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The Dirty Heroes Collection #7
Clockwork Stalker
What if the storybook hero becomes the villain?
She is my arch enemy's niece.
I am an arrogant, controlling bastard, an excellent detective, and women are turning up dead and bound, with strange marks on their bodies.
This is the least appropriate time for me to fall in lust with the enemy.
Obsession is the sign of a man who is losing control.
Be punctual for this appointment, Miss Moriarty.
I have things I need to do. Filthy, perverted things.
Note: This is a standalone Dark Romance.
She is my arch enemy's niece.
I am an arrogant, controlling bastard, an excellent detective, and women are turning up dead and bound, with strange marks on their bodies.
This is the least appropriate time for me to fall in lust with the enemy.
Obsession is the sign of a man who is losing control.
Be punctual for this appointment, Miss Moriarty.
I have things I need to do. Filthy, perverted things.
Note: This is a standalone Dark Romance.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2020
102 people are currently reading
1455 people want to read
About the author
Cari Silverwood
100 books1,218 followersCari Silverwood lives in Australia and is a New York Times bestselling writer of kinky darkness or sometimes dark kinkiness, depending on her moods and the amount of time she's spent staring into the night.
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 27, 2020
4.5 STARS!!
Trigger warnings:
So I haven't had much luck with this author in the past, but this dirty re-imagining of Sherlock Holmes hit all the right buttons for me.
Plus, I loved the authentic feel of the steampunk world/Sherlock Holmes combination Ms. Silverwood created.
Enjoy this one my dark and dirty friends!!
"Morality is for average, unimaginative little people."This was really good! Thanks, Louise, for your fabulous review, which can be found ===> HERE.
Trigger warnings:
So I haven't had much luck with this author in the past, but this dirty re-imagining of Sherlock Holmes hit all the right buttons for me.
"You will obey me in every way, Wilhelmina Moriarty, or this deal is off."Clockwork Stalker's premise was so well done! It gave me a chance to enjoy a dark and depraved read, while still being able to cheer for the hero/villain. And best of all the heroine wasn't a doormat . . .
He thought he owned her? She would prove him wrong.. . . and the kink was wicked, but it didn't devolve into violence.
Plus, I loved the authentic feel of the steampunk world/Sherlock Holmes combination Ms. Silverwood created.
Enjoy this one my dark and dirty friends!!
June 5, 2020
Sherlock Holmes has been my forever favourite character. Whoever created him - his personality, his dialogues, his attitude is brilliant beyond. His observation, logical thinking, forensic ideas, self talking (I don't understand what those lips utter most of the time) while navigating an investigating is excitable. I never enjoyed any detective drama this much. And the actors imitating Sherlock Holmes is not an easy character.
So to the review,
Never have I read a Sherlock Holmes story and I'm glad my first read was by Cari Silverwood. The writing style of this story, character described from the originals was without fault. His dialouge eccentric. My head is spinning from his deviantness. This Sherlock has a dark sexual nature who belives he is cursed and needs to be cured. Enters Wilhelmina Moriarty, (Willa) neice of the Moriarty, a woman intelligent, strong and talented. Being the neice of his enemy and finding her present in a crime Sherlock blackmails her into a task, to cure him of his affiction. But that's not it, his aquire of sexual urges and obsession in Willa takes them on a mutual happy ride.
The story was so interesting with snarky humor and logical thinking. I'll leave one dialogue of Sherlock of his crazy sorta thinking of his affiction.
"For the average man this conclusion would be a bizarre leap, but he knew the inner workings of his brain like a clockmaker understood the intricate mechanism of a clock. These thoughts he was having were not him. They were some strange cancerous mutation stemming from a supernatural influence."
So to the review,
Never have I read a Sherlock Holmes story and I'm glad my first read was by Cari Silverwood. The writing style of this story, character described from the originals was without fault. His dialouge eccentric. My head is spinning from his deviantness. This Sherlock has a dark sexual nature who belives he is cursed and needs to be cured. Enters Wilhelmina Moriarty, (Willa) neice of the Moriarty, a woman intelligent, strong and talented. Being the neice of his enemy and finding her present in a crime Sherlock blackmails her into a task, to cure him of his affiction. But that's not it, his aquire of sexual urges and obsession in Willa takes them on a mutual happy ride.
The story was so interesting with snarky humor and logical thinking. I'll leave one dialogue of Sherlock of his crazy sorta thinking of his affiction.
"For the average man this conclusion would be a bizarre leap, but he knew the inner workings of his brain like a clockmaker understood the intricate mechanism of a clock. These thoughts he was having were not him. They were some strange cancerous mutation stemming from a supernatural influence."
May 4, 2020
Woah this was so very different to my usual reads.
Sherlock as I’ve never quite imagined him with Miss Wilhelmina Moriarty temporally replacing Watson as the sleuth's sidekick.
So firstly this really was a whole new concept for me and first impressions yeh I was digging it once I found my flow.
This was unusual as all hell and very different but also extremely filthy and incredibly naughty and debauched.
The sort of naughty that definitely makes you blush and squirm if caught reading this in public.
The formal Victorian type narrative really contrasted beautifully with the whole erotic and titillating behaviour making it feel ever so improper and risqué in that particular setting.
This one was a unique and unusual read and will definitely leave you feeling the heat and it gets a thumbs up from me.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Clockwork Stalker.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
May 25, 2020
Step aside Benedict Cumberbatch, there is a new sexiest Sherlock Holmes on the block.
With Clockwork Stalker, Cari Silverwood has brought us a delightfully immoral, deliciously depraved, titillatingly kinky and scorchingly hot deviant tale. A Sherlock Holmes with a gloriously malevolent and sinfully corrupt side to his personality. Also a Moriarty with a succulent body, a sardonic wit and a burning desire for all the bad things that cross Sherlock's mind.
The writing, the world building, the description, the language and feel of this story held me spellbound. I was inspired to highlight phrases and passages that called to me, ending up with 69 of them (totally unintended but a perfectly fitting number). I wanted to grab this story, squeeze it between my clutching fingers, wring every drop of filth, depravity and kink into my mouth and devour its glory inside my lecherous soul.
I wanted to be the blissfully tormented, pleasurably teased and satisfyingly sated Wilhelmina. I lusted after being the plaything of my own malignantly affected Sherlock. Oh the degradation, the humiliation, the torment, the dominance, the red-hot down and dirty sex. Yeah, I'm probably oversharing but I could totally be down for most of that. The retractor? Hmm. No! Maybe?, *shudder*.
