The Three Locks by Bonnie MacBird – A Sherlock Holmes Prequel of 1887

The Three Locks by Bonnie Macbird

There are many variations on the theme of Sherlock Holmes, but there are several reasons why this prequel to Macbird’s series is a great read. It manages to convey the complexity of the original Conan Doyle’s books and the stunning ability of the great consulting detective to work out what is really going on. It reflects the narrator’s, Dr Watson’s, valuable contribution to cases even when he is exasperated by Holmes’ behaviour and more than a little bewildered by events. For me the really interesting thing is the attitude to women, from Mrs Hudson who is far more likely to rebuke Holmes than in other versions, to the women that the men encounter, who have far more agency than being “women in peril”. This book precedes other three Sherlock Holmes Adventures that Macbird has written, so no previous acquaintance with the series is required, though on the basis of this book I will certainly be looking for the others. The action is fast paced, and does not get slowed by descriptions of the setting and other non- plot diversions, though Macbird is obviously fully immersed in the world of train timetables and other details of life in 1887. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of Cambridge at the time, and especially the power of the University and the social differences between students. I really enjoyed this book and was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review it.

The book begins with the setting of the scene in a hot London, despite the fact that it is late September. Holmes is in a distant mood, seemingly embroiled in some case which does not require Watson’s input. So when he returns and insists that Watson put down a strange box that has just arrived for the doctor, Watson is not pleased. So indignant is he that he leaves Holmes to his own devices for ten days and joins friends in Bath. In his absence the detective has been getting up to new tricks, literally learning to emulate a stage magician and escapologist, new talents that will prove useful. When the formidable Madame Ilaria Borelli turns up she proves to be a volatile person who has skills and complicated tales of passion, injuries and danger which leads to Holmes and Watson learning far more than is perhaps safe. A visit from an anxious young man from Cambridge heralds a whole new field of investigation in which a young woman is at the centre of a range of attachments. Neither investigation will leave either investigator unmarked as they search for the truth among trickery, archery and sundry other dangers.

This book flows quite quickly from scene to scene, as the two men move from stage to college grounds, science laboratory to a dangerous riverside. As soon as I got used to the pace of this novel I found it compelling, as every possible permutation of guilt and innocence, motive and opportunity is tested. As Watson tries to keep up with Holmes, marvelling at his powers of physical endurance as well as his retentive and active brain, I found that each clue and even throwaway comment is part of the overall plotting which is very satisfying. The characters, including those of even minor importance, are well drawn and consistent, including a handcuff wielding policeman. I recommend this lively novel to both Sherlock devotees who will enjoy a version set in the original time frame, and those who are newer to the Holmes story as this book gently introduces two popular heroes.