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Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery #0.5
The Crown Jewel Mystery
A young American actress arrives in London hoping to learn her identity, just as Sherlock Holmes is closing in on a master criminal. Their worlds collide, and not even Holmes could have foreseen the impact!
The prequel to The Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series.
The prequel to The Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series.
118 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2017
378 people are currently reading
483 people want to read
About the author
Anna Elliott
82 books439 followersAnna Elliott is an author of historical fiction and fantasy. She enjoys stories about strong women, and loves exploring the multitude of ways women can find their unique strengths. She was delighted to lend a hand with the Sherlock & Lucy series, and thrilled to continue a new spin-off series featuring Becky and Flynn. Her first series, the Twilight of Avalon trilogy, is a retelling of the Trystan & Isolde legend. She wrote her second series, The Pride & Prejudice Chronicles , chiefly to satisfy her own curiosity about what might have happened to Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and all the other wonderful cast of characters after the official end of Jane Austen’s classic work.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 14, 2017
This is both the fourth instalment and the prequel novella to the A Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery crime series. It chronicles the first time that Sherlock Holmes becomes aware of his illegitimate daughter, Lucy James, even though their actual relationship to one another is as yet unknown.
Lucy has made her way from her American boarding school to London's most prestigious bank along with heir to the Rockafella's fortune, Johnny Rockefeller. Her purpose for doing so is to uncover the individual paying the vast sum that has allowed her childhood to be spent in such prestigious surroundings, and whether this may also unveil who her unknown parents may be. Sherlock has become embroiled in another seemingly unsolvable case, which begins with a young man found murdered in his bed, a possible drinking problem, and a woman who spells trouble.
How these two mysteries conjoined was unprecedented, and I gasped aloud as the final puzzle piece slotted firmly in to place. As with the other instalment to this series, that I have read, I found this to evoke the feelings from the original Holmesian canon, whilst also providing an exciting, and as yet unknowable element, in the form of Lucy James' character. Seeing these two worlds collide was such fun and attempting to solve the mysteries this short novella involved, before the two mastermind detectives could, only added to this feeling.
Lucy has made her way from her American boarding school to London's most prestigious bank along with heir to the Rockafella's fortune, Johnny Rockefeller. Her purpose for doing so is to uncover the individual paying the vast sum that has allowed her childhood to be spent in such prestigious surroundings, and whether this may also unveil who her unknown parents may be. Sherlock has become embroiled in another seemingly unsolvable case, which begins with a young man found murdered in his bed, a possible drinking problem, and a woman who spells trouble.
How these two mysteries conjoined was unprecedented, and I gasped aloud as the final puzzle piece slotted firmly in to place. As with the other instalment to this series, that I have read, I found this to evoke the feelings from the original Holmesian canon, whilst also providing an exciting, and as yet unknowable element, in the form of Lucy James' character. Seeing these two worlds collide was such fun and attempting to solve the mysteries this short novella involved, before the two mastermind detectives could, only added to this feeling.
June 25, 2017
The synopsis is a little misleading as while the two stories overlap the characters don't interact beyond a phone call. It's a fast page turner that can be read in a couple of hours.
Lucy James is at a bank in London trying to establish her identity and the mysterious benefactor that has been paying for her upkeep and education when the bank is attacked by armed robbers. It's a little bare on the descriptions - no characters really get much detail and the big reveal at the end comes out of nowhere. I'm assuming that as this is a prequel that Lucy & Sherlock have a lot more involvement in later books but this one is not one worth buying just for the Sherlock name as he's hardly in it. It's all about Lucy.
It's a fun little book though and a good introduction to Lucy herself.
Free arc from netgalley
May 1, 2021
A little disappointing in the light of the others I’ve read in the series.
September 17, 2022
A short novella that introduces Lucy James and hints at her connection with the great Sherlock Holmes. Lucy is bright and insightful, assisting with the derailment of a bank robbery in London. Quick and entertaining.
February 3, 2018
Originally posted on: The Quirky Book Nerd
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Again, I have been pleasantly surprised by another installment of this series. This is only a short novella—a prequel to the main series—but it is just as thrilling and suspenseful as the full length novels. In fact, I think this is my favorite story so far; it is incredibly captivating and full of surprises that will keep readers on their toes. We are able to go back and take a look at the origins of our characters and what eventually brings them together. It does a wonderful job of further developing backstories and fleshing out many basic aspects of the general series plotline.
