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Alchemy
When someone starts killing London’s homeless, Sherlock Holmes sets out to solve the series of grisly murders, taking her best friend and business partner Jane Watson along for the ride. The killer makes it clear he has a vendetta against Sherlock, and as she pursues him, she discovers there's more to the case than meets the eye.
While struggling to identify the murderer, Sherlock’s close friendship with DI Lestrade reaches a crossroads, and she faces an unprecedented challenge: romance.
A Note From the Publisher
Alchemy contains no explicit content and is 20,000 words in length.
While struggling to identify the murderer, Sherlock’s close friendship with DI Lestrade reaches a crossroads, and she faces an unprecedented challenge: romance.
A Note From the Publisher
Alchemy contains no explicit content and is 20,000 words in length.
47 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2018
2 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 1, 2018
3.5 Stars. This was a pretty good modernized and gender switched Sherlock Homes novella. In this story Sherlock is an asexual lesbian, Watson is also a lesbian and Detective Lestrade is a woman. There are a few other characters you might recognize from the Holmes universe but they didn’t switch gender. I enjoyed both the modern flare and the gender change; it was a good idea for a story.
Someone is killing homeless people and carving Sherlock’s name in their skin. This case feels really personal to Sherlock and she has to keep herself together to solve it before more people are killed.
I found this story easily to get sucked into and thought the characters were well done. Sherlock felt like what I thought a female Sherlock would be like. My only one small complaint was I thought the crime was a little too easy to solve. Sherlock can see things and find clues no one else does and I think that part of Sherlock was missing a little in this book. However, the climax scene of the story was exciting and well written.
There was a teeny, tiny bit of a romance. Sherlock must face what her feeling for Lestrade really are. She knows she loves her as a friend, but is it more than that? Since this is a novella you don’t get a ton of time with just the two characters, but I did really like them as a potential couple.
This is a short read maybe 60 to 90 minutes pending on you reading speed, but it felt like a complete story. If the author Crosswell wrote a Sherlock book 2, I would absolutely read it. If you are a mystery fan or a Holmes fan you will probably enjoy this.
An ARC was given to me by LT3P for a honest review.
Someone is killing homeless people and carving Sherlock’s name in their skin. This case feels really personal to Sherlock and she has to keep herself together to solve it before more people are killed.
I found this story easily to get sucked into and thought the characters were well done. Sherlock felt like what I thought a female Sherlock would be like. My only one small complaint was I thought the crime was a little too easy to solve. Sherlock can see things and find clues no one else does and I think that part of Sherlock was missing a little in this book. However, the climax scene of the story was exciting and well written.
There was a teeny, tiny bit of a romance. Sherlock must face what her feeling for Lestrade really are. She knows she loves her as a friend, but is it more than that? Since this is a novella you don’t get a ton of time with just the two characters, but I did really like them as a potential couple.
This is a short read maybe 60 to 90 minutes pending on you reading speed, but it felt like a complete story. If the author Crosswell wrote a Sherlock book 2, I would absolutely read it. If you are a mystery fan or a Holmes fan you will probably enjoy this.
An ARC was given to me by LT3P for a honest review.
June 23, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from Less Than Three Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unlike many reviews I’ve attempted recently, the start of this one is easy: Why did I read this work here? Because it involves Sherlock Holmes, it’s a short story, it’s a mystery, and I like all three things. Plus it might be interesting to read what a female Holmes might be like, with a female Watson. I do not go in knowing if they are supposed to have a relationship or not, just that the two main characters have been ‘regendered’. The work was in the LGBT section, though.
I’ve never read the author before, though, and no one else has read and reviewed this work. So I’m a risk-taker. *nods* That’s why I requested the story, though, what I said up there. It looked interesting.
Was it?
Well the opening was weird. About a dream, the dreamer dreamed they were a stingray swimming around the ocean. At the time of reading the opening for the first time, I had had no clue who the dreamer might be, though it becomes clear later.
The second noticeable thing, after the weird dream, is that the police person Holmes tended to talk with (I’ve the vague idea this is the case) has also been regendered. Is everyone in this story female? Well the homeless woman lying dead at Lestrade’s feet is also female. So . . . yes? More information needed (ah, Holmes makes reference to an imaginary male police detective as the stand-in for the average police investigator, therefore, there be males on this world, question answered; a male in the flesh finally appears – Mycroft remains male in this universe).
Right, let’s stop with writing about each word, sentence, and paragraph.
Why was Holmes called in for the death of a homeless woman? Holmes name was carved into the body.
Holmes doesn’t seem as outwardly all-knowing in this universe.
Ah, wonder why it took me so long to realize why things felt ‘off’. Everything is from Holmes point of view, not Watson’s. It’s odd being in Holmes head, though other stories have done it.
-----
This is set in modern times, based on well-hidden clues, like mobile phones.
---
Eww, kissing.
---
That’s what my reviews become with short stories: Random thoughts with Lexxi as she reads (oops, I admit now, I’m writing this as I read).
--
There’s a nice buzz/vibe to watching Holmes investigate, but . . . I can’t say as it’d be spoiler-y.
--
The mystery plot-line was interesting, though there was that issue I can’t mention for spoiler-y reasons. The romance plot-line was . . . different. Well, not really – romance has popped up in Holmes stories before and tends to be weird/different than the norm. As it is/was here. So I guess, in that sense, the romance plot-line meshes with my idea of Holmes, for being weird. Heh.
All-in-all this was an interesting story. On one hand, making this be a Holmes story adds a certain tension to things, at least to me, to my reading of the story. Needing to watch closely at this interpretation of the character. On the other hand, this story probably works . . . better as a Holmes story, at least one set in modern times like the modern television series are. Better as there are added layers already built into the story – like I knew about Holmes drug issue, the connection to Watson, Lestrade, Moriarty, and Mycroft. And to boxing. Oh, and the vague not-clearly-stated asexual vibe of the character.
There were only two things really missing from this story: I might have preferred it set a century ago for . . . reasons; and there was no connection to music like Holmes’s love of listening to or playing music in the original stories (or was that a later addition?). At least I do not think I noticed music. Was there music? Hmms. I don’t think there was. No matter.
Rating: 4.44
June 23 2018
Unlike many reviews I’ve attempted recently, the start of this one is easy: Why did I read this work here? Because it involves Sherlock Holmes, it’s a short story, it’s a mystery, and I like all three things. Plus it might be interesting to read what a female Holmes might be like, with a female Watson. I do not go in knowing if they are supposed to have a relationship or not, just that the two main characters have been ‘regendered’. The work was in the LGBT section, though.
I’ve never read the author before, though, and no one else has read and reviewed this work. So I’m a risk-taker. *nods* That’s why I requested the story, though, what I said up there. It looked interesting.
Was it?
Well the opening was weird. About a dream, the dreamer dreamed they were a stingray swimming around the ocean. At the time of reading the opening for the first time, I had had no clue who the dreamer might be, though it becomes clear later.
The second noticeable thing, after the weird dream, is that the police person Holmes tended to talk with (I’ve the vague idea this is the case) has also been regendered. Is everyone in this story female? Well the homeless woman lying dead at Lestrade’s feet is also female. So . . . yes? More information needed (ah, Holmes makes reference to an imaginary male police detective as the stand-in for the average police investigator, therefore, there be males on this world, question answered; a male in the flesh finally appears – Mycroft remains male in this universe).
Right, let’s stop with writing about each word, sentence, and paragraph.
Why was Holmes called in for the death of a homeless woman? Holmes name was carved into the body.
Holmes doesn’t seem as outwardly all-knowing in this universe.
Ah, wonder why it took me so long to realize why things felt ‘off’. Everything is from Holmes point of view, not Watson’s. It’s odd being in Holmes head, though other stories have done it.
-----
This is set in modern times, based on well-hidden clues, like mobile phones.
---
Eww, kissing.
---
That’s what my reviews become with short stories: Random thoughts with Lexxi as she reads (oops, I admit now, I’m writing this as I read).
