The quintessential Holmes tale, 06 Jan 2006
The image of Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is perhaps the most enduring image we have of him. You see, an Inverness cloak and deerstalker cap are inappropriate wardrobe for the town, and belong in the country. Sherlock Holmes is predominantly a city dweller and city investigator; it is relatively uncommon that he treks out on adventures, but the case of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the attempted murder of Sir Henry Baskerville led him to the Dartmoor plain. Thus, country garb was in order. This is where we get much of our imagery.

Also helping with this is that every major actor to play Holmes has considered 'Hound of the Baskervilles' to be the ultimate Holmes story to act -- rather like the Hamlet of Conan Doyle's work. Holmes was a popular film icon, and in the early decades of the twentieth century several dozen films were made of Holmes, but the first after these many films to be set in Victorian times (and not be updated for the screen) was a version of Hound. Ellie Norwood, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett -- many distinguished actors have considered this among their greatest roles.

Watson dates the case to 1889, but various reading authorities, knowing the good doctor's occasional attempts to distort details to protect the privacy of the innocent, have dated this to between 1886 and 1900.

In fact, the novel appeared in serialised form in the Strand magazine, the great first-publication site of most Holmesian tales, between August 1901 and April 1902, after Conan Doyle had attempted to kill off the great detective in the short story The Final Problem, which showcased Holmes' battle with Moriarity, the Napoleon of Crime. In fact, Conan Doyle came to dislike the character of Holmes because it was a distraction to his other pursuits.

So, bowing to public pressure, Conan Doyle penned Hound of the Baskervilles to placate the public demand for more stories, but took care to place it before the death of Holmes, in the hopes that he could leave the detective safely dead (if not buried). Such was not to be, and we find a few years later that in fact Conan Doyle 'resurrects' Holmes in a rather ingenious fashion.

But, on to the story at hand. Holmes and Watson, at home at 221b Baker Street, are approached by a Dr. James Mortimer regarding the death of Sir Charles Baskerville and a family curse which involved evil forces in the form of a satanic hound. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the new proprietor of the family lands, freshly arriving from Canada, who had a new boot stolen, then an old boot stolen, in his hotel in London. Later Holmes would put together the significance of this seeming strange minor act (no, I won't tell you).

Holmes sends Baskerville and Watson together to the country estate while he tends things in London on another case. In reality, Holmes is setting Watson up as a diversion, while he investigates the moor and the surroundings of the Baskerville estate under cover. Life at the estate is a bit strained, given the murder, an attempted murder, a curse, and all. The neighbours seem nice enough, though. Or are they? Watson picks up on curious little details of their relationship, which he reports back in written notes to Holmes (which have been redirected to his moor outpost).

Eventually Holmes reveals himself to Watson, and then to Baskerville, and the chase is on in earnest, to discover the reality of the mysterious creature each have seen or heard. In good mystery fashion, we come across long lost relatives and an inheritance to be had; we find plots and subplots muddied by superstitious belief and fear, on a mysterious plain in southwestern England.

All the elements combined that are now considered standard bits for a well-done country English mystery. But the mystery does not stop merely with the story. In true mystery fashion, appearing in the Daily Express edition of March 16, 1959, there were doubts cast upon the authorship of Hound of the Baskervilles. The one who carried the dispute was named none other than Baskerville, Harry Baskerville. He credited the story to one Fletcher Robinson, who died (perhaps of the Egyptian mummy's curse) at age 35 shortly after the publication of Hound. With his death, only Baskerville remembered the issue of co-authorship. Baskerville claims it was Robinson who 'borrowed' the Baskerville name.

One of Conan Doyle's heirs, Adrian Conan Doyle, heatedly denied involvement of Robinson past possible 'conversations' that might have taken place between Arthur Conan Doyle and Robinson. But, he did not deny Conan Doyle's possible 'inspiration' from Robinson.

One Baker Street Irregular (an exclusive club of Holmesian experts) was doing a monograph on this issue as well, claiming that the reason why Holmes appears so infrequently is due to the fact that he had to be written in to an otherwise essentially completed story. This Irregular travelled to meet with Baskerville, and hinted at discoveries he had found. But alas, the Irregular died three weeks later in America, his monograph never published and his notes were never found. Perhaps a dog ate the homework? A mysterious hound, perhaps?

Gloom, Doom, and Subtle Misdirection, 26 May 2004
Most Sherlock Holmes stories (especially the short stories like The Red Headed League) are like playing chess in a Victorian drawing room. You get a period piece with some subtle moves. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a total change-up from that format. Doyle builds the atmosphere of ancient legends, foul play, and a dark moor in an irresistible way. You will find yourself looking out over your shoulder if you read this book on a dark, lonely night. So if you like a novel with a true gothic feel, this will be your main reward.

Your unexpected reward will be one of the most famous clues in all of detective fiction. In searching out who is haunting the Baskerville's, Doyle has Holmes solve the puzzle by looking for something that no one else was looking for. This is the only mystery that I know of that is solved by vacuous fulfillment (an odd concept of mathematics that Doyle must have known about).

The third feature of this story is the many fallacious beliefs about how science works (like phrenology -- the shape of the skull determining your mind and character). You may find this interesting or annoying. In either case, try to remember that we probably have many similar false beliefs today that will look silly a hundred years from now. Can you think of one?

Wrap up in a blanket by the fire, have a glass of wine, and shiver with anticipation!

A thrilling and gripping read - a real page-turner!, 25 Aug 2001
'The Hound of the Baskervilles' sees Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful sidekick Dr Watson on one of their most famous and exciting adventures. Right from the start the author succeeds in grabbing the readers' attention, and dramatic plot twists and the eery setting of the desolate moors keep it held until the final page. Holmes and Watson's detective skills are called upon to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is discovered with a look of terror upon his face near the footprints of a huge hound. Could the tale of a terrifying beast that haunts the Baskerville family be more than just superstition? The skills and courage of the Sleuths are tested to the limit in their bid to discover the truth. Although first published almost a hundred years ago, this novel has lost none of its appeal and is as good as any modern-day thriller. Full of excitement and suspense, this book is a real page-turner, and a must for all fans of the detective novel.

Clever and a page turner, 26 Nov 2000
It keeps you guessing, spooky and witty. If you like mysterys you'll love this

A first - class mystery thriller, 28 Aug 1999
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a marvellous example of a British detective mystery. The story keeps you entertained and guessing at every twist and turn and the ending is far from predictable! An enjoyable and well written mystery and a classic Sherlock Holmes case.

The quintessential Holmes tale, 06 Jan 2006
The image of Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is perhaps the most enduring image we have of him. You see, an Inverness cloak and deerstalker cap are inappropriate wardrobe for the town, and belong in the country. Sherlock Holmes is predominantly a city dweller and city investigator; it is relatively uncommon that he treks out on adventures, but the case of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the attempted murder of Sir Henry Baskerville led him to the Dartmoor plain. Thus, country garb was in order. This is where we get much of our imagery.

Also helping with this is that every major actor to play Holmes has considered 'Hound of the Baskervilles' to be the ultimate Holmes story to act -- rather like the Hamlet of Conan Doyle's work. Holmes was a popular film icon, and in the early decades of the twentieth century several dozen films were made of Holmes, but the first after these many films to be set in Victorian times (and not be updated for the screen) was a version of Hound. Ellie Norwood, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett -- many distinguished actors have considered this among their greatest roles.

Watson dates the case to 1889, but various reading authorities, knowing the good doctor's occasional attempts to distort details to protect the privacy of the innocent, have dated this to between 1886 and 1900.

In fact, the novel appeared in serialised form in the Strand magazine, the great first-publication site of most Holmesian tales, between August 1901 and April 1902, after Conan Doyle had attempted to kill off the great detective in the short story The Final Problem, which showcased Holmes' battle with Moriarity, the Napoleon of Crime. In fact, Conan Doyle came to dislike the character of Holmes because it was a distraction to his other pursuits.

So, bowing to public pressure, Conan Doyle penned Hound of the Baskervilles to placate the public demand for more stories, but took care to place it before the death of Holmes, in the hopes that he could leave the detective safely dead (if not buried). Such was not to be, and we find a few years later that in fact Conan Doyle 'resurrects' Holmes in a rather ingenious fashion.

But, on to the story at hand. Holmes and Watson, at home at 221b Baker Street, are approached by a Dr. James Mortimer regarding the death of Sir Charles Baskerville and a family curse which involved evil forces in the form of a satanic hound. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the new proprietor of the family lands, freshly arriving from Canada, who had a new boot stolen, then an old boot stolen, in his hotel in London. Later Holmes would put together the significance of this seeming strange minor act (no, I won't tell you).

Holmes sends Baskerville and Watson together to the country estate while he tends things in London on another case. In reality, Holmes is setting Watson up as a diversion, while he investigates the moor and the surroundings of the Baskerville estate under cover. Life at the estate is a bit strained, given the murder, an attempted murder, a curse, and all. The neighbours seem nice enough, though. Or are they? Watson picks up on curious little details of their relationship, which he reports back in written notes to Holmes (which have been redirected to his moor outpost).

