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Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes #2
In Sherlock's Shadow
What happens when the honeymoon ends?
Life in Baker Street is not all Nell Hudson thought it would be. Financially the household is struggling, and in the masculine world of police work, Nell finds herself pushed aside in favour of Dr Watson. She takes a job as a department store detective to make ends meet; but though she is successful, none of the men in her life take it seriously.
Sherlock himself is busy investigating a missing prisoner; but when Emmett Stanley is found it turns out to be a case not of escape, but abduction. And he is in no state to tell anyone what happened.
Then trouble strikes closer to home. Military secrets are being leaked, and Mycroft Holmes is under suspicion. When Sherlock tries to help, a rift opens between the brothers, and its consequences threaten Nell and Sherlock’s relationship.
In the midst of it all, an opportunity beckons for Nell. She is approached to go undercover as a spy; but to do so she must leave everything behind and live a life completely alien to her.
Will Nell dare to step out of Sherlock Holmes’s shadow?
In Sherlock’s Shadow is the second book in the Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes series, which documents life at 221B Baker Street from Nell Hudson’s point of view.
Life in Baker Street is not all Nell Hudson thought it would be. Financially the household is struggling, and in the masculine world of police work, Nell finds herself pushed aside in favour of Dr Watson. She takes a job as a department store detective to make ends meet; but though she is successful, none of the men in her life take it seriously.
Sherlock himself is busy investigating a missing prisoner; but when Emmett Stanley is found it turns out to be a case not of escape, but abduction. And he is in no state to tell anyone what happened.
Then trouble strikes closer to home. Military secrets are being leaked, and Mycroft Holmes is under suspicion. When Sherlock tries to help, a rift opens between the brothers, and its consequences threaten Nell and Sherlock’s relationship.
In the midst of it all, an opportunity beckons for Nell. She is approached to go undercover as a spy; but to do so she must leave everything behind and live a life completely alien to her.
Will Nell dare to step out of Sherlock Holmes’s shadow?
In Sherlock’s Shadow is the second book in the Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes series, which documents life at 221B Baker Street from Nell Hudson’s point of view.
340 pages, ebook
Published May 7, 2019
78 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Liz Hedgecock
97 books181 followersI grew up in south London, did an English degree, and then took forever to start writing. The stories started to grow longer...and then the murders began!
I tend to write Victorian mysteries of a not-too-scary nature. I've somehow managed to have 3 separate Sherlock Holmes-themed series (why make things easy?). I also co-wrote the Caster & Fleet mystery series with Paula Harmon, and my Maisie Frobisher Mysteries series is a spinoff from that.
I write a modern cozy mystery series, Pippa Parker Mysteries, and my newest series, The Magical Bookshop, is a cozy mystery series with a touch of fantasy and magic.
Visit my website for book info, links to stories, and my blog, in which I ramble on about all sorts of things. Hope to see you soon.
I tend to write Victorian mysteries of a not-too-scary nature. I've somehow managed to have 3 separate Sherlock Holmes-themed series (why make things easy?). I also co-wrote the Caster & Fleet mystery series with Paula Harmon, and my Maisie Frobisher Mysteries series is a spinoff from that.
I write a modern cozy mystery series, Pippa Parker Mysteries, and my newest series, The Magical Bookshop, is a cozy mystery series with a touch of fantasy and magic.
Visit my website for book info, links to stories, and my blog, in which I ramble on about all sorts of things. Hope to see you soon.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 23, 2024
I wish I didn't have that binge read rule. The rule that has to prevent a reading slump. The rule that states that I can't read the next book in the series before I have at least read two books by other authors in between. I love this series. This series comes at exactly the right moment and is precisely what I currently need. A week ago I read the first book. This weekend the second book and I wish I could just start the third book already.
Like I already said after reading the first book: If you're a true Sherlock Holmes lover and start this series expecting to get your Sherlock Holmes you will be disappointed. The author of this series tweaked quite a few things, including the personalities of some of the characters, to make this story work. Watson is present, but by far not the character he is in the original novel and Sherlock himself is also a lot more likable and lovable.
