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The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries #4
Art of Deception
"Suspenseful and entertaining, with many twists and turns....This is one of the best Sherlock Holmes series since Laurie R. King’s Mary Russell books."—Historical Novel Society
USA Today bestselling author Leonard Goldberg returns with another puzzling case for the daughter of Sherlock Holmes to unravel in this exciting mystery, The Art of Deception, sure to be enjoyed by fans of Sherlock Holmes as well as Laurie R. King and Charles Finch.
In the west end of London, an apparently crazed individual is on the loose, breaking into art galleries and private homes to slash valuable paintings of women. Despite Scotland Yard’s best efforts, the criminal remains at large and continues on his destructive path.
When Joanna and the Watsons are called in to solve the mystery, they soon discover that although the canvases have been slashed, their backings remain pristine, with no cuts or scratches. The criminal, it seems, is no mere vandal—he's searching for something hidden behind the portraits.
Suspicion soon falls on two skilled art restorers who previously worked at the gallery where all the vandalized art was purchased. When Joanna finds the body of one in a bricked off fireplace at the gallery, the other is left as the prime suspect. But then he's discovered dead as well. Luckily, Joanna has a plan for ensnaring the criminal once and for all. But it must not fail, or more paintings—and lives—will be lost.
USA Today bestselling author Leonard Goldberg returns with another puzzling case for the daughter of Sherlock Holmes to unravel in this exciting mystery, The Art of Deception, sure to be enjoyed by fans of Sherlock Holmes as well as Laurie R. King and Charles Finch.
In the west end of London, an apparently crazed individual is on the loose, breaking into art galleries and private homes to slash valuable paintings of women. Despite Scotland Yard’s best efforts, the criminal remains at large and continues on his destructive path.
When Joanna and the Watsons are called in to solve the mystery, they soon discover that although the canvases have been slashed, their backings remain pristine, with no cuts or scratches. The criminal, it seems, is no mere vandal—he's searching for something hidden behind the portraits.
Suspicion soon falls on two skilled art restorers who previously worked at the gallery where all the vandalized art was purchased. When Joanna finds the body of one in a bricked off fireplace at the gallery, the other is left as the prime suspect. But then he's discovered dead as well. Luckily, Joanna has a plan for ensnaring the criminal once and for all. But it must not fail, or more paintings—and lives—will be lost.
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2020
About the author
Leonard Goldberg
45 books416 followersLeonard Goldberg is an American physicist, professor of medicine, and the author of the Joanna Blalock series of medical thrillers.
His novels have been translated into a dozen languages and sold more than a million copies worldwide. Leonard Goldberg is himself a consulting physician affiliated with the UCLA Medical Center, where he holds an appointment as Clinical Professor of Medicine. A sought-after expert witness in medical malpractice trials, he is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and rheumatology, and has published over a hundred scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals.
Leonard Goldberg's writing career began with a clinical interest in blood disorders. While involved in a research project at UCLA, he encountered a most unusual blood type. The patient’s red blood cells were O-Rh null, indicating they were totally deficient in A, B and Rh factors and could be administered to virtually anyone without fear of a transfusion reaction. In essence, the patient was the proverbial "universal" blood donor. This finding spurred the idea for a story in which an individual was born without a tissue type, making that person’s organs transplantable into anyone without worry of rejection. His first novel, Transplant, revolved around a young woman who is discovered to be a universal organ donor and is hounded by a wealthy, powerful man in desperate need of a new kidney. The book quickly went through multiple printings and was optioned by a major Hollywood studio.
Dr. Goldberg is a native of Charleston and a long-time California resident. He currently divides his time between Los Angeles and an island off the coast of South Carolina.
His novels have been translated into a dozen languages and sold more than a million copies worldwide. Leonard Goldberg is himself a consulting physician affiliated with the UCLA Medical Center, where he holds an appointment as Clinical Professor of Medicine. A sought-after expert witness in medical malpractice trials, he is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and rheumatology, and has published over a hundred scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals.
Leonard Goldberg's writing career began with a clinical interest in blood disorders. While involved in a research project at UCLA, he encountered a most unusual blood type. The patient’s red blood cells were O-Rh null, indicating they were totally deficient in A, B and Rh factors and could be administered to virtually anyone without fear of a transfusion reaction. In essence, the patient was the proverbial "universal" blood donor. This finding spurred the idea for a story in which an individual was born without a tissue type, making that person’s organs transplantable into anyone without worry of rejection. His first novel, Transplant, revolved around a young woman who is discovered to be a universal organ donor and is hounded by a wealthy, powerful man in desperate need of a new kidney. The book quickly went through multiple printings and was optioned by a major Hollywood studio.