In this novella, we primarily follow the perspective of Lucy James, the intelligent, brave, and witty young woman who serves as the main character in the previous novel. Lucy and her friend, Johnny Rockefeller, have just arrived in London in pursuit of the answers that have been hidden from Lucy all her life—who her family is and who has been financially supporting her all through her early years. While following a major lead, the pair suddenly find themselves embroiled in a dangerous con, one with far more twists and turns than anyone can imagine.
I had such a great time reading this story. Though they do not actually meet at this point, it is interesting to see how close Lucy comes to meeting Sherlock. They each play a crucial part in solving this mystery and bringing about justice without even knowing the other’s involvement.
Once again, we get a vivid picture of what an incredibly clever and strong heroine Lucy is. She fits in fairly easily among these other well-known characters, which adds to the plausibility of the narrative when compared against the original stories. Lucy is a very well-developed, multi-dimensional character, who holds her own and makes a solid protagonist for these novels.
Occasionally, Lucy comes across as being just a little too perfect. I always feel that one of the main elements that makes Holmes so incredible is the portrayal of his flaws that remind you he is human. This is an extremely minor complaint though—one that does not negatively affect this novella at all. It is only a point that would add even more dimension to Lucy if used.
Really the main issue that I had is essentially the same one that I had with the previous novel—I still struggle with Lucy’s familial connection to Holmes. This is absolutely nothing that Elliot did wrong; I think she does a fantastic job of making the idea of their relationship realistic and believable. However, I personally am overly picky when it comes to adding elements that really stray far from the original story to a generally faithful retelling. And I admit, the more I read from this series, the more that aspect of the plot grows on me, which is a testament to how well Elliot weaves her characters into the world of these classic tales.
Overall, this novella is a fantastic addition to the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mysteries series. It is a very fun, fast-paced read that also adds more dimension to the series as a whole. We are able to see what finally brought Lucy into the paths of Holmes and Watson, as well as an early picture of her astounding powers of deduction. Though I still do have a few personal issues reconciling the details of her link to the great detective, she is a skillfully crafted mirror of him, while also retaining those things that make her a unique character in her own right. I am loving this series so far and I cannot wait to continue on with it.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Again, I have been pleasantly surprised by another installment of this series. This is only a short novella—a prequel to the main series—but it is just as thrilling and suspenseful as the full length novels. In fact, I think this is my favorite story so far; it is incredibly captivating and full of surprises that will keep readers on their toes. We are able to go back and take a look at the origins of our characters and what eventually brings them together. It does a wonderful job of further developing backstories and fleshing out many basic aspects of the general series plotline.
In this novella, we primarily follow the perspective of Lucy James, the intelligent, brave, and witty young woman who serves as the main character in the previous novel. Lucy and her friend, Johnny Rockefeller, have just arrived in London in pursuit of the answers that have been hidden from Lucy all her life—who her family is and who has been financially supporting her all through her early years. While following a major lead, the pair suddenly find themselves embroiled in a dangerous con, one with far more twists and turns than anyone can imagine.
I had such a great time reading this story. Though they do not actually meet at this point, it is interesting to see how close Lucy comes to meeting Sherlock. They each play a crucial part in solving this mystery and bringing about justice without even knowing the other’s involvement.
Once again, we get a vivid picture of what an incredibly clever and strong heroine Lucy is. She fits in fairly easily among these other well-known characters, which adds to the plausibility of the narrative when compared against the original stories. Lucy is a very well-developed, multi-dimensional character, who holds her own and makes a solid protagonist for these novels.
Occasionally, Lucy comes across as being just a little too perfect. I always feel that one of the main elements that makes Holmes so incredible is the portrayal of his flaws that remind you he is human. This is an extremely minor complaint though—one that does not negatively affect this novella at all. It is only a point that would add even more dimension to Lucy if used.
Really the main issue that I had is essentially the same one that I had with the previous novel—I still struggle with Lucy’s familial connection to Holmes. This is absolutely nothing that Elliot did wrong; I think she does a fantastic job of making the idea of their relationship realistic and believable. However, I personally am overly picky when it comes to adding elements that really stray far from the original story to a generally faithful retelling. And I admit, the more I read from this series, the more that aspect of the plot grows on me, which is a testament to how well Elliot weaves her characters into the world of these classic tales.