Eventually Holmes reveals himself to Watson, and then to Baskerville, and the chase is on in earnest, to discover the reality of the mysterious creature each have seen or heard. In good mystery fashion, we come across long lost relatives and an inheritance to be had; we find plots and subplots muddied by superstitious belief and fear, on a mysterious plain in southwestern England.

All the elements combined that are now considered standard bits for a well-done country English mystery. But the mystery does not stop merely with the story. In true mystery fashion, appearing in the Daily Express edition of March 16, 1959, there were doubts cast upon the authorship of Hound of the Baskervilles. The one who carried the dispute was named none other than Baskerville, Harry Baskerville. He credited the story to one Fletcher Robinson, who died (perhaps of the Egyptian mummy's curse) at age 35 shortly after the publication of Hound. With his death, only Baskerville remembered the issue of co-authorship. Baskerville claims it was Robinson who 'borrowed' the Baskerville name.

One of Conan Doyle's heirs, Adrian Conan Doyle, heatedly denied involvement of Robinson past possible 'conversations' that might have taken place between Arthur Conan Doyle and Robinson. But, he did not deny Conan Doyle's possible 'inspiration' from Robinson.

One Baker Street Irregular (an exclusive club of Holmesian experts) was doing a monograph on this issue as well, claiming that the reason why Holmes appears so infrequently is due to the fact that he had to be written in to an otherwise essentially completed story. This Irregular travelled to meet with Baskerville, and hinted at discoveries he had found. But alas, the Irregular died three weeks later in America, his monograph never published and his notes were never found. Perhaps a dog ate the homework? A mysterious hound, perhaps?

Gloom, Doom, and Subtle Misdirection, 26 May 2004
Most Sherlock Holmes stories (especially the short stories like The Red Headed League) are like playing chess in a Victorian drawing room. You get a period piece with some subtle moves. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a total change-up from that format. Doyle builds the atmosphere of ancient legends, foul play, and a dark moor in an irresistible way. You will find yourself looking out over your shoulder if you read this book on a dark, lonely night. So if you like a novel with a true gothic feel, this will be your main reward.

Your unexpected reward will be one of the most famous clues in all of detective fiction. In searching out who is haunting the Baskerville's, Doyle has Holmes solve the puzzle by looking for something that no one else was looking for. This is the only mystery that I know of that is solved by vacuous fulfillment (an odd concept of mathematics that Doyle must have known about).

The third feature of this story is the many fallacious beliefs about how science works (like phrenology -- the shape of the skull determining your mind and character). You may find this interesting or annoying. In either case, try to remember that we probably have many similar false beliefs today that will look silly a hundred years from now. Can you think of one?

Wrap up in a blanket by the fire, have a glass of wine, and shiver with anticipation!

A thrilling and gripping read - a real page-turner!, 25 Aug 2001
'The Hound of the Baskervilles' sees Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful sidekick Dr Watson on one of their most famous and exciting adventures. Right from the start the author succeeds in grabbing the readers' attention, and dramatic plot twists and the eery setting of the desolate moors keep it held until the final page. Holmes and Watson's detective skills are called upon to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is discovered with a look of terror upon his face near the footprints of a huge hound. Could the tale of a terrifying beast that haunts the Baskerville family be more than just superstition? The skills and courage of the Sleuths are tested to the limit in their bid to discover the truth. Although first published almost a hundred years ago, this novel has lost none of its appeal and is as good as any modern-day thriller. Full of excitement and suspense, this book is a real page-turner, and a must for all fans of the detective novel.

Clever and a page turner, 26 Nov 2000
It keeps you guessing, spooky and witty. If you like mysterys you'll love this

A first - class mystery thriller, 28 Aug 1999
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a marvellous example of a British detective mystery. The story keeps you entertained and guessing at every twist and turn and the ending is far from predictable! An enjoyable and well written mystery and a classic Sherlock Holmes case.

What are these people reviewing?!, 20 Aug 2008
I was brought up on the Carleton Hobbs/Norman Shelley dramatisations of the Sherlock Holmes stories on the BBC, and, whilst other actors can turn in excellent performances in these roles, it is perhaps because I was reading the stories themselves at the same time as I was listening to the broadcasts that I always associate these two fine BBC stalwarts with the parts. The reviews on this site of this particular audio cassette have absolutely nothing to do with these performances, but appear to be concerned entirely with the printed versions and the later Merrison/Williams recordings. Or am I missing something?

Absolute classic, 21 Jun 2002
A truly great collection of short stories. The stereotype is that all Sherlock Holmes stories follow a rigid murder-mystery formula, but this could not be further from the truth. What makes The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes such a pleasure to read is the *variety* - aside from each story revolving around a mystery, they are all absolutely unique. There is the traditional whodunnit of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery', the Christmassy 'The Blue Carbuncle', the Jamesian (MR James, that is) 'The Speckled Band' and the utterly horrifying 'The Engineer's Thumb'. The tone of the stories varies terrifically as well, from the charming and forgiving 'The Blue Carbuncle' to the anger of 'The Five Orange Pips'; stories take place from the scenic countryside of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery' to the opium dens of London's dockyards in 'The Man With the Twisted Lip', both captured with the same level of detail (only to be expected when the narrator is the best friend of England's finest detective!).

There are a few problems with the collection - the whodunnit nature of some suffer from the short story format not allowing for many characters to be introduced; Conan-Doyle's writing style concentrates, as its title character does, on certain details of a location without bothering for a more traditional atmospheric description (though images are conjured nevertheless), which IMO only adds to the wonderful crime-scene feel of the stories; and that the word "singular" appears without fail in every single story.

Regardless, I would heartily recommend this book as a most enjoying collection of stories, the perfect thing to read after finishing a heavy novel. Readers new to Holmes however should begin by reading the novels, especially 'A Study in Scarlet' (also the very first Holmes story) and the classic 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'.

This is excellent listening, 07 Aug 1999
I must admit that I have only started to listen to Sherlock Holmes. However, I think Clive Merrison and Michael Williams must be the best at potraying Holmes and Watson. I only wish I had a list of what tapes they appear on. Amazon only lists a few, but from what I've learned, there are many more. I give this 4 stars.

The essential collection, 25 Jul 1999
For lovers of the Holmes canon, this collection is an essential addition to their bookshelf. It is a model of literary scholarship, with excellent critical introductions from various editors and some very illuminating notes on the tales. It is all beautifully produced, too. A must for Sherlockians.

5 Stars Is Not Enough!, 05 Jul 1999
The guy who gave this 1-star must of been having a bad day. This handsome 9 volume set is one of my most prized possessions. You'll find the entire canon, logically broken up into several books. It's the complete original Conan Doyle stories, they're classics, they're Sherlock!

The quintessential Holmes tale, 06 Jan 2006
The image of Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is perhaps the most enduring image we have of him. You see, an Inverness cloak and deerstalker cap are inappropriate wardrobe for the town, and belong in the country. Sherlock Holmes is predominantly a city dweller and city investigator; it is relatively uncommon that he treks out on adventures, but the case of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the attempted murder of Sir Henry Baskerville led him to the Dartmoor plain. Thus, country garb was in order. This is where we get much of our imagery.

Also helping with this is that every major actor to play Holmes has considered 'Hound of the Baskervilles' to be the ultimate Holmes story to act -- rather like the Hamlet of Conan Doyle's work. Holmes was a popular film icon, and in the early decades of the twentieth century several dozen films were made of Holmes, but the first after these many films to be set in Victorian times (and not be updated for the screen) was a version of Hound. Ellie Norwood, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett -- many distinguished actors have considered this among their greatest roles.

Watson dates the case to 1889, but various reading authorities, knowing the good doctor's occasional attempts to distort details to protect the privacy of the innocent, have dated this to between 1886 and 1900.

In fact, the novel appeared in serialised form in the Strand magazine, the great first-publication site of most Holmesian tales, between August 1901 and April 1902, after Conan Doyle had attempted to kill off the great detective in the short story The Final Problem, which showcased Holmes' battle with Moriarity, the Napoleon of Crime. In fact, Conan Doyle came to dislike the character of Holmes because it was a distraction to his other pursuits.

So, bowing to public pressure, Conan Doyle penned Hound of the Baskervilles to placate the public demand for more stories, but took care to place it before the death of Holmes, in the hopes that he could leave the detective safely dead (if not buried). Such was not to be, and we find a few years later that in fact Conan Doyle 'resurrects' Holmes in a rather ingenious fashion.

But, on to the story at hand. Holmes and Watson, at home at 221b Baker Street, are approached by a Dr. James Mortimer regarding the death of Sir Charles Baskerville and a family curse which involved evil forces in the form of a satanic hound. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the new proprietor of the family lands, freshly arriving from Canada, who had a new boot stolen, then an old boot stolen, in his hotel in London. Later Holmes would put together the significance of this seeming strange minor act (no, I won't tell you).

