ISBN: 0-553-57780-8 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
A solid continuation of the the series, this mystery has an interesting and competent mystery plot, together with an engaging development of the strong and likable heroine.
Reviewed by David on May 21, 2000
Genre: Mystery (Historical, Amateur Sleuth)
Synopsis: An acquintance of Russell and Holmes from their visit to Palestine, and eccentric lady archeologist bequethes to the investigative pair the mystery of her passing—and a historical find worth human lives.
Full Review: Miss Dorothy Ruskin's death in a traffic accident leaves Mary Russell with a feeling of guilt—and an intense desire to find the truth.
In the course of nivestigation, Russell and Holmes prove a mature and inventive team, with bright intelligence, strong ethics, occasional humor, and understated but real affection for each other. There are also a number of literary references, including Tolkien and thinly disguised and affectionate gesture to Sayers.
A consistently pleasant and satisfying continuation of the series, this book is likely to appeal to anyone who enjoyed the start of this series in The Beekeper's Apprentice.
Universe: Sherlock Holmes
Overall: 6.5; Plot: 6; Characters: 7.5; Style: 7; World-building: 5; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1996, Bantam Books (Bantam), January 1998, Mass-market paperback, 315 pages
ISBN: 0-553-57780-8 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com