--
There’s a nice buzz/vibe to watching Holmes investigate, but . . . I can’t say as it’d be spoiler-y.
--
The mystery plot-line was interesting, though there was that issue I can’t mention for spoiler-y reasons. The romance plot-line was . . . different. Well, not really – romance has popped up in Holmes stories before and tends to be weird/different than the norm. As it is/was here. So I guess, in that sense, the romance plot-line meshes with my idea of Holmes, for being weird. Heh.
All-in-all this was an interesting story. On one hand, making this be a Holmes story adds a certain tension to things, at least to me, to my reading of the story. Needing to watch closely at this interpretation of the character. On the other hand, this story probably works . . . better as a Holmes story, at least one set in modern times like the modern television series are. Better as there are added layers already built into the story – like I knew about Holmes drug issue, the connection to Watson, Lestrade, Moriarty, and Mycroft. And to boxing. Oh, and the vague not-clearly-stated asexual vibe of the character.
There were only two things really missing from this story: I might have preferred it set a century ago for . . . reasons; and there was no connection to music like Holmes’s love of listening to or playing music in the original stories (or was that a later addition?). At least I do not think I noticed music. Was there music? Hmms. I don’t think there was. No matter.
Rating: 4.44
June 23 2018
July 6, 2018
Alchemy is a modern day Sherlock Holmes story and I have to confess I am so used to reading it set in Victorian times that I assumed this one was as well. So when the language was completely off I went back to the blurb and realized my mistake.
I still prefer a Victorian Sherlock though (those Sherlock Holmes propaganda movies Basil Rathbone did in a WWII setting always felt sacrilegious to me… so I’m a purist, bite me ;-)
The writing was mostly okay (I liked the all-female cast, fight club, a-sexual Holmes, a black Lestrade) but there were a lot of things that bothered me. Why would everyone doubt Sherlock’s reputation? She has worked on numerous cases (and very successfully I might add) but as soon as the first victim pops up with her name carved in their skin everyone suspects her of being the killer. Why?!! That made absolutely no sense to me.
Also wounds inflicted after death don’t scab over.
The mystery plot was unsatisfyingly meager. Holmes lacked the razor sharp computer-like mind (s)he is famous for and I think all that rage she felt was out of character.
f/f - Holmes is a-sexual but she and Lestrade do manage a cuddle and a kiss or two
Themes: I missed the Victorian mystique, I would have made this Holmes poly-amorous as she loved both Lestrade and Watson, over all it didn’t wow me.
3.4 stars
I still prefer a Victorian Sherlock though (those Sherlock Holmes propaganda movies Basil Rathbone did in a WWII setting always felt sacrilegious to me… so I’m a purist, bite me ;-)
The writing was mostly okay (I liked the all-female cast, fight club, a-sexual Holmes, a black Lestrade) but there were a lot of things that bothered me. Why would everyone doubt Sherlock’s reputation? She has worked on numerous cases (and very successfully I might add) but as soon as the first victim pops up with her name carved in their skin everyone suspects her of being the killer. Why?!! That made absolutely no sense to me.
Also wounds inflicted after death don’t scab over.
The mystery plot was unsatisfyingly meager. Holmes lacked the razor sharp computer-like mind (s)he is famous for and I think all that rage she felt was out of character.
f/f - Holmes is a-sexual but she and Lestrade do manage a cuddle and a kiss or two
Themes: I missed the Victorian mystique, I would have made this Holmes poly-amorous as she loved both Lestrade and Watson, over all it didn’t wow me.
3.4 stars
July 15, 2018
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley
A modern Sherlock Holmes retelling where Sherlock is an asexual lesbian? SIGN ME UP! Some recent adaptations that shall remain nameless have kind of caused me to stay away from Sherlock Holmes things in recent years but I really enjoyed this one. Sherlock, Watson, and Lestrade are all women while Mycroft and Moriarty are still men. The mystery aspect is honestly a bit under-developed and makes me wish this was a little bit longer so more time could have been spent focusing there, but I really like everyone's characterization and how Sherlock and Lestrade's relationship and Sherlock's asexuality were presented. The scene where Lestrade was trying to tell Sherlock that she wanted to be in a relationship was especially cute to me because as a fellow clueless asexual I was just like 'yeah sounds about right'. Definitely a fun short story for people looking for some diversity in their Sherlock Holmes adaptations and I hope the author decides to continue with it.
A modern Sherlock Holmes retelling where Sherlock is an asexual lesbian? SIGN ME UP! Some recent adaptations that shall remain nameless have kind of caused me to stay away from Sherlock Holmes things in recent years but I really enjoyed this one. Sherlock, Watson, and Lestrade are all women while Mycroft and Moriarty are still men. The mystery aspect is honestly a bit under-developed and makes me wish this was a little bit longer so more time could have been spent focusing there, but I really like everyone's characterization and how Sherlock and Lestrade's relationship and Sherlock's asexuality were presented. The scene where Lestrade was trying to tell Sherlock that she wanted to be in a relationship was especially cute to me because as a fellow clueless asexual I was just like 'yeah sounds about right'. Definitely a fun short story for people looking for some diversity in their Sherlock Holmes adaptations and I hope the author decides to continue with it.
July 4, 2018
“Someone like you can’t be the hero without someone like me.”
I really enjoyed this genderbent wlw Sherlock novella. I mean, of course I did, since nearly everyone is a lady besides the bad guys.
That being said, I'm not a fan of present tense and the case Sherlock is working on doesn't have the most complex solution in the end, but that can be excused by the shortness of the story.
The connection, relationship and backstory between Sherlock and Lestrade was an unexpected, but really nice surprise. And I liked the decision to portrait this female Sherlock as wanting intimacy and closeness and being interested in women, but without wanting sex. This fact fits how people know the original Sherlock.
And, as I hinted on, I just assumed that if there would be a love story, it would be Sherlock and Watson, so that was a great twist.
One thing I would have liked to be different was the portrayal of Watson (with Sherlock).
You know, no matter the gender or other factors people chose for their adaption’s, Sherlock and Watson are one of those iconic Dous and should always be.
And even tho I enjoyed the surprise of seeing Sherlock in a special relationship with Lestrade here, I was kind of missing seeing Sherlock and Watson as a team. Watson was barely a part of the story and when she was, she could have been a random bystander, even tho Sherlock says that Lestrade and Watson are the people closest to her.
Then at the end, there is actually one scene like I wanted it. Sherlock tells Watson about Lestrade and her feelings. And Watson is supportive and manages to ease her mind about her fears. And I absolutely loved that.
But that happened at around 90% of the ebook. And even tho the story is fairly short, that shouldn't be the only real conversation those iconic partners have with each other.
Nonetheless, I would definitely like to read a longer novel like this – maybe with a bit more of the complex Sherlock-esque investigating, more depth for the characters and character-relations, more mind games like hinted on between Sherlock and Moriarty… and definitely even more of Lestrade and Sherlock eating take-out on the floor before cuddling.
[Review on Tumblr]
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2018
This book was provided for free by the publisher and Love Bytes in exchange for an honest review.
This review was first posted to Love Bytes: LGBTQ Book Reviews. It has been slightly edited here for content.
I’ll admit, I was initially a little suspicious of this story. A lesbian retelling of Sherlock Holmes stories in so few words? How will it set itself apart? After the first few pages, I couldn’t imagine seeing an alternate version of the modern Holmes and Watson we know and love from BBC’s Sherlock. But I was immediately drawn into the simple yet compelling mystery, the strong characterizations, and the unique romantic dynamic between Sherlock and DI Lestrade.
I quickly fell in love with this modern, female Sherlock Holmes. Comparisons to current adaptations are bound to happen, but she really sets herself apart. She’s not quite as chilly is Cumberbatch’s portrayal or eccentric as RDJ’s version—she’s a pensive, angry, and deeply perceptive version that intersects all former portrayal of the famous detective in the best ways possible. Also, I was a little surprised that the romance is not between Sherlock and Watson (who is also a lesbian woman in this story)—it’s between Sherlock and DI Lestrade, who has only previously had relationships with men. I think this is a great choice that sets the story apart from the norm. The two women make an excellent match in intelligence, temperament, and problem-solving styles.