I've not even mentioned the actual story, with all its little Easter Eggs to unwrap along the way. From monkey paws to strange symbols. Fantastic. As always. Brilliant, inspired and unpredictable. But the sex. Sigh. I have a hankering for some kitty ears.
Wilhelmina is unapologetically independent, snarky and revels in the acts forced upon her. Even when she protests. Even if she doesn't mean those protests. Sherlock is dark, demanding and so, so dominant, he is grumpy, surly, closed off and icily aloof. Oh how the mighty fall! Right on top of a set of soft, pillowy bosoms in his case.
Strictly speaking this is a gaslamp novel, rather than steampunk. Who knew that was a thing? It means it has more of a paranormal element, rather than the sci-fi background that steampunk arises from. The paranormal part is very minimal, based around a malignant energy force and a small event during the end battle, so even those who don't normally read the genre should still enjoy this.
With Clockwork Stalker, Cari Silverwood has brought us a delightfully immoral, deliciously depraved, titillatingly kinky and scorchingly hot deviant tale. A Sherlock Holmes with a gloriously malevolent and sinfully corrupt side to his personality. Also a Moriarty with a succulent body, a sardonic wit and a burning desire for all the bad things that cross Sherlock's mind.
"How very nicely you behaved. You deserve a reward. Miss Moriarty, have you ever pleasured yourself as I pleasured you with my knee?”
Tersely, she shook her head, and he noted how she fought to minimise her inhalations.
“Good.” Sherlock reached out and tilted her face upward with the nudge of his knuckles under her chin. “Because you’re going to do it for me, next. I’ve seen how whores do it and am happy to instruct you.”
Her hushed no was delightfully horrified.
The writing, the world building, the description, the language and feel of this story held me spellbound. I was inspired to highlight phrases and passages that called to me, ending up with 69 of them (totally unintended but a perfectly fitting number). I wanted to grab this story, squeeze it between my clutching fingers, wring every drop of filth, depravity and kink into my mouth and devour its glory inside my lecherous soul.
I wanted to be the blissfully tormented, pleasurably teased and satisfyingly sated Wilhelmina. I lusted after being the plaything of my own malignantly affected Sherlock. Oh the degradation, the humiliation, the torment, the dominance, the red-hot down and dirty sex. Yeah, I'm probably oversharing but I could totally be down for most of that. The retractor? Hmm. No! Maybe?, *shudder*.
He rose from the chair, and she had to tilt back her head to keep a proper watch on him.
Funny, but she’d forgotten how tall the man was. Lord. Make that dominating, ruthless, evil and a whole lot of other adjectives that were managing to drive her insane with lust as well as slide a modicum of fear beneath her ribs.
“Very nice. Your legs and bust are duly recorded as being magnificent.”
Well.
“Sir, I am still a lady. Whatever you make me do is not to be counted against me.”
“You lodge a protest?” He smiled. “Noted. Discarded. I plan to see more of you, every part, naked, any time I ask you, even while we work on this machine of yours. Don’t ever think otherwise.”
I've not even mentioned the actual story, with all its little Easter Eggs to unwrap along the way. From monkey paws to strange symbols. Fantastic. As always. Brilliant, inspired and unpredictable. But the sex. Sigh. I have a hankering for some kitty ears.
Wilhelmina is unapologetically independent, snarky and revels in the acts forced upon her. Even when she protests. Even if she doesn't mean those protests. Sherlock is dark, demanding and so, so dominant, he is grumpy, surly, closed off and icily aloof. Oh how the mighty fall! Right on top of a set of soft, pillowy bosoms in his case.
You are my Satan, my evil lust demon, and I’m sure you have invisible horns and a tail tucked away somewhere.”
Strictly speaking this is a gaslamp novel, rather than steampunk. Who knew that was a thing? It means it has more of a paranormal element, rather than the sci-fi background that steampunk arises from. The paranormal part is very minimal, based around a malignant energy force and a small event during the end battle, so even those who don't normally read the genre should still enjoy this.
He had his excuse to punish, to defile, to violate…..
The power in this.
The sexual power.
He wanted to engrave it on his soul.
And yet, he knew she wanted this. Her willingness made it less interesting, if anything. Perhaps he could exceed her expectations?
Make her worry. Fear him?
did-not-finish
September 28, 2021I’m in the mood for stalkers and what could be better than kinky Sherlock Holmes!
May 22, 2020
Who knew that Sherlock Holmes had such a delicious dark side?
That inside that brilliant mind lurked something this dirty?
Cari Silverwood is probably one of the few that did.....liked minds and such?
And she decided to share this very kinky side of him!
I have to warn you,though....
You’ll NEVER be able to get this image of him out of your mind!
Not that i mind....I LOVE this Holmes!
But then again,who am i....(can i be Willa? Just for a bit?)
From the moment Sherlock Holmes sees Wilhelmina Moriarty,he knows she is trouble.
Not just because she is a Moriarty,but he feels......strange.
His logical mind knows she did something to him with that strange machine she fabricated.
And he sets in motion a plan to make her “cure” him.
The case of the missing woman will have to wait.
Willa plans to enter the World’s Fair with her invention.
But when she finally arrives in London,after a disturbing journey,she finds the funds she depended on are gone.
What to do now?
Finding cheap lodgings is priority,finishing her invention with her last money is a must.
When the archenemy of her family blackmails her into doing his bidding,she can only brace for the worst.
What he does ís bad,dirty and humiliating at times.
But she finds it to be something she enjoys.....a lot.
Can they work together when true evil comes to light?
Can they save Britain from doom?
This is a Sherlock that has quickly become my favorite.
But i didn’t expect anything else.....not when Cari Silverwood is involved!
That inside that brilliant mind lurked something this dirty?
Cari Silverwood is probably one of the few that did.....liked minds and such?
And she decided to share this very kinky side of him!
I have to warn you,though....
You’ll NEVER be able to get this image of him out of your mind!
Not that i mind....I LOVE this Holmes!
But then again,who am i....(can i be Willa? Just for a bit?)
From the moment Sherlock Holmes sees Wilhelmina Moriarty,he knows she is trouble.
Not just because she is a Moriarty,but he feels......strange.
His logical mind knows she did something to him with that strange machine she fabricated.
And he sets in motion a plan to make her “cure” him.
The case of the missing woman will have to wait.
Willa plans to enter the World’s Fair with her invention.
But when she finally arrives in London,after a disturbing journey,she finds the funds she depended on are gone.
What to do now?
