Member Reviews

The Cursed Writer.

I can imagine how much fun this would have been while writing the book.
There is the nostalgic feeling and it feels very close to reading the original Sherlock Holmes in action.
When I was reading this book, I did not once feel it was part of a series, it was very easy to follow along though there were a few characters that seemed already introduced to the readers.

It was cozy at times with seemingly low stakes, but the way the story shaped itself made it a thrilling read.

SO many references to the great detective and the small comments to Agatha Christie - the queen herself, were almost like a homage to the great books that came before and are still very much celebrated.

The story is set in the 1930s, almost a century ago, but our protagonist is very “modern” in her thinking and way of life.

There are so many social issues that caught my eye, and it is a little sad when those issues are relevant in our world too. It is almost as if these have been on going for a very very long time. Makes you wonder what we have achieved as a society.

I very much enjoyed the ensemble in this book with one main character. The supporting characters were still fully formed with their opinions and personalities without removing any attention to the main character.

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📖//REVIEW: THE CURSED WRITER BY HOLLY HEPBURN//📖

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Cursed Writer is the second book in the Baker Street Mysteries series, and after devouring the first novel, "The Missing Maid," on my flight home from Costa Rica, I was thrilled to be able to read the second novel.

This book takes place immediately after the first book ends, with our main character Harry jumping right back into her job as Sherlock Holmes secretary. This time, Harry receives a telegram asking for Holmes's assistance and jumps at the chance to solve another mystery. Without giving away the plot, we follow Harry as she tries to help a nephew and his uncle, who is a struggling writer.
I really enjoyed Hepburn's storytelling and world-building, and I recommend anyone who is a fan of Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes pick this up.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC of this book. I cannot wait to add this to my shelves.

Expected release date: October 17th, 2024

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According to the incomparable Sherlock Holmes, “Logic and deduction are the antidote to fear.” Once again, Harry, a secretary turned detective proves to be fearless and clever in the second book of the Baker Street Mysteries. I enjoyed joining Harry on her journey as the trusted assistant of Mr. Holmes. The mystery was cleverly calculated with surprises throughout. I loved my glimpse into 1930 London and look forward to book three of this entertaining and intriguing series. “ The game is once again afoot.” Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my copy.

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"'When did you become aware something was wrong?'

'When the screaming began...'

Harriet White is no stranger to odd correspondence. Ensconced in the basement of the Baker Street building society, her job is to reply to the mail they receive on behalf of Sherlock Holmes.

But while letters to the fictional sleuth may be plentiful, telegrams are rare, and so when she receives one describing the grave situation of celebrated author Philip St John, her interest is piqued. The writer describes St John as being consumed by terror, seeing ghostly apparitions on the fens, and only at ease in the company of his loyal wolfhound.

Before long, Harry finds herself in Cambridgeshire under the guise of being Holmes' assistant. The residents of Thurmwell Manor believe their master is cursed. Harry is sure there must be a logical explanation, but inside the echoey halls of the grand Gothic house, her confidence in science and reason begin to crumble...

Can Harry solve the mystery before the fens claim their next victim?

Join Harriet White in 1930's London for another glorious Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery, for fans of Nita Prose and Janice Hallett."

Is there a book called "When the screaming began?" Because I think that sums up murder mysteries quite well.

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This is the second book in "The Baker Street Mysteries" in which Harriet ("Harry") White is the person responsible for answering all the letters
addressed to the fictional Sherlock Holmes at 221b. I am always interested in Sherlock Holmes related books, but most are too far fetched or boring.

The author has created a likable, believable character who takes it upon herself to investigate one or two of the mysteries which have arrived in the letters. I like the "Hound of the Baskervilles" atmosphere in this novel, however on the foggy Cambridgeshire fens instead of Dartmoor. Great idea to call the master's dog "Barrymore" (the butler in Doyle's book).

The plot development is not predictable, so it held my interest all the way through. There are additional interesting subplots and tie-ins to a case from the previous book. It is also nice to read a mystery which doesn't have a murder in it.

I highly recommend this new series as the author has shown much skill in weaving interesting mysteries.

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Journey back with me to 1930s London. Harriet/Harry White has a job that sounds at once both mind numbing tedious and potentially exciting. She's answering letters sent to the fictional Sherlock Holmes because the company she's employed by just happens to be located at that, oh, so famous Baker Street address. And, oh, there's the little matter of it being a bit of a demotion after she refused to be the victim of sexual harassment by her overseer. Having not read the first book in the series, I was a bit wary of jumping into this one given the frequently puzzling, complicated cases that come to mind when one thinks Sherlock Holmes but, well, what can I say. That name alone and a mention of "Hound of the Baskervilles" was enough to pull me in. I'm glad it did as I very quickly liked Harry and the author quickly got us up to pace on the background from book one.