Many people who enjoy classic “Sherlock Holmes” stories are often disappointed when Sherlock appears to be a much more sexual creature in his modern adaptations. The Conan Doyle stories feature Holmes with female companions, but his romantic interests are limited. This modern version of Sherlock is really excellent in that Sherlock is confident in both her asexuality and the strength of her romantic love. Romances with asexual characters are rare enough, and non-dramatic ones involving an asexual character and an allosexual character are practically non-existent. Sherlock and Lestrade just fit, and it makes for a lovely relationship.
As far as a mystery story goes, this one keeps it simple but keeps the action steady. The plot involving dead bodies with Sherlock’s name gruesomely carved into their skin is chilling, and it doesn’t take long to connect them to one of Sherlock’s classic villainous archenemies. The villain in question very closely follows modern adaptations, making him one of the duller characters in the story, but Sherlock’s interactions with him are still intense.
If you’re on the fence about this one, I say go for it. It impressed me as both a romance and a modern Sherlock Holmes retelling.
This review was first posted to Love Bytes: LGBTQ Book Reviews. It has been slightly edited here for content.
I’ll admit, I was initially a little suspicious of this story. A lesbian retelling of Sherlock Holmes stories in so few words? How will it set itself apart? After the first few pages, I couldn’t imagine seeing an alternate version of the modern Holmes and Watson we know and love from BBC’s Sherlock. But I was immediately drawn into the simple yet compelling mystery, the strong characterizations, and the unique romantic dynamic between Sherlock and DI Lestrade.
I quickly fell in love with this modern, female Sherlock Holmes. Comparisons to current adaptations are bound to happen, but she really sets herself apart. She’s not quite as chilly is Cumberbatch’s portrayal or eccentric as RDJ’s version—she’s a pensive, angry, and deeply perceptive version that intersects all former portrayal of the famous detective in the best ways possible. Also, I was a little surprised that the romance is not between Sherlock and Watson (who is also a lesbian woman in this story)—it’s between Sherlock and DI Lestrade, who has only previously had relationships with men. I think this is a great choice that sets the story apart from the norm. The two women make an excellent match in intelligence, temperament, and problem-solving styles.
Many people who enjoy classic “Sherlock Holmes” stories are often disappointed when Sherlock appears to be a much more sexual creature in his modern adaptations. The Conan Doyle stories feature Holmes with female companions, but his romantic interests are limited. This modern version of Sherlock is really excellent in that Sherlock is confident in both her asexuality and the strength of her romantic love. Romances with asexual characters are rare enough, and non-dramatic ones involving an asexual character and an allosexual character are practically non-existent. Sherlock and Lestrade just fit, and it makes for a lovely relationship.
As far as a mystery story goes, this one keeps it simple but keeps the action steady. The plot involving dead bodies with Sherlock’s name gruesomely carved into their skin is chilling, and it doesn’t take long to connect them to one of Sherlock’s classic villainous archenemies. The villain in question very closely follows modern adaptations, making him one of the duller characters in the story, but Sherlock’s interactions with him are still intense.
If you’re on the fence about this one, I say go for it. It impressed me as both a romance and a modern Sherlock Holmes retelling.
August 1, 2018
The idea of Sherlock Holmes as a woman? Cool. As an asexual lesbian? Okay. A Holmesian mystery? Yes please.
Alchemy should have worked better for me, and I'm sorry it didn't...
The present tense is almost always going to hurt a story for me. This tense rarely comes out sounding normal, and this one was continually awkward for me. I found myself translating it in my head which was pretty distracting.
The mystery itself was interesting and I enjoyed how the whole story is told from Holmes' point of view rather than Watson's. I appreciated the way the remaining original characters make an appearance, it helped to keep my interest going.
I have to say honestly, I found the whole love affair/relationship dynamic a bit distracting and I'm not sure we needed so much internal processing on Holmes' part to work through it all.
a copy of Alchemy was provided to me by NetGalley for the purpose of my unbiased review
Alchemy should have worked better for me, and I'm sorry it didn't...
The present tense is almost always going to hurt a story for me. This tense rarely comes out sounding normal, and this one was continually awkward for me. I found myself translating it in my head which was pretty distracting.
The mystery itself was interesting and I enjoyed how the whole story is told from Holmes' point of view rather than Watson's. I appreciated the way the remaining original characters make an appearance, it helped to keep my interest going.
I have to say honestly, I found the whole love affair/relationship dynamic a bit distracting and I'm not sure we needed so much internal processing on Holmes' part to work through it all.
a copy of Alchemy was provided to me by NetGalley for the purpose of my unbiased review
June 26, 2018
Anyone ever watch Warehouse 13? Remember how H.G. Wells is a woman? Welp. Now Sherlock Holmes is, too in Marie S. Crosswell's, Alchemy. Not only is she a woman, she's a gay woman, an asexual, gay woman. Never try to tell me representation doesn't matter, because it does. Any one of these traits would make me want to read this novella/short story, but all three of them endeared me to this book even more.
Someone is murdering homeless people and carving Sherlock's name on their corpses. It's up to Holmes, her brother, Watson (also a woman, whoop whoop) and DI Lestrade to solve the mystery before anyone else dies. Sherlock's changing friendship to potential romance with Lestrade complicates matters, as well.
I started this book last night, and if I hadn't desperately needed sleep, would have finished it in one sitting. The plot moves quickly, the characters are cool as eff, and the mystery is intriguing enough to keep you interested, but not so complicated that it loses you. I don't typically do mystery, but I was into this story.
I applaud the author's descriptions of fights. I tend to get lost in them and lose interest after 2 minutes of any of the thousands of Marvel brawls, but I was able to follow the characters' movements without glossing over sentences.
It was a fun, light read in between more dense works. Overall, my only complaint is that it wasn't longer. I'd like to see some more character and plot development and spend some more time with these characters, but as I was in a race to the finish, I appreciated the brevity as well. This one is out now, so definitely check it out.
Someone is murdering homeless people and carving Sherlock's name on their corpses. It's up to Holmes, her brother, Watson (also a woman, whoop whoop) and DI Lestrade to solve the mystery before anyone else dies. Sherlock's changing friendship to potential romance with Lestrade complicates matters, as well.
I started this book last night, and if I hadn't desperately needed sleep, would have finished it in one sitting. The plot moves quickly, the characters are cool as eff, and the mystery is intriguing enough to keep you interested, but not so complicated that it loses you. I don't typically do mystery, but I was into this story.
I applaud the author's descriptions of fights. I tend to get lost in them and lose interest after 2 minutes of any of the thousands of Marvel brawls, but I was able to follow the characters' movements without glossing over sentences.
It was a fun, light read in between more dense works. Overall, my only complaint is that it wasn't longer. I'd like to see some more character and plot development and spend some more time with these characters, but as I was in a race to the finish, I appreciated the brevity as well. This one is out now, so definitely check it out.
October 1, 2018
Oh this was so fascinating. A somewhat dark, modern, gender-swapped retelling of Sherlock Holmes, where not only is Sherlock asexual, but she falls in love with female Lestrade and still keeps her wonderful friendship with Watson?
The story was intriguing, the ace relationship was clearly written by someone who knew what was up and it was treated with the respect it deserved and I loved this version of the main trio. I had some quibbles, but the 4 stars are mostly because I felt it was too short and I'd gladly read entire series in this universe with these protagonists.
The story was intriguing, the ace relationship was clearly written by someone who knew what was up and it was treated with the respect it deserved and I loved this version of the main trio. I had some quibbles, but the 4 stars are mostly because I felt it was too short and I'd gladly read entire series in this universe with these protagonists.
April 1, 2019
The part I really enjoyed was the way Sherlock's relationships with Watson and Lestrade were described. I also love how much Sherlock's boxing history was integrated, since that's a part of the canon with a lot of interesting potential that seems often neglected.