I personally like the changes and the story the author is telling. But probably I'm also simply the target audience, a young single woman fantasizing about romance, playing detective, going undercover and being loved by someone as smart as Sherlock Holmes. (Not sure who others picture while reading, but I totally picture Henry Cavill, who played the role in the Enola Holmes movies on Netflix) Like I said, for me these books are perfect right now.
Does that mean these books have no substance? On the contrary! Under the surface this book is dealing with quite a few society issues that persist until today. Firstly of course the position of women, what jobs they can and can't do and what is expected of them in society. Secondly in this book also the way we treat people of different backgrounds and classes. Actually, this book is about expectations in every possible way and deals with the issue beautifully.
I can't wait to read the last book in the series!
Like I already said after reading the first book: If you're a true Sherlock Holmes lover and start this series expecting to get your Sherlock Holmes you will be disappointed. The author of this series tweaked quite a few things, including the personalities of some of the characters, to make this story work. Watson is present, but by far not the character he is in the original novel and Sherlock himself is also a lot more likable and lovable.
I personally like the changes and the story the author is telling. But probably I'm also simply the target audience, a young single woman fantasizing about romance, playing detective, going undercover and being loved by someone as smart as Sherlock Holmes. (Not sure who others picture while reading, but I totally picture Henry Cavill, who played the role in the Enola Holmes movies on Netflix) Like I said, for me these books are perfect right now.
Does that mean these books have no substance? On the contrary! Under the surface this book is dealing with quite a few society issues that persist until today. Firstly of course the position of women, what jobs they can and can't do and what is expected of them in society. Secondly in this book also the way we treat people of different backgrounds and classes. Actually, this book is about expectations in every possible way and deals with the issue beautifully.
I can't wait to read the last book in the series!
March 8, 2023
Still not 100% convinced in a sexually active Holmes, but Mrs Hudson is getting a bit of life in her as she realises that despite good intentions, the patriarchy is still going to stop her being a sleuth. We get some foreshadow and some familiar faces here - notably Wiggins, and some new, fun characters such as Evie, the shop girl with a knack for disguise. I like Liz Hedgecock’s writing - it’s suitable for a cup of tea and a lie on the sofa, and the writing is unchallenging enough (this is something I enjoy about the stories - not a critique), to let it all flow over you. And yes, I still have a cold, so this is helping.
April 10, 2021
An exciting undercover adventure for Mrs Hudson
Another great mystery from the pen of Liz Hedgecock. Holmes' brother Mycroft is in danger and it's up to Nell to find out the truth. Murder, prison escapes and secrecy make this a very exciting read.
Another great mystery from the pen of Liz Hedgecock. Holmes' brother Mycroft is in danger and it's up to Nell to find out the truth. Murder, prison escapes and secrecy make this a very exciting read.
April 2, 2023
This book is much better than the first one in the series—but it would benefit from leaving Sherlock Holmes out of the equation entirely.
Nell is a great character and while the story is a little simple, I enjoy following her around and learning more about her independent adventures. When Sherlock Holmes comes into the picture, the book becomes impossible to enjoy. It seems like the author has mixed up Dr Watson and Holmes's personalities and at times it's very hard to look past.
I really think this series would benefit from removing Holmes (and the extremely uncomfortable romance plot) entirely and focusing more on the Victorian lady detective angle as an original story instead...
Nell is a great character and while the story is a little simple, I enjoy following her around and learning more about her independent adventures. When Sherlock Holmes comes into the picture, the book becomes impossible to enjoy. It seems like the author has mixed up Dr Watson and Holmes's personalities and at times it's very hard to look past.
I really think this series would benefit from removing Holmes (and the extremely uncomfortable romance plot) entirely and focusing more on the Victorian lady detective angle as an original story instead...
