This is a short story in a larger series in which, in addition to the regulars we are so familiar with, Sherlock Holmes has a daughter, Lucy James. She's married to a young policeman, called Jack, who has a ten-year-old sister, Becky, for whom they are apparently responsible. (This is the first and so far only story in the series that I've read.) They also have a large dog, a mastiff called Prince.

This entire found-family group has received an invitation to Baskerville Hall for Christmas, ten years after the events of "The Hound of the Baskervilles." Sir Henry has been married to Beryl, the former Mrs. Stapleton, for eight yeas, and they have a five-year-old son, Hugo. Lady Baskerville is pregnant again, and due right around Christmas.

It will not be a surprise to the reader that Sir Henry greets them with unexpected news--the night before, prominent local citizen and solicitor, Sir Vincent Percival, had visited Baskerville Hall. In the morning, Sir Henry found Sir Vincent's body on the road into the village, and further down the road, the body of his driver, John Hornsby. The horse returned the carriage to the village on its own.

The two men's throats had been torn out, very reminiscent of the events of ten years previously.

The chapters are narrated alternately by Lucy and Watson, and Lucy and Holmes each find evidence critical to the successful resolution of the case. Watson and Holmes seem to me to be faithful to what Doyle intended, as well as Sir Henry. Lucy is a well-drawn character, and she and Jack fit very well into the Holmesian world.

A satisfying, enjoyable mystery short story. Recommended.

I bought this book. ( )

Ten years have passed since the events at Baskerville Hall, but Sir Henry, now happily married, needs the advise of Sherlock, and invites all the Baker Street team for Christmas. What intrigues await them.
An enjoyable and well-written novella ( )

Nicely done within and expanding the Canon nicely. Clearly, Holmes and Lucy have become a team. Best Sherlockian match-up since Laurie King's Mary Russell married Sherlock. ( )

Nicely done within and expanding the Canon nicely. Clearly, Holmes and Lucy have become a team. Best Sherlockian match up since Laurie King's Mary Russell married Sherlock. ( )