Finding cheap lodgings is priority,finishing her invention with her last money is a must.
When the archenemy of her family blackmails her into doing his bidding,she can only brace for the worst.
What he does ís bad,dirty and humiliating at times.
But she finds it to be something she enjoys.....a lot.
Can they work together when true evil comes to light?
Can they save Britain from doom?
This is a Sherlock that has quickly become my favorite.
But i didn’t expect anything else.....not when Cari Silverwood is involved!
May 22, 2020
Whoa! This is so much more than how I originally visualized the character and behavior of Sherlock Holmes. And, for that reason, this interplay between Holmes and a female Moriarty excels.
Holmes feels cursed and defiantly drawn to Wilhelmina. He is stern and dominant and exceedingly determined to obtain her cooperation and obedience in all ways. Reading their story is more than erotic. The sexual power Holmes exudes along with the “precision punishments” he inflicts causes Willa to react in a surprisingly submissive manner (and my temperature to increase exponentially).
This story is so incredibly HOT and KINKY that I was terrified I would be banned for reviewing it in more depth.
Thank you Cari Silverwood, Please keep writing!
Holmes feels cursed and defiantly drawn to Wilhelmina. He is stern and dominant and exceedingly determined to obtain her cooperation and obedience in all ways. Reading their story is more than erotic. The sexual power Holmes exudes along with the “precision punishments” he inflicts causes Willa to react in a surprisingly submissive manner (and my temperature to increase exponentially).
This story is so incredibly HOT and KINKY that I was terrified I would be banned for reviewing it in more depth.
Thank you Cari Silverwood, Please keep writing!
August 27, 2020
This was such a fun and sexy twist on Sherlock Holmes. I really enjoyed this one! It was well written and the dynamic between the H and h was excellent. I loved them together.
丨ᚎ_hard-dnf-nøt-for-me
December 31, 2024As a longtime 'lockian, this book hooked me with 'morally gray Sherlock Holmes'.
When I was a kid, I read every story & fancied myself an amateur detective. So much so, that I dressed as SH for Halloween. My mom even sewed my costume—because Sherlock costumes for 8 year old girls were hard to find in those unenlightened times. 🤣
Suffice to say, I was excited about the premise of this book, but after so many months I'm going to have to admit defeat (de-feet) and call this a DNF at 38%. 😞
... I just couldn't get past a particular scene where he basically (sex spoiler) You all know I'm no prude! I don't have many limits but apparently this is one🤷♀️. So, no judgment. But it's just not my (toe) jam.
When I was a kid, I read every story & fancied myself an amateur detective. So much so, that I dressed as SH for Halloween. My mom even sewed my costume—because Sherlock costumes for 8 year old girls were hard to find in those unenlightened times. 🤣
Suffice to say, I was excited about the premise of this book, but after so many months I'm going to have to admit defeat (de-feet) and call this a DNF at 38%. 😞
... I just couldn't get past a particular scene where he basically (sex spoiler) You all know I'm no prude! I don't have many limits but apparently this is one🤷♀️. So, no judgment. But it's just not my (toe) jam.
April 15, 2020
Between logic and insanity.
Take all the ingredients of a Sherlock Holmes story, put them into an empty book, let Ms Silverwood sprinkle her secret ingredient over it, shake, and this is what you get: a crazy ride with Sherlock turned inside out, Ms Moriarty being not quite herself, Watson slumming it, and lots of other surprises.
But as always Holmes succeeds in the end. Just not the way Arthur Conan Doyle imagined it!
Take all the ingredients of a Sherlock Holmes story, put them into an empty book, let Ms Silverwood sprinkle her secret ingredient over it, shake, and this is what you get: a crazy ride with Sherlock turned inside out, Ms Moriarty being not quite herself, Watson slumming it, and lots of other surprises.
But as always Holmes succeeds in the end. Just not the way Arthur Conan Doyle imagined it!
June 2, 2020
This book fascinated me. Yes, fascinated! It's a re-imagined Sherlock Holmes tale that takes place in the "olden days" but a timeframe familiar with those that have read Sherlock Holmes before. It is written in alternating first person with Sherlock and Willa Moriarty, and it was a delight to see it written exactly to the timeframe. There's no modern references even in The way Silverwood writes their vocal cadence. She's obviously dove deep into this time frame and all things Sherlock. There's no doubt this is the Sherlock we know and love. Calculated, intense, standoffish, arrogant and unemotional.
"In the hands of someone as intelligent as he was, a man with a keen understanding of the slimy underhand world of the cities—where men grew fat on crime and paid little attention to morals or the Rule of Law—in hands like his, this could be made into a juggernaut of an empire."
"His mouth quirked upward, as he recognized a certain pride in being an unsociable arrogant deviant."
"She’d called him an arrogant, conceited man. Which he was—it went with the territory of being smarter than any man he’d bother to mention."
So Sherlock is investigating a missing wife and comes across Willa, who is his nemesis ' niece. She has a machine she's created to measure malignant energy. He becomes infatuated with her, and attributes it to the machine. He decides to help her find her money and fix the machine. He's almost afraid of it, not wanting to admit he just might be attracted to her without any outside forces.
"Was she somehow making this happen? That machine of hers might be quackery, but what if it did work? It could have altered him in some frightful way. For the average man this conclusion would be a bizarre leap, but he knew the inner workings of his brain like a clockmaker understood the intricate mechanism of a clock. These thoughts he was having were not him. They were some strange cancerous mutation stemming from a supernatural influence. Could this be a curse?"
There's plenty of articles and books written about Sherlock Holmes and his psyche. Does he have a mild form of autism, such as Asberger's Disease? Or is he a clinical sociopath? The way he speaks, almost haltingly as he chooses his words carefully. Silverwood doesn't address this, but I couldn't help but think about it as I read this story.
And I wonder about Silverwood 's muses as she wrote this. Could she have been influenced by the short story "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ancient Gods" which was the first story to link Sherlock with H.P. Lovecraft. Or perhaps the many stories with Sherlock fighting the Cthulhu monster from another dimension, such as the series Sherlock vs. Cthulhu by Lois H. Gresh? If you've read her previous books like I have, you will know how much Silverwood loves tentacled monsters.
The story moved along at a rapid pace, with Sherlock getting more into his new role as dominant to Willa. These are not your average sex scenes. Silverwood is imaginative when she wrote these scenes, and they come across, dare I say magical?
"He commenced a devoted clitoral campaign, as if he were a general who simply must conquer the enemy. Willa was not complaining. She wriggled her fingers deeper into his locks. She was nudging the heavens, climbing, sure the choked noises she made must be heard outside but no longer able to stop."
