The Abduction of Pretty Penny by Leonard Goldberg: Book Review

The Abduction of Pretty Penny is the forthcoming 5th book in the Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries. The book is scheduled to be released in June 2021 by Minotaur Books. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy from Goodreads and Minotaur, which I am grateful for. When I entered the giveaway on Goodreads, I was unaware this was the fifth book in a series. But after reading the book, I can say that I had no issues with not having read the earlier books in the series. I can also say, I look forward to reading the others when I am able.

Synopsis

Pretty Penny, the lead actress for the Whitechapel Playhouse, has gone missing. Joanna and the Watsons (yes, that Watson and his son) have been called in to find her.

While in Whitechapel, searching for clues as to Pretty Penny’s disappearance, the trio is called on by Scotland Yard to assist in the investigation of some gruesome murders. It appears Jack the Ripper is back after a 28-year absence.

Is Pretty Penny’s disappearance connected to the Ripper? Will she be the next victim? Let’s hope Joanna and the Watsons can find Pretty Penny before it’s too late.

Positives

The book is very easy to read. While it is over 300 pages, the book could easily be read in a weekend. It just flows that easily!

I found it easy to see Sherlock Holmes in Joanna and many of her mannerisms. I look forward to reading the first book in the series to learn more about that connection.

Negatives

There are bits in the book that are a bit gruesome. Though, I wouldn’t really expect much else when Jack the Ripper is one of the characters. The details given when the bodies are found are very detailed. With the first one, I was shocked and put the book down for a bit. Then I reminded myself it’s a mystery with murders in, what else could I expect?

There was one scene in the book that I took issues with Joanna. I understand she has to be stoic, as she is the daughter of Sherlock Holmes. But she is also a mother, and I can’t see myself being so calm if I were placed in the same situation. Before you ask what happens, I am trying to keep this spoiler-free!

My Opinions

I have not read a lot of Sherlock Holmes in my life. I know; how dare I not read Holmes! But I have read some and quite thoroughly enjoyed them. He works the gray matter (to steal a line from Hercule Poirot) to help see what is right in front of him even though others may have missed it at first. I want to think that Arthur Conan Doyle would enjoy what Leonard Goldberg has done with the man and the mythos.

Once I was able to focus on the story, I found it hard to put it down. It was great fun! Joanna seems to be Sherlock’s daughter through and through. Just as her husband, Dr. John Watson, is his father’s son.

If you like Sherlock Holmes, then you will like The Abduction of Pretty Penny!

I look forward to reading the other four books in this series, and hope that I can do that soon.

Looking for some more books to read? Check out my other book reviews and my monthly reading wrap-ups.