Dr. Goldberg is a native of Charleston and a long-time California resident. He currently divides his time between Los Angeles and an island off the coast of South Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
May 5, 2020
Ten days before Christmas in West End London and the bad elves have been set upon the city.
It's 1916 and Inspector Lestrade of Scotland Yard is ringing the doorbell of Joanna Watson, daughter of the famous Sherlock Holmes and wife of John Watson, Jr.. son of the famous Dr. Watson. Lestrade informs Joanna that someone is on a trail of destruction in art galleries and private homes. Portraits of women, in particular, have been slashed as if the crazed madman is in search of something. The portraits from the Italian Renaissance Period have all been left behind.
Lestrade hands Joanna a scarf that had fallen and was left carelessly on the floor of Hawk and Evans Art Gallery as the destroyer made his escape. Now here's where we have the genius of daughter like father. We'll see this happening throughout the story. If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes and seek the power of deduction with deep intelligence, then you'll sincerely enjoy this one. The Art of Deception is certainly not a "thriller". It is a crafty piece of work showcasing a true detective gathering and eliminating clues. Joanna's take-away from that scarf alone is brilliant.
We'll be introduced to Joanna's son, John, who had been away at school. Leonard Goldberg throws in a cholera epidemic at John's Eton school and the havoc that sets in at the Watson house. There are parallels to the pandemic that we are presently experiencing now. Dr. Watson is in charge of his grandson's case and it's highly interesting what was known medically at the time. It will give you pause as to what limited preventions were in place and the number of deaths caused by simple lack of hygiene. We should all give thanks for our present times.
The Art of Deception is #4 in this series and my first read by this author. I've already ordered the previous books. I'm invested. I am always drawn in by the intelligent reads that make you think and even question the outcomes. We'll also get a nice panorama of famous artists of the time and the work done by restorers and forgery thieves. The Art of Deception showcases a highly intelligent woman who can give Scotland Yard a run for their money. Can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Press (Minotaur Books) and to Leonard Goldberg for the opportunity.
It's 1916 and Inspector Lestrade of Scotland Yard is ringing the doorbell of Joanna Watson, daughter of the famous Sherlock Holmes and wife of John Watson, Jr.. son of the famous Dr. Watson. Lestrade informs Joanna that someone is on a trail of destruction in art galleries and private homes. Portraits of women, in particular, have been slashed as if the crazed madman is in search of something. The portraits from the Italian Renaissance Period have all been left behind.
Lestrade hands Joanna a scarf that had fallen and was left carelessly on the floor of Hawk and Evans Art Gallery as the destroyer made his escape. Now here's where we have the genius of daughter like father. We'll see this happening throughout the story. If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes and seek the power of deduction with deep intelligence, then you'll sincerely enjoy this one. The Art of Deception is certainly not a "thriller". It is a crafty piece of work showcasing a true detective gathering and eliminating clues. Joanna's take-away from that scarf alone is brilliant.
We'll be introduced to Joanna's son, John, who had been away at school. Leonard Goldberg throws in a cholera epidemic at John's Eton school and the havoc that sets in at the Watson house. There are parallels to the pandemic that we are presently experiencing now. Dr. Watson is in charge of his grandson's case and it's highly interesting what was known medically at the time. It will give you pause as to what limited preventions were in place and the number of deaths caused by simple lack of hygiene. We should all give thanks for our present times.
The Art of Deception is #4 in this series and my first read by this author. I've already ordered the previous books. I'm invested. I am always drawn in by the intelligent reads that make you think and even question the outcomes. We'll also get a nice panorama of famous artists of the time and the work done by restorers and forgery thieves. The Art of Deception showcases a highly intelligent woman who can give Scotland Yard a run for their money. Can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Press (Minotaur Books) and to Leonard Goldberg for the opportunity.
October 23, 2021
It was an Okay read, a bit predicable and it has no turns or twists. But I had fun with this book and Joanna (the "daughter" of Sherlock Holmes), Watson and his son (Joanna's husband) are enjoyable characters. For a foreigner who doesn't know English, this text was an easy one.
SYNOPSIS: "In the west end of London, an apparently crazed individual is on the loose, breaking into art galleries and private homes to slash valuable paintings of women. Despite Scotland Yard’s best efforts, the criminal remains at large and continues on his destructive path.
