Queen Victoria needs help, and only Sherlock Holmes can save her. Sherlock and Lucy receive a royal command. To fulfill their mission, they must solve the murder of a priest, unravel a dark conspiracy, and destroy a treasonous syndicate. If they fail, Queen Victoria's Jubilee celebration will not end happily. Fans love this fresh and exciting new series! Recommended by the library of clean reads.
For fans of Sherlock Holmes, Arthur Conan Doyle, Maisie Dobbs, Janet Evanovich, Rhys Bowen, L.B. Hathaway, Jacqueline Winspear, Susan Elia Macneal, T E Kinsey, Leighann Dobbs, Charles Todd, Vivian Conroy, Hamilton Crane, Frances Brody, Ashley Weaver, Patricia Wentworth, Dorothy L. Sayers, G.K. Chesterton, Clara Benson, M.C. Beaton, Charles Finch, Gladys Mitchell, Margery Allingham, Ngaio Marsh, Carola Dunn, Georgette Heyer, Kate Parker, Alyssa Maxwell, Maia Chance, Cecil Freeman Gregg, Barbara Cleverly, Kerry Greenwood, Elizabeth Edmondson, Edmund Crispin, Mary Roberts Rinehart, James Runcie, Catriona McPherson, Anne Perry, Sue Grafton, Martha Grimes, Emma Jameson, cozy mysteries, historical mysteries, historical fiction.
Anna 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.
This is the fifth instalment in the A Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mysteries series. Although I believe this series can be read out of order, certain events in the novel lead on from the books preceding this one.
The renowned literary detective, Sherlock Holmes, has combined forces with his equally as credible daughter, Lucy James. Together they must find a way to defeat those behind the conspiracy that would see the end to the British royal family and the political hierarchy as we know it.
Just like all the other instalments in this series, this novel can be summed up as a thoroughly entertaining read. It evoked all the best qualities of a cosy classic crime story and I adored the voyeuristic insights this afforded the reader, as to how the best deducing minds worked. Attempting to puzzle the clues together into a semblance of order, before the sleuthing masterminds, has been part of the fun of this series and, yet again, I found myself bested by the detective duo.
I did find this to contain a few more coincidences than its predecessors, that made me narrow my eyes at the trajectory of the plot, but nothing that deterred my enjoyment of reading this. The majority of events are logical, well thought out, and also contain actual historical figures (such as the Prince of Wales) that added a believable element to the piece.
This reintroduction to Sherlock and Watson has been such a joy and, as in the previous books, the authors did a marvellous job of resurrecting them. Their renowned brilliance, as well as the more recent entertaining addition of Lucy James, combine to make this a fun, fast-paced and worthy read for any classic crime reader or Conan Doyle admirer.
This is a fantastic series. I can't recommend it enough. The main female character, Lucy is Sherlock's daughter. She is intelligent and tallented. Lucy, Sherlock, Dr. Watson and a local policeman, Jack Kelly, work together to solve different mysteries. In this book they meet up with a former foe from previous books. Will Lucy and Jack get togetter?
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.
The Jubilee Problem, the fifth volume in the new series, centers around the approaching Diamond Jubilee celebration for Queen Victoria. An ever growing list of suspects may wish to harm the monarch and bring chaos to all of England, and Sherlock Holmes is tasked with keeping the villains at bay.
Told from the alternating point of views of Watson and Lucy - which can get a bit confusing at times - Watson’s narrative is true to character, and Lucy’s shows some of the emotional entanglements she wrestles with as a young independent (American) lady coming of age in England in 1897.
The story begins with Priest Keenan Mulloy (first introduced in Remember, Remember) visiting Holmes with information about a Fenian conspiracy he feels has bearing on the upcoming Jubilee event. Father Mulloy happens to be Lucy’s flatmate Mary’s brother, and as the story continues, it seems both he and Mary may be in mortal danger.
Trying to protect her roommate — and her romantic interest (Constable Jack Kelly) — from harm while also trying to save the country from panic and destruction, Lucy has her hands full with this one. And add to all of that the complication that Lucy has invited her mother to visit! How will she handle it? And how will Sherlock?!
The Jubilee Problem reads as a standalone, but draws from three previous adventures. Like the others, it excites with fast-paced action and suspense, and stays true to the Sherlock Holmes detective characters, plus Lucy!, readers have come to know and love.
