A review by deearr
The Unpleasantness at Baskerville Hall by Chris Dolley
5.0
It’s been a long time since I read a farcical tale that was so immensely enjoyable. “The Unpleasantness at Baskerville Hall” was reminiscent of Connie Willis’ “To Say Nothing of the Dog” in terms of the lighthearted serious tone that runs through the entire novel.
Reggie Worcester is a wannabe detective, stumbling along in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes. Reggie is aided by his manservant Reeves and his girlfriend companion Emmeline. Together they embark on an adventure that slightly resembles Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Reggie is not totally inept, although he is constantly steered toward a better path by Reeves (who is an automaton).
The steampunk aspect dresses the book in an entirely novel flavor, and is a major part of the mystery. Although there are murders, the usual graphic depictions (as well as any sex scenes) are missing from this book. Author Chris Dolley’s writing is exceptional and the characters are fun, flawed, and likeable. For those who hate to read a book with objectionable language, you will have none of those worries with this story. Although “Unpleasantness” is the fourth in the series, one is not lost if the first three books haven’t been read. The author does refer to a couple of former adventures, but these mentions are fleeting and the book is able to stand on its own. I highly recommend this book, and reading it has convinced me I need to pick up the first three books in this series. Five stars for this one.
Reggie Worcester is a wannabe detective, stumbling along in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes. Reggie is aided by his manservant Reeves and his girlfriend companion Emmeline. Together they embark on an adventure that slightly resembles Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Reggie is not totally inept, although he is constantly steered toward a better path by Reeves (who is an automaton).
The steampunk aspect dresses the book in an entirely novel flavor, and is a major part of the mystery. Although there are murders, the usual graphic depictions (as well as any sex scenes) are missing from this book. Author Chris Dolley’s writing is exceptional and the characters are fun, flawed, and likeable. For those who hate to read a book with objectionable language, you will have none of those worries with this story. Although “Unpleasantness” is the fourth in the series, one is not lost if the first three books haven’t been read. The author does refer to a couple of former adventures, but these mentions are fleeting and the book is able to stand on its own. I highly recommend this book, and reading it has convinced me I need to pick up the first three books in this series. Five stars for this one.