When Joanna and the Watsons are called in to solve the mystery, they soon discover that although the canvases have been slashed, their backings remain pristine, with no cuts or scratches. The criminal, it seems, is no mere vandal—he's searching for something hidden behind the portraits."
SYNOPSIS: "In the west end of London, an apparently crazed individual is on the loose, breaking into art galleries and private homes to slash valuable paintings of women. Despite Scotland Yard’s best efforts, the criminal remains at large and continues on his destructive path.
When Joanna and the Watsons are called in to solve the mystery, they soon discover that although the canvases have been slashed, their backings remain pristine, with no cuts or scratches. The criminal, it seems, is no mere vandal—he's searching for something hidden behind the portraits."
May 4, 2020
London, 1912. Sherlock Holmes’ daughter Joanna and Dr. Watson and his son are investigating a new case of a man breaking into art galleries and private homes to slash paintings. In a hasty escape, the suspect loses his scarf at a gallery and this gives a lead for investigators.
From the worn scarf, Joanna can tell a lot. She determines the vandal’s frame and height, characteristics, financial status and more. She gives an explanation for her analogy, but this still feels like a stretch, not sounding very believable.
I don’t read detective stories, except that from time to time I reach for something out of my range. So maybe what seems not believable to me would be quite believable to those who read such stories.
I’m not familiar with the series, but what strikes me right away is the lack of character development. It’s all about detective work, analytical-detective descriptions and questions. And I have a hard time attaching myself to a story, where the character development continues to be delayed or is lacking.
Another thing that is striking in the story are the tiny bits of facts, which feel like they’re being thrown at a reader without a second thought. For example, mentions of lots of artists, including Degas known and celebrated for his lovely ballerinas or dry air of Egypt preserving its art very-well. I do appreciate such facts, especially the ones I didn’t know before. So I can learn something new. Even though the story is about art being destroyed, so in logic it does have the connection, but in the whole context it just stands out. It doesn’t have a good flow.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the worn scarf, Joanna can tell a lot. She determines the vandal’s frame and height, characteristics, financial status and more. She gives an explanation for her analogy, but this still feels like a stretch, not sounding very believable.
I don’t read detective stories, except that from time to time I reach for something out of my range. So maybe what seems not believable to me would be quite believable to those who read such stories.
I’m not familiar with the series, but what strikes me right away is the lack of character development. It’s all about detective work, analytical-detective descriptions and questions. And I have a hard time attaching myself to a story, where the character development continues to be delayed or is lacking.
Another thing that is striking in the story are the tiny bits of facts, which feel like they’re being thrown at a reader without a second thought. For example, mentions of lots of artists, including Degas known and celebrated for his lovely ballerinas or dry air of Egypt preserving its art very-well. I do appreciate such facts, especially the ones I didn’t know before. So I can learn something new. Even though the story is about art being destroyed, so in logic it does have the connection, but in the whole context it just stands out. It doesn’t have a good flow.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2020
An entertaining mystery featuring the wily Joanna (Sherlock’s daughter) and the Watsons. Joanna’s son Johnny also makes a brief appearance.
Joanna must find the person who is slashing priceless paintings but not stealing them – the question is why?
It’s a lively mystery with a good deal of art history. This is #4 in a series but does well as a stand-alone.
While it’s not for everyone I happen to especially like the language of the time period.
Note to Author: It is very unlikely that one would be able to wash a person’s eyes free of glass and with rainwater no less. And the person’s vision returns – no harm done. (Pg.198)
Joanna must find the person who is slashing priceless paintings but not stealing them – the question is why?
It’s a lively mystery with a good deal of art history. This is #4 in a series but does well as a stand-alone.
While it’s not for everyone I happen to especially like the language of the time period.
Note to Author: It is very unlikely that one would be able to wash a person’s eyes free of glass and with rainwater no less. And the person’s vision returns – no harm done. (Pg.198)
June 20, 2020
The puzzle of Joanna Holmes!
Valuable art works being slashed and damaged has Joanna and husband John along with Watson (and young son Johnny) searching for the culprit. The plot becomes complicated, involving art dealers, restorers and art collections reaching into rarified circles.
