could encounter what I have just experienced at 221B Baker Street. But the game is afoot a hoot, and it is most satisfyingly odd.
As the great fictional detective is reduced to a rotting corpse with the ethereal ability to solve crime, a carnival of reinvented Conan Doyle short stories are combined to propel us toward a sorcerous crusade. Rather than provide a quick resolution to a problem, when Warlock Holmes ’ unique talent manifests itself it generally makes matters much worse before they get better.
Unresponsive and 'unofficially' deceased Holmes is not causing any further trouble, other than reeking out his rooms. Watson is keen to conceal his friend’s demise for fear of eviction or conviction, as the bachelors are in arrears for their rent which is payable to Mrs Hudson. The distressed doctor goes to great lengths to mask the foul odour before she twigs, as Mrs Hudson appears to be channelling a cockney serving wench and would have absolutely no problem chasing her money as forcibly as any bailiff.
The deceitful dilemma has hilarious consequences for Watson and begs the questions: has Holmes suffered at the hand of one of his own experiments? Perhaps Moriarty finally got his revenge? Nope. The answer is a little closer to home.
Holmes ‘recuperates’ during the contorted serialised stories that follow and the bare bones from these five existing Sherlock escapades are cultivated into a brute of a crescendo, The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles.
I embraced this Sherlock surrealism and was overjoyed to see the Holmes and Watson bond live on, even if conventional attributes have stepped aside to make way for demonology, a herd of bearded men on tricycles, and a talking horse (no, it's not Mr Ed). The only apparent constant to tackling these bands of irregular fiends and the seemingly immortal Moriarty is Doctor Watson’s solution to pretty much everything – his trusty Webley Revolver.
Anyone with a flamboyant imagination and a pinch of eccentricity would enjoy this chorus of calamity without boundaries. We mere mortals can only observe at the awe that is, Warlock Holmes.
Note: This is the second book in the series starring ‘Warlock Holmes’. Although I have not read the first (A Study in Brimstone) it's pretty obvious it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this title.
(My gratitude to the publisher for providing a copy of this title. It was absolute my pleasure to read it and provide this unbiased review.)
As the great fictional detective is reduced to a rotting corpse with the ethereal ability to solve crime, a carnival of reinvented Conan Doyle short stories are combined to propel us toward a sorcerous crusade. Rather than provide a quick resolution to a problem, when Warlock Holmes ’ unique talent manifests itself it generally makes matters much worse before they get better.
Unresponsive and 'unofficially' deceased Holmes is not causing any further trouble, other than reeking out his rooms. Watson is keen to conceal his friend’s demise for fear of eviction or conviction, as the bachelors are in arrears for their rent which is payable to Mrs Hudson. The distressed doctor goes to great lengths to mask the foul odour before she twigs, as Mrs Hudson appears to be channelling a cockney serving wench and would have absolutely no problem chasing her money as forcibly as any bailiff.
The deceitful dilemma has hilarious consequences for Watson and begs the questions: has Holmes suffered at the hand of one of his own experiments? Perhaps Moriarty finally got his revenge? Nope. The answer is a little closer to home.
Holmes ‘recuperates’ during the contorted serialised stories that follow and the bare bones from these five existing Sherlock escapades are cultivated into a brute of a crescendo, The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles.
I embraced this Sherlock surrealism and was overjoyed to see the Holmes and Watson bond live on, even if conventional attributes have stepped aside to make way for demonology, a herd of bearded men on tricycles, and a talking horse (no, it's not Mr Ed). The only apparent constant to tackling these bands of irregular fiends and the seemingly immortal Moriarty is Doctor Watson’s solution to pretty much everything – his trusty Webley Revolver.
Anyone with a flamboyant imagination and a pinch of eccentricity would enjoy this chorus of calamity without boundaries. We mere mortals can only observe at the awe that is, Warlock Holmes.
Note: This is the second book in the series starring ‘Warlock Holmes’. Although I have not read the first (A Study in Brimstone) it's pretty obvious it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this title.
(My gratitude to the publisher for providing a copy of this title. It was absolute my pleasure to read it and provide this unbiased review.)
April 19, 2018
See my other reviews at Never Enough Books
Warlock Holmes is back again! Sort of.
Warlock Holmes last adventure left him just a little…dead. Not one to let a little decay stop him, Holmes is determined to solve the cases that come to his door. Together, he and Watson will face the Pinkertons (the real ones), flesh-eating horses, a parliament of imps, boredom, Surrey, a disappointing butler demon, a succubus, a wicked lord, an overly-Canadian lord, a tricycle-fight to the death and even Moriarty himself.
Oh, and a hell hound, one assumes.
Back when I reviewed the first Warlock Holmes novel, I recall saying how much I enjoyed it. How Denning’s take on two so well known and well loved characters was incredibly done. And how I would be eagerly looking forward for the second (and subsequent) books in the series.
With the second book, I am pleased to say that Denning continues in the vein of the original. Taking two characters and their stories and turning them on their ear. Yet Denning also strays from Doyle’s stories, not in a way that detracts but in a way that adds and makes the characters truly original.
I am reminded of one of my other favorite authors – Terry Pratchett – taking what we know (or what we think we know) and making us see it from a different angle.
Once again Denning has taken the well known world of Sherlock Holmes for a joy ride. Like the first novel, I laughed my way through the pages and even shed a few tears. And again like the first novel, I recommend this one to all my readers – especially my fellow Holmes and Watson fans.
Warlock Holmes is back again! Sort of.
Warlock Holmes last adventure left him just a little…dead. Not one to let a little decay stop him, Holmes is determined to solve the cases that come to his door. Together, he and Watson will face the Pinkertons (the real ones), flesh-eating horses, a parliament of imps, boredom, Surrey, a disappointing butler demon, a succubus, a wicked lord, an overly-Canadian lord, a tricycle-fight to the death and even Moriarty himself.