Holmes sends Baskerville and Watson together to the country estate while he tends things in London on another case. In reality, Holmes is setting Watson up as a diversion, while he investigates the moor and the surroundings of the Baskerville estate under cover. Life at the estate is a bit strained, given the murder, an attempted murder, a curse, and all. The neighbours seem nice enough, though. Or are they? Watson picks up on curious little details of their relationship, which he reports back in written notes to Holmes (which have been redirected to his moor outpost).

Eventually Holmes reveals himself to Watson, and then to Baskerville, and the chase is on in earnest, to discover the reality of the mysterious creature each have seen or heard. In good mystery fashion, we come across long lost relatives and an inheritance to be had; we find plots and subplots muddied by superstitious belief and fear, on a mysterious plain in southwestern England.

All the elements combined that are now considered standard bits for a well-done country English mystery. But the mystery does not stop merely with the story. In true mystery fashion, appearing in the Daily Express edition of March 16, 1959, there were doubts cast upon the authorship of Hound of the Baskervilles. The one who carried the dispute was named none other than Baskerville, Harry Baskerville. He credited the story to one Fletcher Robinson, who died (perhaps of the Egyptian mummy's curse) at age 35 shortly after the publication of Hound. With his death, only Baskerville remembered the issue of co-authorship. Baskerville claims it was Robinson who 'borrowed' the Baskerville name.

One of Conan Doyle's heirs, Adrian Conan Doyle, heatedly denied involvement of Robinson past possible 'conversations' that might have taken place between Arthur Conan Doyle and Robinson. But, he did not deny Conan Doyle's possible 'inspiration' from Robinson.

One Baker Street Irregular (an exclusive club of Holmesian experts) was doing a monograph on this issue as well, claiming that the reason why Holmes appears so infrequently is due to the fact that he had to be written in to an otherwise essentially completed story. This Irregular travelled to meet with Baskerville, and hinted at discoveries he had found. But alas, the Irregular died three weeks later in America, his monograph never published and his notes were never found. Perhaps a dog ate the homework? A mysterious hound, perhaps?

Gloom, Doom, and Subtle Misdirection, 26 May 2004
Most Sherlock Holmes stories (especially the short stories like The Red Headed League) are like playing chess in a Victorian drawing room. You get a period piece with some subtle moves. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a total change-up from that format. Doyle builds the atmosphere of ancient legends, foul play, and a dark moor in an irresistible way. You will find yourself looking out over your shoulder if you read this book on a dark, lonely night. So if you like a novel with a true gothic feel, this will be your main reward.

Your unexpected reward will be one of the most famous clues in all of detective fiction. In searching out who is haunting the Baskerville's, Doyle has Holmes solve the puzzle by looking for something that no one else was looking for. This is the only mystery that I know of that is solved by vacuous fulfillment (an odd concept of mathematics that Doyle must have known about).

The third feature of this story is the many fallacious beliefs about how science works (like phrenology -- the shape of the skull determining your mind and character). You may find this interesting or annoying. In either case, try to remember that we probably have many similar false beliefs today that will look silly a hundred years from now. Can you think of one?

Wrap up in a blanket by the fire, have a glass of wine, and shiver with anticipation!

A thrilling and gripping read - a real page-turner!, 25 Aug 2001
'The Hound of the Baskervilles' sees Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful sidekick Dr Watson on one of their most famous and exciting adventures. Right from the start the author succeeds in grabbing the readers' attention, and dramatic plot twists and the eery setting of the desolate moors keep it held until the final page. Holmes and Watson's detective skills are called upon to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is discovered with a look of terror upon his face near the footprints of a huge hound. Could the tale of a terrifying beast that haunts the Baskerville family be more than just superstition? The skills and courage of the Sleuths are tested to the limit in their bid to discover the truth. Although first published almost a hundred years ago, this novel has lost none of its appeal and is as good as any modern-day thriller. Full of excitement and suspense, this book is a real page-turner, and a must for all fans of the detective novel.

Clever and a page turner, 26 Nov 2000
It keeps you guessing, spooky and witty. If you like mysterys you'll love this

A first - class mystery thriller, 28 Aug 1999
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a marvellous example of a British detective mystery. The story keeps you entertained and guessing at every twist and turn and the ending is far from predictable! An enjoyable and well written mystery and a classic Sherlock Holmes case.

What are these people reviewing?!, 20 Aug 2008
I was brought up on the Carleton Hobbs/Norman Shelley dramatisations of the Sherlock Holmes stories on the BBC, and, whilst other actors can turn in excellent performances in these roles, it is perhaps because I was reading the stories themselves at the same time as I was listening to the broadcasts that I always associate these two fine BBC stalwarts with the parts. The reviews on this site of this particular audio cassette have absolutely nothing to do with these performances, but appear to be concerned entirely with the printed versions and the later Merrison/Williams recordings. Or am I missing something?

Absolute classic, 21 Jun 2002
A truly great collection of short stories. The stereotype is that all Sherlock Holmes stories follow a rigid murder-mystery formula, but this could not be further from the truth. What makes The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes such a pleasure to read is the *variety* - aside from each story revolving around a mystery, they are all absolutely unique. There is the traditional whodunnit of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery', the Christmassy 'The Blue Carbuncle', the Jamesian (MR James, that is) 'The Speckled Band' and the utterly horrifying 'The Engineer's Thumb'. The tone of the stories varies terrifically as well, from the charming and forgiving 'The Blue Carbuncle' to the anger of 'The Five Orange Pips'; stories take place from the scenic countryside of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery' to the opium dens of London's dockyards in 'The Man With the Twisted Lip', both captured with the same level of detail (only to be expected when the narrator is the best friend of England's finest detective!).

There are a few problems with the collection - the whodunnit nature of some suffer from the short story format not allowing for many characters to be introduced; Conan-Doyle's writing style concentrates, as its title character does, on certain details of a location without bothering for a more traditional atmospheric description (though images are conjured nevertheless), which IMO only adds to the wonderful crime-scene feel of the stories; and that the word "singular" appears without fail in every single story.

Regardless, I would heartily recommend this book as a most enjoying collection of stories, the perfect thing to read after finishing a heavy novel. Readers new to Holmes however should begin by reading the novels, especially 'A Study in Scarlet' (also the very first Holmes story) and the classic 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'.

This is excellent listening, 07 Aug 1999
I must admit that I have only started to listen to Sherlock Holmes. However, I think Clive Merrison and Michael Williams must be the best at potraying Holmes and Watson. I only wish I had a list of what tapes they appear on. Amazon only lists a few, but from what I've learned, there are many more. I give this 4 stars.

The essential collection, 25 Jul 1999
For lovers of the Holmes canon, this collection is an essential addition to their bookshelf. It is a model of literary scholarship, with excellent critical introductions from various editors and some very illuminating notes on the tales. It is all beautifully produced, too. A must for Sherlockians.

5 Stars Is Not Enough!, 05 Jul 1999
The guy who gave this 1-star must of been having a bad day. This handsome 9 volume set is one of my most prized possessions. You'll find the entire canon, logically broken up into several books. It's the complete original Conan Doyle stories, they're classics, they're Sherlock!

"From a drop of water, a logician can infer...an Atlantic or a Niagara.", 07 Dec 2006
Published in 1878, this first Sherlock Holmes story is a delightful curiosity, rather than a finely developed novel. Here Dr. Watson, just released from the British army and recovering from serious wounds from the second Afghan war, meets Sherlock Holmes for the first time. Both have been looking for someone to share the rent--at 221B Baker Street. Holmes, without a "real" career, spends considerable time experimenting in a hospital chemistry lab and interviewing people who come to the apartment. Watson soon discovers that Holmes is a detective consultant, working with police detectives and private detectives alike.

Written before Doyle had fully developed his skills as a mystery novelist, this novel divides in half. In the first part, which begins around 1880, Holmes helps investigate the murder of Enoch J. Drebber of Cleveland, Ohio, apparently poisoned in an abandoned house. A tall stranger has been seen in the neighborhood, and some clues have been planted at the crime scene. Later, Drebber's traveling companion is killed. Holmes, however, manages to solve both cases by the halfway point in the book.

The second half of the novel flashes back to 1847. John Ferrier, one of twenty-one people in a caravan, is traveling through "an arid and repulsive desert" in the American west when the caravan runs out of food and water. Ferrier and a small girl, the only survivors, search for water until they collapse. Rescued by Brigham Young and a wagon train of Mormons on their way to found their city, Ferrier, in exchange for food and water, agrees to convert and become a good Mormon. Years later, when Ferrier is a successful rancher and Lucy has fallen in love with a Gentile, the elders of the church demand that Ferrier agree to wed Lucy to a member of the church, a decision he resists.