As fitting, the mystery is multi-layered. Joanna Blalock-Watson is the picture of aloof intellect, removed from others, as her brain makes connections. That is softened a couple of times when Joanna's concern for her family group is evident. Son Johnny and the mention of cholera has her taking charge immediately. Loved the health regimes instituted and the social distancing. It means more at this current time. Still I find Joanna a mostly distant figure. The actual mystery the Holmes/Watsons are involved in didn't lose my interest, but for some reason I found myself dropping in and out of reading this novel. This wasn't a page turner for me. Does Joanna's aloofness play so much into the story that I felt separated and to some extent uninvolved? Perhaps this is it. Joanna's husband John (Watson's son) recounts the story. This means the writing appears once removed from the main character. Maybe that's why I have trouble identifying with Joanna. Her actions are reported through John's eyes. I am more engaged with him as he expresses or reports on Joanne's detection path and her emotional reactions. An interesting mystery, but for me Joanna is the biggest mystery.
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
Valuable art works being slashed and damaged has Joanna and husband John along with Watson (and young son Johnny) searching for the culprit. The plot becomes complicated, involving art dealers, restorers and art collections reaching into rarified circles.
As fitting, the mystery is multi-layered. Joanna Blalock-Watson is the picture of aloof intellect, removed from others, as her brain makes connections. That is softened a couple of times when Joanna's concern for her family group is evident. Son Johnny and the mention of cholera has her taking charge immediately. Loved the health regimes instituted and the social distancing. It means more at this current time. Still I find Joanna a mostly distant figure. The actual mystery the Holmes/Watsons are involved in didn't lose my interest, but for some reason I found myself dropping in and out of reading this novel. This wasn't a page turner for me. Does Joanna's aloofness play so much into the story that I felt separated and to some extent uninvolved? Perhaps this is it. Joanna's husband John (Watson's son) recounts the story. This means the writing appears once removed from the main character. Maybe that's why I have trouble identifying with Joanna. Her actions are reported through John's eyes. I am more engaged with him as he expresses or reports on Joanne's detection path and her emotional reactions. An interesting mystery, but for me Joanna is the biggest mystery.
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
June 6, 2020
I was very disappointed by The Art of Deception. Nothing modern about it, a very old-fashioned plot and writing style. It felt like a book I selected at the library, written last century. Joanna is à know-it-all, just like her father. The plot is boring, even though I am an amateur of Art. Nothing exciting about this book.
May 28, 2020
My Mystery Scene review of the book is now online. You can check it out here: https://www.mysteryscenemag.com/compo...
August 4, 2022
A very clever story. I loved all of the art connections at the end especially.
September 26, 2025
Finally this book arrives, after many weeks of being on hold. I have been so looking forward to reading and reviewing it. We are huge Sherlock fans in this house, and this was no exception. Hadn't looked, but I just learned that this is Book #4 of "The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries," written by Leonard Goldberg, narrated by Steve West. Lucky me, I get five move books to look at, Yippee.
Setting the scene: Joanna Watson, is the daughter of Sherlock Holmes, (is married to Dr. Watson's son) and they are investigating a case that comprises murder and vandalism at a trove of the highest art treasures.
Our dear friend, Inspector Lestrade, called upon Joanna Watson, who gratefully has some of her dad's crime solving genes, to help with a horrid case of pure vandalism. Whoever this is, is breaking into private homes, art galleries, and slashing valuable paintings, yet not stealing anything. Joanna won my interest when the first clue of evidence came in. She said that the person wearing it is a tall, middle aged man facing difficult times that has some kind of skin disease or condition, that is being treated with coal tar. James Blackstone or Harry Edmunds has been restoring all the pictures in the Hawke and Evans Gallery. They had used these talents to create and sell actual forgeries. So, Edmunds is in jail and Blackstone is thought to have gone to Australia. Joanna once again concludes that there is something valuable in one of the paintings, not yet found.
Things get put on hold when there is an influx of cholera at her son Johnny's school, where she is forced to quarantine them all to 221 Baker Street. Johnny's exposures turns into full blown cholera, and the next several days are a huge trial for the whole bunch. Dr. Watson plays an important role in helping Johnny slowly get well. We learn that Johnny, even in his sickbed, seems to have inherited some of grandpa's crime solving abilities, and provides them with wonderful tips. Cool huh!
The book continues, and the ideas Joanna and others have is very good. Ultimately, they are able to apprehend the bad guy. I really liked this book. Recommend! Rate 4.5 ****1/2
Setting the scene: Joanna Watson, is the daughter of Sherlock Holmes, (is married to Dr. Watson's son) and they are investigating a case that comprises murder and vandalism at a trove of the highest art treasures.
