The house of silk A Sherlock Holmes novel

Jacobi, whose readings of many of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's stories have been impressive, more than does justice to Horowitz's standout pastiche, easily one of the best ever attempted. The dark and somber plot plunges Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson into the dark underbelly of Victorian London in search of the titular house, the mere mention of which sparks fear at the highest levels of the British government. The detective's probe overlaps with a murder case linked to the stalking of an art dealer, apparently by an old nemesis from America. Jacobi is unparalleled at making his vocal characterizations distinct: his Watson has an inherent warmth and humanity and is a sharp contrast from his rendition of the doctor's higher-pitched and higher-energy companion. Even minor parts, such as Holmes's smarter older brother, Mycroft, a pawnbroker, and members of Holmes's young assistants, the Baker Street Irregulars, benefit from Jacobi's considerable gifts. Fans of Doyle's original stories are in for a real treat, both from the compelling story itself, and this memorable and gripping performance from Jacobi. A Little, Brown/Mulholland hardcover. (Nov.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

This first Sherlock Holmes novel to be authorized by Arthur Conan Doyle's estate opens in 1908 with a retired Dr. Watson laying pen to paper a final time to recount the most scandalous case of Holmes's career. After a genteel London art dealer who is being followed by a stranger in a flat cap requests their aid, Watson and Holmes quickly find themselves racing through a warren of slums, orphanages, and opium dens in search of the mysterious House of Silk. What they discover threatens to shake London society to its very core. Verdict Devotees will thrill at the familiar dynamics and references to the Holmes canon while general mystery enthusiasts will appreciate the tight, compelling plot and nuanced characters. Lovingly crafted by the best-selling author of the Alex Rider series, this novel may serve as either an epilog for die-hard fans or an introduction for newbies to the famous duo. [See Prepub Alert, 5/16/11.]-Elizabeth Hanson, Chicago P.L. (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.