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The Curious Case of the Hounds of Hell

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The world's most famous detective is back in a case that brings him to an isolated mansion outside of the small town of Hell, Maine, investigating the murder of a young boy apparently killed by wolves.

98 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 6, 2018

120 people are currently reading
64 people want to read

About the author

Peter Cawdron

78 books1,064 followers

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5 stars
137 (50%)
4 stars
90 (32%)
3 stars
41 (15%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Seamus.
285 reviews
May 12, 2018
Another wonderful surprise release from Peter Cawdron and once again he’s off on a tangent away from science fiction and dipping his toes into the waters of another classic of modern literature!

Last time it was the horror classic Dracula in Nosferatu (Van Helsing’s Diaries) and now we have the pleasure of enjoying his playing within the Sherlock Holmes world.

No spoilers, other than that our heroes Holmes and Watson are involved in an intriguing case in the (near?) future and.... yes a hound is also involved this time round!!

Clever, quirky, very cheeky at times and leaves the reader guessing.

An adaptation by the BBC team would be nice!
Profile Image for Join the Penguin Resistance!  .
5,676 reviews332 followers
April 25, 2020
A Sherlock Holmes tribute :


After my initial startlement [Sherlock Holmes and Rocket ships? Sherlock in America?] I found this story quite engrossing. I enjoyed the "expansion " of Holmes' character and personality, shown both in his speech and behavior, and in Dr. Watson's conclusions about him. As for the other characters, a fine exposition of human evil was rolled out for the reader. Worked for me as both a Mystery of detection and as a character study. Well done! I appreciate the author's note too on Sherlock Holmes.
Profile Image for Bookish.
69 reviews
October 27, 2020
A wonderful detective story that features Sherlock Holmes and Watson. Although it is set in modern times, it is written in Arthur Conan Doyle’s style which makes the detective story even better. Mr. Cawdron brought these characters alive in a way that made them so real-with humor and drama well mixed. I highly recommend this short story, you won’t be able to put it down!
Profile Image for Jas.
1,043 reviews
June 9, 2018
Cawdron is a truly gifted writer, and one of few people who could delve into the world of Sherlock Holmes and create a tale worthy of the name. This story obviously draws some parallels to the Hounds of the Baskervilles, but it is done in a way that pays homage to the greatest Detective to have never lived, and the man who created him.
The story is written, as many are, from the point of view of Watson. On this occasion, Watson is conveying to someone about how utterly frustrating, boring and annoying it was working with Holmes, and relates a tale as to why. The story is set in a not too distant future, in which we have the ability to fly using short range intercontinental rockets to allow flights from one country to another in very short periods of time, rather than the 12-18hr time frame minimum we have to look at now.
The story is so good it takes about the first 2 paragraphs before you are totally engaged in what is happening, as things are unfolding around you, a classic Holmes and Watson moment as Holmes is using Watson to unravel a case, right in front of him. The writing is compelling, masterful and totally riveting, and you find yourself holding your breath as you fly through the words, trying to understand what is going on, to reach the same conclusions that Holmes has and Watson is struggling to grasp, will you be in time…
And you suddenly realise that this is just the first chapter, and really has nothing to do with the actual story, and it is at this point that you know, that even though it is a Novella, you are going to have to stop whatever you are doing to find the time to finish this in a single sitting, it is too good to leave.
Cawdron has always been a master of creating truly inspiring and stunning characters in his work, from Hazel in the ‘What we left behind’ series, to David Teller in Anomaly, Jay in Starship Mine, to the beautiful and outstanding Ashley of ‘Welcomed to the Occupied States of America’ (and her little friend Wheels), and so many more superb characters that leave you thinking about not just the story, but the character for days on end. He has outdone himself with ‘Hounds of Hell’ though, his interpretation of Holmes is not only true to the original, but he has also given Holmes his own unique style, bringing the Enigmatic Detective to life as only Cawdron can. I don’t want to give anything away of the story, it is exceptional, and you have to read it.
The only thing better than Holmes is Watson. Being inside Watson’s head and getting to hear his thoughts as things unfold, as he is trying to piece together his own interpretation, as well as watch Holmes and try to understand his processes is not only intriguing, but totally mesmerising. Cawdron has done an outstanding job of creating his own version of Watson, and yet, as with Holmes, remaining true to the character.
For anyone that is a fan of Sherlock Holmes, you will absolutely love this Novella, it is a real treat of an outstanding Author paying homage to an enduring literary hero. Even if you are not a huge fan, it is still a brilliant read for anyone who likes a good read, a good mystery, or for fans of Cawdron, this is an absolute must just to see how he continues to be one of the best character authors of this century.
This is one that just should not be missed by anyone who likes to read.
2,452 reviews
May 12, 2018
Throughout the years, throughout the many writers that have labored to bring Holmes to life, Sherlock has almost always been quintessentially... Sherlock. Peter Cawdron has done an admirable job of giving us everything we love about Holmes' character. For me, though, the best aspects of this tale are the evolution of Dr. John Watson, and to a lesser degree, Inspector Lestrade. The evolution is subtle, but welcome. I've always thought that Holmes would never actually tolerate such a close association with people who weren't closer to himself in mental acuity, and while Watson and Lestrade aren't Holmes' equal, they're a cut above average! So, The Curious Case of the Hounds of Hell is the Holmes story I've always wanted. The near-future setting of the story doesn't detract from the tale, though honestly, it didn't increase the appeal, either.
Peter Cawdron... limber up those fingers, and get busy. Need I whisper in your ear, "misery"? LOL
So if you're a Sherlock Holmes fan or a fan of rocket rides you will need to get this fantastic mystery and it will keep you guessing all the way to the end...
773 reviews15 followers
April 29, 2020
A SIMPLE MAN'S REVIEW:

