Sherlock Holmes: The Three Brothers

by S.F. Bennett

On the eve of his wedding, Dr. Watson has his own problems, stumbling upon a mystery involving Sherlock Holmes's elder brother Mycroft. As the case turns to tragedy, Holmes and Watson find themselves attempting to unravel a tangled thread of murder, mayhem and political intrigue that will bring them to the very edge of destruction!

Genres: Mystery

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 4, 2021

Reviews

[Thomas Turley · Rating 5 out of 5]

S.F. Bennett’s first novel, The Secret Diary of Mycroft Holmes (2017), was a generally light-hearted look at the prickly relationship between the senior Holmes and his cadet. It ended with Mycroft meeting Dr. Watson in “The Greek Interpreter” affair. In this new story, we find the Doctor on the verge of marriage, beset by the problems of establishing a household while experiencing distress at leaving Baker Street, which his undemonstrative fellow-lodger seems to share. Two dire events interrupt preparations for the nuptials: first, an unwelcome legacy from Watson’s deceased brother, then—more ominously—the sudden disappearance of Mr. Mycroft Holmes. So begins a case as momentous as any in the canon. The loss of Her Majesty’s “auditor” portends a financial crisis that could bring down the government and set off a European war. Bennett flawlessly develops an exciting story, hinting at skeletons in family closets and unseen hands behind the criminal conspiracy. Ultimately, her novel’s impact goes beyond “detective work,” for she illuminates the great heart so often overshadowed by Sherlock Holmes’ great mind. Before the end, we realize that the truest brothers in this story are not bound by blood. Their partnership will survive Watson’s marriage, and more tales will surely follow. With S.F. Bennett as their author, Conan Doyle’s immortal characters could not be in better hands.

[Lee Hotchkiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

For you lovers of Sherlock Holmes, especially BBC production with Jeremy Brett this one’s for YOU! Fantastic story paired with impeccable characterization- you won’t be disappointed. It was like having a brand new issue of The Strand! Great imagery of old London and realistic story line kept me reading page after page, and no…I’m not related to the author, nor have I met him. But I sure wish he/she would write faster! For a totally satisfying experience - give this one some of your time.

[Christa Saccullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best pastiche yet!!

Outstanding work! This book was so much fun! I was hooked from the first page and reveled in every scene. Along with the pressures of an impending wedding, Dr. Watson has to worry about old family debts, and then the threatening dangers that come with helping to solve cases with his friend, Sherlock Holmes. And a most serious case couldn't have come at a worst time. But if this case isn't solved, Mycroft Holmes may never be seen again and the world as they know it could collapse.
I like this book best for the dialogue, which had me laughing more than once.
This book is definitely worthy of my Sherlock Holmes collection.
I LOVED IT!!!

Christa

[Kevin Klamm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb Holmes and an entertaining story. Watson shone like gold - it was fun throughout. More is called for, if not necessary.

A superb Holmes and an entertaining story. Watson shone like gold - it was fun throughout. More is called for, if not necessary.

[jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

The entire book allowed me to visualize the storyline as I was reading it. I love the small tinges of emotions displayed throughout by both Holmes and Watson(who we know IS a hopeless romantic!) Excellent work. A very entertaining read.

[Janine Islam · Rating 5 out of 5]

treasure of a book

This gem is faithfully written in the style of Sir Conan Doyle and was a delight to read

The author stayed true to the natures of Holme and Watson and the plot is cleverly woven

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic Holmes & Watson story!

[Maryellen Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!

I am a Watson fan, and this book is one of the best I've found! Many complications and scary moments. Highly recommended.

[Christopher Lutz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read. A good mystery set on the eve of Dr Watson’s wedding that’s all about family, friendship, and new chapters in life.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sherlock Holmes finds that his brother is missing, and a lookalike body is discovered. That is the start of this book that finds many mis-identified people and puzzles for him to unravel. There is a lot of twists in this plot and many false leads that make this a very enjoyable read.

[Thaddeus Tuffentsamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

S.F. Bennett has given us a most excellent adventure to delve into. Victorian London is very much alive and well in this novel. Bennett has captured the very essence of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in this immersive adventure. Of all of the pastiche Holmes writers (myself included), this is the closest to Conan Doyle's writings as I have ever experienced. Victorian London comes alive in the descriptions presented in this tale, with the circumstance and even the language of the day (from 130 years ago).

The depictions of Holmes, Watson, Mycroft, Lestrade, and the entire Baker Street ensemble are very much true to the cannon and have every bit of heart of the 'master's' original writing. The relationship between Holmes and Watson is true to character, never once leaving the familiarity of their origins.

Without spoiling the story, I can only but praise this wonderful addition to the Holmes canon. It deserves its place on the shelf next to the original 60 works.

If you are a diehard scholar or even a casual fan of Holmes, you will not be disappointed in this book. I cannot praise it enough.