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Sherlock Holmes Pastiche by Nicholas Meyer #5
The Return of the Pharaoh: From the Reminiscences of John H. Watson, M.D.
"In Nicholas Meyer's The Return of the Pharaoh, Sherlock Holmes returns in an adventure that takes him to Egypt in search of a missing nobleman, a previously undiscovered pharaoh's tomb, and a conspiracy that threatens his very life.With his international bestseller, The Seven Per Cent Solution, Nicholas Meyer brought to light a previously unpublished case of Sherlock Holmes that reinvigorated the world's interest in the first consulting detective. Now, many years later, Meyer is given exclusive access to Dr. Watson's unpublished journal, wherein he details a previously unknown case.In 1910, Dr. John Watson travels to Egypt with his wife Juliet. Her tuberculosis has returned and her doctor recommends a stay at a sanitarium in a dry climate. But while hiswife undergoes treatment, Dr. Watson bumps into an old friend--Sherlock Holmes, in disguise and on a case. An English Duke with a penchant for egyptology has disappeared, leading to enquiries from his wife and the Home Office. Holmes has discovered that the missing duke has indeed vanished from his lavish rooms in Cairo and that he was on the trail of a previous undiscovered and unopened tomb. And that he's only the latest Egyptologist to die or disappear under odd circumstances. With the help of Howard Carter, Holmes and Watson are on the trail of something much bigger, more important, and more sinister than an errant lord"--
379 pages, Library Binding
First published November 9, 2021
234 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Meyer
36 books269 followersNicholas Meyer graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in theater and film-making, & is a film writer, producer, director and novelist best known for his involvement in the Star Trek films. He is also well known as the director for the landmark 1983 TV-Movie "The Day After", for which he was nominated for a Best Director Emmy Award. In 1977, Meyer was nominated for an Adapted Screenplay Academy Award for adapting his own 1974 novel, The Seven-Per-Cent Solution, to the screen.
In addition to his work on Star Trek, Meyer has written several novels, and has written and/or directed several other films.Most notable being the 1983 made-for-television anti-nuclear movie The Day After.
Meyer wrote three Sherlock Holmes novels: The West End Horror, The Canary Trainer, and The Seven-Per-Cent Solution. The latter was Meyer's most famous Holmes novel and the project for which he was best known prior to his Star Trek involvement. It was also adapted into a 1976 film, directed by Herbert Ross, for which Meyer wrote the screenplay.
In addition to his work on Star Trek, Meyer has written several novels, and has written and/or directed several other films.Most notable being the 1983 made-for-television anti-nuclear movie The Day After.
Meyer wrote three Sherlock Holmes novels: The West End Horror, The Canary Trainer, and The Seven-Per-Cent Solution. The latter was Meyer's most famous Holmes novel and the project for which he was best known prior to his Star Trek involvement. It was also adapted into a 1976 film, directed by Herbert Ross, for which Meyer wrote the screenplay.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
November 1, 2021
The 11th Duke of Uxbridge has gone missing on his annual trip to Egypt, the Duchess is upset and needs to find out why she has not heard from him, as well as why her letters have not been returned for over two months. Enter Sherlock Holmes who travels to Egypt and lo and behold he bumps into Dr. Watson who is there with his wife who suffers from TB.
Nicholas Meyer has carved his niche as a successor to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, as he has "used Watson's Notes" to give us some wonderful new books. This is his most recent effort is a fun trip back to 1911 and a bit of a history lesson on Egyptology and excavation into the Valley of the Kings. It is a fun read, and if you do not know a lot about Archeology then this will be a really good read.
I did find it a bit short on Holmes deductive reasonings, but that is my sole criticism.
Nicholas Meyer has carved his niche as a successor to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, as he has "used Watson's Notes" to give us some wonderful new books. This is his most recent effort is a fun trip back to 1911 and a bit of a history lesson on Egyptology and excavation into the Valley of the Kings. It is a fun read, and if you do not know a lot about Archeology then this will be a really good read.
I did find it a bit short on Holmes deductive reasonings, but that is my sole criticism.
November 14, 2021
I have an entire bookshelf dedicated to the original stories, retellings, and new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. I just can't get enough of the character! My shelf, of course, has an old hardback copy of The Seven Percent Solution by this author. When I saw this new book by Meyer, I knew I had to read it. I enjoyed his 2019 book The Adventure of the Peculiar Protocols, and I enjoyed this new story too!
It is 1910. Dr. Watson heads to Egypt with his wife, who suffers from Tuberculosis. While his wife is resting and receiving treatment, Watson unexpectedly bumps into his old friend, Sherlock Holmes. Holmes is investigating a case....and Watson (of course) gets sucked into it with him. With the help of a soon-to-be-famous archeologist, the two old friends are on the case!
Loved this book! Lots of descriptions of Egypt, archaelogy in the early 1900s, the political climate at the time....all wrapped up within a great Sherlock investigation!
I'm definitely on-board to read more of these Watson's Journals/Sherlock mystery tales by Nicholas Meyer. They have the feel of the originals by Arthur Conan Doyle and always keep my attention from start to finish! And, the front cover is awesome!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St Martins Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
It is 1910. Dr. Watson heads to Egypt with his wife, who suffers from Tuberculosis. While his wife is resting and receiving treatment, Watson unexpectedly bumps into his old friend, Sherlock Holmes. Holmes is investigating a case....and Watson (of course) gets sucked into it with him. With the help of a soon-to-be-famous archeologist, the two old friends are on the case!
Loved this book! Lots of descriptions of Egypt, archaelogy in the early 1900s, the political climate at the time....all wrapped up within a great Sherlock investigation!
