I tried this one again several years later, but I wasn’t aware when I picked it up that I’d tried and given up on it the first time (in 2021) — I should always consult my Goodreads account first I guess! I remember being enthralled particularly with the characterization of the first book in this series, and I’m a big fan of Sherlock Holmes in general, so this was a unique twist.
While both books had objectionable material as far as I’m concerned (lots of language, as well as wokeness and some sexual content), this one seemed to me more language than anything else. The sexual content is just innuendo–nothing happens between Jamie and Charlotte, because in book 1, Charlotte was raped and she’s traumatized. That, juxtaposed against the growing attraction between them essentially explains their relationship in a nutshell: massive sexual tension, combined with Charlotte’s derision of Jamie’s ordinary intelligence in contrast to her own. You’d think she wouldn’t be likable for that, but somehow, because she’s a Holmes, she still is.
There was enough of a refresher of book 1 that I could follow the plot even though I read the first one 4-5 years ago, but I probably wouldn’t recommend reading this one if you’ve never read the first. Honestly I wasn’t paying all *that* much attention to the particulars of the actual mystery, though (which involved the kidnapping of Charlotte’s favorite uncle Leander, who also happened to have been best friends and roommates with Jamie’s father growing up). I was more focused on the big picture character dynamics, which were still quite well done. But once again, I don’t know if that’s enough for me to continue reading the rest of the series.
My rating: ***
Language: LOTS
Sexual content: innuendo but it was heavy at times
Violence: it was there but not over the top
Political content: moderate
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