These seemingly unrelated stories eventually overlap, but Doyle's incomplete and inaccurate knowledge of Mormon beliefs show his deliberate attempt to capitalize on the mysteries of the "wild west" and of Mormonism for the sake of his story, now quite dated. The ending consists of Holmes simply ticking off the clues which have led him to solve the murders and capture the murderer, not a dramatic or exciting climax. Watson is seen as a soldier-hero and doctor, and not as a bumbling side-kick to Holmes, who is shown here as a decidedly odd and pompous man, less "clever" than he becomes in time. Fun to read and interesting primarily because it is the first Holmes mystery. Mary Whipple

Wonderfully entertaining, 08 Mar 2004
It is 1878 and Doctor John Watson, his health damaged by his experiences with the British Army in Afghanistan during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, is looking for lodgings in the great city of London. It seems fortuitous, when a mutual friend introduces him to another who needs someone to share costs on a suite on Baker Street, but this other man is quite an eccentric. Sherlock Holmes has bent his life and education towards turning himself into the premier detective.

Watson can hardly credit Holmes's claims of what a first-class detective can do. But, when a note arrives from a Scotland Yard detective, inviting Holmes to consult on a particularly mysterious murder, Watson soon finds himself carried along by Holmes, watching his new friend's powers unravel a seemingly inscrutable knot. The game is afoot, and Holmes needs to solve a murder, and bring a murderer to justice.

This fascinating book was first published in 1887, and was the very first Sherlock Holmes story. In it we get to see the first meeting of Holmes and Watson, and hear Holmes explain his methods in detail. If you are a fan of murder mysteries, then this is definitely a book that you should not miss.

The center part of this story revolves around the actions of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Author Arthur Conan Doyle had a tendency to "wing" the details of his story, and his treatment of the Mormons shows a certain carelessness in how he presented them. Therefore, if you are a Mormon, you will most likely find this book offensive.

But, that said, this is a wonderfully entertaining story that is sure to please most every mystery fan. And, if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you must read this book! It's great.

The First Sherlock Holmes Story, 15 Jul 2002
Although it's not the best written of the Holmes stories, "A Study in Scarlet" is most definitely my favorite. I love the description of Holmes' character in this book and the way Arthur Conan Doyle begins the relationship between Holmes and Watson is beyond brilliant. It's positively indescribable. The only thing I don't like about this book is the way in which it is written. The book is divided into two parts. In the first half, Holmes and Watson meet and then investigate a crime. The second half tells the history of the people involved in the crime. Part II is good although Holmes and Watson are not in it, but the format is somewhat confusing on the first read because it appears that Doyle is beginning an entirely new story without finishing the first one. But overall this book is a fine addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon and I would highly recommend it.

Enter the world of Sherlock Holmes, 29 Dec 2000
"A Study in Scarlet" is the first of the Sherlock Holmes series and therefore gives the reader the perfect opportunity to progressively befriend the famous detective at the same time as the good Dr Watson does. Throughout the course of the book you will marvel at the numerous skills that Holmes has so painfully striven to attain through arduous hard work during his life, and watch as he uses them in practice. As the mystery of the case develops, so does Dr Watson's friendship with Holmes, and the reader finds himself in the same position as Watson; baffled and confused as to how all the pieces of the puzzle which Holmes has so cleverly found, will ever fit together. After reading this book I found myself envious of all the remarkable talents that Holmes possesses, and every time he proposed a new theory, I could not rest until he explained the seemingly simple pathways he used to arrive at his conclusion. This book provides an excellent introduction to the world of Sherlock Holmes, it was the first of this series of books that I bought, and will certainly not be the last. Experience the astonishing mind of perhaps the greatest detective created by reading "A Study In Scarlet".

The quintessential Holmes tale, 06 Jan 2006
The image of Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is perhaps the most enduring image we have of him. You see, an Inverness cloak and deerstalker cap are inappropriate wardrobe for the town, and belong in the country. Sherlock Holmes is predominantly a city dweller and city investigator; it is relatively uncommon that he treks out on adventures, but the case of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the attempted murder of Sir Henry Baskerville led him to the Dartmoor plain. Thus, country garb was in order. This is where we get much of our imagery.

Also helping with this is that every major actor to play Holmes has considered 'Hound of the Baskervilles' to be the ultimate Holmes story to act -- rather like the Hamlet of Conan Doyle's work. Holmes was a popular film icon, and in the early decades of the twentieth century several dozen films were made of Holmes, but the first after these many films to be set in Victorian times (and not be updated for the screen) was a version of Hound. Ellie Norwood, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett -- many distinguished actors have considered this among their greatest roles.

Watson dates the case to 1889, but various reading authorities, knowing the good doctor's occasional attempts to distort details to protect the privacy of the innocent, have dated this to between 1886 and 1900.

In fact, the novel appeared in serialised form in the Strand magazine, the great first-publication site of most Holmesian tales, between August 1901 and April 1902, after Conan Doyle had attempted to kill off the great detective in the short story The Final Problem, which showcased Holmes' battle with Moriarity, the Napoleon of Crime. In fact, Conan Doyle came to dislike the character of Holmes because it was a distraction to his other pursuits.

So, bowing to public pressure, Conan Doyle penned Hound of the Baskervilles to placate the public demand for more stories, but took care to place it before the death of Holmes, in the hopes that he could leave the detective safely dead (if not buried). Such was not to be, and we find a few years later that in fact Conan Doyle 'resurrects' Holmes in a rather ingenious fashion.

But, on to the story at hand. Holmes and Watson, at home at 221b Baker Street, are approached by a Dr. James Mortimer regarding the death of Sir Charles Baskerville and a family curse which involved evil forces in the form of a satanic hound. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the new proprietor of the family lands, freshly arriving from Canada, who had a new boot stolen, then an old boot stolen, in his hotel in London. Later Holmes would put together the significance of this seeming strange minor act (no, I won't tell you).

Holmes sends Baskerville and Watson together to the country estate while he tends things in London on another case. In reality, Holmes is setting Watson up as a diversion, while he investigates the moor and the surroundings of the Baskerville estate under cover. Life at the estate is a bit strained, given the murder, an attempted murder, a curse, and all. The neighbours seem nice enough, though. Or are they? Watson picks up on curious little details of their relationship, which he reports back in written notes to Holmes (which have been redirected to his moor outpost).

Eventually Holmes reveals himself to Watson, and then to Baskerville, and the chase is on in earnest, to discover the reality of the mysterious creature each have seen or heard. In good mystery fashion, we come across long lost relatives and an inheritance to be had; we find plots and subplots muddied by superstitious belief and fear, on a mysterious plain in southwestern England.

All the elements combined that are now considered standard bits for a well-done country English mystery. But the mystery does not stop merely with the story. In true mystery fashion, appearing in the Daily Express edition of March 16, 1959, there were doubts cast upon the authorship of Hound of the Baskervilles. The one who carried the dispute was named none other than Baskerville, Harry Baskerville. He credited the story to one Fletcher Robinson, who died (perhaps of the Egyptian mummy's curse) at age 35 shortly after the publication of Hound. With his death, only Baskerville remembered the issue of co-authorship. Baskerville claims it was Robinson who 'borrowed' the Baskerville name.

One of Conan Doyle's heirs, Adrian Conan Doyle, heatedly denied involvement of Robinson past possible 'conversations' that might have taken place between Arthur Conan Doyle and Robinson. But, he did not deny Conan Doyle's possible 'inspiration' from Robinson.

One Baker Street Irregular (an exclusive club of Holmesian experts) was doing a monograph on this issue as well, claiming that the reason why Holmes appears so infrequently is due to the fact that he had to be written in to an otherwise essentially completed story. This Irregular travelled to meet with Baskerville, and hinted at discoveries he had found. But alas, the Irregular died three weeks later in America, his monograph never published and his notes were never found. Perhaps a dog ate the homework? A mysterious hound, perhaps?

Gloom, Doom, and Subtle Misdirection, 26 May 2004
Most Sherlock Holmes stories (especially the short stories like The Red Headed League) are like playing chess in a Victorian drawing room. You get a period piece with some subtle moves. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a total change-up from that format. Doyle builds the atmosphere of ancient legends, foul play, and a dark moor in an irresistible way. You will find yourself looking out over your shoulder if you read this book on a dark, lonely night. So if you like a novel with a true gothic feel, this will be your main reward.

Your unexpected reward will be one of the most famous clues in all of detective fiction. In searching out who is haunting the Baskerville's, Doyle has Holmes solve the puzzle by looking for something that no one else was looking for. This is the only mystery that I know of that is solved by vacuous fulfillment (an odd concept of mathematics that Doyle must have known about).

The third feature of this story is the many fallacious beliefs about how science works (like phrenology -- the shape of the skull determining your mind and character). You may find this interesting or annoying. In either case, try to remember that we probably have many similar false beliefs today that will look silly a hundred years from now. Can you think of one?

Wrap up in a blanket by the fire, have a glass of wine, and shiver with anticipation!