Overall, this novella is a fantastic addition to the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mysteries series. It is a very fun, fast-paced read that also adds more dimension to the series as a whole. We are able to see what finally brought Lucy into the paths of Holmes and Watson, as well as an early picture of her astounding powers of deduction. Though I still do have a few personal issues reconciling the details of her link to the great detective, she is a skillfully crafted mirror of him, while also retaining those things that make her a unique character in her own right. I am loving this series so far and I cannot wait to continue on with it.
July 29, 2017
Grear story, definitely buying the next book.
January 18, 2021
Good short story
It was short but really good. I like how Lucy's character is developing and her friendship with a man friend she met
It was short but really good. I like how Lucy's character is developing and her friendship with a man friend she met
December 10, 2022
And this is how Lucy ends up living in London :D
A lovely prequel to the series and an excellent preview of Lucy's character :)
A lovely prequel to the series and an excellent preview of Lucy's character :)
July 10, 2024
Can’t go wrong with Sherlock and Lucy James! A fun, quick, well crafted mystery that gives the reader no chance to catch their breath!
February 21, 2019
When I put a call out for historical mysteries with strong-willed lead women, I got some great suggestions. It was narrator Wendy Tremont King who told me about her work on the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mysteries and sent me the prequel for review. Technically, The Crown Jewel Mystery is the fourth book in the series, but it is most certainly a prequel and may be enjoyed without previous knowledge of the series. However, I will share that while the brief book description implies Sherlock and Lucy meet in this book, they do not, and that was a bit of a disappointment for me.
Ms. James is an American actress in London, searching for clues to her unknown ancestry. She and her best pal Johnny Rockefeller (yes, that Rockefeller!) have a lead to a bank account that has been anonymously paying for her boarding school in America. While at the bank, a group of ruffians enter the facility and hold the customers hostage while attempting to break into the vault. Quick on her feet and smarter than almost everyone, Lucy attempts to negotiate with the robbers and save the group.
This novella-length story is mostly told from Lucy’s POV, however we also are privy to the thoughts of Mr. Watson, who along with Sherlock, is outside the bank assisting the police. I like how we get the two sides of the story from completely different perspectives. While Lucy’s primary focus is discovering clues to her heritage and saving those in the bank, Watson is most concerned with solving the crime and keeping Holmes’ identity a secret, for his death was outlined in his last Sherlock memoir, The Final Problem.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It’s short and fast-paced; always moving the story forward. I enjoyed the mix of Lucy’s POV and Watson’s notes sprinkled in. The mystery itself isn’t complex nor overly captivating but listening to Lucy gain confidence to deal with the bank robbers was exciting. The story is set in the late 1800’s but could have just as easily been set in more modern times.
Narration: The narration is fitting for POVs, with Mr. Prebble representing Watson’s POV and Ms. Tremont King sharing Lucy’s POV. While 1.25x was the perfect speed for Watson, I had to up the speed to 1.5x for Lucy’s POV. I felt the two speeds didn’t mesh as well as I would prefer. Mr. Prebble has a mature British-accented voice which fits my image of Watson. His sections are fairly brief, so I would like to hear more to see how it translates with female and non-British characters. Ms. Tremont King’s younger American female voice is perfect for Lucy, capturing her exuberance and vitality. Additionally, she has a solid range of accents for her various characters. She suitably alters her performance depending on the character.
In the end, the series has caught my attention, and I will certainly try the first book in the to see what it is about.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B
Review copy provided by the narrator.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Ms. James is an American actress in London, searching for clues to her unknown ancestry. She and her best pal Johnny Rockefeller (yes, that Rockefeller!) have a lead to a bank account that has been anonymously paying for her boarding school in America. While at the bank, a group of ruffians enter the facility and hold the customers hostage while attempting to break into the vault. Quick on her feet and smarter than almost everyone, Lucy attempts to negotiate with the robbers and save the group.