This is not the normal Peter Cawdron book that I'm used to reading! Where were the aliens? What about the space travel? Even though this may be a departure from my normal, it was an enjoyable read. Holmes reminded me of Agent Pendergast, back when his books were good.

The story is a classic whodunit with the added benefit of having two beloved characters thrust into slightly futuristic times. It actually sort of reminded me of the parallel universe in Fringe, with most things being the same but some obvious differences.

It's a short read, and not sci-fi, but I think you'll enjoy it.

Read it!
Profile Image for Debbie.
355 reviews11 followers
June 13, 2018
This is a fun story. The mystery is a classic Sherlock Holmes case, complete with his frequent companions, Watson and Lestrade. There are also a few elements that are less than classic, such as Ben and Jerry's ice cream. That's part of the fun. Peter is a science fiction author, after all. This could be a story in an alternate history. Whenever it is, it's a great mystery. I didn't guess the ending. But Sherlock did. I enjoyed reading it.
Profile Image for Allen Goss.
40 reviews
June 11, 2019
What a great read

I have never been a Sherlock Holmes fan per say. But I have watched a couple of shows on TV that were of him. But I kinda took a chance on this title. And I am so happy that I did. It was a very interesting crime investigation and also very fun to read. Not funny but fun. That’s all I’ve got to say about that. Get it you will enjoy it.
209 reviews2 followers
May 2, 2020
Enjoyed tremendously

This story is a wonderful mix of Sherlock Holmes and Watson. But !!!! This Sherlock is set in a future of passenger Rockets. It has all the expected brilliance of Sherlock Holmes but set in a different time ,modernized but still with the same mystery solving expected of Holmes.
359 reviews2 followers
September 3, 2023
whodunnit? Well-Dunnit!

I had the pleasure of reading a bound edition of “The Complete Sherlock Holmes”, a collection of all the short stories of Arthur Conan Doyle in which the famous detective appears. If you discount minor differences, like suborbital rockets and 3-D police projectors, this one would slide quite nicely into the collection.
53 reviews
July 22, 2024
Very enjoyable read

I’ve read several of Mr. Cawdrons first contact books and have enjoyed those very much, so when I saw this book come through, I thought I would give it a try, and it did not disappoint! I’ve never read an actual Sherlock Holmes book, but this by Mr. Cawdron makes me want to run out and get one. Highly suggest this book to anyone who loves a good who-done-it.
12 reviews
January 21, 2026
The Curious Case of the Hounds of Hell

This is Peter Cawdron's homage to Sherlock Holmes, while being a most excellent read in its own right.