A thrilling and gripping read - a real page-turner!, 25 Aug 2001
'The Hound of the Baskervilles' sees Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful sidekick Dr Watson on one of their most famous and exciting adventures. Right from the start the author succeeds in grabbing the readers' attention, and dramatic plot twists and the eery setting of the desolate moors keep it held until the final page. Holmes and Watson's detective skills are called upon to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is discovered with a look of terror upon his face near the footprints of a huge hound. Could the tale of a terrifying beast that haunts the Baskerville family be more than just superstition? The skills and courage of the Sleuths are tested to the limit in their bid to discover the truth. Although first published almost a hundred years ago, this novel has lost none of its appeal and is as good as any modern-day thriller. Full of excitement and suspense, this book is a real page-turner, and a must for all fans of the detective novel.

Clever and a page turner, 26 Nov 2000
It keeps you guessing, spooky and witty. If you like mysterys you'll love this

A first - class mystery thriller, 28 Aug 1999
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a marvellous example of a British detective mystery. The story keeps you entertained and guessing at every twist and turn and the ending is far from predictable! An enjoyable and well written mystery and a classic Sherlock Holmes case.

What are these people reviewing?!, 20 Aug 2008
I was brought up on the Carleton Hobbs/Norman Shelley dramatisations of the Sherlock Holmes stories on the BBC, and, whilst other actors can turn in excellent performances in these roles, it is perhaps because I was reading the stories themselves at the same time as I was listening to the broadcasts that I always associate these two fine BBC stalwarts with the parts. The reviews on this site of this particular audio cassette have absolutely nothing to do with these performances, but appear to be concerned entirely with the printed versions and the later Merrison/Williams recordings. Or am I missing something?

Absolute classic, 21 Jun 2002
A truly great collection of short stories. The stereotype is that all Sherlock Holmes stories follow a rigid murder-mystery formula, but this could not be further from the truth. What makes The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes such a pleasure to read is the *variety* - aside from each story revolving around a mystery, they are all absolutely unique. There is the traditional whodunnit of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery', the Christmassy 'The Blue Carbuncle', the Jamesian (MR James, that is) 'The Speckled Band' and the utterly horrifying 'The Engineer's Thumb'. The tone of the stories varies terrifically as well, from the charming and forgiving 'The Blue Carbuncle' to the anger of 'The Five Orange Pips'; stories take place from the scenic countryside of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery' to the opium dens of London's dockyards in 'The Man With the Twisted Lip', both captured with the same level of detail (only to be expected when the narrator is the best friend of England's finest detective!).

There are a few problems with the collection - the whodunnit nature of some suffer from the short story format not allowing for many characters to be introduced; Conan-Doyle's writing style concentrates, as its title character does, on certain details of a location without bothering for a more traditional atmospheric description (though images are conjured nevertheless), which IMO only adds to the wonderful crime-scene feel of the stories; and that the word "singular" appears without fail in every single story.

Regardless, I would heartily recommend this book as a most enjoying collection of stories, the perfect thing to read after finishing a heavy novel. Readers new to Holmes however should begin by reading the novels, especially 'A Study in Scarlet' (also the very first Holmes story) and the classic 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'.

This is excellent listening, 07 Aug 1999
I must admit that I have only started to listen to Sherlock Holmes. However, I think Clive Merrison and Michael Williams must be the best at potraying Holmes and Watson. I only wish I had a list of what tapes they appear on. Amazon only lists a few, but from what I've learned, there are many more. I give this 4 stars.

The essential collection, 25 Jul 1999
For lovers of the Holmes canon, this collection is an essential addition to their bookshelf. It is a model of literary scholarship, with excellent critical introductions from various editors and some very illuminating notes on the tales. It is all beautifully produced, too. A must for Sherlockians.

5 Stars Is Not Enough!, 05 Jul 1999
The guy who gave this 1-star must of been having a bad day. This handsome 9 volume set is one of my most prized possessions. You'll find the entire canon, logically broken up into several books. It's the complete original Conan Doyle stories, they're classics, they're Sherlock!

"From a drop of water, a logician can infer...an Atlantic or a Niagara.", 07 Dec 2006
Published in 1878, this first Sherlock Holmes story is a delightful curiosity, rather than a finely developed novel. Here Dr. Watson, just released from the British army and recovering from serious wounds from the second Afghan war, meets Sherlock Holmes for the first time. Both have been looking for someone to share the rent--at 221B Baker Street. Holmes, without a "real" career, spends considerable time experimenting in a hospital chemistry lab and interviewing people who come to the apartment. Watson soon discovers that Holmes is a detective consultant, working with police detectives and private detectives alike.

Written before Doyle had fully developed his skills as a mystery novelist, this novel divides in half. In the first part, which begins around 1880, Holmes helps investigate the murder of Enoch J. Drebber of Cleveland, Ohio, apparently poisoned in an abandoned house. A tall stranger has been seen in the neighborhood, and some clues have been planted at the crime scene. Later, Drebber's traveling companion is killed. Holmes, however, manages to solve both cases by the halfway point in the book.

The second half of the novel flashes back to 1847. John Ferrier, one of twenty-one people in a caravan, is traveling through "an arid and repulsive desert" in the American west when the caravan runs out of food and water. Ferrier and a small girl, the only survivors, search for water until they collapse. Rescued by Brigham Young and a wagon train of Mormons on their way to found their city, Ferrier, in exchange for food and water, agrees to convert and become a good Mormon. Years later, when Ferrier is a successful rancher and Lucy has fallen in love with a Gentile, the elders of the church demand that Ferrier agree to wed Lucy to a member of the church, a decision he resists.

These seemingly unrelated stories eventually overlap, but Doyle's incomplete and inaccurate knowledge of Mormon beliefs show his deliberate attempt to capitalize on the mysteries of the "wild west" and of Mormonism for the sake of his story, now quite dated. The ending consists of Holmes simply ticking off the clues which have led him to solve the murders and capture the murderer, not a dramatic or exciting climax. Watson is seen as a soldier-hero and doctor, and not as a bumbling side-kick to Holmes, who is shown here as a decidedly odd and pompous man, less "clever" than he becomes in time. Fun to read and interesting primarily because it is the first Holmes mystery. Mary Whipple

Wonderfully entertaining, 08 Mar 2004
It is 1878 and Doctor John Watson, his health damaged by his experiences with the British Army in Afghanistan during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, is looking for lodgings in the great city of London. It seems fortuitous, when a mutual friend introduces him to another who needs someone to share costs on a suite on Baker Street, but this other man is quite an eccentric. Sherlock Holmes has bent his life and education towards turning himself into the premier detective.

Watson can hardly credit Holmes's claims of what a first-class detective can do. But, when a note arrives from a Scotland Yard detective, inviting Holmes to consult on a particularly mysterious murder, Watson soon finds himself carried along by Holmes, watching his new friend's powers unravel a seemingly inscrutable knot. The game is afoot, and Holmes needs to solve a murder, and bring a murderer to justice.

This fascinating book was first published in 1887, and was the very first Sherlock Holmes story. In it we get to see the first meeting of Holmes and Watson, and hear Holmes explain his methods in detail. If you are a fan of murder mysteries, then this is definitely a book that you should not miss.

The center part of this story revolves around the actions of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Author Arthur Conan Doyle had a tendency to "wing" the details of his story, and his treatment of the Mormons shows a certain carelessness in how he presented them. Therefore, if you are a Mormon, you will most likely find this book offensive.

But, that said, this is a wonderfully entertaining story that is sure to please most every mystery fan. And, if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you must read this book! It's great.

The First Sherlock Holmes Story, 15 Jul 2002
Although it's not the best written of the Holmes stories, "A Study in Scarlet" is most definitely my favorite. I love the description of Holmes' character in this book and the way Arthur Conan Doyle begins the relationship between Holmes and Watson is beyond brilliant. It's positively indescribable. The only thing I don't like about this book is the way in which it is written. The book is divided into two parts. In the first half, Holmes and Watson meet and then investigate a crime. The second half tells the history of the people involved in the crime. Part II is good although Holmes and Watson are not in it, but the format is somewhat confusing on the first read because it appears that Doyle is beginning an entirely new story without finishing the first one. But overall this book is a fine addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon and I would highly recommend it.

Enter the world of Sherlock Holmes, 29 Dec 2000
"A Study in Scarlet" is the first of the Sherlock Holmes series and therefore gives the reader the perfect opportunity to progressively befriend the famous detective at the same time as the good Dr Watson does. Throughout the course of the book you will marvel at the numerous skills that Holmes has so painfully striven to attain through arduous hard work during his life, and watch as he uses them in practice. As the mystery of the case develops, so does Dr Watson's friendship with Holmes, and the reader finds himself in the same position as Watson; baffled and confused as to how all the pieces of the puzzle which Holmes has so cleverly found, will ever fit together. After reading this book I found myself envious of all the remarkable talents that Holmes possesses, and every time he proposed a new theory, I could not rest until he explained the seemingly simple pathways he used to arrive at his conclusion. This book provides an excellent introduction to the world of Sherlock Holmes, it was the first of this series of books that I bought, and will certainly not be the last. Experience the astonishing mind of perhaps the greatest detective created by reading "A Study In Scarlet".