This novella-length story is mostly told from Lucy’s POV, however we also are privy to the thoughts of Mr. Watson, who along with Sherlock, is outside the bank assisting the police. I like how we get the two sides of the story from completely different perspectives. While Lucy’s primary focus is discovering clues to her heritage and saving those in the bank, Watson is most concerned with solving the crime and keeping Holmes’ identity a secret, for his death was outlined in his last Sherlock memoir, The Final Problem.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It’s short and fast-paced; always moving the story forward. I enjoyed the mix of Lucy’s POV and Watson’s notes sprinkled in. The mystery itself isn’t complex nor overly captivating but listening to Lucy gain confidence to deal with the bank robbers was exciting. The story is set in the late 1800’s but could have just as easily been set in more modern times.
Narration: The narration is fitting for POVs, with Mr. Prebble representing Watson’s POV and Ms. Tremont King sharing Lucy’s POV. While 1.25x was the perfect speed for Watson, I had to up the speed to 1.5x for Lucy’s POV. I felt the two speeds didn’t mesh as well as I would prefer. Mr. Prebble has a mature British-accented voice which fits my image of Watson. His sections are fairly brief, so I would like to hear more to see how it translates with female and non-British characters. Ms. Tremont King’s younger American female voice is perfect for Lucy, capturing her exuberance and vitality. Additionally, she has a solid range of accents for her various characters. She suitably alters her performance depending on the character.
In the end, the series has caught my attention, and I will certainly try the first book in the to see what it is about.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B
Review copy provided by the narrator.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
January 3, 2018
Fans of one of the world’s most beloved fictional detectives will delight in this masterful extension of the mystery series.
Sherlock Holmes has stimulated the minds of inquisitive adventurers of all ages. And now, a pair of authors — Charles Veley and Anna Elliot— a Father/Daughter team — are bringing new life to the anthology, expanding on the timeless series of classics with even more detective stories… perfect for curious young adult and adult audiences.
In this prequel to the new series, The Crown Jewel Mystery, Lucy James does not yet know her connection to the famous Sherlock Holmes, but she feels a kindred spirit to him as she has the same talent for hypothesis and deduction.
Lucy grew up parentless in America, but has come to England to undertake an acting career… and search for information about her family. While in the Bank of London trying to pick the lock on a safety deposit box (she feels sure it contains some information she seeks), the bank is robbed, and Lucy becomes the other hostages’ best hope to get out of the situation unharmed.
Though she lives in the Victorian age, Lucy is a decidedly modern heroine — and a woman who proves she can handle herself in some tricky situations. She’s certainly no damsel in distress! It may seem unlikely that Holmes would accept her — alongside John Watson, of course — as a partner in his investigations, but future books explain why he warms to her so quickly.
Readers will devour this and future adventures in this well-written and exciting collaboration that’s all too easy to be captivated by.
Not only does The Crown Jewel Mystery introduce a new twist on Sherlock’s character, these crime stories introduce audiences to more adventures and a new detective to love.
Sherlock Holmes has stimulated the minds of inquisitive adventurers of all ages. And now, a pair of authors — Charles Veley and Anna Elliot— a Father/Daughter team — are bringing new life to the anthology, expanding on the timeless series of classics with even more detective stories… perfect for curious young adult and adult audiences.
In this prequel to the new series, The Crown Jewel Mystery, Lucy James does not yet know her connection to the famous Sherlock Holmes, but she feels a kindred spirit to him as she has the same talent for hypothesis and deduction.
Lucy grew up parentless in America, but has come to England to undertake an acting career… and search for information about her family. While in the Bank of London trying to pick the lock on a safety deposit box (she feels sure it contains some information she seeks), the bank is robbed, and Lucy becomes the other hostages’ best hope to get out of the situation unharmed.
Though she lives in the Victorian age, Lucy is a decidedly modern heroine — and a woman who proves she can handle herself in some tricky situations. She’s certainly no damsel in distress! It may seem unlikely that Holmes would accept her — alongside John Watson, of course — as a partner in his investigations, but future books explain why he warms to her so quickly.
Readers will devour this and future adventures in this well-written and exciting collaboration that’s all too easy to be captivated by.
Not only does The Crown Jewel Mystery introduce a new twist on Sherlock’s character, these crime stories introduce audiences to more adventures and a new detective to love.
November 20, 2025
It felt a bit odd to read a prequel 4 books in, but here we are. Even at that it was a good story and gave us more insight into Lucy James and author, Anna Elliot's rendering of her. This falls somewhere between short story and novella, closer to short story as it takes place within one afternoon and could be read in about that same time period.