"The bass-beat thrum of sex had him by the balls, by the heart, and by the mind."
As Sherlock finds answers to the missing wife case, and continues to hold Wills close, you are left wondering...is it really malignant energy? Is it really a curse that Willa helped him overcome? It's almost meaningless as Sherlock and Willa make startling revelations about themselves. The story lets you make some decisions for yourself.
"“Willa Moriarty, I choose beauty and light and color for my world, and I choose you.""
So is it magnetic attraction that brought the dom and sub out of Sherlock and Willa? Or was it the terrible curse from malignant energy? The story ends on a delightful and unexpected note, leaving us with yet another version of Sherlock Holmes to add to the burgeoning list.
"In the hands of someone as intelligent as he was, a man with a keen understanding of the slimy underhand world of the cities—where men grew fat on crime and paid little attention to morals or the Rule of Law—in hands like his, this could be made into a juggernaut of an empire."
"His mouth quirked upward, as he recognized a certain pride in being an unsociable arrogant deviant."
"She’d called him an arrogant, conceited man. Which he was—it went with the territory of being smarter than any man he’d bother to mention."
So Sherlock is investigating a missing wife and comes across Willa, who is his nemesis ' niece. She has a machine she's created to measure malignant energy. He becomes infatuated with her, and attributes it to the machine. He decides to help her find her money and fix the machine. He's almost afraid of it, not wanting to admit he just might be attracted to her without any outside forces.
"Was she somehow making this happen? That machine of hers might be quackery, but what if it did work? It could have altered him in some frightful way. For the average man this conclusion would be a bizarre leap, but he knew the inner workings of his brain like a clockmaker understood the intricate mechanism of a clock. These thoughts he was having were not him. They were some strange cancerous mutation stemming from a supernatural influence. Could this be a curse?"
There's plenty of articles and books written about Sherlock Holmes and his psyche. Does he have a mild form of autism, such as Asberger's Disease? Or is he a clinical sociopath? The way he speaks, almost haltingly as he chooses his words carefully. Silverwood doesn't address this, but I couldn't help but think about it as I read this story.
And I wonder about Silverwood 's muses as she wrote this. Could she have been influenced by the short story "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ancient Gods" which was the first story to link Sherlock with H.P. Lovecraft. Or perhaps the many stories with Sherlock fighting the Cthulhu monster from another dimension, such as the series Sherlock vs. Cthulhu by Lois H. Gresh? If you've read her previous books like I have, you will know how much Silverwood loves tentacled monsters.
The story moved along at a rapid pace, with Sherlock getting more into his new role as dominant to Willa. These are not your average sex scenes. Silverwood is imaginative when she wrote these scenes, and they come across, dare I say magical?
"He commenced a devoted clitoral campaign, as if he were a general who simply must conquer the enemy. Willa was not complaining. She wriggled her fingers deeper into his locks. She was nudging the heavens, climbing, sure the choked noises she made must be heard outside but no longer able to stop."
"The bass-beat thrum of sex had him by the balls, by the heart, and by the mind."
As Sherlock finds answers to the missing wife case, and continues to hold Wills close, you are left wondering...is it really malignant energy? Is it really a curse that Willa helped him overcome? It's almost meaningless as Sherlock and Willa make startling revelations about themselves. The story lets you make some decisions for yourself.
"“Willa Moriarty, I choose beauty and light and color for my world, and I choose you.""
So is it magnetic attraction that brought the dom and sub out of Sherlock and Willa? Or was it the terrible curse from malignant energy? The story ends on a delightful and unexpected note, leaving us with yet another version of Sherlock Holmes to add to the burgeoning list.
May 6, 2020
I sometimes struggle with Steampunk. The blend of futuristic and regency, all the flyinging machines, and all the techie stuff sometimes makes me have to think too hard to stay in the world. I have a hard time blending the differences into a comfortable picture and it can pull me out of a story. With all of that being said, I'm so glad I didn't turn my nose up at this one. First of all, Cari Silverwood is a master at combining genres and tropes. She is detailed and descriptive in a way that let's you "see" things without having to actually think about them. The next thing she is a master at is blending moments of twisty darkness and pop culture humor. I can't tell you how many times I giggled (in a slightly maniacal and devious sort of way) while reading this one. When you add to that her amazingly complex characters, her steamy sexy scenes, and the plot that takes random turns that left my head spinning, and you have an author who is one of my few always buys.
This story is a twist on the Sherlock Holmes adventures, but this Sherlock isn't anything like any other reincarnation I've experienced. He has a devious darkside that is only enhanced by his brilliance. He is in turn both rational and irrational, in a sort of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde sort of way that had me so in love with him. His interactions with Wilhelmina Moriarty are titillating, to say the least. It is a dark romantic read, that is blended into a dark mystery. The entire time I was reading it I was picturing that half dusk, foggy, slightly rainy, gaslit look that is so popular in the Jack the Ripper reenactments. It isn't really set in that type of environment, but that was the feeling the story invoked in me. Everything was semi-dangerous, semi-dark, and made me want to look over my shoulder. The many twists and turns were as exciting as wondering which version of Sherlock was going to show up on each page.
This is a step out of reality, to a long forgotten, and not quite realized, past. It is original, interesting, and steamy from beginning to end, and it is one that shouldn't be missed (even if you don't think you like Steampunk).
This story is a twist on the Sherlock Holmes adventures, but this Sherlock isn't anything like any other reincarnation I've experienced. He has a devious darkside that is only enhanced by his brilliance. He is in turn both rational and irrational, in a sort of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde sort of way that had me so in love with him. His interactions with Wilhelmina Moriarty are titillating, to say the least. It is a dark romantic read, that is blended into a dark mystery. The entire time I was reading it I was picturing that half dusk, foggy, slightly rainy, gaslit look that is so popular in the Jack the Ripper reenactments. It isn't really set in that type of environment, but that was the feeling the story invoked in me. Everything was semi-dangerous, semi-dark, and made me want to look over my shoulder. The many twists and turns were as exciting as wondering which version of Sherlock was going to show up on each page.
This is a step out of reality, to a long forgotten, and not quite realized, past. It is original, interesting, and steamy from beginning to end, and it is one that shouldn't be missed (even if you don't think you like Steampunk).