I started reading the stories of Sherlock Holmes as a child. I re-read them again when I was in my teens, and yet again as an adult. I always appreciated the logic and deductions made by Holmes, but it was not until I was an adult that I realized the importance of Dr. John Watson. Without Watson, Sherlock might never have solved a case. What I didn't see in reading the canon was the history concerning the plight of women that, unfortunately, persists until this day. It is the addition of Lucy James to the team of Holmes and Watson that brings the lesser value given women's knowledge and opinions to the fore. Anna Elliot makes this apparent in the subtle way that, in my opinion, only a woman will. Men who completely support the feminist movement may be grumbling at that, but, even as a feminist, I grant that there are differences between the sexes. The canon of Sherlock Holmes may be crime fighting and mystery, but it is also a glimpse into history.
If you've been reading this series in order, you will find that this appears to be the culmination of an international mystery that spans the previous books. As with all things, I am skeptical that this is completely true, but I do hope that the criminals throughout these tales will no longer continue their devious deeds.
Once again the daughter and father team of Anna Elliott & Charles Veley have joined forces to create a seamless accounting from the points of view of both Lucy James and Dr. John Watson. The addition of Detective Constable Jack Kelly and his young sister Becky seem to be permanent presences. They have fit into the narrative quite nicely.
I continue to enjoy these stories and find them most bingeworthy. If you read the blurbs, you know what the relationship between Holmes and Miss James is, but if you don't read them, I continue to encourage the reading of these tales from the first book, THE LAST MORIARTY, to fully appreciate what is happening here.
My love of all things Sherlock Holmes began on afternoons after mowing my uncles yard spent watching old movies on a local UHF station and seeing Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce as the famed detective and his sidekick. For me Rathbone will forever be the Holmes I remember even if I’ve loved all others who’ve played the character. But the stories were limited to those written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and authors who have taken up his character have blown hot and cold. The series of books involving Holmes and the daughter he never knew he had, Lucy James, have been a delight.
This time the story revolves around the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrating her years on the throne. Problems begin when priest Keenan Mulloy approaches Holmes with information about a possible Fenian conspiracy against the queen. Mulloy is the brother of Lucy’s flat mate and has been in a previous tale. If that wasn’t enough to deal with the Germans who were causing problems in a previous book are also involved here, Lucy has invited her mother to visit and her romantic involvement with constable Jack Kelly continues to move forward. Still not enough? There’s a traitor to the country involved and it’s up to Holmes, Watson, Lucy and those around them to insure that the monarchy doesn’t collapse under attack.
As with previous efforts in the series the book entertains, puzzles and holds your interest from the first page until the last. The character of Holmes remains the same as when Doyle wrote him with a bit of a twist as he realizes he has a daughter who tends to insert herself into the family business even if she’s actually an actress. The book will be enjoyed by fans of Sherlock Holmes as well as those who enjoy a good mystery to solve while reading. This book, as well as the entire series, is worth picking up and reading.
~Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook copy of this book. ~
I was fortunate enough to receive a free code for The Jubilee Problem, as purchasing audiobooks can quickly add up.
This book delves into the evolving dynamic between Sherlock and Lucy, as he is pleased with her clever mind but also concerned for her safety. However, Lucy refuses to be sidelined and seeks to be actively involved. Additionally, there are small developments in the relationship between Lucy and Jack, and I am hopeful that they will form a formal relationship as their dynamic is enjoyable, and I have been a fan of Jack since his introduction.
However, as we all know, the primary reason for reading these books is the mystery, and this book does not disappoint in that regard. Lucy is asked by the authorities to get involved in a case that involves politics, violence, terrorists, murder, and misdirections, making for an engaging read.
Lucy is a wonderful character who recognizes her limitations but is brave enough to step forward and do her best when circumstances demand it. Like her father, she is highly intelligent and able to draw logical conclusions from the information around her. While we get much of Lucy's logic, Sherlock's investigation is off the page, and the reasoning behind some of his seemingly magical conclusions remains unknown.
I particularly enjoyed the dual narration style, but there was an issue with the audio between the different narrators sounding like different recording setups. Nevertheless, this did not detract from the overall experience.
Overall, if you are a fan of this series, you will be satisfied with The Jubilee Problem. I am pleased to have the next book already downloaded on Audible and look forward to continuing the series.
Due to eye issues and damage Alexa reads to me. Another entertaining will written romantic thriller mystery book five in the Sherlock Holmes& Lucy James Series. The characters are interesting and will developed. The story line is complicated, violent, fast moving, and full of deception as Sherlock, Lucy ,and Watson race to prevent assassination of British royalty. I would recommend this series to readers of historical novels and mysteries. Enjoy the adventure of reading 📚2021🏰👑👠
The action didn't pick up until about the middle of the book. It felt slow in the beginning because all the characters (except Holmes, Watson, and Lucy) weren't that interesting or likable. But the book still reads like a Sherlock Holmes adventure.