Lucy has newly arrived in London from America and is about to embark on a career with D'oyly Carte Opera Company. She is accompanied by John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Lucy has been raised in America and knows nothing of her parents. Her care and schooling is provided by a mysterious benefactor who she feels may be her father. Once in London she wants to find her family and is determined to do it even if a bit illegally. The trail of her benefactor leads to a bank. While trying to find her benefactor's identity she and young Rockefeller wind up in the middle of a bank robbery.
Here is where we get what should have been our first glimpse of Lucy's bravery and resourcefulness. She incapacitates one of the robbers and manages to figure out the bigger plan of the robbery all while Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are outside the bank helping the police. At this point, Lucy and Holmes have not met though they seem to have the same strategy for thwarting the robbery.
Goodreads has the suggested reading order to start with this story, unfortunately Kindle Unlimited places it 4th in the series. In some ways it was an ok placement as it fills in a bit of the backstory and there have been other series that introduce a prequel into the body of a series. Still it was a fun little read and left me ready to get on with Lucy James and Sherlock Holmes adventures
Lucy has newly arrived in London from America and is about to embark on a career with D'oyly Carte Opera Company. She is accompanied by John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Lucy has been raised in America and knows nothing of her parents. Her care and schooling is provided by a mysterious benefactor who she feels may be her father. Once in London she wants to find her family and is determined to do it even if a bit illegally. The trail of her benefactor leads to a bank. While trying to find her benefactor's identity she and young Rockefeller wind up in the middle of a bank robbery.
Here is where we get what should have been our first glimpse of Lucy's bravery and resourcefulness. She incapacitates one of the robbers and manages to figure out the bigger plan of the robbery all while Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are outside the bank helping the police. At this point, Lucy and Holmes have not met though they seem to have the same strategy for thwarting the robbery.
Goodreads has the suggested reading order to start with this story, unfortunately Kindle Unlimited places it 4th in the series. In some ways it was an ok placement as it fills in a bit of the backstory and there have been other series that introduce a prequel into the body of a series. Still it was a fun little read and left me ready to get on with Lucy James and Sherlock Holmes adventures
July 19, 2019
“The Crown Jewel Mystery” is actually the 4th in the series; however, this novella is the prequel to the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series. “The Crown Jewel Mystery” takes place three days before the opening of “The Last Moriarty” which is the first book actually written. The optimal reading order of these Sherlock and Lucy books is: [1] “The Crown Jewel Mystery,” [2] “The Last Moriarty,” and [3] then continue in order. If you are a Sherlock fan and are open to new avenues of character and plot, then you should give this series a try.
One of our protagonists is Lucy James, who is an intelligent, young American actress who travels to London in hopes of discovering some clues to her real identity. Meanwhile, just across the street in London, Sherlock Holmes is closing in on a master criminal. You can “bank” that their worlds collide, each somewhat impressed with the other while not even knowing anything about one another.
This prequel was a delight to read, and it does a good job of introducing readers to Lucy James, and “The Crown Jewel Mystery” sets up a plot strand that is a puzzling enigma that is woven through the future books. Here the characters were developed well and the plot was engaging. I enjoyed the series and look forward to reading the next one soon.
One of our protagonists is Lucy James, who is an intelligent, young American actress who travels to London in hopes of discovering some clues to her real identity. Meanwhile, just across the street in London, Sherlock Holmes is closing in on a master criminal. You can “bank” that their worlds collide, each somewhat impressed with the other while not even knowing anything about one another.
This prequel was a delight to read, and it does a good job of introducing readers to Lucy James, and “The Crown Jewel Mystery” sets up a plot strand that is a puzzling enigma that is woven through the future books. Here the characters were developed well and the plot was engaging. I enjoyed the series and look forward to reading the next one soon.
January 2, 2020
Although this is listed as the fourth book in the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James mystery series, it is actually a prequel. I am of two minds on the subject of prequels. Sometimes you don't know that a series has a prequel and either don't read it at all, or you find it less fulfilling than the series itself. I think the latter happens when the prequel is actually an afterthought. In this case, I think that "The Crown Jewel Mystery" is appropriately placed in the reading order. It doesn't feel like an afterthought, but it certainly does add to what we already know about Sherlock and Lucy.