May 27, 2020
Sherlock Holmes Re-Imagined
This is a Cari Silverwood creation so expect deviance and tentacles. This story involves Willa Moriarty, the niece of Sherlock's nemesis with her Malignant Energy invention and Sherlock himself of course with his affliction that needs a cure only Willa can help with. Dr. Watson is there, hovering in the background, but this isn't about him. What this is about is, missing women, found corpses, sacrifice, a cult and this is Silverwood, so we also get tentacles (poor Watson) Willa has a task, to cure Sherlock of his battle between his brilliant mind and his newly aquired deviant sexual urges. That's about as far as I dare go to explain what you'll experience as you read this Sherlock Holmes tale of sexual tension and deviance, dead bodies malignant energy, a deadly cult and of course some tentacles thrown in with Cari's typical style of writing. One click, you'll find an adventure in reading!
This is a Cari Silverwood creation so expect deviance and tentacles. This story involves Willa Moriarty, the niece of Sherlock's nemesis with her Malignant Energy invention and Sherlock himself of course with his affliction that needs a cure only Willa can help with. Dr. Watson is there, hovering in the background, but this isn't about him. What this is about is, missing women, found corpses, sacrifice, a cult and this is Silverwood, so we also get tentacles (poor Watson) Willa has a task, to cure Sherlock of his battle between his brilliant mind and his newly aquired deviant sexual urges. That's about as far as I dare go to explain what you'll experience as you read this Sherlock Holmes tale of sexual tension and deviance, dead bodies malignant energy, a deadly cult and of course some tentacles thrown in with Cari's typical style of writing. One click, you'll find an adventure in reading!
May 24, 2020
4.5 stars
When I first discovered that one of my favorite authors was going to do a retelling of Sherlock Holmes, I will admit that I let out a deep sigh of discontent. The reason for this was one of my advanced Literature classes when I was getting my degree was on Sherlock and I had to apply a variety of literary theories (Feminist, Marxism, Deconstructive, and Historical to name just a few) on various stories from this world. To say that I detested it by the end, was an understatement. Hence, the sigh of discontent. HOWEVER, let it be said here and now that IF this had been one of the stories that I got to play with then I would have appreciated it SOOOOOO much more because this author just created a version that I could have totally been on board with.
It is debauchery at its finest. Of course it would be because I am not sure that this author can write a sweet and clean romance to save her life. The kink in this one is on par with anything she writes. This is Dominance and Submission at its finest with punishments and scenes that will make your kindle and possibly yourself overheat. Again, nothing surprising there because she always manages to turn up the heat.
I am not sure I will ever fully be back as a fan of the typical Sherlock, but for this one I will always make an exception.
When I first discovered that one of my favorite authors was going to do a retelling of Sherlock Holmes, I will admit that I let out a deep sigh of discontent. The reason for this was one of my advanced Literature classes when I was getting my degree was on Sherlock and I had to apply a variety of literary theories (Feminist, Marxism, Deconstructive, and Historical to name just a few) on various stories from this world. To say that I detested it by the end, was an understatement. Hence, the sigh of discontent. HOWEVER, let it be said here and now that IF this had been one of the stories that I got to play with then I would have appreciated it SOOOOOO much more because this author just created a version that I could have totally been on board with.
It is debauchery at its finest. Of course it would be because I am not sure that this author can write a sweet and clean romance to save her life. The kink in this one is on par with anything she writes. This is Dominance and Submission at its finest with punishments and scenes that will make your kindle and possibly yourself overheat. Again, nothing surprising there because she always manages to turn up the heat.
I am not sure I will ever fully be back as a fan of the typical Sherlock, but for this one I will always make an exception.
May 25, 2020
A Sherlock Holmes like you’ve never read before! 🤩😍
The writing style and whole tone of the story was on point and just sucked me in; I didn’t want it to stop. Seriously so much fun. I wonder if we can get the author to write more, sorta like how the originals are a whole series of mysteries, only these would be so much more fun. Scintillating, kinky, debauched fun, all wrapped up in an adventurous storyline.
•“You will cure this affliction of mine. You. Will. Cure it.” He stared at her. “You see, Miss Willa. May I call you that? Ignore that. I am going to anyway. You see, I’m not a gentleman anymore. I will do anything to you that I need to do, to obtain a solution. I suspect this malignant energy has warped me. Your presence, your female scent, your abundantly female body, makes me want to take you into my bed. ... The only thing stopping me is my brain. I resist. I think.” He thumped his chest. “I know that this is not Sherlock Holmes! Not as I should be.”•
Oooo, but he’s the Sherlock Holmes we never realized we wanted and needed.
I have sooooo many highlights from this book, as well as marked pages to return to and reread for the kinky fun of it.
If you’re looking for something a little different, a little unique, and a whole lot fun, this decadently kinky read will satisfy those cravings, or break through any potential reading slump.
The writing style and whole tone of the story was on point and just sucked me in; I didn’t want it to stop. Seriously so much fun. I wonder if we can get the author to write more, sorta like how the originals are a whole series of mysteries, only these would be so much more fun. Scintillating, kinky, debauched fun, all wrapped up in an adventurous storyline.
•“You will cure this affliction of mine. You. Will. Cure it.” He stared at her. “You see, Miss Willa. May I call you that? Ignore that. I am going to anyway. You see, I’m not a gentleman anymore. I will do anything to you that I need to do, to obtain a solution. I suspect this malignant energy has warped me. Your presence, your female scent, your abundantly female body, makes me want to take you into my bed. ... The only thing stopping me is my brain. I resist. I think.” He thumped his chest. “I know that this is not Sherlock Holmes! Not as I should be.”•
Oooo, but he’s the Sherlock Holmes we never realized we wanted and needed.
I have sooooo many highlights from this book, as well as marked pages to return to and reread for the kinky fun of it.
If you’re looking for something a little different, a little unique, and a whole lot fun, this decadently kinky read will satisfy those cravings, or break through any potential reading slump.
June 11, 2020
"Come at once if convenient. If inconvenient, come all the same."
The quote above is from Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Adventure of the Creeping Man", but it would be right at home in this story.
This story is told in dual voices, that of Holmes and of Willa Moriarty, niece of Holmes' arch-nemesis. I'm accustomed to reading Sherlock written from Watson's perspective, but this story works well. I felt that Holmes as portrayed here is true to the written character without referencing any recent dramatic renditions, and this was a good thing.
Cari SIlverwood writes great sex and marvellous, angsty characters and she outdoes herself here. I felt for both protagonists and wanted things to work out for them.