Our dear friend, Inspector Lestrade, called upon Joanna Watson, who gratefully has some of her dad's crime solving genes, to help with a horrid case of pure vandalism. Whoever this is, is breaking into private homes, art galleries, and slashing valuable paintings, yet not stealing anything. Joanna won my interest when the first clue of evidence came in. She said that the person wearing it is a tall, middle aged man facing difficult times that has some kind of skin disease or condition, that is being treated with coal tar. James Blackstone or Harry Edmunds has been restoring all the pictures in the Hawke and Evans Gallery. They had used these talents to create and sell actual forgeries. So, Edmunds is in jail and Blackstone is thought to have gone to Australia. Joanna once again concludes that there is something valuable in one of the paintings, not yet found.
Things get put on hold when there is an influx of cholera at her son Johnny's school, where she is forced to quarantine them all to 221 Baker Street. Johnny's exposures turns into full blown cholera, and the next several days are a huge trial for the whole bunch. Dr. Watson plays an important role in helping Johnny slowly get well. We learn that Johnny, even in his sickbed, seems to have inherited some of grandpa's crime solving abilities, and provides them with wonderful tips. Cool huh!
The book continues, and the ideas Joanna and others have is very good. Ultimately, they are able to apprehend the bad guy. I really liked this book. Recommend! Rate 4.5 ****1/2
September 24, 2020
Well, I gave this series another try and found it to be just ok. I was again annoyed by the group's self congratulating practice. It detracts from the focus on the crimes. That should do it for me.
Library Loan
Library Loan
June 25, 2020
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was thrilled to continue with The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries series. I love Sherlock Holmes style mysteries, and the setting in England. Even if I didn't, this is narrated by STEVE WEST.
There have been a number of art vandalisms and break-ins. The Watson family is on the case. There were plenty of interesting details about paintings and art masters. It's always fascinating to learn how the observations and logic turn into evidence.
Johnny comes home from school ill and that is tense for a bit. He wants to follow the case information and ask his questions. Toby 2, of course, plays a part in tracking down the culprit. Several times it looks as though the thief might get away as it's a race to find the valuable art. But our sleuths are smarter than most everyone.
I'm really enjoying this series on audio. It's fun with a historical setting. In this case, I thankfully didn't remember the blurb as I think it tells too much, so I left out a bit.
Narration:
I love everything STEVE WEST!!!!!! He's just my favorite. I enjoyed listening to this story at my usual 1.5x speed. I appreciate his work with both male and female voices and he handles the English characters so well. Definitely, his narration enhanced my enjoyment.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was thrilled to continue with The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries series. I love Sherlock Holmes style mysteries, and the setting in England. Even if I didn't, this is narrated by STEVE WEST.
There have been a number of art vandalisms and break-ins. The Watson family is on the case. There were plenty of interesting details about paintings and art masters. It's always fascinating to learn how the observations and logic turn into evidence.
Johnny comes home from school ill and that is tense for a bit. He wants to follow the case information and ask his questions. Toby 2, of course, plays a part in tracking down the culprit. Several times it looks as though the thief might get away as it's a race to find the valuable art. But our sleuths are smarter than most everyone.
I'm really enjoying this series on audio. It's fun with a historical setting. In this case, I thankfully didn't remember the blurb as I think it tells too much, so I left out a bit.
Narration:
I love everything STEVE WEST!!!!!! He's just my favorite. I enjoyed listening to this story at my usual 1.5x speed. I appreciate his work with both male and female voices and he handles the English characters so well. Definitely, his narration enhanced my enjoyment.
Listen to a clip: HERE
November 21, 2022
London, December, 1916, finds Joanna and the two Watsons asked to investigate the theft and destruction of famous masterpieces. The investigation leads to several murders and a mystery that astounds the art world. As the mystery unfolds, interesting facts are revealed about several of the Italian masters. Art and mystery lovers should enjoy this book.
May 26, 2020
THE ART DECEPTION is a very clever novel in which Sherlock Holmes' daughter solves a very tricky crime by an art thief! I loved the way the story was presented and how it unfolded. I almost guarantee there will be many fans for this new series.
September 2, 2020
I want to like these books ,but they are not Marry Russel level. The crazy slashing art all over London near Christmas just did not keep me glued. I picked it up ,and put it down . I love Sherlock , but his daughter can be brilliant ,and not so remote at the same time.. She puts lots of twists in the book, but the complete lesson on art restoration, and framing was to long. The dealing with a deadly illness quickly spreading was more fascinating. I gave it 3.5 , rounded to 4. I hope she gets better, or I will just stop following her. I'm glad people still want to write about Holmes, but she doesn't have to try, and copy Sherlock. There is only one Holmes.