As usual, I read About the Authors and found out that Charles Veley is the 'voice' of Doctor John Watson, while Anna Elliot is the 'voice' of Lucy James. I find that the two voices mesh seamlessly into a tale with two points of view that don't step on each other's toes.
I think it is still too soon to discuss the relationship of Holmes and James because you really need to read the first two novels (THE LAST MORIARTY and THE WILHELM CONSPIRACY) without my spoiling them for you.
I am a binger. I binge TV shows with streaming channels, and I binge book series with equal enthusiasm. To me, there is nothing better than reading a series as if it was one very long novel, so my next read is THE JUBILEE PROBLEM.
As usual, I read About the Authors and found out that Charles Veley is the 'voice' of Doctor John Watson, while Anna Elliot is the 'voice' of Lucy James. I find that the two voices mesh seamlessly into a tale with two points of view that don't step on each other's toes.
I think it is still too soon to discuss the relationship of Holmes and James because you really need to read the first two novels (THE LAST MORIARTY and THE WILHELM CONSPIRACY) without my spoiling them for you.
I am a binger. I binge TV shows with streaming channels, and I binge book series with equal enthusiasm. To me, there is nothing better than reading a series as if it was one very long novel, so my next read is THE JUBILEE PROBLEM.
July 13, 2017
Before Lucy James and Sherlock Holmes meet in The Last Moriarty, their paths crossed without either of them even knowing it. When Lucy is caught in a bank robbery that isn't going well, she does everything she can to keep people from dying. On the outside, the great consulting detective is called in to solve the mystery of who wished for the bank to be robbed.
This is a lovely little prequel to the series and does a good job of introducing readers to Lucy and sets up the mystery that is woven through the future books. Lucy and Sherlock do not actually meet in the story. We're given a nice view of Lucy and her resourcefulness in the story.
As far as a Sherlock Holmes story, it seemed a little flat. There weren't a lot of details, but it is a novella length story so there isn't that much room for it.
At any rate, it was an enjoyable read and fans of the series will no doubt enjoy it.
I was provided a file from NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
This is a lovely little prequel to the series and does a good job of introducing readers to Lucy and sets up the mystery that is woven through the future books. Lucy and Sherlock do not actually meet in the story. We're given a nice view of Lucy and her resourcefulness in the story.
As far as a Sherlock Holmes story, it seemed a little flat. There weren't a lot of details, but it is a novella length story so there isn't that much room for it.
At any rate, it was an enjoyable read and fans of the series will no doubt enjoy it.
I was provided a file from NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
March 7, 2022
Saving Hostages from Ruthless Bankrobbers
Suitable for teen - adult
No memorable harsh language, if any.
No sex
Action violence and danger. Nothing gory
Plot no spoilers:
Lucy, the main character, and her friend, Johnny Rockefeller Jr. enter a London bank with the purpose of somehow getting into the safety deposit box area so that Lucy can pick the lock of one particular box. No, she doesn't want to steal anything, but instead hopes something in there will give her a clue as to who her parents might be.
Although successful in getting past security, her attempts are foiled by a huge explosion. Someone is robbing the bank. Thereafter, she and Johnny become involved in doing everything they can to keep the numerous hostages safe.
Meanwhile, Sherlock Holmes, Watson, and the police are intent upon the same goal.
Complications arise.
Good plot line.
Criticism: Because I believed this was #5 in the series (my mistake although it was listed after #4) I was confused at first about why Lucy was unaware that Sherlock Holmes was still alive, and what his relationship to her was. Marking it as 0.1 in the series rather than 0.5 or clearly identifying it as a prequel, would have been helpful. That is the only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.
If you enjoy a good, light mystery. I can recommend this one.
Suitable for teen - adult
No memorable harsh language, if any.
No sex
Action violence and danger. Nothing gory
Plot no spoilers:
Lucy, the main character, and her friend, Johnny Rockefeller Jr. enter a London bank with the purpose of somehow getting into the safety deposit box area so that Lucy can pick the lock of one particular box. No, she doesn't want to steal anything, but instead hopes something in there will give her a clue as to who her parents might be.
Although successful in getting past security, her attempts are foiled by a huge explosion. Someone is robbing the bank. Thereafter, she and Johnny become involved in doing everything they can to keep the numerous hostages safe.