This book is part of "The Dirty Heroes Collection" but is a complete stand-alone. The central plot idea for this series is that an event has corrupted some of history's greatest heroes. It is not necessary to have read any other book in the series prior to this one, nor does this story direct the reader to other books in the series. Having said that, I'd gladly read more about this version of Holmes, should another book come to light. Very Recommended.
The quote above is from Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Adventure of the Creeping Man", but it would be right at home in this story.
This story is told in dual voices, that of Holmes and of Willa Moriarty, niece of Holmes' arch-nemesis. I'm accustomed to reading Sherlock written from Watson's perspective, but this story works well. I felt that Holmes as portrayed here is true to the written character without referencing any recent dramatic renditions, and this was a good thing.
Cari SIlverwood writes great sex and marvellous, angsty characters and she outdoes herself here. I felt for both protagonists and wanted things to work out for them.
This book is part of "The Dirty Heroes Collection" but is a complete stand-alone. The central plot idea for this series is that an event has corrupted some of history's greatest heroes. It is not necessary to have read any other book in the series prior to this one, nor does this story direct the reader to other books in the series. Having said that, I'd gladly read more about this version of Holmes, should another book come to light. Very Recommended.
June 19, 2020
Clockwork Stalker was one of those novels that grab you and doesn't let you go! This story is a new story of Sherlock Holmes one you thought you would never read. Shockingly steamy for Mr. Holmes the usually staunch English sleuth. Cari Silverwood has put her own naughty twist to this beloved character. The game is a foot Sherlock has an addiction that he can't quite put his finger on. He has become addicted to the niece of his long time nemesis Professor Moriarty. He saw this red headed beauty and has to have her for his sexual pleasure. He has become obsessed with her and is willing to off Dr. Watson to get her. There must be something terribly wrong, Dr. Watson has been his long time friend and partner. He wonders why he has such deviant feelings for her and he needs to find out why. He is on a case with Watson searching for the lost bride. When he sees Miss Moriarty for the first time, he feels immediate attraction to her. She is asleep at her desk, her hair falling out of her carefully done bun, he notes her soft snores and how her breasts rise as she inhales. He loses all concentration on what he is supposed to be doing and is appalled that he feels compelled to ravish this beauty. He has never felt anything like this before in his life. He must find out what she has done to him. He sees that she had been working on a machine that she is planning on entering to the world's fair. He believes that is exactly what is causing his deviant thoughts. She stirred and so he and Watson went down into the cargo storage. What they found there was astonishing sleeping naked women in cages. They go up and hear someone coming, the only way to not get caught is to jump ship. Grabbing parachutes he and Watson jump off the airship. When she lands Miss Moriarty immediately goes to the Bank of England to open her father's safety deposit box for her inheritance. She finds the box is empty of its contents and she is devastated, now she will be destitute. Sadly she needs to find some place to stay. She only has enough money to get fairly decent lodgings. Sherlock through some snooping has found out where she is living at the time. When he goes to see her she believes that Sherlock took her money, and does not treat him as an esteemed guest. In fact she bids him adieu. Sherlock figures out a way that he can help her and take care of his sexual desires. She has developed a machine that measures "Malignant Energy" and she wants to enter it at the World's Fair Now that she has found that she no longer has enough money, he will help her get entered into the Fair. If she agrees to be his for his sexual plaything. This deviant romp gets better at every page turn. Loved, loved, loved it! The reader will enjoy the idea of a new sexy Sherlock Holmes!
May 25, 2020
Oh my, Sherlock Holmes has never been quite this kinky, sexy and irreverent! I loved this absolutely lickable version of his character, as well as the quieter, but nonetheless very delicious Watson! Willa was no pushover, and I found her very likeable and admirable. She's smart and feisty, and she really kept Sherlock on his game! A delightfully decadent read from start to finish!
May 25, 2020
There are going to be some Sherlock Holmes purists who are really, really, really going to hate this book. Sucks to be them, because they will be missing out. This is a really awesome story. It has all the Sherlockian touches, a good whack of steampunk, some Elder God worship, and lots and lots and lots of depraved and debauched sex. So, you know, all the good stuff, and all the fun.
Sherlock is kind of a jerk through a lot of this, but it works for him. I mean, I like Holmes, but he is pretty much a jerk, or worse, in pretty much every single iteration of him, so that fits. I like how the events of the book really color his opinion of himself. He goes through a real journey in this book, and frankly, I like him all the better for that journey.
Wilhelmina is a whole different kind of Moriarity, but she's just a smart as the original. Scratch that, I think that she is smarter. I think that she is exactly who Sherlock needs, and she's going to really keep him on his toes, and not just that, but keep him even more anchored than Watson ever would.
I would love so many more books about these two. There are surely all kinds of mysteries they can solve.
Sherlock is kind of a jerk through a lot of this, but it works for him. I mean, I like Holmes, but he is pretty much a jerk, or worse, in pretty much every single iteration of him, so that fits. I like how the events of the book really color his opinion of himself. He goes through a real journey in this book, and frankly, I like him all the better for that journey.
Wilhelmina is a whole different kind of Moriarity, but she's just a smart as the original. Scratch that, I think that she is smarter. I think that she is exactly who Sherlock needs, and she's going to really keep him on his toes, and not just that, but keep him even more anchored than Watson ever would.
I would love so many more books about these two. There are surely all kinds of mysteries they can solve.
May 22, 2020
I am a total Sherlock junkie -
I'm a big fan of Silverwood's work
Put those two together?
You get one entertaining and amazing five star read
This was a bit of who done it blended with some steampunk swirled in base desires of the flesh.
"London, that great cesspool into which all the loungers and idlers of the Empire are irresistibly drained"
I adored Willa
She was quick of wit - honest with her heart. None of that wishy washy mentality that burdens so many of our heroines
She knew what called to her inner tigress
My beloved Watson so devilish and devious- blame the ME all you want my good man - carnal desire I say
I had so much fun with these two
We didn't get a lot of Watson but I'm hoping this might become a series
Were there unanswered plot holes?
Why yes and it just left me wanting more from this trio
Was there off screen tentacle scenes?
Brilliant deduction - Oh Watson you poor chap
Was there debauchery aplenty?
Its Silverwood... Hello
A delicious addition to the Dirty Heroes Collection
On my tablet full review to follow
I'm a big fan of Silverwood's work
Put those two together?
You get one entertaining and amazing five star read
This was a bit of who done it blended with some steampunk swirled in base desires of the flesh.