June 16, 2020
The Art of Deception by Leonard Goldberg is a mystery being solved by Joanna, the daughter of Sherlock Holmes and Irene Adler; her husband, John Hudson, Jr; and her father-in-law, John Hudson. It is very Sherlockian with Joanna, especially being every bit as observant and intuitive as her father, with the Hudsons lending their won expertise when necessary. It is about a person who is breaking in and vandalizing great works of at. At first it appears to be simple vandalism, but soon it becomes apparent that the vandal has a purpose beyond destruction. It is up to the trio to determine that purpose and thereby catch the criminal. Of course, they do, with absolutely amazing results.
I am a huge Sherlock fan and have read many series that purport to be continuations of the original, though a wife, or a child. This is one of the better. It is too easy for an author to simply use the name Sherlock Holmes to solve a typical mystery, without those special touches. Goldberg adheres to the things, which made Holmes special, especially his powers of observation and his ability to compile disparate, and seemingly unrelated, clues to solve the mystery. Joanna is not nearly as odd as her father. She has a son, whom she loves, and she has a life, with Hudson, Jr. She lives beyond her ability to solve crimes. She is also an astute reader of personalities beyond the physical things she can observe. The Art of Deception is a wonderful book. Very satisfying. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of The Art of Deception from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #theartofdeception
I am a huge Sherlock fan and have read many series that purport to be continuations of the original, though a wife, or a child. This is one of the better. It is too easy for an author to simply use the name Sherlock Holmes to solve a typical mystery, without those special touches. Goldberg adheres to the things, which made Holmes special, especially his powers of observation and his ability to compile disparate, and seemingly unrelated, clues to solve the mystery. Joanna is not nearly as odd as her father. She has a son, whom she loves, and she has a life, with Hudson, Jr. She lives beyond her ability to solve crimes. She is also an astute reader of personalities beyond the physical things she can observe. The Art of Deception is a wonderful book. Very satisfying. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of The Art of Deception from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #theartofdeception
June 7, 2020
I haven’t read a Sherlock Holmes book in ages; but thanks to goodreads, the author and published I did get the opportunity to read this ARC; a daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mystery. We have all of the basic characters, although Sherlock has passed away, Dr. Watson is still alive and very active in criminal apprehension. Sherlock’s daughter, Joanne her son from her first marriage (she was widowed) Dr. Watson and his son, Joanne’s new husband live and work together.
Scotland yard has approached the Watson family to assist in a London crime spree; someone is breaking into private homes and art galleries and slashing valuable Renaissance paintings of women. Joanne immediately realizes something that Scotland Yard has missed; the canvas is slashed, and pulled, but the backing has not a mark. Whoever the culprit is, they are searching for something.
Joanne believes that the culprits are a couple of restorers that worked at a London gallery, and the more she learns, the more she knows she is on the correct path. One of the art restorers was killed in a fire in prison, or was he? The other seems to have vanished to Australia, or could this be a misdirection? She must search through bodies and paintings to learn the truth.
Joanne keeps a few clues to herself as she develops a plan to capture the culprit; will her plan work? Will more paintings be destroyed? Will someone else be hurt or murdered? While Joanne is certain she is on the right track, her plan can still go astray….
5 Star Book!
Scotland yard has approached the Watson family to assist in a London crime spree; someone is breaking into private homes and art galleries and slashing valuable Renaissance paintings of women. Joanne immediately realizes something that Scotland Yard has missed; the canvas is slashed, and pulled, but the backing has not a mark. Whoever the culprit is, they are searching for something.
Joanne believes that the culprits are a couple of restorers that worked at a London gallery, and the more she learns, the more she knows she is on the correct path. One of the art restorers was killed in a fire in prison, or was he? The other seems to have vanished to Australia, or could this be a misdirection? She must search through bodies and paintings to learn the truth.
Joanne keeps a few clues to herself as she develops a plan to capture the culprit; will her plan work? Will more paintings be destroyed? Will someone else be hurt or murdered? While Joanne is certain she is on the right track, her plan can still go astray….
5 Star Book!
June 16, 2020
The Art of Deception is book 4 of “The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries”.
Since this book was my first read by this author, I had to read the previous books summary.
Its 1912, the story is taking place in London, where Dr. Watson, his son and Joanna (Sherlock Holmes daughter) are investigating their recent case. Someone is breaking into private homes and different art galleries and rips paintings. As if he is looking for something hidden behind these canvases.
In one of the swift escapes of the Hawk and Evans Art Gallery the suspect loses his scarf and leaves it on the floor. this scarf becomes a lead their investigation.