Meanwhile, Sherlock Holmes, Watson, and the police are intent upon the same goal.
Complications arise.
Good plot line.
Criticism: Because I believed this was #5 in the series (my mistake although it was listed after #4) I was confused at first about why Lucy was unaware that Sherlock Holmes was still alive, and what his relationship to her was. Marking it as 0.1 in the series rather than 0.5 or clearly identifying it as a prequel, would have been helpful. That is the only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.
If you enjoy a good, light mystery. I can recommend this one.
December 13, 2022
Performance: ****
Story: ***
A prequel to Lucy James mystery series (sometimes listed a book 4), the illegitimate daughter of Sherlock Holmes. The story revolves around a bank heist that goes down while Lucy is attempted to break into a safe deposit box of an unknown benefactor … trying to discover more about her past. While it was a fun escape, there wasn’t as much “mystery” as expected, although there are a few twists toward the end. Although available in kindle unlimited, the audible performance is still worth it.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#TheCrownJewlMystery #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
Story: ***
A prequel to Lucy James mystery series (sometimes listed a book 4), the illegitimate daughter of Sherlock Holmes. The story revolves around a bank heist that goes down while Lucy is attempted to break into a safe deposit box of an unknown benefactor … trying to discover more about her past. While it was a fun escape, there wasn’t as much “mystery” as expected, although there are a few twists toward the end. Although available in kindle unlimited, the audible performance is still worth it.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#TheCrownJewlMystery #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
August 7, 2018
I was given this book for an honest review from https://www.smithpublicity.com/
I started with this book, though I’ve learned it was book #4, because it was a prequel to the series. It was short but fast paced and exciting. I love this whole new take on Sherlock Holmes daughter. She was fresh and imaginative. I love that she loves solving riddles and clues like her father, though she doesn’t know he’s her father yet. I love a women who can think on her own and prove she’s just as smart as men.
I definitely am excited to read the rest of the books and see what adventures Lucy and Holmes get up to further on!
I started with this book, though I’ve learned it was book #4, because it was a prequel to the series. It was short but fast paced and exciting. I love this whole new take on Sherlock Holmes daughter. She was fresh and imaginative. I love that she loves solving riddles and clues like her father, though she doesn’t know he’s her father yet. I love a women who can think on her own and prove she’s just as smart as men.
I definitely am excited to read the rest of the books and see what adventures Lucy and Holmes get up to further on!
October 25, 2021
Well that was a bit off kilter.
This, the 3rd book in the series, apparently takes place before the 1st two. That aside it was a marvelous tale that had Lucy and young Rockefeller caught up in a bank heist. In the midst of Lucy's own heist - in an attempt to discover her origins. We get to see the inner workings of her mind, how she plans her moves, and stays ahead of everyone. In this story she is working more or less in parallel with Holmes, neither even seeing the other.
Still could use another proofread. Little things, like or for of.
This, the 3rd book in the series, apparently takes place before the 1st two. That aside it was a marvelous tale that had Lucy and young Rockefeller caught up in a bank heist. In the midst of Lucy's own heist - in an attempt to discover her origins. We get to see the inner workings of her mind, how she plans her moves, and stays ahead of everyone. In this story she is working more or less in parallel with Holmes, neither even seeing the other.
Still could use another proofread. Little things, like or for of.
January 15, 2023
~Disclaimer: I received a free audio book copy of this book.~
This is a prequel to the series. I think as it's only 114 pages it falls into the category of a novella.
It is interesting to see how Lucy was before her path finally crossed with Sherlock. In this book Lucy gets to show a lot of her impulsiveness, intelligence and guts. So, if you enjoyed that about her in the past installments you won’t be disappointed here.
I liked the story and it was a fun quick mystery.
Narration: Two narrators for two perspectives which I always love. Both narrators are solid.
This is a prequel to the series. I think as it's only 114 pages it falls into the category of a novella.
It is interesting to see how Lucy was before her path finally crossed with Sherlock. In this book Lucy gets to show a lot of her impulsiveness, intelligence and guts. So, if you enjoyed that about her in the past installments you won’t be disappointed here.
I liked the story and it was a fun quick mystery.
Narration: Two narrators for two perspectives which I always love. Both narrators are solid.
