"The Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Vs. Dracula" Book Review

Written by John Colianni

Published by Titan Books

Written by Loren D. Estleman
2012, 224 pages, Fiction
Released on November 6th, 2012

Review:

In the wide world of fiction, anything is imaginable. Characters and events can transcend time and space to bring the reader an almost infinite number of scenarios. That's the beauty of things, really. For no reason whatsoever, blurred story lines, protagonists and antagonists and familiar settings come together in a way that leaves eager eyes craving more. This is exactly what we get from Loren D. Estleman's latest addition to the vast world of Sherlock Holmes fiction.

Right from the first chapter, you're instantly pulled into the world of intrigue and mystery, narrated by Holmes' counterpart, Dr. Watson. If you've never had the opportunity to experience the character play that occurs between these two literary icons, you're in for a treat. The story starts as Holmes is fresh off of his latest case when yet another is about to fall into his lap. A strange ship, the Demeter, has arrived into London's port with no living soul aboard, except for the captain, dead and tied to the helm. Holmes and Watson soon discover that there are two bite marks on his neck, with his body devoid of blood, but none to be found anywhere. And thus starts an adventure that will ultimately pit Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson against the one and only, Count Dracula.

Estleman's story and writing style pays an amazing homage to the characters that so many have come to know and love over the years. Through the words of Watson, the reader learns the true inner workings of a brilliant mind such as Holmes. The step by step process of how he comes to certain conclusions are impressively descriptive. What really makes this incredibly enjoyable to read is the pacing of the novel itself. There are no lengthy chapters to pine over. Each one has a defined beginning and end, which feels like you're reading the book in installments, which leaves just enough intrigue to jump right into the part.

If you're fresh out of things to read or you're looking for a change of pace from the usual tween novel you're only reading because that's the only thing there was in the bathroom, do yourself a favor and grab a copy of Estleman's The Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Vs. Dracula. The plot line will bring the legendary and most iconic vampire against the world's greatest detective against one another in a game of wits and will. Also, if you know anyone who happens to be reading Twilight instead, wield a few copies of Holmes Vs. Dracula and promptly flog them in their sleep. They'll thank you in the morning.

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