Sherlock Holmes #2, 12 Apr 2008
The 2nd Sherlock Holmes novel follows in much the same vein as the first, with another mystery of revenge and murder for Holmes to unravel, though unlike in 'A Study in Scarlet' Doyle manages to keep his main character centre-stage for the most part this time. The expansion of Holmes includes the introduction of his drug use and flair for disguise, while Dr Watson gains a (slightly melodramatically concluded) love affair.

An engrossing plot and some fine writing makes this another winner.

The best of the lot., 27 Feb 2008
The Sign of Four by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in my opinion is the best of the Sherlock Holmes longer stories. It is both imaginative and interesting with the easy style which characterises Doyle's work. The story is complex with interesting and well rounded characters and this makes it a joy to read. As for it being the best of the Sherlock Holmes novels I believe that it is because in my opinion The Valley of Fear and A Study in Scarlet suffer from structual problems and The Hound of the Baskervilles while excellent is just pipped at the post by The Sign of Four.

Absolutely gripping!, 27 May 2004
In this, the second Sherlock Holmes story written by Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes is called upon by a young lady who needs the great detective's help with a mystery. However, when this mystery leads to murder, Holmes must seek to uncover secrets that have lain hidden for many years, and have their roots in treacheries upon treacheries in far-off India. There's a one-legged man who is at the center of this mystery, and he has a murderous friend who may just be the end of Sherlock Holmes!

As I said, this is the second ever Sherlock Holmes story, written in 1890. As with the very best of the Holmes story, this one is absolutely gripping, carrying a fascinating story with mysteries wrapped up in mysteries that only Mr. Holmes can possibly conquer. As an added bonus, in this story, we get to learn about Dr. Watson's meeting of his true love, and his eventual marriage - which should end some rumors that people spread.

Yep, this is a great story, one that is sure to please any fan of mysteries, and is certain to delight any Sherlock Holmes fan!

Another Intriguing Mystery, 31 Aug 2001
"The Sign of Four" is the second of Conan Doyle's four longer Sherlock Holmes stories - I wouldn't call it a novel, because it's shorter even than the other three.

The level of detection and the intrigue surrounding the mystery is as clever as ever, and possibly more complex than in its predecessor, "A Study in Scarlet". The structure of the book could be seen as a little clumsy, with the story of Small tacked onto the end as an extra thirty pages - but using the first-person viewpoint like he does, there was no other way for Conan Doyle to integrate it into the story.

This story is also worth reading for its long-term developments in the Holmes stories. We learn of Holmes' cocaine addiction and his reasoning behind it. This is also where Watson meets his wife, which - along with the treasure seeking - makes it the more romantic of the longer stories. The relationship is hardly developed realistically, but Conan Doyle always seems to sacrifice character development in favour of brilliant plots.

If you simply enjoy the mystery and try not to think about such things, the book is very good indeed. It's a very easy read; Conan Doyle's style flowing brilliantly and so offering a perfect form of escapism.

Merrison and Williams breathe new life into "The Sign", 25 Jul 1999
This was the second dramatisation to feature Clive Merrison and Michael Williams as Conan Doyle's immortal duo. They succeed brilliantly, abetted by a fine script from Bert Coules. Merrison portrays Holmes in all his moods on this dramatisation, from the depressed drug addict of the opening scene to the bloodhound detective when he has a case which interests. There is a fine supporting cast and excellent sound effects. Highly recommended.

The quintessential Holmes tale, 06 Jan 2006
The image of Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is perhaps the most enduring image we have of him. You see, an Inverness cloak and deerstalker cap are inappropriate wardrobe for the town, and belong in the country. Sherlock Holmes is predominantly a city dweller and city investigator; it is relatively uncommon that he treks out on adventures, but the case of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the attempted murder of Sir Henry Baskerville led him to the Dartmoor plain. Thus, country garb was in order. This is where we get much of our imagery.

Also helping with this is that every major actor to play Holmes has considered 'Hound of the Baskervilles' to be the ultimate Holmes story to act -- rather like the Hamlet of Conan Doyle's work. Holmes was a popular film icon, and in the early decades of the twentieth century several dozen films were made of Holmes, but the first after these many films to be set in Victorian times (and not be updated for the screen) was a version of Hound. Ellie Norwood, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett -- many distinguished actors have considered this among their greatest roles.

Watson dates the case to 1889, but various reading authorities, knowing the good doctor's occasional attempts to distort details to protect the privacy of the innocent, have dated this to between 1886 and 1900.

In fact, the novel appeared in serialised form in the Strand magazine, the great first-publication site of most Holmesian tales, between August 1901 and April 1902, after Conan Doyle had attempted to kill off the great detective in the short story The Final Problem, which showcased Holmes' battle with Moriarity, the Napoleon of Crime. In fact, Conan Doyle came to dislike the character of Holmes because it was a distraction to his other pursuits.

So, bowing to public pressure, Conan Doyle penned Hound of the Baskervilles to placate the public demand for more stories, but took care to place it before the death of Holmes, in the hopes that he could leave the detective safely dead (if not buried). Such was not to be, and we find a few years later that in fact Conan Doyle 'resurrects' Holmes in a rather ingenious fashion.

But, on to the story at hand. Holmes and Watson, at home at 221b Baker Street, are approached by a Dr. James Mortimer regarding the death of Sir Charles Baskerville and a family curse which involved evil forces in the form of a satanic hound. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the new proprietor of the family lands, freshly arriving from Canada, who had a new boot stolen, then an old boot stolen, in his hotel in London. Later Holmes would put together the significance of this seeming strange minor act (no, I won't tell you).

Holmes sends Baskerville and Watson together to the country estate while he tends things in London on another case. In reality, Holmes is setting Watson up as a diversion, while he investigates the moor and the surroundings of the Baskerville estate under cover. Life at the estate is a bit strained, given the murder, an attempted murder, a curse, and all. The neighbours seem nice enough, though. Or are they? Watson picks up on curious little details of their relationship, which he reports back in written notes to Holmes (which have been redirected to his moor outpost).

Eventually Holmes reveals himself to Watson, and then to Baskerville, and the chase is on in earnest, to discover the reality of the mysterious creature each have seen or heard. In good mystery fashion, we come across long lost relatives and an inheritance to be had; we find plots and subplots muddied by superstitious belief and fear, on a mysterious plain in southwestern England.

All the elements combined that are now considered standard bits for a well-done country English mystery. But the mystery does not stop merely with the story. In true mystery fashion, appearing in the Daily Express edition of March 16, 1959, there were doubts cast upon the authorship of Hound of the Baskervilles. The one who carried the dispute was named none other than Baskerville, Harry Baskerville. He credited the story to one Fletcher Robinson, who died (perhaps of the Egyptian mummy's curse) at age 35 shortly after the publication of Hound. With his death, only Baskerville remembered the issue of co-authorship. Baskerville claims it was Robinson who 'borrowed' the Baskerville name.

One of Conan Doyle's heirs, Adrian Conan Doyle, heatedly denied involvement of Robinson past possible 'conversations' that might have taken place between Arthur Conan Doyle and Robinson. But, he did not deny Conan Doyle's possible 'inspiration' from Robinson.

One Baker Street Irregular (an exclusive club of Holmesian experts) was doing a monograph on this issue as well, claiming that the reason why Holmes appears so infrequently is due to the fact that he had to be written in to an otherwise essentially completed story. This Irregular travelled to meet with Baskerville, and hinted at discoveries he had found. But alas, the Irregular died three weeks later in America, his monograph never published and his notes were never found. Perhaps a dog ate the homework? A mysterious hound, perhaps?

Gloom, Doom, and Subtle Misdirection, 26 May 2004
Most Sherlock Holmes stories (especially the short stories like The Red Headed League) are like playing chess in a Victorian drawing room. You get a period piece with some subtle moves. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a total change-up from that format. Doyle builds the atmosphere of ancient legends, foul play, and a dark moor in an irresistible way. You will find yourself looking out over your shoulder if you read this book on a dark, lonely night. So if you like a novel with a true gothic feel, this will be your main reward.

Your unexpected reward will be one of the most famous clues in all of detective fiction. In searching out who is haunting the Baskerville's, Doyle has Holmes solve the puzzle by looking for something that no one else was looking for. This is the only mystery that I know of that is solved by vacuous fulfillment (an odd concept of mathematics that Doyle must have known about).

The third feature of this story is the many fallacious beliefs about how science works (like phrenology -- the shape of the skull determining your mind and character). You may find this interesting or annoying. In either case, try to remember that we probably have many similar false beliefs today that will look silly a hundred years from now. Can you think of one?

Wrap up in a blanket by the fire, have a glass of wine, and shiver with anticipation!