However, this Sherlock seemed a lot more passive than most interpretations of the character, and there were forensic mistakes that I think could easily have been avoided with more research.
The atmosphere was cool but the case felt very much second to the relationship beyond, which made me feel like perhaps the case hadn't really been necessary at all. There wasn't much mystery to try and figure out as a reader, which also made it a lot less engaging than a classic Holmes story.
However, this Sherlock seemed a lot more passive than most interpretations of the character, and there were forensic mistakes that I think could easily have been avoided with more research.
The atmosphere was cool but the case felt very much second to the relationship beyond, which made me feel like perhaps the case hadn't really been necessary at all. There wasn't much mystery to try and figure out as a reader, which also made it a lot less engaging than a classic Holmes story.
January 19, 2019
Received from NetGalley
Completed 1/8/19
61 page ebook
This is a short story about an asexual / lesbian Sherlock Holmes. I don't know why Sherlock Holmes was the character in which the author chose to tell this short story, but that's what it is. While there is a "mystery" the shortness of the book really makes it about the relationship between Sherlock and Lestrade.
I couldn't give more than 3 stars to this, mainly because it was so short. It wasn't awful and was good for what it was, but it wasn't great. It was enjoyable for a few minutes read, something quick and easy if you want to read about a LBQT character(s).
Setting = A
Plot = B
Conflict = B
Characters = B
Theme = B
Completed 1/8/19
61 page ebook
This is a short story about an asexual / lesbian Sherlock Holmes. I don't know why Sherlock Holmes was the character in which the author chose to tell this short story, but that's what it is. While there is a "mystery" the shortness of the book really makes it about the relationship between Sherlock and Lestrade.
I couldn't give more than 3 stars to this, mainly because it was so short. It wasn't awful and was good for what it was, but it wasn't great. It was enjoyable for a few minutes read, something quick and easy if you want to read about a LBQT character(s).
Setting = A
Plot = B
Conflict = B
Characters = B
Theme = B
April 9, 2021
4.5 stelline
Awww! Me ne sono innamorata! Se c'è una cosa che negli ultimi tempi mi ha preso e conquistato è proprio il fandom di Sherlock Holmes. Dopo averlo snobbato per secoli mi ci sono buttata dentro a capofitto e ora sta diventando una mania ricercare ogni retelling, storia, telefilm legata all'investigatore più incredibile di tutti i tempi e quando mi sono ritrovata nell'e-reader questa novella che neanche ricordavo di aver comprato... è stato amore! Dovevo leggerla! E... wow! Ci troviamo tra le mani una storia un po' diversa rispetto al solito con uno Sherlock Holmes moderno e soprattutto DONNA. Una novella in cui il noto consulente investigativo è una ragazza e insieme alla migliore amica Jane Watson si diletta a risolvere casi più o meno intricati. In questa storia la detective avrà pane per i suoi denti dovendo scoprire cosa si nasconde dietro la misteriosa morte di alcuni senzatetto che sembrano avere in comune una sola cosa: il nome Sherlock inciso sulla pelle dal misterioso assassino. Per l'investigatrice non sarà affatto facile venire a capo del mistero ma avrà dalla sua parte la preziosa amica Jane e soprattutto.. lei... la meravigliosa e incredibile Gayle Lestrade. Lestrade è vita in questa novella! Una creatura magnifica che non avrei mai potuto pensare esistesse neanche tra milioni di anni. Conosce Sherlock da moltissimo tempo e le vuole bene, l'ha tenuta tra le braccia quando era ancora prigioniera delle droghe e farebbe qualsiasi cosa per aiutarla e proteggerla. Come ispettore di polizia ha dovuto lottare contro i pregiudizi e non ha mai lasciato che il suo sesso o il colore della pelle distruggessero la sua autostima. Un personaggio incantevole e combattivo, perfetta controparte di Sherlock. Ammetto di aver accolto a braccia aperte parecchie ship nel corso del tempo. Ho venerato Johnlock, ho strizzato l'occhio alla Mystrade, ho cospirato con la Sheriarty, sono andata all'inferno osando addentrarmi nella selva Holmescest ma... non avrei mai pensato di poter shippare Lestrade e Sherlock, non ho mai per oscuri motivi pensato a loro insieme e invece grazie a questa novella potrò farlo! YEAH! La relazione tra le due è perfetta e nonostante la novella sia breve, è strutturata con cura e attenzione mostrandoci tutto il mondo che si porta dietro, tutti gli anni non raccontati di amicizia, affetto reciproco e amore. Sherlock per colpa del suo carattere ha difficoltà a comprendere i sentimenti che prova per l'amica e il suo essere asessuale è un peso in quella che potrebbe essere una relazione più profonda. Starà a Gayle confrontare l'amata e farle capire come l'amore possa andare oltre qualsiasi genere, orientamento sessuale ed etnia dimostrandole come il rispetto reciproco, il dialogo e i sentimenti sinceri siano la cosa più importante e il primo passo per costruire un rapporto duraturo e indistruttibile. Mi è piaciuta la costruzione della loro relazione e l'attenzione che è stata data anche all'investigazione. Non mancano comparse illustri come il mio adorato Mycroft Holmes, rappresentato miracolosamente non come un pomposo arrogante ma piuttosto come un fratello protettivo e amorevole, quel fratello che ti riesce a capire soltanto con lo sguardo, che condivide con Sherlock non solo un legame di sangue ma anche qualcosa di speciale e indescrivibile. Ho adorato la caratterizzazione di Watson in chiave femminile (che ho per tutto il tempo immaginato come Joan di Elementary!) e la sua complicità con Sherlock, due amiche che si conoscono da tempo e hanno imparato ormai a capirsi con un solo sguardo e poi...beh... come non citare lui... MORIARTY! Oh yeah! Non manca neanche lui e... non vi dico nulla per non rovinarvi la sorpresa ma per me è sempre una folle emozione vederlo rappresentato in mille sfumature diverse, è il super cattivo per eccellenza, senza di lui probabilmente Sherlock non riuscirebbe mai ad essere così Sherlock e riesce sempre e comunque a brillare nonostante l'oscurità della sua anima. Insomma... AWWW!!! Potrei passare ore a elogiare ogni dettaglio, la cura nello sviluppo delle relazioni tra i personaggi, l'attenzione nella caratterizzazione di una protagonista asessuale, il giusto mix di mistero, sentimenti e avventura e quelle deliziose atmosfere puramente....SHERLOCK! Una novella che ha un solo difetto: essere sfortunatamente troppo breve! Avrei voluto di più, libri e libri con le avventure di Sherlock, della sua migliore amica Watson e della sua innamorata Lestrade ma ahimè almeno per ora bisogna accontentarsi. Non posso fare altro che consigliarvelo essendo scritto benissimo e frutto di una persona fan e amante del fandom al punto da riuscire a gestire benissimo ogni elemento narrativo. Un racconto divino che vi farà vedere il mondo Holmes da un altro punto di vista! Dolcissimo e imperdibile :) Un must have per tutti gli Sherlockian!!!