The Jubilee Problem has Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, and Lucy James working together to prevent any disruption of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee celebration in 1897. Who might want to cause death and destruction on the occasion? The "threat of terrorism was very real and police chiefs, who had received a tip-off about ‘an anarchist outrage’, brought hundreds of retired officers back into service to keep the public safe." (source) In the novel, Holmes and crew include the Fenian Brotherhood and Kaiser Wilhelm's agents as major suspects who might threaten the celebration.
So...who is Lucy James? Ahem, she is the daughter of Sherlock Holmes, given up for adoption by her mother. In an earlier book in the series, it seems the young Lucy came to Holmes asking for his help in seeking information about her parents. Evidently, they were both surprised.
Love this series! Highly recommended; good, clean fun!
Even if you’re not a Sherlock fan, historical fiction readers will enjoy this fast-paced thriller filled with mystery and international intrigue. It is well-written, interesting on several levels, and just plain fun to read. Care has been taken to make the setting and events as “period perfect” as possible, and I felt as if I actually was visiting London in 1897, during the reign of Queen Victoria. This series offers a fresh new look at Holmes and Watson, with a twist – the delightfully original character of Lucy, a young American actress who came to England in 1895 seeking her own personal heritage and found a home, a husband, and a new career.
THE JUBILEE PROBLEM is excellent as a stand-alone novel, but your enjoyment will be enhanced if you have read the rest of the series, preferably in order. There are recurring characters that will be more meaningful to the reader who has already experienced the previous adventures of Sherlock and Lucy.
The year of Queen Victoria's Jubilee has arrived, but a threat hangs over what should be a celebration. Can Sherlock Holmes, with the help of his daughter, Lucy James, and Dr Watson, prevent tragedy from happening?
The latest adventure of Sherlock Holmes and his daughter is a roller coaster of a ride. Just when you think they have prevented a tragedy, something else occurs to show just how far the reach is for their mysterious enemy. The plot moves along at a nice pace, expanding on the relationship between the great detective and the daughter he is only just coming to know.
The voice of "Dr. Watson" is fairly accurate, and Lucy's voice is enjoyable. It still seems strange for Sherlock Holmes to pick up a phone to make a call, although given the era its not a stretch.
Overall, this was a fun mystery and one I would recommend for Sherlock Holmes fans with an open mind.
I received a free copy from NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
I am enjoying this series and this story was another hit. Set after the original Sherlock Holmes stories were published, it features Dr. Watson and an alive and well Holmes solving crimes and saving the country. The welcome addition is Lucy James, Sherlock's daughter and a chip off the old block when it comes to deduction and crime solving. The structure of the book alternates between Lucy and Dr. Watson providing the narrative. This works most of the time but can get a bit confusing as each has their own perspective and cast of characters. This story centers around Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, a real event that didn't have any of the murder and mayhem of this story. There are twists and turns and of course red herrings that make this book a good read that kept me swiping the page (as I read it on my Kindle). The disclaimer and Historical notes at the end keep everything in perspective.
No sex No gory violence No profanity Point of view switches at chapters between Lucy and Watson. This can be confusing at times if you are like me and tend to skip quickly to content.
Plot no spoilers: A priest falls from a height. At first it's thought to be suicide, but when Holmes and Lucy consider the evidence, they are convinced it was murder. The priest had known about a terrorist group working in the area. If they had joined with England's enemies to use a newly developed weapon to attack the Queen at the Jubilee, it would be a crushing blow for all of England. Lucy, Watson, Holmes, and police including Lucy's good friend Officer Kelly set out to foil the plot.
One criticism: as they get closer to the truth, some dynamite is plunged into water to render it harmless. Bad idea. Wet dynamite is dangerous and unstable.
Bonus: Pretty good short story included after a preview of the sequel.
Easy light reading. I will probably read the sequel
We’re focusing on two very different levels with this adventure.
The main story takes place on an epic level. The Queen's Jubilee in 1897 presented the century’s greatest political spectacle, and the villain is as dark and evil as they come. A huge challenge for Sherlock and Lucy, and a huge impact, considering the scope of the three disasters they must prevent.
But the relationships between Sherlock, Lucy, Jack, and Watson provide the emotional level that underpins the story. The Baker Street team aren't risking their lives for a triumphant parade. They’re not only working for justice; they're working for each other.
A nice little mystery in the Holmes tradition. Lucy James is the perfect daughter for the great detective; brilliant, insightful, and not afraid to disagree with her famous father when she finds it necessary.
