From the Bookshelf of Catching up on Classics (and lots more!)…

The Sign of Four (Sherlock Holmes, #2)

Arthur Conan Doyle

Start date: November 1, 2023

Finish date: November 30, 2023

Why we're reading this: November 2023 Old School Classics Read
[close] November 2023 Old School Classics Read

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Sep 28, 2017 Kelly_Hunsaker_reads ... rated it liked it

Shelves: mysteries-thrillers

I expected Sherlock Holmes to be my favorite protagonist, Watson my favorite sidekick, Doyle my favorite mystery novelist. Unfortunately none of that is true. This is the second book of the collection and the second one I have read. The first is full of hateful prejudice, and this one is just dull. I am so disappointed.

However, Stephen Fry, who is narrating the audio version I am listening to is definitely as good as I expected. In fact, he is better. It is apparent that he loves the characters ...more

4 likes · Like · see review

Jul 21, 2020 Julie rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: fin-2020, classic-mystery

Oh my. Barely two stars. I have a weakness for vintage mysteries that focus on clues like footprints and the ash from a cigar. Quite a difference from current day procedures! I also like the borderline rudeness and hyperfocus of Sherlock. It's a nice chance of pace from the likable lead detective/sleuth.

What I did not like about the book were the grotesque descriptions of black people and Indians. Yes, yes, I understand the book was written at the height of England's colonial powers and merely d ...more

1 like · Like · see review