The Holmes Affair by Graham Moore

In the UK at the moment we are all going Sherlock mad with the return of the third series on the telly. Now before everyone gasps and points out this is book blog, I know. I bring you an unusual book this week, one which is different from the usual Sherlock tomes.

I will start by pointing out that I have read most of the Sherlock Holmes books which have been written both by Arthur Conan Doyle and others since his death. This book is different in that it is about Arthur Conan Doyle himself. It is essentially two stories in one. The first is about Conan Doyle himself and the other takes place in a modern day setting. The story of Conan Doyle is about a period in his life of which little is known. He was a consummate diarist and the modern day story is about the missing diary from this period. An eminent 'Sherlockian' announces he has the diary and he is then killed. The modern day story is about the hunt for both the killer and the diary.

This is an excellent book which, although easy to read, contains a strong plot. The stories remain separate until the end when they are beautifully tied together. The storyline is good and there are many twists, turns and surprises throughout. Of course Sherlock Holmes himself guides the mystery through the pages of the books in which he starred. I love the way this mixes the original plots in to the story without it seeming contrived.

This is a well written, entertaining book which I would highly recommend. Of course it is not a Sherlcok Holmes story but entertains in it's own unique manner. If you are a Sherlock fan then I am sure you will enjoy this rather different book.