Tuesday 24 September 2013

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: The Baskerville Affair 1: A Study in Silks - Emma Jane Holloway

Release Date: 24/09/13
Publisher:  Del Rey

SYNOPSIS:

Evelina Cooper, the niece of the great Sherlock Holmes, is poised to enjoy her first Season in London’s high society. But there’s a murderer to deal with—not to mention missing automatons, a sorcerer, and a talking mouse.

In a Victorian era ruled by a council of ruthless steam barons, mechanical power is the real monarch, and sorcery the demon enemy of the empire. Nevertheless, the most coveted weapon is magic that can run machines—something Evelina has secretly mastered. But rather than making her fortune, her special talents could mean death or an eternity as a guest of Her Majesty’s secret laboratories. What’s a polite young lady to do but mind her manners and pray she’s never found out?

But then there’s that murder. As Sherlock’s niece, Evelina should be able to find the answers, but she has a lot to learn. And the first decision she has to make is whether to trust the handsome, clever rake who makes her breath come faster, or the dashing trick rider who would dare anything for her if she would only just ask.


REVIEW:

Sherlock’s niece takes the lead in this tale that brings the deductive skills to the fore alongside magicks that are questioned by the masses and often lead to prosecutions. Its cleverly written, and whilst the lead character was interesting certain parts of the story ironically felt like it was running out of steam leading to a conclusion that felt a little bit flat by the final conclusion.

Don’t get me wrong, I did like the principle character but overall the story didn’t have enough going for it to keep my glued in a way that I like to be when I sit back to be entertained. It is OK and as long as you don’t want something with multiple twists within you should be OK. But overall, its one that you may feel happier about renting from your library.



1 comment:

ediFanoB said...

I ordered a copy in advance.
After reading your review I lowered my expectation.