“I speak of magic, Mr. Holmes.”
Mr. Percy Simmons, leader of London’s Theosophical Order of Odic Forces, is fully aware that his is not a case which Mr. Sherlock Holmes would ordinarily take up.
These are not ordinary times, however.
For something, some unquiet demon within Holmes stirs into discomfiting wakefulness under the occultist’s words. The unassuming Mr. Simmons has spoken of good and evil with the sort of certainty of soul that Sherlock yearns for. A certainty which has eluded Holmes for the three years in which the world thought him dead. While, for all intents, constructions, and purposes, he was dead.
But six months ago, Sherlock Holmes returned to Baker Street, declared himself alive to friend and foe alike, took up his old rooms, his profession, and his partnership with Dr. J. Watson—only to find himself haunted still by questions which had followed him out of the dreadful chasm of Reichenbach Falls:
Why? Why had he survived when his enemy had not? To what end? And had there ever, truly, been such a thing as justice? Such a thing as good or evil?
Purchase Links
https://www.amazon.com/dp/173446416X
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/173446416X
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/sherlock-holmes-the-silver-cord
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sherlock-holmes-the-silver-cord-m-k-wiseman/1143402437
Author Bio
M. K. Wiseman has degrees in Interarts & Technology and Library & Information Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her office, therefore, is a curious mix of storyboards and reference materials. Both help immensely in the writing of historical novels. She currently resides in Cedarburg, Wisconsin.
Social Media Links
https://twitter.com/FaublesFables
https://www.facebook.com/FaublesFables/
https://www.instagram.com/faublesfables/
https://www.tiktok.com/@faublesfables
Why Should You Read This?
Sherlock Holmes & The Silver Cord by M.K. Wiseman is a captivating and imaginative addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon that seamlessly blends elements of mystery and the occult. The novel opens with an intriguing scene where an unlikely visitor, Mr. Percy Simmons, seeks Holmes’ assistance in a case involving magic and the Theosophical Order of Odic Forces. From the start, it becomes evident that this is not the usual type of case that Holmes would tackle, but circumstances prove to be far from ordinary.
One of the strengths of Wiseman’s storytelling is her skillful characterization of Sherlock Holmes. She portrays Holmes as a man still haunted by the events of his faked death and the mysteries that surround it. The enigmatic detective, who prides himself on his rationality and logic, finds himself strangely drawn to the unexplained and supernatural aspects of Mr. Simmons’ case. This internal struggle adds depth to the character, making him more relatable and human, even in the midst of fantastical events.
The plot is well-constructed and keeps readers engaged throughout. As Holmes and Watson delve deeper into the world of magic and ancient forces, the mystery unfolds at a steady pace. Wiseman masterfully weaves historical references and arcane knowledge into the narrative, making the fantastical elements seem believable within the context of the Victorian era. The plot also raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of good and evil, adding an intriguing philosophical layer to the story.
Additionally, the dynamic between Holmes and Watson is as charming as ever. Watson’s steadfast loyalty and grounding presence serve as an excellent contrast to Holmes’ more eccentric tendencies. Their banter and camaraderie continue to be a highlight of the series, and Wiseman does justice to the iconic duo.
The setting of 221B Baker Street and Victorian London is skillfully depicted, capturing the essence of the original Sherlock Holmes stories. The attention to detail creates a rich and immersive atmosphere that fans of the original works will appreciate.
However, while the blend of occult and mystery elements adds a fresh twist to the classic detective story, there are moments where the plot may seem overly ambitious. The introduction of magical concepts and characters, while intriguing, could have been explored with greater depth and development. At times, certain events or revelations felt rushed, leaving the reader wanting more.
Overall, Sherlock Holmes & The Silver Cord is an enjoyable and entertaining read. M.K. Wiseman successfully pays homage to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic characters while introducing a unique and magical twist to their adventures. The characterization of Holmes, the well-crafted plot, and the atmospheric setting contribute to the novel’s appeal. While some aspects of the occult storyline could have been further explored, the book remains a solid and satisfying addition to the Sherlock Holmes universe.
Considering all these factors, I would rate Sherlock Holmes & The Silver Cord with four stars. It’s a recommended read for Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a blend of mystery, historical fiction, and the supernatural. Wiseman’s homage to the beloved detective is both respectful and imaginative, making this novel a delightful addition to the world of Sherlock Holmes.