Joanna finds the answer to so many questions by examining this shabby scarf. Facts like financial status, characteristic and size of the suspect.
We also get to know Joanna’s son, John, he is away at school. There is Cholera Epidemic going on at Johns school that gave me a lot of anxiety since we are dealing with a similar situation right now during Covid Pandemic.
I enjoyed reading this detective story. I liked how close he Watson family members were. The affluent explanation of the art works and mentioning different well-known artists in the story.
What I hope to see in the next book is more developed characters.
I do recommend this book to the reader of detective and mystery stories.
Many Thanks to Minotaur books for this gifted copy.
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Since this book was my first read by this author, I had to read the previous books summary.
Its 1912, the story is taking place in London, where Dr. Watson, his son and Joanna (Sherlock Holmes daughter) are investigating their recent case. Someone is breaking into private homes and different art galleries and rips paintings. As if he is looking for something hidden behind these canvases.
In one of the swift escapes of the Hawk and Evans Art Gallery the suspect loses his scarf and leaves it on the floor. this scarf becomes a lead their investigation.
Joanna finds the answer to so many questions by examining this shabby scarf. Facts like financial status, characteristic and size of the suspect.
We also get to know Joanna’s son, John, he is away at school. There is Cholera Epidemic going on at Johns school that gave me a lot of anxiety since we are dealing with a similar situation right now during Covid Pandemic.
I enjoyed reading this detective story. I liked how close he Watson family members were. The affluent explanation of the art works and mentioning different well-known artists in the story.
What I hope to see in the next book is more developed characters.
I do recommend this book to the reader of detective and mystery stories.
Many Thanks to Minotaur books for this gifted copy.
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June 20, 2020
[I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.]
I enjoyed this daughter of Sherlock Holmes mystery. I learned a few things about art that made me want to go out and learn more.
Even though we know who is vandalizing the artwork, we don't know what exactly he is looking for until close to the end of the book or how he will be caught. The author even threw in a few accomplices that I suspected, but then didn't suspect how much involvement they had. Actually, I was wrong about one of the accomplice's involvement and to what extent they were involved in this.
This book reminded me a bit of Karen Odden's "A Trace of Deceit," which is really good, minus the Sherlock Holmes references.
Even though this is #4 in the series, you can read it as a standalone. The author does clarify that Joanna is a widow, but remarried Dr. Watson's son (who is also a doctor). She has a son from her first marriage, who is just as inquisitive and smart as herself and Sherlock.
I do not recommend eating while reading this book. Cholera is mentioned and in detail. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Overall, I highly recommend for those who like Sherlock Holmes type mysteries. I plan on ordering the author's backlist, because I love these kind of mysteries.
I enjoyed this daughter of Sherlock Holmes mystery. I learned a few things about art that made me want to go out and learn more.
Even though we know who is vandalizing the artwork, we don't know what exactly he is looking for until close to the end of the book or how he will be caught. The author even threw in a few accomplices that I suspected, but then didn't suspect how much involvement they had. Actually, I was wrong about one of the accomplice's involvement and to what extent they were involved in this.
This book reminded me a bit of Karen Odden's "A Trace of Deceit," which is really good, minus the Sherlock Holmes references.
Even though this is #4 in the series, you can read it as a standalone. The author does clarify that Joanna is a widow, but remarried Dr. Watson's son (who is also a doctor). She has a son from her first marriage, who is just as inquisitive and smart as herself and Sherlock.
I do not recommend eating while reading this book. Cholera is mentioned and in detail. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Overall, I highly recommend for those who like Sherlock Holmes type mysteries. I plan on ordering the author's backlist, because I love these kind of mysteries.
June 6, 2020
I am somewhat torn about what I think of this book. The actual mystery and how it was solved was pretty interesting. The main character, the daughter of Sherlock Holmes, was just plain annoying. She came across as a complete know it all. I won a copy of this book from GoodReads so wanted to finish the book so I could write my review. If someone I knew had given me this book I do not think I would have finished reading it. The main character came across as such a know it all and thinking herself so much better than others that I found it somewhat difficult a couple of times just not to give up on this one. The actual mystery and the information about artists and their painting was really pretty interesting. I actually spent a bit of time researching some of the paintings and artists mentioned in the story. So I am torn as the book on the whole was pretty good but the main character was so annoying, at least to me, that she really took away from my enjoyment of the book.
