Thursday, October 7

Audiobook Review: Sherlock Holmes - A Scandal in Bohemia




Author: Arthur Conan Doyle
Narrator: Edward Hardwicke
Title: Sherlock Holmes - A Scandal in Bohemia
(The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes #1)
Genre: Classic, Short Stories, Mystery, Thriller
Format: Audiobook
Published:  June 25th 1891
Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 
"A Scandal in Bohemia" was the first of Arthur Conan Doyle's 56 Sherlock Holmes short stories to be published in "The Strand Magazine" and the first Sherlock Holmes story illustrated by Sidney Paget. (Two of the four Sherlock Holmes novels—"A Study in Scarlet" and "The Sign of the Four"—preceded the short story cycle.) The story is notable for introducing the character of Irene Adler, often used as a romantic interest for Holmes in later derivative works. Doyle ranked "A Scandal in Bohemia" fifth in his list of his twelve favourite Holmes stories.

It was first published on 25 June 1891 in the issue of the magazine dated July, and was the first of the stories collected in "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" in 1892.



Review:
Love me some Holmes especially the original and classic. I have read so many of these short stories. This is the first one and had been one of my personal favorites back in my youth. These have been popping up on recommendations on Audible.

A masked stranger arrives and asks for Sherlock's help. This stranger needs to get a photo back from Irene Adler who was a previous lover. Sherlock, in Sherlock-fashion, figures out that this stranger is Grand Duke of Cassel-Felstein and hereditary King of Bohemia. The Grand Duke wants to marry a princess, but he is scared of Irene using the photo to embarrass him because it is undeniable proof that they were more than friends back in the day. Sherlock and Watson agree to assist him. Little does Sherlock know that Irene will be his match. 

What a way to introduce this world and characters. I feel like everyone should read this first. I did the audio of it and it was just as good and had me absorbed. 

I just love how the author made Irene a great match for Sherlock and how he adores her wit and logic. It takes a lot to impress the greatest mind.

This made me want to go through all of the short stories or watch some movies. So much fun. I wish I could be like Sherlock and be that smart and witty and observant. 

The narrator was fantastic and perfect for this story and set of characters. 

Overall, one of the best of the short stories. I'll give this 5 stars.







 

Challenge(s):
- #66 for Audiobook challenge


5 comments:

Carole said...

I don't think I've ever read a Sherlock HOlmes... will think about it. Cheers

Melliane said...

One day I'll have to read them!

Blodeuedd said...

An oldie but good

Jen Twimom said...

I've watched many movies and shows and read various versions, but I think I've only read one short original back in high school.

Carole Rae said...

Carole, the original Sherlock is totally worth it.

Mel, one day! :D

B, agreed!

Jen, I didn't read them until like Senior year of High School. There are a bunch I still haven't read.