The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four

I know it’s been a while since I’ve written anything, but I’m challenging myself on this next review. How to review a book that’s been in the eyes and hearts of the public since 1890?

I myself am a self-proclaimed fanatic of BBC’s Sherlock (AKA a Sherlockian) and since the release of the series, I have been eager to get my hands on the complete Sherlock Holmes works. This Christmas, to my delight, I found myself gifted with the most beautiful leather-bound copy of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s most acclaimed tales.

This is the second instalment of the Sherlock Holmes collection, and also the second Sherlock book I have had the delight to read. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a writer way ahead of his time, with thrilling plots, twists and deductions that have stood the test of time and still resonate with audiences across the world to this day.

The Sign of Four sees our two brave heroes - the enigmatic consulting detective, Sherlock Holmes and his loyal retired army doctor companion, Dr. John Watson – helping a young, attractive woman, Miss Mary Morstan, in seeking the whereabouts of her missing father and trying to unearth the source of several anonymous letters that are sent along with glorious pearls. After learning that her father is indeed dead, as she fully expected, Miss. Morstan learns of the Agra Treasure; a fortune worth half a million that she is fully entitled to. Unfortunately, the treasure is in the hands of Bartholomew Sholto, the son of her late father’s best friend. On arrival at Master Sholto’s home, they discover that his life has been taken along with the treasure.

From this point on, we see the real Sherlock Holmes. He uses every method at his disposal to catch the criminal, and we witness his violent mood swings according to the way in which the search is going. The tale comes to an exciting and gripping end, with a clear victory for righteousness when the criminals are caught and the treasure is given back to its rightful heir.

I'd just like to say: the book doesn't end there. Keep on reading, as everything isn't exactly how it seems.

Although this book is a classic, it reads as fluidly as any 21^st century crime and mystery novel, and I would recommend that anyone who is a fan of the movies, or the television series should invest in their own copies of the Sherlock Collection. Although it is over one hundred years old, the ideas and theories explored in the book are still as interesting to this very day. Like me, you may find yourself shocked at just how similar the 1890 and 2011 versions of the Sherlock tales are.

Be warned, if you’re not already aware, the first chapter of this book opens with Sherlock using Morphine and Cocaine. If you’re easily offended, you may want to stick to the television series where he keeps himself entertained through nicotine patches. 

I don't think it is my place to give this book any kind of rating, but I will state that it is well deserving of its place in the literary canon. I am very much looking forward to reading more of these fantastic instalments. 

Download the Kindle version for free here

Purchase the beautiful leather-bound hard cover here

Happy reading!

Review by Lauren Goodfellow