June 10, 2020
I adore Sherlock Holmes. I heard about the Daughter of Sherlock Holmes series by Leonard Goldberg as a suggestion when I clicked on the cover. Goldberg does a fabulous job with a nod to the famous detective and including Watson as an elder consultant on the case. The mystery flows well and reminds me a lot of Holmes' style of solving a case. I love watching Joanna solve the mystery and her train of thoughts as she works through and explains the cases to those around her. The mystery was different and held enough why and who done it to capture my mystery loving mind. I really enjoy the clean mystery aspect, so I can recommend the story to even little fans who love a good mystery. I really hope there are going to be more novels in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of The Art of Deception by Leonard Goldberg from the publishing company, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of The Art of Deception by Leonard Goldberg from the publishing company, but the opinions stated are all my own.
July 27, 2020
Usually I complain about detective fiction that over-inflates the problem--"we must find the killer or it means the end of civilization as we know it!" But this book starts with what is an important problem--vandalism of art works--but maybe not important enough to bring in the late Sherlock Holmes' daughter Joanna. But there she is, finding recondite solutions to what the police think are unimportant issues. Never mind that the reader is there neck and neck with Joanna, we know she's brilliant because her husband--Dr. Watson's son--tells us so. There's a slightly pointless subplot about Joanna's son by her first husband (Sherlock's grandson, if you're keeping track) getting sick at Eton--designed to humanize her, I suspect.
April 28, 2020
The Art of Deception was well-played and aptly named. I had decided that this was the year to venture out to read other genres that I don't usually read, such as mystery. I am glad that I did. As a result of how interesting this book was, I hope to go back and read the other books in this series. I will also pass this on to my dad as a good read for him!
The Holmes clan has a mystery to solve. Who is the art gallery thief? How doe he or they keep getting away with repeated vandalism? This book will teach you a lot about paintings and art if you don't already have a background. It will also show you how intelligent criminals can be when trying to rip off highly valued and expensive items.
I liked the background provided, as well. The time period was when many people died of cholera. Now, I highly recommend that if you are reading this book during Covid, which I did, that you might want to take it slowly, only read a few chapters at a time, and not too close to bedtime. I was already anxious when I started this book, and a lot of the similarities between two major worldwide diseases almost became too much for me to handle. But, this is only a small part of the book, and just keep going, as it will be all right.
The character I enjoyed most in the book was Joanna. Very intelligent, detailed, ready for action, and I laughed at how she got the best of one of the characters toward the end of the story. Also, she is a durable character, had suffered a lot of hardships, but was moving forward. I so very much identified with her. However, she was not the narrator. Read to find out who was!
The Holmes clan has a mystery to solve. Who is the art gallery thief? How doe he or they keep getting away with repeated vandalism? This book will teach you a lot about paintings and art if you don't already have a background. It will also show you how intelligent criminals can be when trying to rip off highly valued and expensive items.
I liked the background provided, as well. The time period was when many people died of cholera. Now, I highly recommend that if you are reading this book during Covid, which I did, that you might want to take it slowly, only read a few chapters at a time, and not too close to bedtime. I was already anxious when I started this book, and a lot of the similarities between two major worldwide diseases almost became too much for me to handle. But, this is only a small part of the book, and just keep going, as it will be all right.
The character I enjoyed most in the book was Joanna. Very intelligent, detailed, ready for action, and I laughed at how she got the best of one of the characters toward the end of the story. Also, she is a durable character, had suffered a lot of hardships, but was moving forward. I so very much identified with her. However, she was not the narrator. Read to find out who was!
August 16, 2020
Review to follow.
September 11, 2020
Another Sherlock Holmes - like adventure. Perhaps a bit stilted but fun to follow.
November 8, 2020
I love these quick easy reads. Sometimes just reading a simple book is pleasure enough.
October 31, 2025
I really enjoy this series, but there are some words (like elucidate and opine) that are seriously overused 😂
June 29, 2020
Enjoyed this book, interesting story and characters.
October 1, 2020
4.5 stars
Loved the deductions that Joanna is able to make and the way she works together with the senior and junior Dr. John Watson to solve the case. The parts about Renaissance art are both informative and fun to read about. I enjoyed this well-written detective story.
Loved the deductions that Joanna is able to make and the way she works together with the senior and junior Dr. John Watson to solve the case. The parts about Renaissance art are both informative and fun to read about. I enjoyed this well-written detective story.
June 10, 2021
Honestly this was a wonderful capor that kept my interest every page I read! I am so glad I got to read this gem of a series and can't wait till abduction of a pretty penny comes out.
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