Anthology / Short Story Collection MASTER OF THE ART OF DETECTION with Liese Sherwood-Fabre

Decipher. Deduce. Deliver.

As the “Master of the Art of Detection,” Sherlock Holmes embarks on an enthralling journey across a series of perplexing cases that test his legendary skills. Each story is a masterclass in deduction, showcasing Holmes’ unmatched ability to uncover the truth hidden beneath a complex layer of clues.

From the chilling confines of a locked room where the mysterious “Curse of Kisin” claims its victim, to the baffling disappearance of Squire Northridge’s daughter from her sealed bedroom, Holmes faces challenges that push his intellect to its limits. His investigations span continents, as he attempts to solve the mystery of a missing treasure hunter searching for Jean Lafitte’s buried riches. Can he find what all others have failed to uncover?

Among these darker tales, lighter moments shine through with the whimsical case of a missing dog, and amusing escapades involving Lady Frances Carfax and the curious howling dog of Baker Street. Each story in this collection not only highlights Holmes’ extraordinary deductive powers but also brings to life the rich tapestry of Victorian London and beyond.

Award-winning author, Liese Sherwood-Fabre recently sat down with The Big Thrill to discuss her latest genre, MASTER OF THE ART OF DETECTION.

Liese Sherwood-Fabre

Can you pinpoint a moment or incident that sparked the idea for this book?

Recently I had been asked to contribute to two Holmesian anthologies (both through Belanger Books), and realized I had other short stories I’d written over the years that could form a collection of their own. I edited them and put them together for this book. While a mix, they all showcase Holmes’ talents as the Master of Detection.

When you first created your protagonist for this book, did you see an empty space in crime lit that you wanted to fill? What can you share about the inspiration for that character?

While Sherlock Holmes is a known character, each author puts their own spin on the detective–just as the various actors who have portrayed him over the years. In these stories, I tried to be true to the Sherlock Holmes in the original canon because these were additions to what Arthur Conan Doyle crafted. I do think, however, that modern readers expect more in terms emotions than Arthur Conan Doyle provided in some of his tales, and I added more of Watson’s reactions to the cases than might have been noted in the original stories.

In addition to a great read, what do you hope readers will take away from this story?

A deeper love for Sherlock Holmes. I had so much fun writing these stories–the last one in particular. Taking one of the original cases, I rewrote from the perspective of two pets that lived across from 221B Baker Street (Holmes’ apartment). I included the original story for this and one other (“The Disappearance of Lady Frances Carfax”) for those less familiar with the original cases. Readers will get a taste of the original tales as well as new material. I hope those not familiar with the original cases will be inspired to read all 60 of the Sherlock Holmes stories.

What can you share about what you’re working on next?

As mentioned above, I have two stories to be included in two different anthologies from Belanger Books. One will be available around September. The second in the new year.

I also have a nonfiction essay collection, the fifth volume in my “Essays on Victorian England” series coming out by the end of the year.

My other project is a mystery set in San Francisco just before the 1906 earthquake. I’m hoping to finish it before the end of this year.