June 19, 2018
Weird little short that sort of contradicts the first book despite the attempt to fix the continuity. Sherlock is called to the death of a bank employee. Lucy is with Johnny Rockefeller at said bank trying to discover her parents identity in this prequel. Lucy tangles with some nasty bank robbers and manages to use her heritage (as yet unknown to her) to help Sherlock from the inside. Fun story, but just screws up the plot of the first book.
July 15, 2021
A fun quick read
This was a fast paced story. I wished I had seen the comments earlier that this book although fourth in the series was better read first as it was a prequel. However that did not take away from the fun of the book as it introduces Lucy with no indication who she is. She quickly gets in the middle of a bank robbery and helps out whit the robbers. I look forward to reading the net book.
This was a fast paced story. I wished I had seen the comments earlier that this book although fourth in the series was better read first as it was a prequel. However that did not take away from the fun of the book as it introduces Lucy with no indication who she is. She quickly gets in the middle of a bank robbery and helps out whit the robbers. I look forward to reading the net book.
January 24, 2023
Interesting take on Holmes
I enjoyed this introduction to Lucy James. She arrives in London on a quest to learn who has been supporting and educating her in America. She has no family but is friends with John D. Rockefeller Jr., whose name opens doors. In this case, it opens doors to the bank which is tied to her mysterious benefactor. What transpires shows her talent and garners Sherlock Holmes respect. Now I need to read the next book to find out how they meet.
I enjoyed this introduction to Lucy James. She arrives in London on a quest to learn who has been supporting and educating her in America. She has no family but is friends with John D. Rockefeller Jr., whose name opens doors. In this case, it opens doors to the bank which is tied to her mysterious benefactor. What transpires shows her talent and garners Sherlock Holmes respect. Now I need to read the next book to find out how they meet.
February 19, 2020
Lucy is a female Sherlock Holmes. Great prequel that introduces Lucy to Lodon as she tries to find out who she is. It also introduces more Sherlock and Dr. Watson cases.
Lucy is at the bank when a robbery takes place. Great suspense and mind puzzles in solving the case. Looking forward to the other books in the series.
The historical note on the story was also interesting.
Lucy is at the bank when a robbery takes place. Great suspense and mind puzzles in solving the case. Looking forward to the other books in the series.
The historical note on the story was also interesting.
July 10, 2022
This book fills in some of th blanks in the first book, such as Johnny Rockerfeller's security guy. It would have fit in well at the beginning but I have the feeling that this will relate more to the next book, which means more than a year later. Guess I will find out next. Still a fine book and on to book 5 in the series.
October 3, 2022
The Crown Jewel Robbery
An interesting short story. I hadn’t read any of the series before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I got was nicely told. A good prequel to the series. Holmes and Watson were as I remembered them from years ago. Lucy interests me. Would like to know more about her. I will be starting the series soon. Recommended.
An interesting short story. I hadn’t read any of the series before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I got was nicely told. A good prequel to the series. Holmes and Watson were as I remembered them from years ago. Lucy interests me. Would like to know more about her. I will be starting the series soon. Recommended.
October 18, 2022
This book is the prequel to Veley's 'The last Moriarty' and at just over 100 pages a good, quick read. It details the first connection between Holmes and his daughter, though the connection is literally that of a telephone call made during a bank robbery. I am enjoying the books and looking forward to reading more of them.
January 9, 2024
Disappointin. Too much Rockefeller not enough Hopmes. More unbelievable outstanding feats by Lucy.
Not enough and too much. Watson downplayed and Holmes almost invisable. Too many missed opportunities and no answers for Lucy. Life in London just starting. No news about her benefactor. Need more.
Not enough and too much. Watson downplayed and Holmes almost invisable. Too many missed opportunities and no answers for Lucy. Life in London just starting. No news about her benefactor. Need more.
November 30, 2024
I was confused by the content because Lucy didn't know things that she knew in the previous books. In the list of books, this book is listed as number 4 but after listening to it on Audible, the narrator tells us that it is a prequel to the series. Now it all makes sense. By the way, it is a great story!
January 6, 2026
This was a short but exciting little story. We get a good glimpse into the character and abilities of Miss Lucy James. Her bravery and analytical mind saves the day. When everyone else was compliant, she chose to take action. I am looking forward to reading of her exploits in the future. What a surprise she's going to be.
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