Val Andrews (1926–2006)

This spin-off Sherlock Holmes novel sees the detective and Dr Watson coming out of retirement in 1921 to help Charlie Chaplin find his mother who, suffering from intermittent poor mental health, has disappeared from her carers. But there is more to this than meets the eye. Holmes of course tracks her down (can't give plot details due to spoilers), so that her famous son can ensure she is properly looked after for the rest of her life. A decent read, I enjoyed this more than the author's Sherlock Holmes and the Yule-Tide Mystery that I read a few Christmases ago.… (mehr)

Holmes and Watson are invited to a Yule-tide party at Shaw Manor by James Harding who was invited to it by the owner, Gerald MacMillan. Holmes has looked into MacMillan's background and knows he is a conman. They all go and meet others who have been invited in the same manner. Mr. MacMillan portrays a jovial man but has his moments when his mask drops. While there they meet Mr. MacMillan's aunt. She is murdered. Who did it? Can Holmes catch the killer?

I found this story a bit slow. Holmes is very clever as he explains the murder. I liked the other characters who meet at Christmas. It is an eclectic group of sensible people which Mr. MacMillan figures will be to his advantage as the truth comes to light on many things about him.

I also liked the secondary story arc. I liked that ending. Holmes has an interesting way to end that mystery.… (mehr)