Just as she seems to have done in book one, Harry responds personally, well, as Holmes instead of using her tried and true normal line as Holmes' secretary about him being retired and unable to help. This time she was intrigued by a telegram arriving rather than a letter, however. I won't detail the plot, it's too much fun to sort it all out as it happens, but it involves a nephew worried about the health, both physical and mental, of his uncle. Let's just say his uncle seems to be in turmoil, panicked, and unable to function. John Arbor, the sender of the telegram, hopes Holmes can help. And, from there, Harry's rash action of responding sets off a series of events involving not just her but Oliver Fortescue, a childhood friend who, from what I can gather, seems to be in the midst of a very slow burn wannabe-romance with Harry. Remember, the setting is in the 1930s, so things do tend to move slower overall,

Delightfully spooky, full of tales of a grim reaper of sorts known as the Ferryman, ghostly spirits on the marshy fen that surrounds the estate, and the poor, afflicted man's loyal wolfhound, abound.....and that's just the main story. Not only does the author give us a dose of Holmes, but there are other side stories, all of which Harry finds herself involved in investigating. Without giving away too much, let's just say they seem to tie back to book one but even without reading it, I had no problems sorting out what was what and who was who. I definitely liked Harry and have my fingers crossed Oliver will perhaps be bolder in future books. Again, remembering the date, no pressure, Oliver. Grin. Harry's courage and, yes, even rashness at times, not to mention there's so much going on that it has the sense of moving right along without too much time spent spinning our wheels. In other words, while cringing at the role of women of that time and Harry's mother's hopes for her marriage to a suitable man, I thoroughly enjoyed the book/mystery and am already looking forward to my next virtual trip back to Baker Street in the author's lovely time machine. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for allowing me this early peek into this case and introducing me to these fascinating people.

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This was another great entry in the Baker Street mystery series, I enjoyed this entry and how it worked as a mystery novel. The characters had that overall concept that I wanted and was glad it was so well written. Holly Hepburn always writes a strong mystery and I’m glad I got to read this.

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This is the second book in the series and after reading the 1st I was so pleased to get a copy via Netgalley. The story starts as usual when Holmes receives correspondence re a mystery. This time it's a telegram which of course Harry can't resist replying. This was brilliantly written and I was eager to keep reading. I look forward to book 3!

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Historical mystery loosely connected to Sherlock Holmes. Second in this amusing series with good characters and storylines.

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I am really enjoying the adventures that Harry goes on as Sherlock Holmes' secretary because she doesn't always tell people that he can't help, for obvious reasons. I like that she has a big heart, but it can get her into trouble sometimes. I am personally still waiting to see if the romance is going to be further explored. I really enjoyed this second installment. I really enjoyed the myth of The Farrymen, who may or may not exist. I really enjoyed Barrymore, he was my favorite character. I also like how we got more background knowledge on the poor girl who fell victim to Simon's lustful advances.

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I absolutely loved 'The Missing Maid' and was eagerly waiting for the next book in the series. This book not just matched my expectations but exceeded it. I love the premise of the character and her setting. She's a strong female character with a mind of her own who recognises the need for independence.

The book sets up the supporting characters well and takes the series ahead. Loved the premise of the mystery. It is a light and engrossing read that I definitely recommend. Waiting for the next book!

Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this e-arc in exchange of my unbiased review.

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This talented author has written a cannot put down cozy mystery. Sherlock Holmes…red herrings…mystery and intrigue…family and friends…curl up in a comfy chair with a cozy blanket and become lost in this story. Thanks Netgalley

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This was my second Harry White mystery novel and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The series has a cozy feel (old-fashioned, no extraneous content) but doesn’t tilt into whimsy. You’ve got a no-nonsense society gal who’s cleverly making her way in the world, followed by a nice young man who clearly needs to speak up about his feelings but hey, slow burn, whatcha gonna do? This novel had many nods to “The Hounds of the Baskervilles” while having its own notes of interest (I guessed two of the twists but NOT how they would intertwine). Would definitely recommend to anyone interested in female led mysteries set in post-WW II England.