I'm definitely on-board to read more of these Watson's Journals/Sherlock mystery tales by Nicholas Meyer. They have the feel of the originals by Arthur Conan Doyle and always keep my attention from start to finish! And, the front cover is awesome!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St Martins Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
September 2, 2021
Nicholas Meyer is one of the most reliable writers of contemporary Sherlock Holmes novels. There are a great many such novels out there, and their quality is quite uneven. The Return of the Pharaoh takes Watson to Egypt, along with his wife who is suffering from TB and needs the warm, dry air. Of course, Watson runs into Holmes and the game's afoot. Holmes is looking for a nobleman, who is also an amateur Egyptologist, and who has disappeared after arriving in Egypt for his usual season's digging.
The Holmes-Watson relationship in Meyer's novels balances the affection and independence of the two men. Holmes is a bit warmer than he is in some of the other Holmes variations, but not too much so. The plot is reasonably puzzling, though not as complicated as Conan Doyle's best. The relationship between Watson and his wife is more articulated than in any of the Conan Doyle stories—and it's quite fun to see some of Watson's more outdated views of gender being questioned by his wife.
If you need a Holmes fix, this is a solid title to turn to. I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
The Holmes-Watson relationship in Meyer's novels balances the affection and independence of the two men. Holmes is a bit warmer than he is in some of the other Holmes variations, but not too much so. The plot is reasonably puzzling, though not as complicated as Conan Doyle's best. The relationship between Watson and his wife is more articulated than in any of the Conan Doyle stories—and it's quite fun to see some of Watson's more outdated views of gender being questioned by his wife.
If you need a Holmes fix, this is a solid title to turn to. I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
December 17, 2021
Meyer sets forth a rousing adventure that keeps readers entertained with more corpses littering the pages than the Valley of the Kings.
September 8, 2022
I have a soft spot for the character of Sherlock Holmes and I'll include his trusty sidekick, Watson, to that. I've enjoyed several books with these characters and I've enjoyed several different authors that include this dynamic duo in their stories. Now with that being said, I didn't love this one.
There was an awful lot of sitting around and talking about it every single detail. When there was some actual "action" I liked that much better. So 3 stars for this one.
There was an awful lot of sitting around and talking about it every single detail. When there was some actual "action" I liked that much better. So 3 stars for this one.
July 24, 2021
Nicholas Meyer spent his Covit-19 lockdown writing a new mystery featuring Sherlock Holmes and John H. Watson, M.D. The Return of the Pharaoh takes us to Egypt and the search for unfound tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Holmes is contacted by the wife of one of the many neophytes with Egyptian mania who hoped to discover an unopened tomb and its gold, but who has gone missing.
Watson’s second wife is battling tuberculosis and her physician has suggested he take her to a sanitarium in a dry climate– like Egypt. They see each other at meal times, but otherwise Watson must entertain himself. So, when Holmes shows up undercover on a case, it doesn’t take much to convince him to join in. The problem is that Watson has promised his wife Julia that he would not succumb again to his addiction to Holmes and his cases!
It is 1910 and Holmes’s hair is now silver and Watson’s bad leg plagues him, but the intrepid duo are game. They find themselves in dire straights, caught in a sand storm, and later buried alive. We meet an exotic dancer and spy, travel to the Pyramids of Giza by camel, and board a posh train.
I was excited to meet Howard Carter in the book. Egyptology, Tut’s tomb, the Valley of the Kings, Akhenaton, Queen Nefertiti–they have fascinated me since I was a teen. For those who are have not suffered from Egyptian mania, the history of the Tuthmose dynasty and Egyptology is worked into the story.
It’s a fun romp, a nostalgic revisiting of beloved literary characters, and a great read for those of us suffering from pandemic fatigue and needing a few hours to escape.
Meyer has been entertaining us with new Holmes/Watson stories since 1974 and The Seven-Per-Cent Solution.
I received a free egalley from the publisher through NetGalley. My review is fair and unbiased
Watson’s second wife is battling tuberculosis and her physician has suggested he take her to a sanitarium in a dry climate– like Egypt. They see each other at meal times, but otherwise Watson must entertain himself. So, when Holmes shows up undercover on a case, it doesn’t take much to convince him to join in. The problem is that Watson has promised his wife Julia that he would not succumb again to his addiction to Holmes and his cases!
It is 1910 and Holmes’s hair is now silver and Watson’s bad leg plagues him, but the intrepid duo are game. They find themselves in dire straights, caught in a sand storm, and later buried alive. We meet an exotic dancer and spy, travel to the Pyramids of Giza by camel, and board a posh train.
I was excited to meet Howard Carter in the book. Egyptology, Tut’s tomb, the Valley of the Kings, Akhenaton, Queen Nefertiti–they have fascinated me since I was a teen. For those who are have not suffered from Egyptian mania, the history of the Tuthmose dynasty and Egyptology is worked into the story.
It’s a fun romp, a nostalgic revisiting of beloved literary characters, and a great read for those of us suffering from pandemic fatigue and needing a few hours to escape.
Meyer has been entertaining us with new Holmes/Watson stories since 1974 and The Seven-Per-Cent Solution.
I received a free egalley from the publisher through NetGalley. My review is fair and unbiased
January 16, 2022
An okay enough Sherlock Holmes pastiche, involving mummies, tombs, and (possibly) hidden treasures. I think I would have enjoyed this story more if not for the intrusion of the modern world with all of the references and allusions to Covid. It was one thing to insert it as part of the framing story, perhaps as the book was written during lockdown and ever present on the author's mind. But it was further added to the story by giving Watson's wife tuberculosis, which resulted in quarantine, the wearing of masks, and a 6-foot separation between everyone. This was a bit too on the nose for me. I found those particular sections jarring and distracting. It's a pity, because otherwise it was a nice addition to Meyer's Holmes collection.