"London, that great cesspool into which all the loungers and idlers of the Empire are irresistibly drained"
I adored Willa
She was quick of wit - honest with her heart. None of that wishy washy mentality that burdens so many of our heroines
She knew what called to her inner tigress
My beloved Watson so devilish and devious- blame the ME all you want my good man - carnal desire I say
I had so much fun with these two
We didn't get a lot of Watson but I'm hoping this might become a series
Were there unanswered plot holes?
Why yes and it just left me wanting more from this trio
Was there off screen tentacle scenes?
Brilliant deduction - Oh Watson you poor chap
Was there debauchery aplenty?
Its Silverwood... Hello
A delicious addition to the Dirty Heroes Collection
On my tablet full review to follow
May 25, 2020
One of the main reasons I enjoy Cari Silverwood so much is how she writes her female characters. They are never pushovers or damsels in distress just waiting to be saved. They are intelligent, resourceful, feisty, capable, strong women who quite often do an equal amount of rescuing, whether physically or emotionally.
Wilhelmina Moriarty has all the above-mentioned attributes. She's an inventor and determined to make her own way in a male-dominated world. Unfortunately, she runs into a bit of trouble. Enter Sherlock Holmes. He's like no Sherlock I've ever read. A touch mad, a lot kinky, definitely dominant and completely obsessed with Ms. Moriarty.
The two form an uneasy, somewhat questionable alliance and try to solve a mystery involving cults, human sacrifices, disappearing women and various nefarious characters.
If you enjoy a good mystery with some delicious kinky sex throughout then grab this book. It will not disappoint.
Wilhelmina Moriarty has all the above-mentioned attributes. She's an inventor and determined to make her own way in a male-dominated world. Unfortunately, she runs into a bit of trouble. Enter Sherlock Holmes. He's like no Sherlock I've ever read. A touch mad, a lot kinky, definitely dominant and completely obsessed with Ms. Moriarty.
The two form an uneasy, somewhat questionable alliance and try to solve a mystery involving cults, human sacrifices, disappearing women and various nefarious characters.
If you enjoy a good mystery with some delicious kinky sex throughout then grab this book. It will not disappoint.
January 4, 2025
2.5 stars
Intriguing premise where Sherlock becomes obsessed with his enemy’s niece, Wilhelmina Moriarty, but sadly this didn’t end up being the book for me.
The paranormal science (Willa has invented a machine that detects malignant energy) was interesting at first, but kind of took over the good ol’ fashioned detective work I expected from Sherlock Holmes.
I also didn’t get a lot of emotional connection between Sherlock and Willa, which would have been okay if I was into the spice, but sadly the kink combo (dubcon, BDSM, degradation) wasn’t for me.
I think dark romance lovers might enjoy this a lot more!
Intriguing premise where Sherlock becomes obsessed with his enemy’s niece, Wilhelmina Moriarty, but sadly this didn’t end up being the book for me.
The paranormal science (Willa has invented a machine that detects malignant energy) was interesting at first, but kind of took over the good ol’ fashioned detective work I expected from Sherlock Holmes.
I also didn’t get a lot of emotional connection between Sherlock and Willa, which would have been okay if I was into the spice, but sadly the kink combo (dubcon, BDSM, degradation) wasn’t for me.
I think dark romance lovers might enjoy this a lot more!
May 29, 2020
Elementary!!!!
What a wonderful story!! Unique, imaginative, suspenseful, mysterious, dangerous, erotic, a little deviant and very sexy and hot!!
I loved the characters Sherlock and Wilhelmina, they were well written, intriguing, complex and captivating.
A thoroughly entertaining and definitely much sexier version of Sherlock Holmes than I have ever read before, but I would love to read more of in the future!
What a wonderful story!! Unique, imaginative, suspenseful, mysterious, dangerous, erotic, a little deviant and very sexy and hot!!
I loved the characters Sherlock and Wilhelmina, they were well written, intriguing, complex and captivating.
A thoroughly entertaining and definitely much sexier version of Sherlock Holmes than I have ever read before, but I would love to read more of in the future!
Read
May 26, 2020Can't rate 'cos I edited. Also: Sherlock like you've never seen him before. Oh my.
May 23, 2021
Sherlock Holmes vs. (a) Moriarty!
This one was enjoyable, and I loved that the author instantly brought us into the world without being over the top. Like, it definitely felt like we're in Holmes’s world, and his actions, arrogance, and even aloofness felt very aligned to his character. But the author definitely brought her own style and beats to the world.
I also really appreciated that the heroine was a scientist, a widow (i.e., the relationship wasn’t ruinous), and very interested in exploring a dark relationship. It was nice to have a main character who was actually interested in these things and wanted to explore rather than a waif who is frightened into it, or even worse, so in lurve, she goes along with the hero's dark desires.
This one was enjoyable, and I loved that the author instantly brought us into the world without being over the top. Like, it definitely felt like we're in Holmes’s world, and his actions, arrogance, and even aloofness felt very aligned to his character. But the author definitely brought her own style and beats to the world.
I also really appreciated that the heroine was a scientist, a widow (i.e., the relationship wasn’t ruinous), and very interested in exploring a dark relationship. It was nice to have a main character who was actually interested in these things and wanted to explore rather than a waif who is frightened into it, or even worse, so in lurve, she goes along with the hero's dark desires.
May 26, 2020
We all know I absolutely love everything Cari Silverwood writes and Clockwork Stalker is no different. I absolutely loved what a bastard Sherlock Holmes is and how well he and Wilhelmina Moriarty played off one another. This book is full of adventure, great sexy times, and a fun Easter egg that one will only get if they're a fan of Cari's works.
July 29, 2020
Clockwork Stalker - 4 Stars!
Sherlock and Wilhelmina’s story was not what I was expecting and I mean that in the best possible way! Captivating, bewitching, those are the first two words that come to mind. Sexy, mysterious and fun. Definitely gonna have to read more by this author!
Sherlock and Wilhelmina’s story was not what I was expecting and I mean that in the best possible way! Captivating, bewitching, those are the first two words that come to mind. Sexy, mysterious and fun. Definitely gonna have to read more by this author!
May 26, 2020
I loved this twisted take on Sherlock Holmes. Willa is a great character and seen as the enemy, but the chemistry is intense and steamy. This is a fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense, steam and kink. I loved the characters and the story drew me in from beginning to end. I loved it.
May 25, 2020
Clockwork Stalker is the 7th book in The Dirty Heroes Collection. But it can be read as a standalone.
This was a story told about a very kinky Sherlock Holmes and Miss Wilhelmian “Willa” Moriarty.