Awww! Me ne sono innamorata! Se c'è una cosa che negli ultimi tempi mi ha preso e conquistato è proprio il fandom di Sherlock Holmes. Dopo averlo snobbato per secoli mi ci sono buttata dentro a capofitto e ora sta diventando una mania ricercare ogni retelling, storia, telefilm legata all'investigatore più incredibile di tutti i tempi e quando mi sono ritrovata nell'e-reader questa novella che neanche ricordavo di aver comprato... è stato amore! Dovevo leggerla! E... wow! Ci troviamo tra le mani una storia un po' diversa rispetto al solito con uno Sherlock Holmes moderno e soprattutto DONNA. Una novella in cui il noto consulente investigativo è una ragazza e insieme alla migliore amica Jane Watson si diletta a risolvere casi più o meno intricati. In questa storia la detective avrà pane per i suoi denti dovendo scoprire cosa si nasconde dietro la misteriosa morte di alcuni senzatetto che sembrano avere in comune una sola cosa: il nome Sherlock inciso sulla pelle dal misterioso assassino. Per l'investigatrice non sarà affatto facile venire a capo del mistero ma avrà dalla sua parte la preziosa amica Jane e soprattutto.. lei... la meravigliosa e incredibile Gayle Lestrade. Lestrade è vita in questa novella! Una creatura magnifica che non avrei mai potuto pensare esistesse neanche tra milioni di anni. Conosce Sherlock da moltissimo tempo e le vuole bene, l'ha tenuta tra le braccia quando era ancora prigioniera delle droghe e farebbe qualsiasi cosa per aiutarla e proteggerla. Come ispettore di polizia ha dovuto lottare contro i pregiudizi e non ha mai lasciato che il suo sesso o il colore della pelle distruggessero la sua autostima. Un personaggio incantevole e combattivo, perfetta controparte di Sherlock. Ammetto di aver accolto a braccia aperte parecchie ship nel corso del tempo. Ho venerato Johnlock, ho strizzato l'occhio alla Mystrade, ho cospirato con la Sheriarty, sono andata all'inferno osando addentrarmi nella selva Holmescest ma... non avrei mai pensato di poter shippare Lestrade e Sherlock, non ho mai per oscuri motivi pensato a loro insieme e invece grazie a questa novella potrò farlo! YEAH! La relazione tra le due è perfetta e nonostante la novella sia breve, è strutturata con cura e attenzione mostrandoci tutto il mondo che si porta dietro, tutti gli anni non raccontati di amicizia, affetto reciproco e amore. Sherlock per colpa del suo carattere ha difficoltà a comprendere i sentimenti che prova per l'amica e il suo essere asessuale è un peso in quella che potrebbe essere una relazione più profonda. Starà a Gayle confrontare l'amata e farle capire come l'amore possa andare oltre qualsiasi genere, orientamento sessuale ed etnia dimostrandole come il rispetto reciproco, il dialogo e i sentimenti sinceri siano la cosa più importante e il primo passo per costruire un rapporto duraturo e indistruttibile. Mi è piaciuta la costruzione della loro relazione e l'attenzione che è stata data anche all'investigazione. Non mancano comparse illustri come il mio adorato Mycroft Holmes, rappresentato miracolosamente non come un pomposo arrogante ma piuttosto come un fratello protettivo e amorevole, quel fratello che ti riesce a capire soltanto con lo sguardo, che condivide con Sherlock non solo un legame di sangue ma anche qualcosa di speciale e indescrivibile. Ho adorato la caratterizzazione di Watson in chiave femminile (che ho per tutto il tempo immaginato come Joan di Elementary!) e la sua complicità con Sherlock, due amiche che si conoscono da tempo e hanno imparato ormai a capirsi con un solo sguardo e poi...beh... come non citare lui... MORIARTY! Oh yeah! Non manca neanche lui e... non vi dico nulla per non rovinarvi la sorpresa ma per me è sempre una folle emozione vederlo rappresentato in mille sfumature diverse, è il super cattivo per eccellenza, senza di lui probabilmente Sherlock non riuscirebbe mai ad essere così Sherlock e riesce sempre e comunque a brillare nonostante l'oscurità della sua anima. Insomma... AWWW!!! Potrei passare ore a elogiare ogni dettaglio, la cura nello sviluppo delle relazioni tra i personaggi, l'attenzione nella caratterizzazione di una protagonista asessuale, il giusto mix di mistero, sentimenti e avventura e quelle deliziose atmosfere puramente....SHERLOCK! Una novella che ha un solo difetto: essere sfortunatamente troppo breve! Avrei voluto di più, libri e libri con le avventure di Sherlock, della sua migliore amica Watson e della sua innamorata Lestrade ma ahimè almeno per ora bisogna accontentarsi. Non posso fare altro che consigliarvelo essendo scritto benissimo e frutto di una persona fan e amante del fandom al punto da riuscire a gestire benissimo ogni elemento narrativo. Un racconto divino che vi farà vedere il mondo Holmes da un altro punto di vista! Dolcissimo e imperdibile :) Un must have per tutti gli Sherlockian!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2018
Review originally published on my blog, Musings of a Bookish Kitty:
https://www.literaryfeline.com/2018/0...
Alchemy by Marie S. Crosswell
Less Than Three Press, 2018
Crime Fiction/Romance; 47 pgs
In a twist on the original Sherlock Holmes and Watson characters, Marie S. Crosswell introduces readers to a reimagining of them as women. Sherlock is called upon by a female Detective Lestrade to take a look at the body of a homeless person found murdered. It is not the first, nor will it the last. What has caught everyone’s attention is the fact that Sherlock’s name is carved onto the bodies of the victims. A sure message to the brilliant detective, although what it means is anyone’s guess, other than that this is very personal.
The relationship between Detective Lestrade and Sherlock plays a big part in this novella. The two are clearly attracted to each other—although this is new to both of them in some respects. Lestrade has had heterosexual relationships in the past and Sherlock is asexual. They take their time in feeling out their relationship, and just what the other expects and wants from one another. Watson herself is a lesbian, and I liked that Sherlock took her feelings into consideration before pursuing anything with Lestrade. I loved how their relationship played out, how well the two communicated with each other—something you don’t see enough of when it comes to romance in a novel. Each of the women in Alchemy are well fleshed out and relatable characters. I do wish there had been more time spent with Watson as that character has always been a favorite of mine in the canon. I liked Crosswell’s female version too.
The mystery itself in this story is fairly weak as far as it goes. I had been excited by the notion of a female version of Sherlock Holmes and seeing her in action, but her skills of deduction left much to be desired. Things fell into place a bit too easily. Maybe had this been a full length novel instead of a novella, I would have been more satisfied. The author would have had more time to weave a more complex crime in which we could see the good detective and her partner in action. Overall, I think this novella held a lot of promise for me, but in the end didn’t quite live up to my expectations—at least in regards to the mystery aspect.
https://www.literaryfeline.com/2018/0...
Alchemy by Marie S. Crosswell
Less Than Three Press, 2018
Crime Fiction/Romance; 47 pgs
In a twist on the original Sherlock Holmes and Watson characters, Marie S. Crosswell introduces readers to a reimagining of them as women. Sherlock is called upon by a female Detective Lestrade to take a look at the body of a homeless person found murdered. It is not the first, nor will it the last. What has caught everyone’s attention is the fact that Sherlock’s name is carved onto the bodies of the victims. A sure message to the brilliant detective, although what it means is anyone’s guess, other than that this is very personal.
The relationship between Detective Lestrade and Sherlock plays a big part in this novella. The two are clearly attracted to each other—although this is new to both of them in some respects. Lestrade has had heterosexual relationships in the past and Sherlock is asexual. They take their time in feeling out their relationship, and just what the other expects and wants from one another. Watson herself is a lesbian, and I liked that Sherlock took her feelings into consideration before pursuing anything with Lestrade. I loved how their relationship played out, how well the two communicated with each other—something you don’t see enough of when it comes to romance in a novel. Each of the women in Alchemy are well fleshed out and relatable characters. I do wish there had been more time spent with Watson as that character has always been a favorite of mine in the canon. I liked Crosswell’s female version too.
The mystery itself in this story is fairly weak as far as it goes. I had been excited by the notion of a female version of Sherlock Holmes and seeing her in action, but her skills of deduction left much to be desired. Things fell into place a bit too easily. Maybe had this been a full length novel instead of a novella, I would have been more satisfied. The author would have had more time to weave a more complex crime in which we could see the good detective and her partner in action. Overall, I think this novella held a lot of promise for me, but in the end didn’t quite live up to my expectations—at least in regards to the mystery aspect.
November 4, 2019
The mystery, apart from not being mysterious if you have the smallest knowledge of SH under any form/adaptation - which is fine, is not really the center of the story or the focus of the author's efforts. Not sure if it was on purpose or not. Details are sparse as to...anything regarding the investigation or why it's so unresolvable. There's no need for a genius brain as the one clue needed is glaring in meaning and there all along, just not found by the (incompetent?) police.