A thrilling and gripping read - a real page-turner!, 25 Aug 2001
'The Hound of the Baskervilles' sees Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful sidekick Dr Watson on one of their most famous and exciting adventures. Right from the start the author succeeds in grabbing the readers' attention, and dramatic plot twists and the eery setting of the desolate moors keep it held until the final page. Holmes and Watson's detective skills are called upon to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, whose body is discovered with a look of terror upon his face near the footprints of a huge hound. Could the tale of a terrifying beast that haunts the Baskerville family be more than just superstition? The skills and courage of the Sleuths are tested to the limit in their bid to discover the truth. Although first published almost a hundred years ago, this novel has lost none of its appeal and is as good as any modern-day thriller. Full of excitement and suspense, this book is a real page-turner, and a must for all fans of the detective novel.

Clever and a page turner, 26 Nov 2000
It keeps you guessing, spooky and witty. If you like mysterys you'll love this

A first - class mystery thriller, 28 Aug 1999
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a marvellous example of a British detective mystery. The story keeps you entertained and guessing at every twist and turn and the ending is far from predictable! An enjoyable and well written mystery and a classic Sherlock Holmes case.

What are these people reviewing?!, 20 Aug 2008
I was brought up on the Carleton Hobbs/Norman Shelley dramatisations of the Sherlock Holmes stories on the BBC, and, whilst other actors can turn in excellent performances in these roles, it is perhaps because I was reading the stories themselves at the same time as I was listening to the broadcasts that I always associate these two fine BBC stalwarts with the parts. The reviews on this site of this particular audio cassette have absolutely nothing to do with these performances, but appear to be concerned entirely with the printed versions and the later Merrison/Williams recordings. Or am I missing something?

Absolute classic, 21 Jun 2002
A truly great collection of short stories. The stereotype is that all Sherlock Holmes stories follow a rigid murder-mystery formula, but this could not be further from the truth. What makes The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes such a pleasure to read is the *variety* - aside from each story revolving around a mystery, they are all absolutely unique. There is the traditional whodunnit of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery', the Christmassy 'The Blue Carbuncle', the Jamesian (MR James, that is) 'The Speckled Band' and the utterly horrifying 'The Engineer's Thumb'. The tone of the stories varies terrifically as well, from the charming and forgiving 'The Blue Carbuncle' to the anger of 'The Five Orange Pips'; stories take place from the scenic countryside of 'The Boscombe Valley Mystery' to the opium dens of London's dockyards in 'The Man With the Twisted Lip', both captured with the same level of detail (only to be expected when the narrator is the best friend of England's finest detective!).

There are a few problems with the collection - the whodunnit nature of some suffer from the short story format not allowing for many characters to be introduced; Conan-Doyle's writing style concentrates, as its title character does, on certain details of a location without bothering for a more traditional atmospheric description (though images are conjured nevertheless), which IMO only adds to the wonderful crime-scene feel of the stories; and that the word "singular" appears without fail in every single story.

Regardless, I would heartily recommend this book as a most enjoying collection of stories, the perfect thing to read after finishing a heavy novel. Readers new to Holmes however should begin by reading the novels, especially 'A Study in Scarlet' (also the very first Holmes story) and the classic 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'.

This is excellent listening, 07 Aug 1999
I must admit that I have only started to listen to Sherlock Holmes. However, I think Clive Merrison and Michael Williams must be the best at potraying Holmes and Watson. I only wish I had a list of what tapes they appear on. Amazon only lists a few, but from what I've learned, there are many more. I give this 4 stars.

The essential collection, 25 Jul 1999
For lovers of the Holmes canon, this collection is an essential addition to their bookshelf. It is a model of literary scholarship, with excellent critical introductions from various editors and some very illuminating notes on the tales. It is all beautifully produced, too. A must for Sherlockians.

5 Stars Is Not Enough!, 05 Jul 1999
The guy who gave this 1-star must of been having a bad day. This handsome 9 volume set is one of my most prized possessions. You'll find the entire canon, logically broken up into several books. It's the complete original Conan Doyle stories, they're classics, they're Sherlock!

"From a drop of water, a logician can infer...an Atlantic or a Niagara.", 07 Dec 2006
Published in 1878, this first Sherlock Holmes story is a delightful curiosity, rather than a finely developed novel. Here Dr. Watson, just released from the British army and recovering from serious wounds from the second Afghan war, meets Sherlock Holmes for the first time. Both have been looking for someone to share the rent--at 221B Baker Street. Holmes, without a "real" career, spends considerable time experimenting in a hospital chemistry lab and interviewing people who come to the apartment. Watson soon discovers that Holmes is a detective consultant, working with police detectives and private detectives alike.

Written before Doyle had fully developed his skills as a mystery novelist, this novel divides in half. In the first part, which begins around 1880, Holmes helps investigate the murder of Enoch J. Drebber of Cleveland, Ohio, apparently poisoned in an abandoned house. A tall stranger has been seen in the neighborhood, and some clues have been planted at the crime scene. Later, Drebber's traveling companion is killed. Holmes, however, manages to solve both cases by the halfway point in the book.

The second half of the novel flashes back to 1847. John Ferrier, one of twenty-one people in a caravan, is traveling through "an arid and repulsive desert" in the American west when the caravan runs out of food and water. Ferrier and a small girl, the only survivors, search for water until they collapse. Rescued by Brigham Young and a wagon train of Mormons on their way to found their city, Ferrier, in exchange for food and water, agrees to convert and become a good Mormon. Years later, when Ferrier is a successful rancher and Lucy has fallen in love with a Gentile, the elders of the church demand that Ferrier agree to wed Lucy to a member of the church, a decision he resists.

These seemingly unrelated stories eventually overlap, but Doyle's incomplete and inaccurate knowledge of Mormon beliefs show his deliberate attempt to capitalize on the mysteries of the "wild west" and of Mormonism for the sake of his story, now quite dated. The ending consists of Holmes simply ticking off the clues which have led him to solve the murders and capture the murderer, not a dramatic or exciting climax. Watson is seen as a soldier-hero and doctor, and not as a bumbling side-kick to Holmes, who is shown here as a decidedly odd and pompous man, less "clever" than he becomes in time. Fun to read and interesting primarily because it is the first Holmes mystery. Mary Whipple

Wonderfully entertaining, 08 Mar 2004
It is 1878 and Doctor John Watson, his health damaged by his experiences with the British Army in Afghanistan during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, is looking for lodgings in the great city of London. It seems fortuitous, when a mutual friend introduces him to another who needs someone to share costs on a suite on Baker Street, but this other man is quite an eccentric. Sherlock Holmes has bent his life and education towards turning himself into the premier detective.

Watson can hardly credit Holmes's claims of what a first-class detective can do. But, when a note arrives from a Scotland Yard detective, inviting Holmes to consult on a particularly mysterious murder, Watson soon finds himself carried along by Holmes, watching his new friend's powers unravel a seemingly inscrutable knot. The game is afoot, and Holmes needs to solve a murder, and bring a murderer to justice.

This fascinating book was first published in 1887, and was the very first Sherlock Holmes story. In it we get to see the first meeting of Holmes and Watson, and hear Holmes explain his methods in detail. If you are a fan of murder mysteries, then this is definitely a book that you should not miss.

The center part of this story revolves around the actions of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Author Arthur Conan Doyle had a tendency to "wing" the details of his story, and his treatment of the Mormons shows a certain carelessness in how he presented them. Therefore, if you are a Mormon, you will most likely find this book offensive.

But, that said, this is a wonderfully entertaining story that is sure to please most every mystery fan. And, if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you must read this book! It's great.

The First Sherlock Holmes Story, 15 Jul 2002
Although it's not the best written of the Holmes stories, "A Study in Scarlet" is most definitely my favorite. I love the description of Holmes' character in this book and the way Arthur Conan Doyle begins the relationship between Holmes and Watson is beyond brilliant. It's positively indescribable. The only thing I don't like about this book is the way in which it is written. The book is divided into two parts. In the first half, Holmes and Watson meet and then investigate a crime. The second half tells the history of the people involved in the crime. Part II is good although Holmes and Watson are not in it, but the format is somewhat confusing on the first read because it appears that Doyle is beginning an entirely new story without finishing the first one. But overall this book is a fine addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon and I would highly recommend it.

Enter the world of Sherlock Holmes, 29 Dec 2000
"A Study in Scarlet" is the first of the Sherlock Holmes series and therefore gives the reader the perfect opportunity to progressively befriend the famous detective at the same time as the good Dr Watson does. Throughout the course of the book you will marvel at the numerous skills that Holmes has so painfully striven to attain through arduous hard work during his life, and watch as he uses them in practice. As the mystery of the case develops, so does Dr Watson's friendship with Holmes, and the reader finds himself in the same position as Watson; baffled and confused as to how all the pieces of the puzzle which Holmes has so cleverly found, will ever fit together. After reading this book I found myself envious of all the remarkable talents that Holmes possesses, and every time he proposed a new theory, I could not rest until he explained the seemingly simple pathways he used to arrive at his conclusion. This book provides an excellent introduction to the world of Sherlock Holmes, it was the first of this series of books that I bought, and will certainly not be the last. Experience the astonishing mind of perhaps the greatest detective created by reading "A Study In Scarlet".

