The Cursed Writer
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The BRAND NEW instalment in Holly Hepburn's page-turning Baker Street Mystery series 'When did you become aware something was wrong?' 'When the screaming began...' Harriet White is no stranger to odd correspondence. Ensconced in the basement of the Baker Street building society, her job is to reply to the mail they receive on behalf of Sherlock Holmes. But while letters to the fictional sleuth may be plentiful, telegrams are rare, and so when she receives one describing the grave situation of celebrated author Philip St John, her interest is piqued. The writer describes St John as being consumed by terror, seeing ghostly apparitions on the fens, and only at ease in the company of his loyal wolfhound. Before long, Harry finds herself in Cambridgeshire under the guise of being Holmes' assistant. The residents of Thurmwell Manor believe their master is cursed. Harry is sure there must be a logical explanation, but inside the echoey halls of the grand gothic house, her confidence in science and reason begin to crumble... Can Harry solve the mystery before the fens claim their next victim? Join Harriet White in 1930's London for another glorious Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery, for fans of Nita Prose and Janice Hallett. Readers LOVE the Baker Street Mysteries: 'Honestly I couldn't find one bad thing to say about this book! I'm a new fan for sure!' Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'The Missing Maid is a delightful book. I loved Harry. She's warm, funny, sassy and brave. I'm very much looking forward to reading what Holly brings us next in this series.' Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'This is such a clever idea for a cozy mystery series! I love Harry and the twisty plot of this book. Can't wait for the next book!' Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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2 primary books#2 in The Baker Street Mysteries
The Baker Street Mysteries is a 2-book series with 2 released primary works first released in 1995 with contributions by Holly Hepburn.
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5/5 Stars!
“The Cursed Writer” by Holly Hepburn is a British historical mystery with a hint of cosiness that will surely appeal to fans of Sherlock Holmes and anyone who loves a thoughtfully crafted whodunit. Set in the 1930s in England, the second novel in the series follows Harriet White, a clever young woman relegated to working in the basement of a Baker Street building society, where she answers letters addressed to the famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Her curiosity is sparked when she receives an urgent telegram concerning the troubles of the celebrated author Philip St John, leading her to the mysterious Thurmwell Manor in Cambridgeshire.
Hepburn's writing is so enjoyable. She refines the essence of classic detective fiction with a gently modern touch, crafting a story that feels both nostalgic and modern. The atmospheric backdrop of the foggy fens and the gothic manor house adds a wonderfully eerie element and reminds me of a Sherlock Holmes tale (a la Hound of the Baskervilles). The central mystery is cleverly plotted, filled with twists and surprises that will keep you guessing. Hepburn adeptly weaves together various plot threads, including nods to earlier cases and hints at exciting future escapades. She also includes a compelling personal journey for the main character, full of its own twists.
The heart of the book is Harry herself. She is clever, independent, and ahead of her time - but not out of place. Her determination to solve the case, despite the societal norms of her time (without unrealistically disrespecting them), shows a clever mind indeed. The supporting characters are also well-developed, especially Oliver who is a great partner in justice (Do I ship her and Oliver? Absolutely I do, even though there is no actual romance indicated).
“The Cursed Writer” is a wonderful choice for fans of cosy and historical mysteries, and Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie fans. It is a delightful mix of period details, engaging characters, and a classic mystery that will attract readers who appreciate a thoughtful challenge with a hint of the supernatural. Whether you're jumping into the series for the first time or coming back for another adventure, this book is for you.
Thank you to Boldwood Books & Net Galley for a eARC in exchange for my honest review.
