"...drawn in Egyptian letters..." [STUD]
Sherlockian pastiche has always acquired inspiration from other literary works, famous historical figures and events, and even supernatural themes. Integrating several of these factors into a single story can lead to very irregular storytelling, focusing less on the mystery and more on the uniqueness of the theme.
Timothy Miller's The Strange Case of the Pharoah's Heart is a uniquely intriguing piece of Sherlockian writing, integrating real-life historical events and genre themes into a compelling read that deserves your attention.
Miller's premise is intriguing and unique: in 1923, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson had a serious falling-out over their belief systems. Sherlock Holmes has adopted the philosophy of spiritualism over his usual belief in deduction much to Dr. Watson's chagrin. Although they split, Watson is approached by Lady Evelyn Carnarvon whose father sponsored the expedition that discovered the Tomb of Tutenkamen. Soon, Holmes and Watson are joined by a third character, a woman named Estelle Roberts who is a medium who can communicate with the dead.
Miller's The Strange Case of the Pharoah's Heart also takes a unique narrative approach, splitting the narration between Dr. James Watson and Estelle Roberts. While this may dismay Sherlockian purists, it provides great tension between the potentially rational and potentially supernatural. The dual narrative opens up the story, providing insights and perspectives that could be easily missed in a straightforward pastiche. As the mystery progresses, Miller introduces various characters who help both Holmes and Watson shine.
Describing the plot in greater detail would be unfair to Timothy Miller, as The Strange Case of the Pharoah's Heart provides a great reading experience for Sherlockians. Without spoiling, the last three chapters serve as an afterword with moments of grace, serenity, and finality.
The Strange Case of the Pharoah's Heart is a great Sherlockian work best enjoyed with an open heart and an eager mind, and worth seeking out.
Very highly recommended.
Available on Amazon.com, Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold.
(Note: a copy of the book was provided for review)
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