BACKGROUND: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s most famous Sherlock Holmes story, The Hound of the Baskervilles, was published in 1902. The story begins when Dr. James Mortimer arrives at 221B Bakers Street. The doctor notifies Sherlock about the recent and mysterious death of his friend Charles Baskerville, the master of the Baskerville Hall. Charles Baskerville was found on the ground, his face strewn with terror, but without a single mark on him. With legends of a demon dog haunting the progeny of the late Hugo Baskerville, only Sherlock Holmes can sort fact and fiction to figure out the cause of death before it can kill the Manor’s latest heir.
PACING: As mystery books go, this books pacing is near perfect. The story begins slow, introducing the main characters and establishing the grim scenery of the Devonshire moor. Like many mystery books, the story slowly accumulates intrigue and suspense, building tension for the final reveal. The Hound of the Baskervilles also carries numerous subplots allowing for intriguing red herrings and plot twists. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s masterful writing creates a complex and interesting plot that many critics regard as the epitome of mystery books.
REVIEW: Once again, Arthur Conan Doyle delivers a masterful mystery novel. The book has an absolutely stunning setting, featuring the mysterious moor of Devonshire. The grim and dreary imagery evoke foreboding feelings of danger and caution enhancing the book’s intrigue. The Hound of the Baskervilles also features a wide array of characters. Each one is interesting with his or her own unique quirks, but all viewed with an apprehensive eye, as all of them are suspects. Deviating from the norm, Watson plays the primary role in this installment. Burdened with other tasks, Sherlock sends Watson to Baskerville in his place and requests that’ Watson send him letters updating him on what he finds. The letters written to Sherlock and diary entries provide and interesting dynamic that enhances the storytelling.
VERDICT: The Hound of Baskerville is another fantastic classic by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The intriguing setting and moving plot keep the story interesting while its easy readability enhance the novel’s enjoyment. I give this book 5 stars.
Sherlock Holmes
Everyone has heard of the infamous Sherlock. This daring detective appears in spinoff series, suspenseful films, and (the wonderful) BBC adaptation. While enjoying these retelling is great, reading the original can give you a deeper understanding of the characters and narrative