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Fans of Sherlock Holmes will love the Baker Street mysteries and The Cursed Writer had me gripped from the beginning. It is full of surprises, and a delightful read for fans of quirky mysteries and magical adventures. Bring on the next one

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I absolutely loved The Missing Maid, so I was thrilled to get my hands on an early copy of The Cursed Writer. It exceeded even my high expectations!

This time, Harry receives a telegram to Sherlock Holmes, and thus starts a truly excellent mystery.

I love Harry, who is both courageous and realistic about what she can achieve. She is also clever and compassionate, and is fast becoming my favourite sleuth.

I loved this mystery too. It was really compelling, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the way it all seemed so unfathomable to start with, and small clues gradually revealed what was really happening.

The setting was excellent. The house is mysterious and slightly creepy, and the fens even more so. They definitely added to the atmosphere of the story.

Overall, this was a compelling and excellently written mystery that I just couldn’t put down. If you pick up just one book I’ve recommended this year, make it this one. Holly Hepburn is just getting better and better. I can’t wait for the next one!

I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

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Holly Hepburn's The Cursed Writer brings readers back into the intriguing world of the Baker Street Mystery series with a new twist. Harriet White, who handles Sherlock Holmes' fan mail, finds herself on an unexpected adventure in Cambridgeshire after receiving a distressing telegram from the troubled author Philip St John.

The novel excels in setting a captivating atmosphere. Thurmwell Manor and the surrounding fens are described with such vivid detail that they become almost as central to the story as the characters themselves. Harriet is a likable and well-developed protagonist, whose journey from skepticism to belief adds depth to the narrative. Hepburn’s ability to blend a sense of gothic suspense with a logical mystery is commendable.

That said, the plot, while engaging, does follow a somewhat predictable path. Experienced mystery readers might find the storyline familiar, and the resolution may not offer the twist or complexity they might hope for. Additionally, the pacing can be uneven, with some slower sections that impact the overall momentum of the story.

Overall, The Cursed Writer is a charming and atmospheric mystery that will likely appeal to fans of the series and readers who enjoy a good gothic mystery. It may not be groundbreaking, but it offers a satisfying read with well-crafted settings and characters.

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It is 1930's London, Miss Harry (Harriette) White works at the Abbey Road Building Society who's offices span the address 219-229 Baker Street, the world famous address of the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.

Harry's job at the bank is to respond to the hundreds of the letters addressed to Mr Holmes from those who believed him to be a real person. Her standard response is "Mr Holmes has retired to Sussex to keep bees and is regretfully unable to help."

At least, that is her reply to almost every letter.

A Telegram has been received " Sherlock Holmes. Philip St John at death's door. Time of the Essence. Reply Immediately."

Harry takes up the case, pretending to be Sherlocks assistant, and visits Thrumwell Manor, home of Mr St John and his nephew John Archer, the sender of the telegram. Harry must question the staff and the locals to discover the origins of Philip St Johns mysterious illness before its too late.

Could this be related to the local myth of "The Ferryman". Anyone who see's his torch across the fens for three successive nights are compelled to follow, never to return.

The Manor is set in the fens and marshland, The Ferryman was a fascinating addition, causing genuine fear for locals venturing out at night. This book provoked memories of the classic Hound of the Baskervilles and was delightful.

I really enjoyed Holly Hepburns story telling and world building. I was really drawn into the period, especially the squalid streets of Brighton.

The mystery itself wasn't particular difficult to pick apart but was a very satisfactory conclusion, along with tying up all loose ends with the ending hopefully queueing up a third novel in the series.

A very enjoyable read, clearly targeting fans of Sherlock Holmes as well as Agatha Christie. I being a fan of both thought this book charming.

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I’ve read quite a few of Hollys other books and I was intrigued by this one as it appears to be different. You will not be disappointed the book it great!

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A great addition to the series. I love it when authors go out of their comfort zone and when they do it as well as this amazing. More in th series please.

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Harry's job is to handle correspondences addressed to the fictional Sherlock Holmes. She replies to each letter, explaining that Sherlock has retired from detective work.

That is until she receives a telegram addressed to Holmes, stating that Philip St John, a celebrated author, is at death's door. Archer, his nephew, describes Philip as being consumed by terror, prone to fits of hallucination and hysterical screaming. He wants Holmes to uncover the reason for this uncle's behaviour. Harry decides to investigate.

I loved the setting of the investigation in an eerie, secluded manor with a gothic feel. The side mysteries that Harry was trying to solve, in addition to the main one, created variety in the plot. I enjoyed the links to the previous book in the series and can't wait for the next one.

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