Balls-up in Bohemia

Dr. Watson was the chronicler of Sherlock Holmes adventures published in The Strand magazine between 1887 and 1927. George Newnes, the editor, purged each story before publication and replaced Watsons jocular illustrations with Sidney Pagets more innocuous portrayals. Watson also exposed Holmess family, Mrs. Hudsons property empire, and Professor Moriartys rise to "the Napoleon of crime".

Format: Hardback
Length: 76 pages
Publication date: 14 January 2020
Publisher: EVA BOOKS

Dr. Watson, the esteemed chronicler of every Sherlock Holmes adventure published in The Strand magazine between 1887 and 1927, played a pivotal role in capturing the essence of these thrilling tales. With his unwavering honesty and a bold, military-style approach reminiscent of a military doctor, Watson's accounts were unapologetically frank in their portrayal of human behavior, often venturing into territories that were considered too risqué for the morals of Victorian England. However, it was George Newnes, the editor of the magazine, who played a significant role in shaping the narratives. Before each story was published, Newnes meticulously purged them, removing any elements that he deemed inappropriate or controversial. He also replaced Watson's jocular illustrations with Sidney Paget's more innocuous portrayals, further tailoring the stories to suit the Victorian audience's sensibilities.

Despite these alterations, Watson managed to reveal key aspects of Sherlock Holmes' family, including his father, Professor Julian Cornelius Bortzoy Holmes, his wife, Wendy, his sister, Rachel, and his brother, Mycroft. He also delved into the intricate details of Mrs. Hudson's property empire and shed light on the rise of Professor Moriarty, who became known as "the Napoleon of crime." Some of the new material that Watson uncovered in his research was particularly shocking, even by today's standards.

In Book 1, titled "An esteemed new client engages the services of Sherlock Holmes," Watson embarks on an adventure that takes him across London. Meanwhile, Dr. Watson finds himself entangled in a rather unwise marriage, which adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Watson relocates to 221 Baker Street, where he receives an unexpected early-morning call from Mrs. Hudson. She has something of great importance to share with him, setting the stage for a series of thrilling escapades and mysteries that would captivate readers for generations to come.

Weight: 150g
Dimension: 227 x 233 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781999696108