February 1, 2024
What a clever fellow. Nicholas Meyer does justice to Holmes and Watson and is the only author working in the "Holmes" genre I am willing to read, besides Doyle himself. This mystery, his latest, is the best yet and I simply enjoyed myself, the entire read. I highly recommend his entire series, which I believe should be read in order. I have preordered his next one, yet to be published. Simply well done.
December 19, 2021
A worthy successor to Arthur Conan Doyle. Not only does he “reveal” unknown cases of Sherlock Holmes that stand up to the originals I think that he gives Sherlock and Watson more personality without changing the essentials that make them so memorable; they are just more.
A case with a pharaoh’s curse. What more could you ask more. Definitely recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
A case with a pharaoh’s curse. What more could you ask more. Definitely recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
December 5, 2024
Nicholas Meyer is the best modern day Sherlock/Watson writer. Totally enjoyed this story about my old friends.
November 15, 2021
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Return of the Pharaoh: From the Reminiscences of John H. Watson, M.D. (Sherlock Holmes Pastiche by Nicholas Meyer #5) by Nicholas Meyer is a fun new Holmes story. Meyer usually always does a good job bringing Holmes and Watson to life and their world as well. I can't resist Holmes or ancient Egypt and this contains a cool combination with a good core mystery. I'm glad Nicholas Meyer got to spend the Covid-19 lockdown working on this new story at least.
The Return of the Pharaoh: From the Reminiscences of John H. Watson, M.D. (Sherlock Holmes Pastiche by Nicholas Meyer #5) by Nicholas Meyer is a fun new Holmes story. Meyer usually always does a good job bringing Holmes and Watson to life and their world as well. I can't resist Holmes or ancient Egypt and this contains a cool combination with a good core mystery. I'm glad Nicholas Meyer got to spend the Covid-19 lockdown working on this new story at least.
January 4, 2022
Dr. Watson takes his wife to Egypt for her health, and surprisingly runs into Sherlock Holmes, who is searching for a missing nobleman. Naturally, since his wife is being taken care of, he throws in his lot with Sherlock, and travels to the Valley of the Kings, where the nobleman and his mistress were thought to be headed, accompanied by the nobleman's wealthy, Brazilian born wife. But there are sinister forces afoot, and soon they are in great danger. Not bad as Holmesian pastiches go, certainly more enjoyable than Holmes' recent visit to Russia (by the same author). It does feel strange to be in archaeological Egypt and not have Amelia Peabody show up!
November 5, 2021
Nicholas Meyer's The Return of the Pharaoh is an adventure set in the later years of the illustrious detective and his faithful friend that takes them to Egypt in 1911 to track down the missing Duke of Uxbridge, who was on a treasure hunt of a never-opened pharaonic tomb. Nicholas Meyer, of course, is a celebrated author and director who has penned his own unique Sherlock Holmes mysteries and has helped Captain Kirk navigate through equally turbulent voyages.
In The Return of the Pharaoh, Meyer’s writing is top notch. His style is completely immersive not only of the period but also of the location. And man, is it terribly boring.
While Dr. Watson finds himself in Egypt with his wife, he learns that Sherlock Holmes is also there on a case helping a Duchess tracking down her missing husband. Instead of finding the duke, the pair find a trail of corpses leading them to the sealed tomb of pharaoh Tuthmose V.
The plot could have been loaded with enough snares and traps to make Indiana Jones jealous of Holmes’ remarkable intelligence as each is thwarted. The long Star of Egypt train ride the heroes embark upon could have thick with an Agatha Christie mystery. Alas, other than a rather exciting sandstorm they become trapped in, neither of those instances occur. Holmes sips tea and postulates. Watson complains and stays loyal. The story is overall entertaining but well short of magnificence.
Perhaps modern-day fans are too comfortable with Robert Downey, Jr’s pugilist Holmes, or Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock with the hip scarves and Siri-like recall. And both, by the way, are fantastic adaptations. The Return of the Pharaoh is akin to seeing movie action heroes well past their prime trying to perform in one last escapade. Like Eastwood, Sutherland, and Garner in Space Cowboys. The memory of their tales are broad and snappy and, when needed, menacing. Unfortunately, time dulls any such danger. And a Sherlock Holmes mystery should be anything but dull.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of this new mystery. I remain a steadfast fan of Nic Meyer.
...and a fan of other reviews that can be found over @ Joe's.
In The Return of the Pharaoh, Meyer’s writing is top notch. His style is completely immersive not only of the period but also of the location. And man, is it terribly boring.
While Dr. Watson finds himself in Egypt with his wife, he learns that Sherlock Holmes is also there on a case helping a Duchess tracking down her missing husband. Instead of finding the duke, the pair find a trail of corpses leading them to the sealed tomb of pharaoh Tuthmose V.
The plot could have been loaded with enough snares and traps to make Indiana Jones jealous of Holmes’ remarkable intelligence as each is thwarted. The long Star of Egypt train ride the heroes embark upon could have thick with an Agatha Christie mystery. Alas, other than a rather exciting sandstorm they become trapped in, neither of those instances occur. Holmes sips tea and postulates. Watson complains and stays loyal. The story is overall entertaining but well short of magnificence.
Perhaps modern-day fans are too comfortable with Robert Downey, Jr’s pugilist Holmes, or Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock with the hip scarves and Siri-like recall. And both, by the way, are fantastic adaptations. The Return of the Pharaoh is akin to seeing movie action heroes well past their prime trying to perform in one last escapade. Like Eastwood, Sutherland, and Garner in Space Cowboys. The memory of their tales are broad and snappy and, when needed, menacing. Unfortunately, time dulls any such danger. And a Sherlock Holmes mystery should be anything but dull.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of this new mystery. I remain a steadfast fan of Nic Meyer.
...and a fan of other reviews that can be found over @ Joe's.
Read
November 5, 2023Read up to page 100. Story did not hold my interest. Perhaps I'll pick it up another time to see if it reads better for me.
November 14, 2021
It is no secret that I am a huge Sherlock Holmes fan. What impresses me the most about Nicholas Meyer’s latest effort is that he refers to himself as the editor instead of the writer. Everyone in the know will immediately smirk at this literary wink to the great Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who made it clear that he was merely utilizing the journals written by John H. Watson, M.D. to compose his stories.
In the case of THE RETURN OF THE PHARAOH, Meyer indicates on the front cover that the story is taken “From the Reminiscences” of Dr. Watson. I just love it! To that point, the Introduction is set in February 2020. Meyer receives a letter from Hikaru Mishima, the President and CEO of Kurosawa Heavy Industries, Ltd. in Tokyo. It makes reference to Watson’s journals, which instantly make Meyer recall the previous time he had adapted a novel out of those pages --- THE ADVENTURE OF THE PECULIAR PROTOCOLS.
The journals open with a quote from German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche: “Nothing not written in blood is worth reading.” These pages are definitely infused with blood in a symbolic sense as Watson immediately refers to a case that he, Holmes and a man named Howard Carter have been working on that already involves seven known corpses.
At this point in his life, Watson is somewhat reluctant to leave his ailing wife, Juliet, but the call from Holmes can often become all-consuming and hard to avoid. It is 1911, and with the Egyptology craze in full force, a long cruise from London to Egypt is in order. Holmes is primarily tasked with locating a British royal: Michael, the Duke of Uxbridge. His strong-willed Brazilian wife and brother-in-law have hired Holmes, and they stay closely connected to the case.
Holmes decides to travel under the guise of Colonel Arbuthnot. Upon reaching Egypt, the group teams up with local experts on all things Egyptology. The investigation goes in many different directions, and at one point Holmes suspects that the Duke of Uxbridge may have been involved with an exotic dancer in Cairo. When they go the club where she performs, they are disappointed to find out that she is a no-show, which raises red flags for Holmes.
While looking through Watson’s notes, Holmes and Watson come across the term VR61, which is actually a misspelling for VK61, leading them to the Valley of Kings. The story starts to more closely resemble an Indiana Jones tale as the search for answers involves texts, maps and the legends spread by the locals. While traveling on the boat The Star of Egypt, they are involved in a crash that ends up taking 34 lives. Someone definitely does not want to be investigated by Holmes.
The finale of THE RETURN OF THE PHARAOH is a race, and readers will have difficulty catching their breath. Holmes constantly keeps Watson on his toes with his thought pattern and dialogue jumping all over the place. This is not only another great mystery to solve but a grand adventure. As “editor” Nicholas Meyer puts it, it turns out that there are worse ways to endure the COVID-19 lockdown than to spend it in the company of Sherlock Holmes.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
In the case of THE RETURN OF THE PHARAOH, Meyer indicates on the front cover that the story is taken “From the Reminiscences” of Dr. Watson. I just love it! To that point, the Introduction is set in February 2020. Meyer receives a letter from Hikaru Mishima, the President and CEO of Kurosawa Heavy Industries, Ltd. in Tokyo. It makes reference to Watson’s journals, which instantly make Meyer recall the previous time he had adapted a novel out of those pages --- THE ADVENTURE OF THE PECULIAR PROTOCOLS.
The journals open with a quote from German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche: “Nothing not written in blood is worth reading.” These pages are definitely infused with blood in a symbolic sense as Watson immediately refers to a case that he, Holmes and a man named Howard Carter have been working on that already involves seven known corpses.
At this point in his life, Watson is somewhat reluctant to leave his ailing wife, Juliet, but the call from Holmes can often become all-consuming and hard to avoid. It is 1911, and with the Egyptology craze in full force, a long cruise from London to Egypt is in order. Holmes is primarily tasked with locating a British royal: Michael, the Duke of Uxbridge. His strong-willed Brazilian wife and brother-in-law have hired Holmes, and they stay closely connected to the case.
Holmes decides to travel under the guise of Colonel Arbuthnot. Upon reaching Egypt, the group teams up with local experts on all things Egyptology. The investigation goes in many different directions, and at one point Holmes suspects that the Duke of Uxbridge may have been involved with an exotic dancer in Cairo. When they go the club where she performs, they are disappointed to find out that she is a no-show, which raises red flags for Holmes.
While looking through Watson’s notes, Holmes and Watson come across the term VR61, which is actually a misspelling for VK61, leading them to the Valley of Kings. The story starts to more closely resemble an Indiana Jones tale as the search for answers involves texts, maps and the legends spread by the locals. While traveling on the boat The Star of Egypt, they are involved in a crash that ends up taking 34 lives. Someone definitely does not want to be investigated by Holmes.
The finale of THE RETURN OF THE PHARAOH is a race, and readers will have difficulty catching their breath. Holmes constantly keeps Watson on his toes with his thought pattern and dialogue jumping all over the place. This is not only another great mystery to solve but a grand adventure. As “editor” Nicholas Meyer puts it, it turns out that there are worse ways to endure the COVID-19 lockdown than to spend it in the company of Sherlock Holmes.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
May 3, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Return of the Pharaoh is the 5th Holmes & Watson pastiche by Nicholas Meyer. Released 9th Nov. 2021 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 272 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats (paperback due out in Nov 2022). It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a very well written homage, done with respect and insight, by a talented author who is gifted at his craft. The characterizations, obviously, are paramount, and he does them justice. There are canonical fans who likely won't be satisfied with *anything* added to the genre, but really, this is a respectful and eminently readable book.
This installment sees Dr. Watson accompanying his wife to Egypt, to a sanatorium to try to improve her health after a recent tuberculosis diagnosis. Soon he's embroiled in a curious missing persons case with Holmes and the game is most definitely afoot. The plotting, denouement, and resolution are satisfying and complete. The author has also listed a short bibliography of source material at the back of the book which is worth a perusal.
Four stars. It's a diverting read and while it's not *actually* Conan Doyle, it could easily *have been*. One interesting thing to me is how much effort writers must expend writing in the style of another writer. I believe it craves more talent and a great deal of humility to suppress their natural voices in order to let the other writer's voice come out clearly. This one succeeds.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Return of the Pharaoh is the 5th Holmes & Watson pastiche by Nicholas Meyer. Released 9th Nov. 2021 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 272 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats (paperback due out in Nov 2022). It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a very well written homage, done with respect and insight, by a talented author who is gifted at his craft. The characterizations, obviously, are paramount, and he does them justice. There are canonical fans who likely won't be satisfied with *anything* added to the genre, but really, this is a respectful and eminently readable book.
This installment sees Dr. Watson accompanying his wife to Egypt, to a sanatorium to try to improve her health after a recent tuberculosis diagnosis. Soon he's embroiled in a curious missing persons case with Holmes and the game is most definitely afoot. The plotting, denouement, and resolution are satisfying and complete. The author has also listed a short bibliography of source material at the back of the book which is worth a perusal.
Four stars. It's a diverting read and while it's not *actually* Conan Doyle, it could easily *have been*. One interesting thing to me is how much effort writers must expend writing in the style of another writer. I believe it craves more talent and a great deal of humility to suppress their natural voices in order to let the other writer's voice come out clearly. This one succeeds.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
September 10, 2022
For those of us who adore the canon, there can never be enough Sherlock Holmes stories.
Most of us prefer those original tales penned by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (in the voice of John H. Watson, M.D.), though we're quite willing to accept new adventures written by admiring imitators--providing they show respect for the characters and don't stray too far from the voice and style of the master.
Nicholas Meyer published his first Holmes pastiche, The Seven-Percent-Solution, in 1974 and followed its success with three others. Now he's sent the famous pair off on a new adventure, one that takes them away from their usual haunts and into new territory.
Watson's wife, Juliet, is consumptive. On the advice of her physician, they journey to a sanitorium in Egypt in 1910 in hope of an improvement in her condition. While Juliet is undergoing treatment, Watson wanders about Cairo in search of diversion. He's surprised to encounter Holmes in disguise as an officer of the Northumberland Fusiliers, his own old regiment.
Sherlock explains he's on a case, in search of an English duke who has gone missing while on the track of a previously undiscovered tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh. Naturally, Watson must join his friend and record the adventure as he has in the past for Sherlock's many fans. It isn't long before they learn the errant lord isn't the first to disappear or die in the pursuit.
Adding interest to the plot is the introduction of Howard Carter, discoverer of Tutankhamen's tomb, as an ally in their search for the missing duke and the tomb he sought.
There's enough action in this short novel to please the most jaded of readers including more murder, a sandstorm that wrecks a train carrying the investigators, and an entrapment that nearly claims their lives.
It may not be quite up to The Seven-Percent-Solution, but it's an entertaining and recommended read.
Most of us prefer those original tales penned by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (in the voice of John H. Watson, M.D.), though we're quite willing to accept new adventures written by admiring imitators--providing they show respect for the characters and don't stray too far from the voice and style of the master.
Nicholas Meyer published his first Holmes pastiche, The Seven-Percent-Solution, in 1974 and followed its success with three others. Now he's sent the famous pair off on a new adventure, one that takes them away from their usual haunts and into new territory.
Watson's wife, Juliet, is consumptive. On the advice of her physician, they journey to a sanitorium in Egypt in 1910 in hope of an improvement in her condition. While Juliet is undergoing treatment, Watson wanders about Cairo in search of diversion. He's surprised to encounter Holmes in disguise as an officer of the Northumberland Fusiliers, his own old regiment.
Sherlock explains he's on a case, in search of an English duke who has gone missing while on the track of a previously undiscovered tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh. Naturally, Watson must join his friend and record the adventure as he has in the past for Sherlock's many fans. It isn't long before they learn the errant lord isn't the first to disappear or die in the pursuit.
Adding interest to the plot is the introduction of Howard Carter, discoverer of Tutankhamen's tomb, as an ally in their search for the missing duke and the tomb he sought.
There's enough action in this short novel to please the most jaded of readers including more murder, a sandstorm that wrecks a train carrying the investigators, and an entrapment that nearly claims their lives.
It may not be quite up to The Seven-Percent-Solution, but it's an entertaining and recommended read.
November 9, 2021
Dr. John Watson travels with his wife Juliet to a sanitarium in Egypt to treat her tuberculosis. While there, he bumps into a disguised Sherlock Holmes and thus is set on the path of a new mystery in The Return of the Pharaoh by Nicholas Meyer.
Holmes has been engaged by the wife of the Duke of Uxbridge to find her husband. The Duke is an avid Egyptologist and makes regular trips to Egypt in search of treasure. This trip, however, he’d come with a map that he believed would lead him to an undiscovered tomb and great wealth. Not only has the Duke gone missing, but it appears as if the very hotel room in which he had been staying has also disappeared! It is up to Holmes and Watson to follow the scant breadcrumbs and discover the whereabouts of the missing Duke.
Meyer packs the book with authentic details that make Egypt in 1910 come alive. From the political climate to behaviors, dress, and social mores. Watson is particularly torn between being there for his wife and following his own desire to trail and assist Holmes in a case that becomes more fascinating and perplexing by the day. As they learn of the deaths of other Egyptologists and are themselves attacked, Watson is further conflicted about how much to share with his wife.
The action really takes off in the latter part of the book, which includes a race against a sandstorm and an adventure in an underground tomb. Sherlock Holmes is such a distinctive character in his mannerisms, his habits, and most of all his observations and deductive reasoning. If the characters were not named in this story, I’m not sure it would be obvious that it was Holmes at work. The mystery is a little low-key and there are no great “ah-ha” moments that let you marvel at the intellect of the great detective.
The Return of the Pharoah is a fun adventure with a setting that feels authentic and some rousing action sequences.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
Holmes has been engaged by the wife of the Duke of Uxbridge to find her husband. The Duke is an avid Egyptologist and makes regular trips to Egypt in search of treasure. This trip, however, he’d come with a map that he believed would lead him to an undiscovered tomb and great wealth. Not only has the Duke gone missing, but it appears as if the very hotel room in which he had been staying has also disappeared! It is up to Holmes and Watson to follow the scant breadcrumbs and discover the whereabouts of the missing Duke.
Meyer packs the book with authentic details that make Egypt in 1910 come alive. From the political climate to behaviors, dress, and social mores. Watson is particularly torn between being there for his wife and following his own desire to trail and assist Holmes in a case that becomes more fascinating and perplexing by the day. As they learn of the deaths of other Egyptologists and are themselves attacked, Watson is further conflicted about how much to share with his wife.
The action really takes off in the latter part of the book, which includes a race against a sandstorm and an adventure in an underground tomb. Sherlock Holmes is such a distinctive character in his mannerisms, his habits, and most of all his observations and deductive reasoning. If the characters were not named in this story, I’m not sure it would be obvious that it was Holmes at work. The mystery is a little low-key and there are no great “ah-ha” moments that let you marvel at the intellect of the great detective.
The Return of the Pharoah is a fun adventure with a setting that feels authentic and some rousing action sequences.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
October 24, 2021
There are very few better ways to spend time, than in the company of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. I love how the story is presented. Author Nicholas Meyers takes from one of Dr. Watson's journals, details from a case that Watson never got to publish and writes the account we read here.
The presentation is very authentic to the original adventures and I enjoyed the footnotes that explain references to other past adventures and historic details.
Watson is in Egypt with his wife, as she recovers from tuberculosis. As he gets restless he decides to explore and stumbles into Sherlock Holmes, in disguise on a case. Watson is definitely annoyed when he first meets his friend because Holmes has "borrowed" Watson's regimental tie for part of his disguise. Soon Watson finds himself pulled into Holmes's Investigation as in the old days. At first the case is just a missing person, but as the bodies begin to pile up it is obvious there is something much greater at stake.
I also enjoyed the interactions between Watson and his wife Juliet. Watson is very close with the details he gives his wife about Holmes's case and she sees right through him. When she confronts him and pins his ears back about it that was fun.
I will most definitely read more of Nicholas Meyer's Sherlock Holmes stories, this one is the first one I've experienced and I'm sure I've been missing out.
Thank you to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for the opportunity to experience this adventure filled e-ARC.
The presentation is very authentic to the original adventures and I enjoyed the footnotes that explain references to other past adventures and historic details.
Watson is in Egypt with his wife, as she recovers from tuberculosis. As he gets restless he decides to explore and stumbles into Sherlock Holmes, in disguise on a case. Watson is definitely annoyed when he first meets his friend because Holmes has "borrowed" Watson's regimental tie for part of his disguise. Soon Watson finds himself pulled into Holmes's Investigation as in the old days. At first the case is just a missing person, but as the bodies begin to pile up it is obvious there is something much greater at stake.
I also enjoyed the interactions between Watson and his wife Juliet. Watson is very close with the details he gives his wife about Holmes's case and she sees right through him. When she confronts him and pins his ears back about it that was fun.
I will most definitely read more of Nicholas Meyer's Sherlock Holmes stories, this one is the first one I've experienced and I'm sure I've been missing out.
Thank you to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for the opportunity to experience this adventure filled e-ARC.
November 7, 2021
The Story:
Set in 1910, Dr. John Watson travels to Egypt with his wife, Juliet after a recommendation from her doctor to stay in a sanitarium in a dry climate due to her tuberculosis. While in Egypt, Watson bumps into Holmes and inadvertently got himself embroiled in the case of an English Duke who has mysteriously disappeared.
My thoughts: This was my first time reading this author's book and I enjoyed this Sherlock Holmes pastiche! This book has all the Sherlock Holmes vibes and there were many times I thought I was reading Doyle's work!
The Egypt setting is definitely intriguing. I liked learning all about Egypt and pharaohs in this book and I can see that there was a lot of effort put into the research of Egypt history! I loved reading all the interesting footnotes too! It added depth to the story!
The investigative work done by both Holmes and Watson was really interesting to read which makes this an intense plot with twists and turns throughout the story.
Holmes and Watson have always been my favourite characters but I do wish that there was more banter between them. Albeit the fifth book of the series, I have no problem picking this up and did not feel that I was missing out on anything.
Overall, a fun and entertaining Sherlock Holmes pastiche and I recommend it to all Sherlock Holmes fans!
Pub. Date: Nov 9th, 2021
***Thank you Minotaur Books and author Nicholas Meyer for this gifted review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
My thoughts: This was my first time reading this author's book and I enjoyed this Sherlock Holmes pastiche! This book has all the Sherlock Holmes vibes and there were many times I thought I was reading Doyle's work!
The Egypt setting is definitely intriguing. I liked learning all about Egypt and pharaohs in this book and I can see that there was a lot of effort put into the research of Egypt history! I loved reading all the interesting footnotes too! It added depth to the story!
The investigative work done by both Holmes and Watson was really interesting to read which makes this an intense plot with twists and turns throughout the story.
Holmes and Watson have always been my favourite characters but I do wish that there was more banter between them. Albeit the fifth book of the series, I have no problem picking this up and did not feel that I was missing out on anything.
Overall, a fun and entertaining Sherlock Holmes pastiche and I recommend it to all Sherlock Holmes fans!
Pub. Date: Nov 9th, 2021
***Thank you Minotaur Books and author Nicholas Meyer for this gifted review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
November 26, 2021
Mr. Meyer is my friend and client, so I came to this book with a strong desire to like it. Sometimes high expectations for a book can be a burden, but when they are fulfilled as they were here, it's a pleasing vindication. This is my third Nicholas Meyer Holmes book, and they have all delivered. Many years ago I read and enjoyed all of the original Holmes stories, and though I can't claim to be deeply knowledgeable of Holmesiana, a lot of it has stuck with me. And I know enough to be able to recognize that this is a natural extension of the universe and characters that Doyle created. Dr. Watson is a bit smarter and deeper than I remember him being in the Doyle stories. Holmes is slightly less of a perfect genius and even shows occasional glimmers of emotion. But for both characters these differences from Doyle feel like a natural evolution, a way to sustain and deepen them without jumping the shark. And most importantly, all of the little details are right, and are even footnoted in few places. That's key for the core fans who know everything, but it is also fun for casual lovers of Holmes like me.
January 15, 2022
I'm so into this series! It's a genuine homage to the original Holmes character and books instead of a cheap milking of a classic. The stories are told as if John H. Watson, M.D. was a real historical person who wrote about the adventures of his friend, Sherlock Holmes and it's so spot-on with the details of time and place, I dare say a bit more detailed than the original books, that it feels real.
Holmes and Watson go to Egypt to investigate a missing Lord who was an amateur archaeologist that may have discovered the unopened tomb of Thutmose. For anyone who knows me, this is obviously a subject I fully geek out over and was so into, I read this in two days.
Essentially, a Lord has disappeared in the desert so of course, there are potential enemies everywhere, suspected spies, bad desert weather and wind, and rumors of treasures to add complications for Holmes and Watson, but really, the story is a neat and tidy mystery that you'd expect with lots of adventure, fast-paced thriller moments, and a satisfactory ending. I highly recommend this one to all fans of mystery and Holmes.
Holmes and Watson go to Egypt to investigate a missing Lord who was an amateur archaeologist that may have discovered the unopened tomb of Thutmose. For anyone who knows me, this is obviously a subject I fully geek out over and was so into, I read this in two days.
Essentially, a Lord has disappeared in the desert so of course, there are potential enemies everywhere, suspected spies, bad desert weather and wind, and rumors of treasures to add complications for Holmes and Watson, but really, the story is a neat and tidy mystery that you'd expect with lots of adventure, fast-paced thriller moments, and a satisfactory ending. I highly recommend this one to all fans of mystery and Holmes.
April 4, 2023
Reading along and some things are not working.
- We're to accept that a 65-year old Holmes can scale a 7-story building exterior?
- And he and Watson can crawl up and down a long sloping passage?
- The identities of Holmes and Watson are under question. The person does not believe Holmes is Holmes, so Holmes tells him "this is Watson - he can vouch for me". Watson does, and the guy believes them? It's a circular reference. Why doesn't he rather conclude that the two are in it together?
- The writing is so crufty, clogged with all this unnecessary stuff, and an apparent desire to employ exotic words like "antimassacar".
- But even worse, let's say that's the way Watson writes. But within the story, characters tell stories of things that happened to them, including Holmes, and even Holmes tells stories in that same way. Wouldn't Holmes tell a story in a much more brusque and efficient way?
- Suggests that Akhkenaten & co. suffered from Marfan's syndrome, but DNA tests have found this is not the case.
While the book is pretty slow at first, after page 100 or so it picks up quite a bit and includes some rather good scenes on a train and at the pyramids.
- We're to accept that a 65-year old Holmes can scale a 7-story building exterior?
- And he and Watson can crawl up and down a long sloping passage?
- The identities of Holmes and Watson are under question. The person does not believe Holmes is Holmes, so Holmes tells him "this is Watson - he can vouch for me". Watson does, and the guy believes them? It's a circular reference. Why doesn't he rather conclude that the two are in it together?
- The writing is so crufty, clogged with all this unnecessary stuff, and an apparent desire to employ exotic words like "antimassacar".
- But even worse, let's say that's the way Watson writes. But within the story, characters tell stories of things that happened to them, including Holmes, and even Holmes tells stories in that same way. Wouldn't Holmes tell a story in a much more brusque and efficient way?
- Suggests that Akhkenaten & co. suffered from Marfan's syndrome, but DNA tests have found this is not the case.
While the book is pretty slow at first, after page 100 or so it picks up quite a bit and includes some rather good scenes on a train and at the pyramids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2021
Hikaru Mishima buys a reputed John Watson journal which features an unknown bizarre case that took place around 1910. He sends it off to the narrator who then tells the tale. Dr. Watson's second wife Juliet has tuberculosis and a doctor advises a place in Cairo for her to recover. The couple are only allowed contact for meals so Watson finds himself wandering and who should appear at the favorite hotel of British tourists but Sherlock Holmes. The detective has been hired by the Duchess of Uxbridge to find her missing husband. The characters they meet, even Howard Carter makes an appearance, are interesting and even the weather is against the intrepid duo. Anyone who likes archaeology, Egyptian history, or Homes and Watson stories will like this entertaining mystery. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2021
Another fine entry in the pastiche of Arthur Conan Doyle. Watson is Eygpt bound in 1910 seeking warmer, dryer air in hopes of curing his wife of tuberculosis. While Juliet is undergoing treatment Watson bumps into Holmes undercover on a case seeking a missing Egyptologist. Finding that their clients husband isn’t the first Egyptologist to go missing or be killed Holmes and Watson find themselves drawn into an intriguing case. Given ARC copies of the audio book and ebook from the publisher through Netgalley I found myself returning to the audio book more than the ebook. David Robb with occasional footnotes from author Nicholas Meyer nails Watson’s voice.
November 15, 2023
This is barely a 2 star tale, what a disappointment, almost as bad as The Canary Trainer. Not as good as either The West End Horror or The 7% Solution and nowhere near as good as The Adventure of the Peculiar Protocols.
May 5, 2025
"Holmes in Egypt" has been done before, but never, I think, so slow to get started. Authentic detail is not the point. Failed to grip.
October 9, 2021
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of this new mystery.
Nicholas Meyer is not the first author to have "found" lost journals of Dr. John H. Watson, M. D., chronicler and memoirist of the great detective Sherlock Holmes, but he is one of the very best. In The Return of the Pharaoh: From the Reminiscences of John H. Watson, M.D., Mr. Meyer mixes real and fictional characters, historical events and politics and makes for a very grand adventure.
Watson, who has not seen his friend Holmes in quite a while, has traveled to Egypt with his second wife for treatment of her tuberculosis. Her treatment includes quarantine for a time, mask wearing, and 6 foot distances, from others. Watson soon decides on a day of sightseeing, and after a day of wandering Cairo adjourns to an British officer's club where he comes across a tall man, with a prominent nose wearing Watson's own regimental tie. Holmes admits who is and at that the game is afoot.
Mr. Meyer is very good at setting, both place and mood, plus research in getting a feel for the characters that float around our duo. Holmes is at his best, even as he ages, still strong of both mind and body. Watson is not a bumbler, but almost a typical English gentleman, proud and heroic, a good husband, but a better companion to Holmes. The mystery is good, no real trickery or great deductions, just a crime of greed and human frailty.
Holmes fans will enjoy this story. The interaction of Holmes and Watson, their shared history which Mr. Meyer refers to quite a bit is a big reason for my enjoyment. Historical mystery fans might be drawn to the Egyptian setting and its many mysteries in the sand. A very entertaining story.
Nicholas Meyer is not the first author to have "found" lost journals of Dr. John H. Watson, M. D., chronicler and memoirist of the great detective Sherlock Holmes, but he is one of the very best. In The Return of the Pharaoh: From the Reminiscences of John H. Watson, M.D., Mr. Meyer mixes real and fictional characters, historical events and politics and makes for a very grand adventure.
Watson, who has not seen his friend Holmes in quite a while, has traveled to Egypt with his second wife for treatment of her tuberculosis. Her treatment includes quarantine for a time, mask wearing, and 6 foot distances, from others. Watson soon decides on a day of sightseeing, and after a day of wandering Cairo adjourns to an British officer's club where he comes across a tall man, with a prominent nose wearing Watson's own regimental tie. Holmes admits who is and at that the game is afoot.
Mr. Meyer is very good at setting, both place and mood, plus research in getting a feel for the characters that float around our duo. Holmes is at his best, even as he ages, still strong of both mind and body. Watson is not a bumbler, but almost a typical English gentleman, proud and heroic, a good husband, but a better companion to Holmes. The mystery is good, no real trickery or great deductions, just a crime of greed and human frailty.
Holmes fans will enjoy this story. The interaction of Holmes and Watson, their shared history which Mr. Meyer refers to quite a bit is a big reason for my enjoyment. Historical mystery fans might be drawn to the Egyptian setting and its many mysteries in the sand. A very entertaining story.
April 23, 2021
Holmes and Watson take their investigative talents to Egypt, on the trial of a missing Lord. The amateur archaeologist may have discovered the unopened tomb of Thutmose, but he has disappeared in the desert. Spies, sandstorms, and rumors of gold add complications. A successful homage to the detective and his original creator - clever and well-written!
October 13, 2021
1910 November Due to the illness of his wife Juliet, she and Dr Watson arrange to stay in Cairo for her treatment. Several months later Dr Watson discovers Holmes, disguised as a Colonel Arbuthnot, on a case. That of the missing Duke of Uxbridge. And so the adventure begins.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery, with its cast of likeable and varied characters. Another good addition to the series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery, with its cast of likeable and varied characters. Another good addition to the series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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