September 23, 2022
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
Another will written British 🏰 murder mystery adventure thriller romantic relationship novel by Liz Hedgecock Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes book two. Mrs Hudson goes on her own as a detective. She is very good 👍 and helps the government officials solve a problem. I would recommend this series and author to 👍readers of mysteries. Enjoy the adventure of reading. 2022 👑👒😀
Another will written British 🏰 murder mystery adventure thriller romantic relationship novel by Liz Hedgecock Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes book two. Mrs Hudson goes on her own as a detective. She is very good 👍 and helps the government officials solve a problem. I would recommend this series and author to 👍readers of mysteries. Enjoy the adventure of reading. 2022 👑👒😀
August 31, 2023
thorougly enjoyable
‘In Sherlock’s Shadow’ is book 2 in the ‘Mrs. Hudson & Sherlock Holmes’ series by Liz Hedgecock series. Unlike book one, there is no confusing timeframe of events-just a very enjoyable mystery. Mrs. Hudson is the main focus throughout the book and has complications with wigs, hair, cleaning, intriguing smells and paper types. I look forward to the next book in the series.
‘In Sherlock’s Shadow’ is book 2 in the ‘Mrs. Hudson & Sherlock Holmes’ series by Liz Hedgecock series. Unlike book one, there is no confusing timeframe of events-just a very enjoyable mystery. Mrs. Hudson is the main focus throughout the book and has complications with wigs, hair, cleaning, intriguing smells and paper types. I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 6, 2022
This book was amazing!!
I wasn't too sure about the first one in the series; I liked it, but not as much as this second one!
Still not quite so keen on the relationship between Nell and Sherlock, but wow, this plot was an exciting ride!
Looking forward to the next book!!
Highly recommend!!
I wasn't too sure about the first one in the series; I liked it, but not as much as this second one!
Still not quite so keen on the relationship between Nell and Sherlock, but wow, this plot was an exciting ride!
Looking forward to the next book!!
Highly recommend!!
October 30, 2021
Great Mystery
The main mystery focused on Mrs. Hudson as the sleuth. It was an interesting mystery, of great importance to England. The pace was steady and kept me engaged.
The main mystery focused on Mrs. Hudson as the sleuth. It was an interesting mystery, of great importance to England. The pace was steady and kept me engaged.
May 16, 2022
There is nothing wrong with the way this book is written. I didn’t like the the way the characters were drawn. It is my least favorite version of Sherlock Holmes.
April 25, 2024
IN SHERLOCK'S SHADOW puts the spotlight directly on Nell Hudson. It's been a year since Sherlock Holmes appeared at 221B Baker Street seeking lodgings. A personal and professional partnership has blossomed between Sherlock and Nell leaving Watson to mostly chronicle Holmes' exploits. Watson does appear to disapprove of the burgeoning relationship between Holmes and Hudson as Mrs. Hudson proves herself a keen investigator in her own right. Is there a bit of jealousy clouding Dr. Watson's vision? When Holmes partners with Watson, the tables turn.
Mrs. Hudson successfully obtains the position of store detective at Debenham and Freebody to deal with theft of merchandise from the store. Using the skills of disguise taught to her by Holmes, she appears quite different each time she reports for work.
Mr. Poskitt, Mycroft Holmes' secretary, introduced briefly in the book one of this series, becomes a key figure when Mycroft falls under suspicion of wrongdoing. Poskitt recruits Nell to go undercover 'in service' at Chambers Hall, imploring her to undertake a spy mission on behalf of Queen and country and, of course, Mycroft. She agrees and has mere hours to prepare and can tell no one of the case on which she is about to embark that turns her life topsy turvy.
Arthur Conan Doyle not only introduced Sherlock Holmes to the reading public, but he also set forth a kind of formula for Holmes and Watson to follow. A modern reader might find his style pedestrian after reading several stories. Variations on the formula have become the equivalent of a cottage industry for mystery writers. The basic story of crime and deduction has come to include romance, family, or speculative fiction. Some will fit nicely into the canon; others will stray in interesting ways. I would include Mrs. Hudson and Sherlock Holmes in the latter.
Liz Hedgecock has managed to portray the Victorian woman that is Nell as fiercely independent yet an overthinker filled with self-doubt when it comes to her more liberated ideas. Women have surely been second guessing themselves long before Victoria became Queen and continue in this vein to this very day. I am always taken aback by the timidity of women who espouse freedoms and turn around and deny themselves those very prerogatives whether in thought or action. The title is a perfect statement of what Nell does not want to be — IN SHERLOCK'S SHADOW.