Anyway, it seems the point of the book is more a sorta-introductory exposition/exploration of SH as an asexual woman who actually loves and is loved and has feelings. Which was nice. I especially liked her having "cerebral emotions" as opposed to the popular asshole-SH – not feeling things as much or like most people doesn't mean one doesn't have/understand those feelings "cerebrally". The asexual demiromantic lesbian thing was not the worst ace rep (which is not saying much, but in truth I was actually pretty happy about how it was handled). Everyone is still pretty white, except Lestrade, who's a black woman (nice touch, a bit uncomfortable with it as per the usual objectification/exoticization/food descriptions of black people, but it's not as bad as it could be since it's not sexual). I had a bit of a disconnect to see JW described as a blond woman (I blame Elementary, despite not having watched it...), but also it works better with her being ex-military on some level I doubt would cross most people's mind anyway.
There's quite a bit of the usual SH or hard-but-sensitive-detective clichés like the boxing and the beating to a pulp the perp, as well as the usual Moriarty "you're afraid of me because a part of you wants to be me" but oh well ¯\_(ツ)_/¯...
Anyway, it seems the point of the book is more a sorta-introductory exposition/exploration of SH as an asexual woman who actually loves and is loved and has feelings. Which was nice. I especially liked her having "cerebral emotions" as opposed to the popular asshole-SH – not feeling things as much or like most people doesn't mean one doesn't have/understand those feelings "cerebrally". The asexual demiromantic lesbian thing was not the worst ace rep (which is not saying much, but in truth I was actually pretty happy about how it was handled). Everyone is still pretty white, except Lestrade, who's a black woman (nice touch, a bit uncomfortable with it as per the usual objectification/exoticization/food descriptions of black people, but it's not as bad as it could be since it's not sexual). I had a bit of a disconnect to see JW described as a blond woman (I blame Elementary, despite not having watched it...), but also it works better with her being ex-military on some level I doubt would cross most people's mind anyway.
There's quite a bit of the usual SH or hard-but-sensitive-detective clichés like the boxing and the beating to a pulp the perp, as well as the usual Moriarty "you're afraid of me because a part of you wants to be me" but oh well ¯\_(ツ)_/¯...
August 1, 2018
This review can also be found on Love in Panels
A serial killer is on the loose and the messages he leaves with the bodies suggest that he’s trying to settle a score with Holmes. Now she has to find the person behind this but also deal with something entirely unexpected: the developing romantic feelings she has for her friend.
The romance part of the story is short and sweet. Sherlock is asexual and develops feelings for Lestrade (also a woman in this version) who only has had relationships with men so far. Now Sherlock doubts that Lestrade would want a non-sexual relationship with another woman. These issues don’t take up that much space are mostly resolved quickly (Alchemy is a fairly short novella that focuses more on the mystery than on the romance plot) but I found them handled well. I have read a few stories that feature asexual characters where the character is drowning in self-hatred, convinced nobody would ever want them until their one true love assures them otherwise. Then everybody is immediately happy. Here Holmes does worry about Lestrade not wanting the type of relationship she is offering and it’s clear that she would be unhappy if that was the case. But she doesn’t put everything of herself in the hope for a relationship.
The mystery itself was simply not my cup of tea; it’s rather violent. The murders are brutal and there is a long fist-fight described in vivid detail. And - more importantly – it wasn’t really a Holmes mystery. Almost all the original Holmes-stories are told by Watson. That means we don’t see what’s going on in Holmes’s head or much of his struggle trying to figure out the mystery. We only see him explaining his deductions afterwards. A story told from Holmes’s POV means we see him (or in this case her) being as clueless about everything as the police and that takes away a lot of the magic the original stories hold for me. Besides, this Sherlock doesn’t even do much deducting. She gets the culprit pretty much handed on a silver plate and then does some extremely un-Holmesian things to catch him. Which brings me to my biggest problem with this story: the characters don’t feel like Holmes and Watson to me. If you swapped out their names I would never think they had anything to do with them. And that’s not the fault of the modern setting. I recently read The Tea Master and the Detective. It's a (non-romance) science fiction story in which the main characters are called Long Chau and The Shadow's Child and the world is as far away from a Victorian London as one can get. But the Holmesian influence was still easy to see. Alchemy, on the other hand, feels like somebody wrote a crime story and afterwards replaced the names.
The story does offer good asexual representation and also hints of a non-sexual relationship between Holmes and Watson that goes beyond friendship. But it does that in a mystery that is only mediocre, very violent and definitely not a Holmes story.
A serial killer is on the loose and the messages he leaves with the bodies suggest that he’s trying to settle a score with Holmes. Now she has to find the person behind this but also deal with something entirely unexpected: the developing romantic feelings she has for her friend.
The romance part of the story is short and sweet. Sherlock is asexual and develops feelings for Lestrade (also a woman in this version) who only has had relationships with men so far. Now Sherlock doubts that Lestrade would want a non-sexual relationship with another woman. These issues don’t take up that much space are mostly resolved quickly (Alchemy is a fairly short novella that focuses more on the mystery than on the romance plot) but I found them handled well. I have read a few stories that feature asexual characters where the character is drowning in self-hatred, convinced nobody would ever want them until their one true love assures them otherwise. Then everybody is immediately happy. Here Holmes does worry about Lestrade not wanting the type of relationship she is offering and it’s clear that she would be unhappy if that was the case. But she doesn’t put everything of herself in the hope for a relationship.
The mystery itself was simply not my cup of tea; it’s rather violent. The murders are brutal and there is a long fist-fight described in vivid detail. And - more importantly – it wasn’t really a Holmes mystery. Almost all the original Holmes-stories are told by Watson. That means we don’t see what’s going on in Holmes’s head or much of his struggle trying to figure out the mystery. We only see him explaining his deductions afterwards. A story told from Holmes’s POV means we see him (or in this case her) being as clueless about everything as the police and that takes away a lot of the magic the original stories hold for me. Besides, this Sherlock doesn’t even do much deducting. She gets the culprit pretty much handed on a silver plate and then does some extremely un-Holmesian things to catch him. Which brings me to my biggest problem with this story: the characters don’t feel like Holmes and Watson to me. If you swapped out their names I would never think they had anything to do with them. And that’s not the fault of the modern setting. I recently read The Tea Master and the Detective. It's a (non-romance) science fiction story in which the main characters are called Long Chau and The Shadow's Child and the world is as far away from a Victorian London as one can get. But the Holmesian influence was still easy to see. Alchemy, on the other hand, feels like somebody wrote a crime story and afterwards replaced the names.
The story does offer good asexual representation and also hints of a non-sexual relationship between Holmes and Watson that goes beyond friendship. But it does that in a mystery that is only mediocre, very violent and definitely not a Holmes story.
June 7, 2022
If I was being objective I would give this book a 2 out of 5, but it's a lady Sherlock, with her woman friend Watson and her lady friend Lestrade, so I have to give it a 3.
One of the reason I like Sherlock Holmes and how he is usually represented is that I can relate (a bit) to his contempt for emotions and his disinterest in romantic relationships.
Here we have a Sherlock who is usually, allegedly, a cold person and who doesn't show emotions, who actually doesn't do a very good job at acting cold and not showing emotions. The whole thing would have seem less odd to me if in this story she was just supposed to be a cherry, bubbly Sherlock.
I appreciated the presence of Moriarty; however, if I had read the few things he says, out of context and without knowing who was saying it, I would have said it was Hannibal Lecter talking. The conversations between Lestrade and Sherlock made me cringe a bit, and I doubt that I would have liked a longer version of this book, but the scene with Moriarty just made me want to read a story in which Sherlock shifts to the dark side and joins Moriarty to do whatever Moriarty does.
Overall, I'm disappointed; I've read fanfictions that were way better than this.
One of the reason I like Sherlock Holmes and how he is usually represented is that I can relate (a bit) to his contempt for emotions and his disinterest in romantic relationships.
Here we have a Sherlock who is usually, allegedly, a cold person and who doesn't show emotions, who actually doesn't do a very good job at acting cold and not showing emotions. The whole thing would have seem less odd to me if in this story she was just supposed to be a cherry, bubbly Sherlock.