I felt that this was a little departure from what I have been reading from Cari Silverwood. No made up world. In Clockwork Stalker Cari took us on a journey back in time to read about the kinky and perverted Sherlock Holmes, which I enjoyed.
Cari Silverwood did put her touch of flair on the debauchery of the heroine, Miss Moriarty. Meanwhile they were sleuthing for the stalker. I think a tentacled beast shows up in Clockwork Stalker. Well I know one shows up. Cari Silverwood does love writing about tentacled monsters.
I think that Cari Silverwood is different from other authors. She writes with humor and loves spoofs that are crazy and out of this world. They can be sexy, and certainly kinky. I can't imagine where she comes up
with the stories she writes. I have often said that I would like to delve into the mind of this author but maybe not. She is in a league of her own!
This was a story told about a very kinky Sherlock Holmes and Miss Wilhelmian “Willa” Moriarty.
I felt that this was a little departure from what I have been reading from Cari Silverwood. No made up world. In Clockwork Stalker Cari took us on a journey back in time to read about the kinky and perverted Sherlock Holmes, which I enjoyed.
Cari Silverwood did put her touch of flair on the debauchery of the heroine, Miss Moriarty. Meanwhile they were sleuthing for the stalker. I think a tentacled beast shows up in Clockwork Stalker. Well I know one shows up. Cari Silverwood does love writing about tentacled monsters.
I think that Cari Silverwood is different from other authors. She writes with humor and loves spoofs that are crazy and out of this world. They can be sexy, and certainly kinky. I can't imagine where she comes up
with the stories she writes. I have often said that I would like to delve into the mind of this author but maybe not. She is in a league of her own!
July 24, 2020
This book is an interesting generic hybrid of Steampunk, horror, sci-fi, mystery, fan fiction, and erotica -- mainly that last -- in this re-imagining of the Sherlock Holmes tales. If you're a fan of the detective stories (which I am), you'll recognize Watson, Mrs. Hudson, Baker Street, the Baker Street Irregulars, the cocaine habit (though, oddly enough, no violin), and the Deerstalker hat. You'll also get dollops of Lovecraft, Jack the Ripper, The Monkey's Paw, and possibly Tim Burton's Corpse Bride: The Illustrated Story or Frankenstein, as well as a guest appearance from thrown in. And if you're a fan of Ms. Silverwood's, well, do take a look at the many five-star reviews that go into her oft-used tropes that appear here; I've not read enough of her books to say (though I do note her trademark snarky humor, something she shares with fell0w-author, Loki Renard).
This series posits that the world's "heroes" (literary, mythical, and folkloric) have turned into anti-heroes. In this particular book, the cold, cerebral, ultra-logical Sherlock Holmes is done in by passions that seem to him "dark" and "deviant." And, no, it's not Irene Adler who is the target of his lust, rather, it's his arch-enemy's niece, Willa Moriarty. The book details their growing BDSM relationship as they attempt to solve two mysteries: Holmes' personality change and the murders of several kidnapped women.
I found the storyline entertaining and the erotic scenes well-described (one was not to my personal taste, but, then again, this is subjective). I particularly enjoyed two aspects of the book. First, it's not "dark" in the way I take that word to mean. That is, Holmes doesn't rape or injure Willa (in fact, he's very careful of hurting her) and while it's true that he initially blackmails her, I do think that if she hadn't been into it, he would have stopped (while I know that many like "dark," I'm not one of them). Second, I appreciated that Willa was intelligent, strong, and independent, and that Holmes appreciated it. She submitted to him; she did not submit to anyone else.
I did, however, find it very repetitious (Holmes' inner monologues told us a few too many times that he was worried about his "perverted" side) and there were some inconsistencies (the largest one being that neither Holmes and Watson, nor Willa do anything when they initially find a planeful of caged women and the book never really explains why). Finally, the beginning was very confusing since it starts in medias res and it took me a chapter or two to catch up.
Four Stars. It's interesting that the great Mr. Sherlock Holmes doesn't, for all his famous intuition, ever truly realize the exact cause of his new-found "deviance."
ETA: This book is a generic blend (as are most generic books, actually) so I hesitate to label it as one thing or another (see above for what I said about "hybrid"). However, since Steampunk is about "fusing the usability of modern technology with the design aesthetic and philosophy of the Victorian age," I stand by my and other reviewers' inclusion of that label. The airship, steamcab, and ME machine (the last is an important plot point) are all examples of Steampunk. Certainly other genres and sub-genres are present here, but Steampunk is most definitely one of them. For more information, see https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/will...).
This series posits that the world's "heroes" (literary, mythical, and folkloric) have turned into anti-heroes. In this particular book, the cold, cerebral, ultra-logical Sherlock Holmes is done in by passions that seem to him "dark" and "deviant." And, no, it's not Irene Adler who is the target of his lust, rather, it's his arch-enemy's niece, Willa Moriarty. The book details their growing BDSM relationship as they attempt to solve two mysteries: Holmes' personality change and the murders of several kidnapped women.
I found the storyline entertaining and the erotic scenes well-described (one was not to my personal taste, but, then again, this is subjective). I particularly enjoyed two aspects of the book. First, it's not "dark" in the way I take that word to mean. That is, Holmes doesn't rape or injure Willa (in fact, he's very careful of hurting her) and while it's true that he initially blackmails her, I do think that if she hadn't been into it, he would have stopped (while I know that many like "dark," I'm not one of them). Second, I appreciated that Willa was intelligent, strong, and independent, and that Holmes appreciated it. She submitted to him; she did not submit to anyone else.
I did, however, find it very repetitious (Holmes' inner monologues told us a few too many times that he was worried about his "perverted" side) and there were some inconsistencies (the largest one being that neither Holmes and Watson, nor Willa do anything when they initially find a planeful of caged women and the book never really explains why). Finally, the beginning was very confusing since it starts in medias res and it took me a chapter or two to catch up.
Four Stars. It's interesting that the great Mr. Sherlock Holmes doesn't, for all his famous intuition, ever truly realize the exact cause of his new-found "deviance."
ETA: This book is a generic blend (as are most generic books, actually) so I hesitate to label it as one thing or another (see above for what I said about "hybrid"). However, since Steampunk is about "fusing the usability of modern technology with the design aesthetic and philosophy of the Victorian age," I stand by my and other reviewers' inclusion of that label. The airship, steamcab, and ME machine (the last is an important plot point) are all examples of Steampunk. Certainly other genres and sub-genres are present here, but Steampunk is most definitely one of them. For more information, see https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/will...).
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