In this story we are reintroduced to some old friends (and enemies) as he Kaiser once again attempts to discredit the British government in front of the rest of the world using Queen Victoria’s Jubilee celebration as a stage. Throw in some dedicated Fenians and a deceased assassin among the plot twists and turns, taking the reader along for the ride.
Not the most intricate mystery, but an enjoyable trip through Victorian England.
Lucy has sent the priest brother of her roommate to see Holmes. The man is agitated and seems unwilling to say exactly why, but Fenians have been laying around his parish and he is concerned. Then the Jubilee of Victoria is coming up and Holmes is asked to help. The Germans of course are at it still and there is still a mole in the government somewhere. All of course have an axe to grind with Holmes and crew. Considerable resolution for long time readers on several fronts. Quite a fun Holmes spinoff.
I will admit I read these books out of order but were easy to follow along with. But with that being said, I devoured the books I was given within a day! They are positively fun. I was transported with each book and felt like I was there along side them.
Lucy is a fresh new take in the Sherlock universe! It’s fun to see him and his daughter solve the problems. I felt like a real detective and got sucked in for the ride.
I say if you love Sherlock or good old fashion who-done-its, this series is for you!!!
In this fifth book Sherlock Lucy and the regular cast need to get to the bottom of a threat to the queen on her royal jubilee. The story has many twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end. We also see a growing relationship between Lucy and Jack Kelley. This is a fun read, a little long, but worth the time. I look forward to reading the next book
This is a review for both the ebook as well as the Audible. The Audible's really makes the ebooks come alive. The narration is excellent even with a much darker story like this book and the next one. This was one busy book. Lots of different subplots plus more with Jack, Becky and the handsome Prince. I really enjoy all of the books I have.
I highly recommend the ebooks with the Audibles.
I received a free Audible ARC. This is a voluntary and honest review.
If you haven’t read any Sherlock books this one is not the one to start with. This is the 5 th in an endless series of Holmes and his daughter Lucy. And like so many other pastiche series this has a book involving Queen Victorias Jubilee. Also it has a bit more action and chasing going on then most. The book is fun to read with short and precise chapters in a duel narrative ( Lucy and Watson). 400 pages but they fly by once you begin.
Queen Victoria's jubilee is fast approaching and there are threats against her. Who else would she turn to for her safety but Sherlock Holmes? Holmes, Watson, and Holmes' daughter Lucy James don't seem to even be able to find who is behind the threat. Is it Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany, or Irish revolutionary group the Finians, or someone else entirely? Well done offshoot of the iconic detective series.
This is a wonderful series. I venture to say it takes great courage to try and write a book about a character such as Sherlock Holmes. To match the ingenuity of Sir Author. However, the two authors of this series has taken up the challenge and succeeded. As an fan of Holmes books and movies, I can confidently recommend this series as hitting the mark with a bulls eye.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had not read any of the others in the series, but was able to enjoy this as a stand-alone (although there were references to previous characters and events). The authors did a wonderful job recreating the tone of Conan Doyle, and this Sherlock and Watson are completely believeable. I like Lucy, and look forward to reading more of this series.
I won an ARC of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway, and then it sat on my shelf, forgotten, for way too long.
its, 1897 Queen Victoria's jubilee year and a threat to the celebrations is to be expected, but who from. Holmes is recruited to make sure that the threat goes away. But he needs the help of Dr. Watson and Lucy James. A very enjoyable story, good rounded characters and a decent mystery. Easily read as a stand-alone story. A NetGalley Book
Another terrific entry in this remarkable series! Holmes, Watson, and Lucy are involved in foiling any plot to interrupt the Queen's Jubilee in 1897 to celebrate her 60 years on the throne. It is high adventure with several attempts at kidnapping them, several murders, and the need to determine the traitor in high government position.
This is a Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James novel and I do recommend reading it. Sherlock Holmes is not just a classic but his mysteries and processes are intriguing. You can read them in any order but sometimes an event is mentioned from another book. I'd have given it five stars but I found a mistake.
Apparently, I've stated reading this series out of order! Great to begin to put together the puzzle pieces of this extended and peculiar family. Now, I think I'll go back and read them in order. Great story, gripping at times, well drawn characters that keep you engrossed and anxious about the next turn of events. Not predictable, which is always preferred!
The Jubilee Problem was a story of eminence thrills. The underlying love stories made it real. As always the story had so many twists and turns the I constantly had to revise my guesses.
I felt like I was reading an original Doyle story. Very well assembled and told.