The plot is entertaining and original, characterizations are spot on, and the resolution as satisfying as you could ever ask for. I'm a mad Holmes fan, and I really enjoyed this book, as I expect you will, too.
Profile Image for Angela Maher.
Author 20 books32 followers
June 8, 2018
A modern homage to the legendary, classic detective.
The modern/near future setting jars ever so slightly to begin with but it soon passes as the story quickly takes hold. A murder mystery with twists and observations that make it live up to the Sherlock Holmes name. I was intrigued to the end.
Profile Image for Ami.
2,472 reviews16 followers
July 18, 2018
I throughly enjoyed this unique tale of Holmes and Watson in the future. It is a wonderful mystery that kept me guessing while reading as fast as I could to discover the identity of the killer(s). I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Michael.
652 reviews9 followers
April 18, 2020
An enjoyable story very much in the style of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and his Sherlock Holmes story, The Hounds of the Baskervilles. Not, in itself, very original but written I suspect as a tribute to the Sherlock Holmes stories. A good read and recommended.
Profile Image for Cat.
64 reviews1 follower
April 19, 2020
The Curious Case of the Hounds of Hell

Good novella very much in the style of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Kept me guessing to the very end with all the expected twists and turns throughout.
241 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2020
An interesting take on the Holmesian canon

There was a cognitive dissonance set up in my mind within three pages of this story. As it progressed though, the dissonance faded and I was able to enjoy a story that is indeed worthy!
391 reviews
April 21, 2020
A wonderful mash-up of Holmes and science fiction! The author manages to capture the essence of Holmes & Watson while updating the world around them to the day just after tomorrow. Character-driven (as are the original stories) and thoroughly entertaining.
Profile Image for Ray Smillie.
779 reviews
December 28, 2022
With an element of sci-fi, based in a near future, this is a slight change of direction from Peter Cawdron. An homage to Sherlock Holmes. Not my cup of tea but not bad as it goes. On the plus side looking forward to many more excellent first contact novels from this fine author.
91 reviews
February 27, 2024
Another well-written enjoyable novel from Peter. He captured the essence of Sherlock Holmes & Watson & Lestrad. Theye are together for this murder puzzle. Many well drawn characters, satisfying ending. A great read.
41 reviews30 followers
July 8, 2018
Not long enough

I enjoyed this version of Holmes & Watson. I would like Mr. Cawdron to continue this as a series, even though Watson stated that it was Holmes's last case.
Profile Image for Trey.
52 reviews1 follower
June 22, 2020
I Say, Good Show Old Sport

Highly addictive and entertaining. Written in the style of Sir Arthur himself. Well worth the dollar. You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Matthew Poehler.
Author 4 books8 followers
July 28, 2023
Brilliant homage to a wonderful tradition!

Holmes and Watson live again in an updated setting. A terrible crime, an intricate puzzle and a smashing ending. Lovely!
Profile Image for Amy.
285 reviews4 followers
September 14, 2023
Cute little story featuring Sherlock & Watson in the space age, kind of. Nothing special.
16 reviews
September 29, 2023
Any book by Peter Cawdron is worth reading.

His plots are exciting and his characters well developed.

I enjoyed his version of Sherlock Homes, modern and up to date.
Profile Image for Mark Lucas-Taylor.
573 reviews
July 21, 2024
The Curious Case of the Hounds of Hell.

Peter Cawdron has written an excellent story very much in the vein of Arthur Conan Doyle.
An interesting exercise in a modern day setting.
18 reviews
December 5, 2024
An excellent pastiche

Sherlock and Dr. Watson in near future America, armed with cell phones and Sherlock 's logic? Save your pity for the bad guys.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews