"The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" is the next thrilling installment in Dorothy L. Sayers' popular series, "The Lord Peter Wimsey and Montague Egg Mysteries." Taking place in 1930s London, the story revolves around Lord Peter Wimsey, a brilliant detective, and his capable partner, Montague Egg. When a valuable gemstone known as the "Blue Carbuncle" vanishes, Wimsey eagerly takes on the task of unraveling the mystery. As he probes deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets, deception, and hidden motives that will test his deductive skills. With time running out, Wimsey must race against the clock to solve the puzzle and locate the missing gem.
What sets "The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" apart is Sayers' remarkable ability to blend mystery, humor, and charm into a captivating narrative. Her eloquent writing style vividly brings 1930s London to life, immersing readers in its vibrant atmosphere. The characters, particularly Lord Peter Wimsey, are exceptionally well-crafted and captivating. Wimsey's intelligence, wit, and charisma make him an immensely likable protagonist, and his dynamic interactions with Montague Egg add an extra layer of enjoyment to the story.
The plot of the novel is skillfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Sayers expertly incorporates clues and false leads, constructing a complex puzzle that challenges readers' own investigative abilities. The pacing is spot-on, ensuring that the story never drags or feels rushed, allowing readers to savor each moment of the investigation.
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One of the standout aspects of the book is Sayers' meticulous attention to detail in recreating the setting and historical context of 1930s London. From the fashion and social customs to the bustling streets and smoky detective agencies, every detail is captured with precision, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
In conclusion, "The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" is a masterfully written and highly enjoyable mystery novel. Dorothy L. Sayers' impeccable storytelling skills, compelling characters, and clever plot make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. Offering a delightful blend of mystery, humor, and historical allure, this installment in the Lord Peter Wimsey series is sure to captivate both new and loyal readers alike.
What are readers saying?
Opinions among Goodreads readers were divided when it came to their assessment of "The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" by Larry Millett. While some readers commended the book for its engaging storyline and homage to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's renowned detective, others felt it fell short compared to the original Sherlock Holmes stories.
Many reviewers found the plot of "The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" to be captivating and enjoyed the challenge of solving the mystery alongside Holmes and Watson. They appreciated how the book maintained the essence of Doyle's characters, skillfully capturing their voices and mannerisms.
However, some readers felt that Millett's attempt to imitate Doyle's writing style was not entirely successful. They found the narrative disjointed, lacking the sophistication and cleverness that defined Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories. Consequently, they struggled to fully immerse themselves in the book and enjoy the story.
Another common criticism centered around the slow and meandering pacing of the book. Some readers felt that the story dragged on, burdened by unnecessary subplots and tangents that contributed little to the overall plot. As a result, they found it challenging to remain engaged and invested in the story.
Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the characters in "The Disappearance of Sherlock Holmes" were underdeveloped. They found the secondary characters to lack depth and not be as memorable as those in the original stories. This further hindered their enjoyment of the book and hindered their ability to form strong connections with the characters.
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