Sherlock Holmes #2, 12 Apr 2008
The 2nd Sherlock Holmes novel follows in much the same vein as the first, with another mystery of revenge and murder for Holmes to unravel, though unlike in 'A Study in Scarlet' Doyle manages to keep his main character centre-stage for the most part this time. The expansion of Holmes includes the introduction of his drug use and flair for disguise, while Dr Watson gains a (slightly melodramatically concluded) love affair.

An engrossing plot and some fine writing makes this another winner.

The best of the lot., 27 Feb 2008
The Sign of Four by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in my opinion is the best of the Sherlock Holmes longer stories. It is both imaginative and interesting with the easy style which characterises Doyle's work. The story is complex with interesting and well rounded characters and this makes it a joy to read. As for it being the best of the Sherlock Holmes novels I believe that it is because in my opinion The Valley of Fear and A Study in Scarlet suffer from structual problems and The Hound of the Baskervilles while excellent is just pipped at the post by The Sign of Four.

Absolutely gripping!, 27 May 2004
In this, the second Sherlock Holmes story written by Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes is called upon by a young lady who needs the great detective's help with a mystery. However, when this mystery leads to murder, Holmes must seek to uncover secrets that have lain hidden for many years, and have their roots in treacheries upon treacheries in far-off India. There's a one-legged man who is at the center of this mystery, and he has a murderous friend who may just be the end of Sherlock Holmes!

As I said, this is the second ever Sherlock Holmes story, written in 1890. As with the very best of the Holmes story, this one is absolutely gripping, carrying a fascinating story with mysteries wrapped up in mysteries that only Mr. Holmes can possibly conquer. As an added bonus, in this story, we get to learn about Dr. Watson's meeting of his true love, and his eventual marriage - which should end some rumors that people spread.

Yep, this is a great story, one that is sure to please any fan of mysteries, and is certain to delight any Sherlock Holmes fan!

Another Intriguing Mystery, 31 Aug 2001
"The Sign of Four" is the second of Conan Doyle's four longer Sherlock Holmes stories - I wouldn't call it a novel, because it's shorter even than the other three.

The level of detection and the intrigue surrounding the mystery is as clever as ever, and possibly more complex than in its predecessor, "A Study in Scarlet". The structure of the book could be seen as a little clumsy, with the story of Small tacked onto the end as an extra thirty pages - but using the first-person viewpoint like he does, there was no other way for Conan Doyle to integrate it into the story.

This story is also worth reading for its long-term developments in the Holmes stories. We learn of Holmes' cocaine addiction and his reasoning behind it. This is also where Watson meets his wife, which - along with the treasure seeking - makes it the more romantic of the longer stories. The relationship is hardly developed realistically, but Conan Doyle always seems to sacrifice character development in favour of brilliant plots.

If you simply enjoy the mystery and try not to think about such things, the book is very good indeed. It's a very easy read; Conan Doyle's style flowing brilliantly and so offering a perfect form of escapism.

Merrison and Williams breathe new life into "The Sign", 25 Jul 1999
This was the second dramatisation to feature Clive Merrison and Michael Williams as Conan Doyle's immortal duo. They succeed brilliantly, abetted by a fine script from Bert Coules. Merrison portrays Holmes in all his moods on this dramatisation, from the depressed drug addict of the opening scene to the bloodhound detective when he has a case which interests. There is a fine supporting cast and excellent sound effects. Highly recommended.

"From a drop of water, a logician can infer...an Atlantic or a Niagara.", 07 Dec 2006
Published in 1878, this first Sherlock Holmes story is a delightful curiosity, rather than a finely developed novel. Here Dr. Watson, just released from the British army and recovering from serious wounds from the second Afghan war, meets Sherlock Holmes for the first time. Both have been looking for someone to share the rent--at 221B Baker Street. Holmes, without a "real" career, spends considerable time experimenting in a hospital chemistry lab and interviewing people who come to the apartment. Watson soon discovers that Holmes is a detective consultant, working with police detectives and private detectives alike.

Written before Doyle had fully developed his skills as a mystery novelist, this novel divides in half. In the first part, which begins around 1880, Holmes helps investigate the murder of Enoch J. Drebber of Cleveland, Ohio, apparently poisoned in an abandoned house. A tall stranger has been seen in the neighborhood, and some clues have been planted at the crime scene. Later, Drebber's traveling companion is killed. Holmes, however, manages to solve both cases by the halfway point in the book.

The second half of the novel flashes back to 1847. John Ferrier, one of twenty-one people in a caravan, is traveling through "an arid and repulsive desert" in the American west when the caravan runs out of food and water. Ferrier and a small girl, the only survivors, search for water until they collapse. Rescued by Brigham Young and a wagon train of Mormons on their way to found their city, Ferrier, in exchange for food and water, agrees to convert and become a good Mormon. Years later, when Ferrier is a successful rancher and Lucy has fallen in love with a Gentile, the elders of the church demand that Ferrier agree to wed Lucy to a member of the church, a decision he resists.

These seemingly unrelated stories eventually overlap, but Doyle's incomplete and inaccurate knowledge of Mormon beliefs show his deliberate attempt to capitalize on the mysteries of the "wild west" and of Mormonism for the sake of his story, now quite dated. The ending consists of Holmes simply ticking off the clues which have led him to solve the murders and capture the murderer, not a dramatic or exciting climax. Watson is seen as a soldier-hero and doctor, and not as a bumbling side-kick to Holmes, who is shown here as a decidedly odd and pompous man, less "clever" than he becomes in time. Fun to read and interesting primarily because it is the first Holmes mystery. Mary Whipple

Wonderfully entertaining, 08 Mar 2004
It is 1878 and Doctor John Watson, his health damaged by his experiences with the British Army in Afghanistan during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, is looking for lodgings in the great city of London. It seems fortuitous, when a mutual friend introduces him to another who needs someone to share costs on a suite on Baker Street, but this other man is quite an eccentric. Sherlock Holmes has bent his life and education towards turning himself into the premier detective.

Watson can hardly credit Holmes's claims of what a first-class detective can do. But, when a note arrives from a Scotland Yard detective, inviting Holmes to consult on a particularly mysterious murder, Watson soon finds himself carried along by Holmes, watching his new friend's powers unravel a seemingly inscrutable knot. The game is afoot, and Holmes needs to solve a murder, and bring a murderer to justice.

This fascinating book was first published in 1887, and was the very first Sherlock Holmes story. In it we get to see the first meeting of Holmes and Watson, and hear Holmes explain his methods in detail. If you are a fan of murder mysteries, then this is definitely a book that you should not miss.

The center part of this story revolves around the actions of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Author Arthur Conan Doyle had a tendency to "wing" the details of his story, and his treatment of the Mormons shows a certain carelessness in how he presented them. Therefore, if you are a Mormon, you will most likely find this book offensive.

But, that said, this is a wonderfully entertaining story that is sure to please most every mystery fan. And, if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you must read this book! It's great.

The First Sherlock Holmes Story, 15 Jul 2002
Although it's not the best written of the Holmes stories, "A Study in Scarlet" is most definitely my favorite. I love the description of Holmes' character in this book and the way Arthur Conan Doyle begins the relationship between Holmes and Watson is beyond brilliant. It's positively indescribable. The only thing I don't like about this book is the way in which it is written. The book is divided into two parts. In the first half, Holmes and Watson meet and then investigate a crime. The second half tells the history of the people involved in the crime. Part II is good although Holmes and Watson are not in it, but the format is somewhat confusing on the first read because it appears that Doyle is beginning an entirely new story without finishing the first one. But overall this book is a fine addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon and I would highly recommend it.

Enter the world of Sherlock Holmes, 29 Dec 2000
"A Study in Scarlet" is the first of the Sherlock Holmes series and therefore gives the reader the perfect opportunity to progressively befriend the famous detective at the same time as the good Dr Watson does. Throughout the course of the book you will marvel at the numerous skills that Holmes has so painfully striven to attain through arduous hard work during his life, and watch as he uses them in practice. As the mystery of the case develops, so does Dr Watson's friendship with Holmes, and the reader finds himself in the same position as Watson; baffled and confused as to how all the pieces of the puzzle which Holmes has so cleverly found, will ever fit together. After reading this book I found myself envious of all the remarkable talents that Holmes possesses, and every time he proposed a new theory, I could not rest until he explained the seemingly simple pathways he used to arrive at his conclusion. This book provides an excellent introduction to the world of Sherlock Holmes, it was the first of this series of books that I bought, and will certainly not be the last. Experience the astonishing mind of perhaps the greatest detective created by reading "A Study In Scarlet".