Tim Symonds

It surprises me every time an author manages to successfully take something so classic, so well done, and make it their own. Despite the similarities to the original Sherlock Holmes, I didn't feel this book was cliche, so to speak. The writing style and voice of Watson are excellent replications of Sir Author Conan Doyle's work, while the actual story itself felt new and refreshing.
We start with Watson in his new life. He's been separated from Holmes for years now and has taken to a steadier show more life of debt and medicine.
As one might expect from the old doctor, he's restless. He needs more excitement, more Holmes in his life if he's going to sooth his jitters...
As always with Sherlock Holmes, he gets a little more than he bargained for.
As one may infer from the cover image, this story heads quickly over to Asia (1906) for the majority of this novel's investigation.
The pacing of this story is meant for readers seeking a "slow and go" type of read. Although the author's writing style is overall engaging, there are parts where you simply cannot put down the pages.
I docked a star because even though this is a great story for mystery and historical fiction fans, I didn't fall madly in love with it. I feel those who would are going to be readers interested in Asian culture, complicated crime, and the classic Sherlock Holmes stories. show less

Rating: 4.5
I had the opportunity to read this book for my book club, as well as this author's novel "Sherlock Holmes and the Nine-Dragon Sigil". It's an excellent use of traditional mystery written in a style very similar to that of the actual early 1900s. Although it's English mystery, the novel spends most of it's time in Serbia. This introduces a rather different setting to such a genre. This difference adds to the intrigue of the novel, making it that much more captivating.
I realize I show more must sound rather biased since I'm raving like a rabid One Direction fan, but I pledge my honesty in this review. I read this novel immediately after the first one and only now have the opportunity to share my opinion on them.
The writing style is, dare I say, seductive. The words roll off the metaphoric, internal tongue. (Much like the effect of a foreigner's accent.)
For readers similar to me, these types of mysteries are exciting and hard to put down. show less

I received a free copy of this book from the author, but after reading it I just HAD to buy a physical copy to add to my Sherlock Holmes collection! If you're a Sherlock Holmes fan and you haven't read anything by Tim Symonds YOU ARE MISSING OUT!!
Like many Sherlock Holmes stories, you get an introduction to the narrative of Dr. Watson and the setting. It's a calm, steady, necessary expedition that benefits the complicated mysteries of this Sherlock novel well.
From this you learn Sherlock and show more Watson no longer live together for the consulting detective has settled down in quiet Sussex. Personally, I love the retired Sherlock stories because they prove that no matter how old the great detective Holmes and his trusty Dr. Watson get, they're always going to be the most incredible team in fictitious history!
Tim Symonds is not humble about this fact, which I love.
This author has done some of the most authentic Sherlock Holmes writing I have ever read! And believe me, I have read a LOT of Sherlock Holmes in my time!
I don't know if this author has ever been to China or not, but I sure feel like I have after reading this! What's even better is I feel like I've fallen into a worm hole and gotten popped out in 1900's-China! The text used to describe this fascinating setting is as busy as it is disorienting, no doubt making it all that much more realistic for the time, place, and scenario.
The author has clearly mastered the art of foreshadowing because, even though I had to have Sherlock point it out to me, all of the evidence and bits of information relevant to the story are written RIGHT THERE!! I love being tricked just as much as I love being guided in the right direction and Tim Symonds has managed to do both. Amazing piece of literature! I would love to see this converted at some point to hit the big screen. I can picture Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce playing these roles and even though that's no longer possible, I would have a field day seeing the old fashion Holmes and Watson back on screen by some fresh writing and faces! show less

Rating: 4.5
The to-be-released novel (at the time of this review) Sherlock Holmes and the nine dragon sigil, takes readers to the year 1906. This is a historical fiction mystery novel largely taking place in the Chinese Empire, at it's height. The dynasty is a strong force on the verge of what will be a downfall if nothing is done.
A murder with the potential to start a civil war has taken place, and if action is not taken, it will.
This is the first sherlock novel I have ever read. I've seen show more some of the movies, but that's the extent of my Sherlockian knowledge.
Intense and intelligent are two words I would use to describe this mystery novel. It travels at a steady pace that speeds up every now and again, but over all it's fairly consistent.
I liked the fact that this novel was taken out of England, which I feel is probably the Sherlock Holmes comfort zone, right?
The Chinese setting worked really well in holding my interest throughout the heavy suspense and build.
I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this novel. It's interesting to catch a glimpse of the traditional Holmes and Watson. I will have to read more to better understand the similarities and differences, but I did like the whole conspiracy theme this novel in particular was based around.

I received a pre-release copy of this novel free of charge from the author. show less