The Adventure of the Murdered Midwife by Liese Sherwood-Fabre
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Adventure of the Murdered Midwife in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Liese Sherwood-Fabre’s The Adventure of the Murdered Midwife is a captivating and inventive addition to the Sherlock Holmes pastiche genre, offering readers an intriguing glimpse into the formative years of the world’s most famous detective. This novel serves as the first in the “Early Case Files of Sherlock Holmes” series, and it skillfully combines historical detail with a richly imagined backstory for a young Sherlock.
The Details
Set in the quaint English countryside of the 19th century, the story begins with a young Sherlock Holmes returning home from school to find his family in turmoil. His mother has been accused of murdering the local midwife, and the evidence against her seems damning. Determined to clear her name, Sherlock embarks on his first true investigation. Along the way, he encounters a cast of vividly drawn characters, including his intelligent and supportive siblings, Mycroft and Violet, and the formidable family housekeeper, Mrs. Hudson.
Sherwood-Fabre excels in her portrayal of a young Sherlock, capturing the essence of the character’s sharp intellect and burgeoning detective skills while also exploring his emotional depth. The novel offers a nuanced view of Sherlock’s relationships with his family, providing a believable and engaging backstory that helps to explain his later development into the iconic detective. The familial dynamics are a highlight, particularly the bond between Sherlock and his mother, whose plight catalyzes his journey into the world of detection.
The author’s writing style is both accessible and evocative, with a keen attention to period detail that immerses the reader in the world of Victorian England. The pacing is well-managed, with a steady buildup of suspense and a series of twists that keep the reader engaged. Sherwood-Fabre balances the intricacies of the mystery with moments of character introspection, allowing the narrative to breathe without losing momentum.
The Adventure of the Murdered Midwife explores themes of justice, family loyalty, and the quest for truth. It delves into the societal constraints of the time, particularly regarding gender roles and the judicial system, adding a layer of historical context that enriches the story. The novel also touches on the development of Sherlock’s deductive reasoning and his early encounters with the darker aspects of human nature, which shape his future career.
The Verdict
Overall, Liese Sherwood-Fabre’s The Adventure of the Murdered Midwife is a delightful and thought-provoking read that will appeal to both Sherlock Holmes aficionados and newcomers to the genre. By blending a compelling mystery with an insightful exploration of Sherlock’s early life, Sherwood-Fabre has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and intellectually satisfying. This book is a promising start to the series, and it sets a high bar for the adventures to come.
