A Study in Scarlet Women
A Study in Scarlet Women attempts what so many movies and television shows have in the last decade: resurrect that masterful detective, Sherlock Holmes. But in these revivals, Holmes, the great iconic sleuth, is changed. In this particular book, the change is more drastic than earlier endeavors. In this case, Sherlock is a woman.
Charlotte Holmes has an inquisitive mind and resents the limited role assigned to her in Victorian London. In an attempt to dissuade her father’s marriage requirement, Charlotte inadvertently becomes a “fallen woman.” As such, her whole family must suffer humiliation. However, it is left to Charlotte to figure out three murders, deeds that turn suspicions on her own family.
The language is delightful in this tour de force, and the premise is intriguing. However, as the tale progresses, I became confused about the many characters relevant to the plot. While Charlotte’s character is clearly drawn, the males in the story sort of blend together, especially towards the end. And the ending itself seems more contrived than the natural result of Holmes’s meticulous detective work. I hope Ms. Thomas will try another Charlotte Holmes story, though. I have every confidence she can pull it off.
