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The Adventures of the Second Mrs. Watson |
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 The Adventures of the Second Mrs. Watson byMichael Mallory Deadly Alibi Press Ltd. 162 pages, 1999 ISBN 188619906X Reviewed by PJ Nunn Read our author interview In The Adventure of the Blanched Soldier by Arthur Conan Doyle, the legendary Sherlock Holmes made reference to Watson deserting him in favor of a wife - an act he apparently found displeasing. This second Mrs. Watson was never mentioned again in any Sherlock Holmes story, leaving fans to puzzle over her existence for ninety years. In 1995, Michael Mallory introduced Amelia Pettigrew Watson, once an actress, and now the devoted and headstrong spouse of Dr. Watson. Her first appearance in the Summer 1995 issue of Murderous Intent Mystery Magazine prompted a demand for more, and her adventures evolved into a monthly appearance. Now, in The Adventures of the Second Mrs. Watson, Amelia again reluctantly takes on the role of amateur sleuth, much to the chagrin of the fictionalized Watson and Holmes and the delight of an ever-increasing number of fans. Amelia is quite a colorful character, outspoken, especially for her day and time, and a little quirky. The book is composed of twelve distinctly individual tales that include impossible mysteries, standard Holmes puzzles, and brushes with the supernatural. One story even details a showdown with Jack the Ripper. Although each episode can stand alone, together they create a linear storyline that progresses chronologically, combining the best of short and novel-length fiction. Throughout, Amelia meets with favorite old characters from early Holmes adventures and introduces new ones. In Amelia Watson, Mallory has crafted a character of great substance - a woman of intellect and personality who charms her way out of absurd situations and exhibits the determination of a bulldog when defending those who have been wronged. The idea of expanding and improving upon the works of Doyle and his Sherlock Holmes crew is intimidating at the very least. Yet Mallory has pulled it off. Like the indomitable Holmes and Watson, Amelia is intriguing, entertaining and possibly habit-forming. |
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