I appreciated the presence of Moriarty; however, if I had read the few things he says, out of context and without knowing who was saying it, I would have said it was Hannibal Lecter talking. The conversations between Lestrade and Sherlock made me cringe a bit, and I doubt that I would have liked a longer version of this book, but the scene with Moriarty just made me want to read a story in which Sherlock shifts to the dark side and joins Moriarty to do whatever Moriarty does.
Overall, I'm disappointed; I've read fanfictions that were way better than this.
May 2, 2019
In this gender swapped and modern take on Sherlock Holmes; Holmes and her partner Watson are assigned to a case where a homeless woman has been murdered and Holmes’ name is carved into the corpse. But with her nemesis, Moriarty firmly in jail, Holmes must track down the killer before more people die with her name on them.
The idea of a female Holmes, Watson, and Lestrade; I think this should have been a full novel rather than a short story. The concept buckles under a lackluster resolution to the mystery itself, which is kinda important when you’re adapting or parodying Sherlock Holmes. The representation of Holmes’ asexuality, Watson being a lesbian, and a budding romance between Holmes and Inspector Lestrade is done really well and I enjoyed those parts but it wasn’t enough to balance out my disappointment with the mystery. That’s a shame considering such a great setup and good writing! 3 out of 5.
The idea of a female Holmes, Watson, and Lestrade; I think this should have been a full novel rather than a short story. The concept buckles under a lackluster resolution to the mystery itself, which is kinda important when you’re adapting or parodying Sherlock Holmes. The representation of Holmes’ asexuality, Watson being a lesbian, and a budding romance between Holmes and Inspector Lestrade is done really well and I enjoyed those parts but it wasn’t enough to balance out my disappointment with the mystery. That’s a shame considering such a great setup and good writing! 3 out of 5.
August 30, 2018
Well written asexual female Sherlock Holmes? Yes please
September 4, 2022
4,5 stelline
June 17, 2021
4,5 stelline
Awww! Me ne sono innamorata! Se c'è una cosa che negli ultimi tempi mi ha preso e conquistato è proprio il fandom di Sherlock Holmes. Dopo averlo snobbato per secoli mi ci sono buttata dentro a capofitto e ora sta diventando una mania ricercare ogni retelling, storia, telefilm legata all'investigatore più incredibile di tutti i tempi e quando mi sono ritrovata nell'e-reader questa novella che neanche ricordavo di aver comprato... è stato amore! Dovevo leggerla! E... wow! Ci troviamo tra le mani una storia un po' diversa rispetto al solito con uno Sherlock Holmes moderno e soprattutto DONNA. Una novella in cui il noto consulente investigativo è una ragazza e insieme alla migliore amica Jane Watson si diletta a risolvere casi più o meno intricati. In questa storia la detective avrà pane per i suoi denti dovendo scoprire cosa si nasconde dietro la misteriosa morte di alcuni senzatetto che sembrano avere in comune una sola cosa: il nome Sherlock inciso sulla pelle dal misterioso assassino. Per l'investigatrice non sarà affatto facile venire a capo del mistero ma avrà dalla sua parte la preziosa amica Jane e soprattutto.. lei... la meravigliosa e incredibile Gayle Lestrade. Lestrade è vita in questa novella! Una creatura magnifica che non avrei mai potuto pensare esistesse neanche tra milioni di anni. Conosce Sherlock da moltissimo tempo e le vuole bene, l'ha tenuta tra le braccia quando era ancora prigioniera delle droghe e farebbe qualsiasi cosa per aiutarla e proteggerla. Come ispettore di polizia ha dovuto lottare contro i pregiudizi e non ha mai lasciato che il suo sesso o il colore della pelle distruggessero la sua autostima. Un personaggio incantevole e combattivo, perfetta controparte di Sherlock. Ammetto di aver accolto a braccia aperte parecchie ship nel corso del tempo. Ho venerato Johnlock, ho strizzato l'occhio alla Mystrade, ho cospirato con la Sheriarty, sono andata all'inferno osando addentrarmi nella selva Holmescest ma... non avrei mai pensato di poter shippare Lestrade e Sherlock, non ho mai per oscuri motivi pensato a loro insieme e invece grazie a questa novella potrò farlo! YEAH! La relazione tra le due è perfetta e nonostante la novella sia breve, è strutturata con cura e attenzione mostrandoci tutto il mondo che si porta dietro, tutti gli anni non raccontati di amicizia, affetto reciproco e amore. Sherlock per colpa del suo carattere ha difficoltà a comprendere i sentimenti che prova per l'amica e il suo essere asessuale è un peso in quella che potrebbe essere una relazione più profonda. Starà a Gayle confrontare l'amata e farle capire come l'amore possa andare oltre qualsiasi genere, orientamento sessuale ed etnia dimostrandole come il rispetto reciproco, il dialogo e i sentimenti sinceri siano la cosa più importante e il primo passo per costruire un rapporto duraturo e indistruttibile. Mi è piaciuta la costruzione della loro relazione e l'attenzione che è stata data anche all'investigazione. Non mancano comparse illustri come il mio adorato Mycroft Holmes, rappresentato miracolosamente non come un pomposo arrogante ma piuttosto come un fratello protettivo e amorevole, quel fratello che ti riesce a capire soltanto con lo sguardo, che condivide con Sherlock non solo un legame di sangue ma anche qualcosa di speciale e indescrivibile. Ho adorato la caratterizzazione di Watson in chiave femminile (che ho per tutto il tempo immaginato come Joan di Elementary!) e la sua complicità con Sherlock, due amiche che si conoscono da tempo e hanno imparato ormai a capirsi con un solo sguardo e poi...beh... come non citare lui... MORIARTY! Oh yeah! Non manca neanche lui e... non vi dico nulla per non rovinarvi la sorpresa ma per me è sempre una folle emozione vederlo rappresentato in mille sfumature diverse, è il super cattivo per eccellenza, senza di lui probabilmente Sherlock non riuscirebbe mai ad essere così Sherlock e riesce sempre e comunque a brillare nonostante l'oscurità della sua anima. Insomma... AWWW!!! Potrei passare ore a elogiare ogni dettaglio, la cura nello sviluppo delle relazioni tra i personaggi, l'attenzione nella caratterizzazione di una protagonista asessuale, il giusto mix di mistero, sentimenti e avventura e quelle deliziose atmosfere puramente....SHERLOCK! Una novella che ha un solo difetto: essere sfortunatamente troppo breve! Avrei voluto di più, libri e libri con le avventure di Sherlock, della sua migliore amica Watson e della sua innamorata Lestrade ma ahimè almeno per ora bisogna accontentarsi. Non posso fare altro che consigliarvelo essendo scritto benissimo e frutto di una persona fan e amante del fandom al punto da riuscire a gestire benissimo ogni elemento narrativo. Un racconto divino che vi farà vedere il mondo Holmes da un altro punto di vista! Dolcissimo e imperdibile :) Un must have per tutti gli Sherlockian!!!
