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mad_about_books's review
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
sad
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The Becky and Flynn Mystery Series is a spinoff from the Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series that is now 31 books strong. Fans of Sherlock and Lucy know that Becky Kelly is the sister of Lucy's husband Jack Kelly, a Scotland Yard detective. And, of course, Flynn is the leader of Holmes' Baker Street Irregulars. Flynn and Becky have been friends since she was nine and he was ten. The bright, curious, and mischievous Becky is now a fully qualified surgeon, and Flynn, always a leader, is a Major in the British Army. WWI is raging, and Flynn ends up on Becky's operating table in the north of France. Thus, the scene is set for their adventures together as adults.
Although age appropriate for readers age 8 to 108 (I will admit that the lower age limit is based on the fact that I was reading such novels at that age), Anna Elliott has managed to convey the horrors of WWI both from the perspective of the soldier experiencing them and the doctor treating the mangled wounded. The history rings true in much the same way Conan Doyle was able to convey the streets of London in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The combination of great story telling with historical truth makes for a compelling read no matter what your age.
Since I've read the entire Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series, I would certainly encourage others to read them before tackling Flynn and Becky. The background will add to overall enjoyment of this new series and provide hours of reading enjoyment.
Although age appropriate for readers age 8 to 108 (I will admit that the lower age limit is based on the fact that I was reading such novels at that age), Anna Elliott has managed to convey the horrors of WWI both from the perspective of the soldier experiencing them and the doctor treating the mangled wounded. The history rings true in much the same way Conan Doyle was able to convey the streets of London in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The combination of great story telling with historical truth makes for a compelling read no matter what your age.
Since I've read the entire Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery series, I would certainly encourage others to read them before tackling Flynn and Becky. The background will add to overall enjoyment of this new series and provide hours of reading enjoyment.
shadocvao's review
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
vesper1931's review
mysterious
medium-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
The Western Front, 1915. Dr Becky Kelly and Major Flynn, who is recovering from his wounds, are confronted by a disguised Sherlock Holmes. He needs their help to catch a German Spy.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. A good start to a new series.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. A good start to a new series.
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