This book is the second in a series, and unfortunately, I didn't know this going in. Despite going in without the first book, I was still able to piece things well enough to find the story engaging, but I'd recommend going in the right order to avoid spoilers from the previous book.
Primarily, I found the characters highly riveting and very relatable, but the plot lacking in suspense and a satisfying ending. I thoroughly enjoyed the various dynamics between all the characters and the vivid descriptions that bought the settings to life. The story is packed with intense family drama and compelling relationship dynamics that have a long history. I haven't read the original Sherlock Holmes mysteries, and I was still able to connect with and like Claire Andrews' interpretation of some of the original iconic characters in a different context. Can't speak for accuracies in their portrayal, but I think there is still a lot to appreciate in this book as its own independent work.
If you particularly love seeing independent and strong-minded women from historical fiction or historical romance, this may be the right pick for you. Same goes for young detective stories, or YA packed with emotion. Of course, I have to mention the popular series Enola Holmes which also features some original characters from Doyle's works. Enola's series features Sherlock's much younger sister and her investigative expeditions, and all of the books in my experience were a lot of fun to read. This book is set apart from that in the sense that there is romance and some more challenging themes that don't make it suitable for younger readers. However, if you liked the general vibe of the Enola Holmes books and/or movies, you may find the Irene Adler series is very entertaining. Looking forward to reading more in the series!
Thanks to NetGalley, Claire Andrews, and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for the complimentary eARC in exchange for honest feedback. All opinions in this review are mine.
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