Awww! Me ne sono innamorata! Se c'è una cosa che negli ultimi tempi mi ha preso e conquistato è proprio il fandom di Sherlock Holmes. Dopo averlo snobbato per secoli mi ci sono buttata dentro a capofitto e ora sta diventando una mania ricercare ogni retelling, storia, telefilm legata all'investigatore più incredibile di tutti i tempi e quando mi sono ritrovata nell'e-reader questa novella che neanche ricordavo di aver comprato... è stato amore! Dovevo leggerla! E... wow! Ci troviamo tra le mani una storia un po' diversa rispetto al solito con uno Sherlock Holmes moderno e soprattutto DONNA. Una novella in cui il noto consulente investigativo è una ragazza e insieme alla migliore amica Jane Watson si diletta a risolvere casi più o meno intricati. In questa storia la detective avrà pane per i suoi denti dovendo scoprire cosa si nasconde dietro la misteriosa morte di alcuni senzatetto che sembrano avere in comune una sola cosa: il nome Sherlock inciso sulla pelle dal misterioso assassino. Per l'investigatrice non sarà affatto facile venire a capo del mistero ma avrà dalla sua parte la preziosa amica Jane e soprattutto.. lei... la meravigliosa e incredibile Gayle Lestrade. Lestrade è vita in questa novella! Una creatura magnifica che non avrei mai potuto pensare esistesse neanche tra milioni di anni. Conosce Sherlock da moltissimo tempo e le vuole bene, l'ha tenuta tra le braccia quando era ancora prigioniera delle droghe e farebbe qualsiasi cosa per aiutarla e proteggerla. Come ispettore di polizia ha dovuto lottare contro i pregiudizi e non ha mai lasciato che il suo sesso o il colore della pelle distruggessero la sua autostima. Un personaggio incantevole e combattivo, perfetta controparte di Sherlock. Ammetto di aver accolto a braccia aperte parecchie ship nel corso del tempo. Ho venerato Johnlock, ho strizzato l'occhio alla Mystrade, ho cospirato con la Sheriarty, sono andata all'inferno osando addentrarmi nella selva Holmescest ma... non avrei mai pensato di poter shippare Lestrade e Sherlock, non ho mai per oscuri motivi pensato a loro insieme e invece grazie a questa novella potrò farlo! YEAH! La relazione tra le due è perfetta e nonostante la novella sia breve, è strutturata con cura e attenzione mostrandoci tutto il mondo che si porta dietro, tutti gli anni non raccontati di amicizia, affetto reciproco e amore. Sherlock per colpa del suo carattere ha difficoltà a comprendere i sentimenti che prova per l'amica e il suo essere asessuale è un peso in quella che potrebbe essere una relazione più profonda. Starà a Gayle confrontare l'amata e farle capire come l'amore possa andare oltre qualsiasi genere, orientamento sessuale ed etnia dimostrandole come il rispetto reciproco, il dialogo e i sentimenti sinceri siano la cosa più importante e il primo passo per costruire un rapporto duraturo e indistruttibile. Mi è piaciuta la costruzione della loro relazione e l'attenzione che è stata data anche all'investigazione. Non mancano comparse illustri come il mio adorato Mycroft Holmes, rappresentato miracolosamente non come un pomposo arrogante ma piuttosto come un fratello protettivo e amorevole, quel fratello che ti riesce a capire soltanto con lo sguardo, che condivide con Sherlock non solo un legame di sangue ma anche qualcosa di speciale e indescrivibile. Ho adorato la caratterizzazione di Watson in chiave femminile (che ho per tutto il tempo immaginato come Joan di Elementary!) e la sua complicità con Sherlock, due amiche che si conoscono da tempo e hanno imparato ormai a capirsi con un solo sguardo e poi...beh... come non citare lui... MORIARTY! Oh yeah! Non manca neanche lui e... non vi dico nulla per non rovinarvi la sorpresa ma per me è sempre una folle emozione vederlo rappresentato in mille sfumature diverse, è il super cattivo per eccellenza, senza di lui probabilmente Sherlock non riuscirebbe mai ad essere così Sherlock e riesce sempre e comunque a brillare nonostante l'oscurità della sua anima. Insomma... AWWW!!! Potrei passare ore a elogiare ogni dettaglio, la cura nello sviluppo delle relazioni tra i personaggi, l'attenzione nella caratterizzazione di una protagonista asessuale, il giusto mix di mistero, sentimenti e avventura e quelle deliziose atmosfere puramente....SHERLOCK! Una novella che ha un solo difetto: essere sfortunatamente troppo breve! Avrei voluto di più, libri e libri con le avventure di Sherlock, della sua migliore amica Watson e della sua innamorata Lestrade ma ahimè almeno per ora bisogna accontentarsi. Non posso fare altro che consigliarvelo essendo scritto benissimo e frutto di una persona fan e amante del fandom al punto da riuscire a gestire benissimo ogni elemento narrativo. Un racconto divino che vi farà vedere il mondo Holmes da un altro punto di vista! Dolcissimo e imperdibile :) Un must have per tutti gli Sherlockian!!!
August 22, 2020
*3.5 Stars
The idea of a gender-swapped AND queer Sherlock Holmes had my attention immediately! I believe this story would have worked much better as a full-length novel. The "mystery" didn't feel like a typical Sherlock Holmes book, wherein they dazzle the readers with their stunning intellect. The characters were interesting and I would love the chance to read more of the author's Sherlock Holmes.
The idea of a gender-swapped AND queer Sherlock Holmes had my attention immediately! I believe this story would have worked much better as a full-length novel. The "mystery" didn't feel like a typical Sherlock Holmes book, wherein they dazzle the readers with their stunning intellect. The characters were interesting and I would love the chance to read more of the author's Sherlock Holmes.
October 1, 2024
2.5
The interpersonal rships between the 3 MCs were much better than the plot or the attempt at writing an SH-like character.
The interpersonal rships between the 3 MCs were much better than the plot or the attempt at writing an SH-like character.
February 4, 2024
3.5/5 Stars.
A Gender-bend story on how Sherlock, Watson and Lestrade are all females in this modern setting.
Its a quick read for it.
A Gender-bend story on how Sherlock, Watson and Lestrade are all females in this modern setting.
Its a quick read for it.
June 30, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
In this modern retelling of Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock is not only a woman, but also asexual. This alone really intrigued me, as I rarely find promising stories with asexual main characters, and the fact that it is a Sherlock Holmes retelling made it impossible for me not to read it. And I’m glad I did, this short story definitely did not disappoint me.
Now since this is a Sherlock Holmes story we of course get a crime to solve: Homeless people are being murdered, and the murderer is carving Sherlock’s name into their skin. The mystery itself is rather simple, but this does in no way harm the story. I also found myself quite enjoying the fight scenes, and the action is kept steady throughout the whole story.
What I loved the most, however, was the interactions between the characters. I’ve always loved Sherlock Holmes, and I found this version of him/her to be very likeable. She isn’t quite as cold as Benedict Cumberbatch’s version of the character, and does feel guilty about the murders though they are not her doing, but is still very much true to how you’d expect Sherlock Holmes to be.
I was surprised to find out that the romance in this story was not between Sherlock and Watson (Who is a lesbian woman in this story), but between Sherlock and Lestrade (Who is also a woman). I really liked their relationship though, and the amount of understanding Lestrade had of Sherlock was just sweet.
I was very impressed by how good this story was. Despite it being so short it didn’t feel rushed or unfinished at all, in fact I felt that the length of the story fit it perfectly.
So if you like Sherlock Holmes, a good short mystery or if you’re just curious I would definitely recommend picking up this book.
In this modern retelling of Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock is not only a woman, but also asexual. This alone really intrigued me, as I rarely find promising stories with asexual main characters, and the fact that it is a Sherlock Holmes retelling made it impossible for me not to read it. And I’m glad I did, this short story definitely did not disappoint me.
Now since this is a Sherlock Holmes story we of course get a crime to solve: Homeless people are being murdered, and the murderer is carving Sherlock’s name into their skin. The mystery itself is rather simple, but this does in no way harm the story. I also found myself quite enjoying the fight scenes, and the action is kept steady throughout the whole story.
What I loved the most, however, was the interactions between the characters. I’ve always loved Sherlock Holmes, and I found this version of him/her to be very likeable. She isn’t quite as cold as Benedict Cumberbatch’s version of the character, and does feel guilty about the murders though they are not her doing, but is still very much true to how you’d expect Sherlock Holmes to be.
I was surprised to find out that the romance in this story was not between Sherlock and Watson (Who is a lesbian woman in this story), but between Sherlock and Lestrade (Who is also a woman). I really liked their relationship though, and the amount of understanding Lestrade had of Sherlock was just sweet.
I was very impressed by how good this story was. Despite it being so short it didn’t feel rushed or unfinished at all, in fact I felt that the length of the story fit it perfectly.
So if you like Sherlock Holmes, a good short mystery or if you’re just curious I would definitely recommend picking up this book.
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