The Secret Journal of Dr. Watson
By Phil Growick
Reviewed by Amy Thomas
The Baker Street Babes
Upcoming publication The
Secret Journal of Dr. Watson takes Sherlock Holmes and his Boswell on an
adventure to Russia during the Bolshevik revolution, putting them in contact
with historical and fictional figures alike as they pursue the rescue of the
Romanovs. Danger stalks them at every turn, and they are constantly confronted
with their own mortality and the need for the detective’s mind to be at its
most keen.
Growick takes the traditional approach of using Watson’s
voice, conveyed in daily journal entries. This technique is effective, and the
Holmes and Watson encountered by the reader are canonical and engaging. The
book bears the official Conan Doyle estate seal with good reason; the quality
of its research and writing are impressive.
History buffs will be particularly intrigued by the layered
and fascinating explanation of the complexities of the Russian revolutionary
situation, but those just looking for an enjoyable read will find themselves
far from bored. Growick strikes an enjoyable balance between historical
believability and fast-paced action.
Most of the Doylean stories keep Holmes and Watson close to
home, putting them in London-based contexts or in the surrounding English
countryside. Growick’s novel, with its more exotic and high-stakes setting,
fits neatly with the later stories, those that place Holmes in retirement and
beyond.
The Secret Journal of
Dr. Watson is mysterious, intriguing, and fun, a chilling and
thought-provoking exploration of a period of Russian history that engenders a
great deal of speculation. Of course, we know that Sherlock Holmes and Dr.
Watson never actually went to
Ekaterinburg to find the Romanovs. Or do we? Phil Growick’s excellent novel
will make you believe they did.
A copy of The Secret
Journal of Dr. Watson was provided
for consideration by MX Publishing.
I've just read your review of my novel and am gratified, humbled and truly appreciative of your very kind words. Thank you all, so much.
ReplyDeleteIn so many ways, Conan Doyle did such a favor to pastiche writers by retiring his detective so early. It gives authors such a wide canvas in which to continue Holmes adventures. Thanks for the review. Another book to put on the pile. Sigh.
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