Mrs. Hudson successfully obtains the position of store detective at Debenham and Freebody to deal with theft of merchandise from the store. Using the skills of disguise taught to her by Holmes, she appears quite different each time she reports for work.
Mr. Poskitt, Mycroft Holmes' secretary, introduced briefly in the book one of this series, becomes a key figure when Mycroft falls under suspicion of wrongdoing. Poskitt recruits Nell to go undercover 'in service' at Chambers Hall, imploring her to undertake a spy mission on behalf of Queen and country and, of course, Mycroft. She agrees and has mere hours to prepare and can tell no one of the case on which she is about to embark that turns her life topsy turvy.
Arthur Conan Doyle not only introduced Sherlock Holmes to the reading public, but he also set forth a kind of formula for Holmes and Watson to follow. A modern reader might find his style pedestrian after reading several stories. Variations on the formula have become the equivalent of a cottage industry for mystery writers. The basic story of crime and deduction has come to include romance, family, or speculative fiction. Some will fit nicely into the canon; others will stray in interesting ways. I would include Mrs. Hudson and Sherlock Holmes in the latter.
Liz Hedgecock has managed to portray the Victorian woman that is Nell as fiercely independent yet an overthinker filled with self-doubt when it comes to her more liberated ideas. Women have surely been second guessing themselves long before Victoria became Queen and continue in this vein to this very day. I am always taken aback by the timidity of women who espouse freedoms and turn around and deny themselves those very prerogatives whether in thought or action. The title is a perfect statement of what Nell does not want to be — IN SHERLOCK'S SHADOW.
August 14, 2019
Have you ever wondered what Sherlock Holmes was like on his home turf on Baker Street? With this second in the Mrs. Hudson & Sherlock Holmes tales, author Liz Hedgecock pulls back the curtain and gives her readers an intimate peek at this story world. Again, told from the perspective of Nell Hudson, lover and sometime assistant of the infamous Sherlock, Nell finds herself struggling to find her place in his male dominated world. When the opportunity presents itself for Nell to play spy and clear Sherlock’s older brother’s name, well….
With masterful skill, the author takes us back to Victorian England and all its historical detail. The characters from the major players of Sherlock, Nell, and Watson to the more minor are finely drawn and fully developed making for a fun, fast paced interesting read that keeps one guessing until the most satisfying end. I love these stories and look forward to the next. I highly recommend.
With masterful skill, the author takes us back to Victorian England and all its historical detail. The characters from the major players of Sherlock, Nell, and Watson to the more minor are finely drawn and fully developed making for a fun, fast paced interesting read that keeps one guessing until the most satisfying end. I love these stories and look forward to the next. I highly recommend.
September 23, 2024
As the second in the series, I gave this a decent shot, but, at about halfway finished, I lost interest.
First, you have to accept a Sherlock that isn't even a little bit as described by Doyle. But beyond that, there's just too much of the romance aspect ... Mrs Hudson isn't the land lady and housekeeper, but Holmes' lover following the events of book 1 ... and not enough mystery to solve. In the end, I found I wasn't liking this re-imagining of Holmes, and there was entirely too much hand wringing from Mrs Hudson ... continually worried about her relationship with Holmes.
Tedious and Silly and a DNF
First, you have to accept a Sherlock that isn't even a little bit as described by Doyle. But beyond that, there's just too much of the romance aspect ... Mrs Hudson isn't the land lady and housekeeper, but Holmes' lover following the events of book 1 ... and not enough mystery to solve. In the end, I found I wasn't liking this re-imagining of Holmes, and there was entirely too much hand wringing from Mrs Hudson ... continually worried about her relationship with Holmes.
Tedious and Silly and a DNF
July 8, 2024
Nell Hudson due to financial constraints takes on an undercover assignment in a department store suffering from thefts. Meanwhile Sherlock is trying to find a missing prisoner and Mycroft is under suspicion as military secrets are being leaked.
An entertaining historical mystery
An entertaining historical mystery
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews