What do You think about The Oriental Casebook Of Sherlock Holmes (2003)?
It's not the author's fault, but I have yet to finish any book about Holmes aside from some of the Mary Russells. Let's see - in the first story here, Holmes:1. fakes his own death - okay, fine2. becomes a yogi3. is a master of disguise at least twice4. travels through Asia with no injuries, illness or snafus5. is able to get people with secrets to talk to him just because they feel like it (true, this is a common thing with some literary detectives)6. is a master of obscure dialects7. finds the
—Marcia
The language used was reminiscent of Doyle's works, though there were many times where phrases or full sentences were pulled from the Doyle source material (once or twice could be shrugged off as "paying homage," but this was excessive in my mind). However, I think the author failed to get the full flavor of Watson-as-narrator. I know these are stories that Holmes tells Watson after they have happened, rather than stories they experience together, but Watson is really ... glazed over in most of these tales. In addition, the stories weren't as engaging as the originals. I kept finding myself liking the progression of a tale and then feeling disappointed in the way it ended.
—Leslie
Very enjoyable read...it had to be savored slowly as all good Sherlock Holmes must be -- after all, Sherlock tells a story in his own inimitable way and at his pace. The book necessarily excludes Watson from the adventures, but includes him as the narrator/guide for the tales.And maybe therein lies the real tale of this book. Deeply purist Holmes fans will undoubtedly find minor points to quibble with, and the language is not quite identical to Arthur Conan Doyle, but it is a fitting, enjoyable tribute and extension from a fan and dedicated student of the original. And for that, we owe Ted Riccardi a hearty thanks!
—Mike
