Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Hissing Shaft

by Rex Harpham, TBD

Rex Harpham’s debut novel takes Holmes and Watson to the Highlands of Scotland where in the words of the great detective “it is my belief, Watson, founded upon my experience, that the lowest and vilest alleys in London do not present a more dreadful record of sin than does the smiling and beautiful countryside” ( The Adventure of the Copper Beeches ). Inverdaigh House and estate, home to Sir Hugh McFarlane, with its extensive woods, loch and thunderous waterfall, known locally as the Hissing Shaft, present an idyllic setting, but one where repeated attempts are made upon McFarlane’s life. Finding the local police of limited assistance, Holmes and Watson are soon faced by a ruthless adversary determined to bring death upon their client. They will need all their courage and skills to avoid traps set for them as they become the prime target in a tense game of cat and mouse, which will culminate in a boat chase across the loch.

222 pages, Paperback

Published September 5, 2020

Reviews

[Maryellen Lewis]

An excellent adventure, with a weak ending.

This was a thrilling and complex read. For me, it rated 5 stars almost to the end. But then, the author tagged on a cramped and flawed ending about India, a long dead brother, his illigitimate son, .... very unsatisfying. But until those last few pages before the Epilogue, this was definately a superior pastiche.

[Outlander]

A bit predictable, heavy on dialogue and too well padded out all in all a bit average as a Sherlock Holmes mystery. Not a flattering portrayal of Watson. Too many authors have him appear to be a bit of a buffoon (as portrayed by Nigel Bruce for example) whereas a better example of Doyle's Watson's character would be as a symbol of loyalty friendship such as portrayed by Jude Law or Martin Freeman.

[Cheryl Adamkiewicz]

Good plot

This was a very well thought out plot. It was exciting and kept you guessing. However, the author needs a better editor. There were many grammar problems and places were the story pace and dialogue could have been improved.

[Sue]

This should be a 3.5 It was too long and repetitive in places.. so I marked down for that- the story line was quite interesting.

[Susan]

Daughter Caroline is concerned about the incidents that are happening to her father Sir Hugh McFarlane. So she sends their gillie Duncan Cameron to ask for Holmes help. Soon he and Dr Watson arrive at Inverdaigh House.
An entertaining Holmes mystery