Oh, and a hell hound, one assumes.
Back when I reviewed the first Warlock Holmes novel, I recall saying how much I enjoyed it. How Denning’s take on two so well known and well loved characters was incredibly done. And how I would be eagerly looking forward for the second (and subsequent) books in the series.
With the second book, I am pleased to say that Denning continues in the vein of the original. Taking two characters and their stories and turning them on their ear. Yet Denning also strays from Doyle’s stories, not in a way that detracts but in a way that adds and makes the characters truly original.
I am reminded of one of my other favorite authors – Terry Pratchett – taking what we know (or what we think we know) and making us see it from a different angle.
Once again Denning has taken the well known world of Sherlock Holmes for a joy ride. Like the first novel, I laughed my way through the pages and even shed a few tears. And again like the first novel, I recommend this one to all my readers – especially my fellow Holmes and Watson fans.
April 8, 2020
My expectations of this book were that it would be a play on the Sherlock Holmes stories with a comedic slant towards a mystery solving warlock. I was hoping it would be just as good as the Sherlock Holmes stories, however I was very disappointed. Warlock Holmes was virtually non-existent and was quite an annoying character when he was around.
Even though I started on Book 2, I don't think I'll try to find book 1 nor any other ones from the series.
Even though I started on Book 2, I don't think I'll try to find book 1 nor any other ones from the series.
Want to read
February 5, 2018After a dark Holmes What I need was very light Holmes this comical Holmes but you still need to know Holmes or waste of time,you have the Hound of The Baskerville's woof. But the Prof & Few others.I keeped thinking of Tom Baker as Warlock as Tom did ghastly Hound in middle of 1980s after left Doctor Who even Tom said in his book Who on earth is Tom Baker? that he made a ghastly Holmes.
December 22, 2020
I had received several books in the series in a book exchange and after a few months of cooling off I tried this book. It really doesn't improve. This is just not well written.
Read
June 19, 2024Why I read it: This is a re-read!
Thoughts: Another short review -- even shorter than the first one, I think. Warlock Holmes remains a delight.
Reading this second volume, especially Silver Blaze: Murder Horse, actually finally brought home to me why I enjoy these stories so much: they remind me of Blackadder. Silver Blaze, in particular, still makes me laugh in the same way The Shadow or Prince Ludwig the Indestructible made me laugh ("Yes! I... was one of his sheep!" still incapacitates me absolutely; I think the first time I watched that, I couldn't stop laughing for five minutes).
Other stories, like The Adventure of the Solitary Tricyclist, I didn't really enjoy the first time I read them, and this second time around they were just... there. The Reigate Way to Another World also falls in the "was just there" category, but the ending is well-delivered.
I guess that other than the great sense of humour and sticking the landing on jokes (which I think I've mentioned in my review for A Study in Brimstone) what this collection really has going for it is the constant hinting at Warlock Holmes's nature and the nature of his deals and dealings with the Other Powers. Just like in the first instalment of the series, that hinting and the eventual reveal of Holmes As A Youth in the last story of the volume provide the thread of seriousness and... sadness, I guess. This collection of stories started out with me feeling sad for Dr Watson, who is on corpse watch because he's had to kill Warlock but his body doesn't seem to be willing to be giving up the ghost entirely, and ended with me feeling sad for Warlock's traumatic childhood and the terrible things he's had to do to survive. He's ordinarily such a happy-go-lucky character, yet it was clear from the text that his involvement in the troubles at Baskerville Hall is one of his biggest regrets, which revealed a lot of depth to the character. I credit that to the author's skill at weaving comedy and drama together.
Would I read a sequel or the author's other works: Hyup.
Would I recommend this: Yeah. It might not be to everyone's taste. The slightly helter-skelter, referential humour could be a miss for some people. But I liked this series of books so much, I even made a Spotify playlist.
Thoughts: Another short review -- even shorter than the first one, I think. Warlock Holmes remains a delight.
Reading this second volume, especially Silver Blaze: Murder Horse, actually finally brought home to me why I enjoy these stories so much: they remind me of Blackadder. Silver Blaze, in particular, still makes me laugh in the same way The Shadow or Prince Ludwig the Indestructible made me laugh ("Yes! I... was one of his sheep!" still incapacitates me absolutely; I think the first time I watched that, I couldn't stop laughing for five minutes).
Other stories, like The Adventure of the Solitary Tricyclist, I didn't really enjoy the first time I read them, and this second time around they were just... there. The Reigate Way to Another World also falls in the "was just there" category, but the ending is well-delivered.
I guess that other than the great sense of humour and sticking the landing on jokes (which I think I've mentioned in my review for A Study in Brimstone) what this collection really has going for it is the constant hinting at Warlock Holmes's nature and the nature of his deals and dealings with the Other Powers. Just like in the first instalment of the series, that hinting and the eventual reveal of Holmes As A Youth in the last story of the volume provide the thread of seriousness and... sadness, I guess. This collection of stories started out with me feeling sad for Dr Watson, who is on corpse watch because he's had to kill Warlock but his body doesn't seem to be willing to be giving up the ghost entirely, and ended with me feeling sad for Warlock's traumatic childhood and the terrible things he's had to do to survive. He's ordinarily such a happy-go-lucky character, yet it was clear from the text that his involvement in the troubles at Baskerville Hall is one of his biggest regrets, which revealed a lot of depth to the character. I credit that to the author's skill at weaving comedy and drama together.
Would I read a sequel or the author's other works: Hyup.
Would I recommend this: Yeah. It might not be to everyone's taste. The slightly helter-skelter, referential humour could be a miss for some people. But I liked this series of books so much, I even made a Spotify playlist.
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