The Language of Bees

A Novel of Suspense Featuring Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes

By: Laurie R. King

Narrated by: Jenny Sterlin

Length: 15 hrs and 51 mins

Publisher's summary

New York Times best-selling author Laurie R. King has won or been nominated for every major award in mystery writing. King's beloved sleuth Mary Russell here attempts to reverse her legendary husband, Sherlock Holmes', greatest failure.

©2009 Laurie R. King (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"A one-woman case for the defense of unauthorized literary sequels...intelligent, witty, complex and atmospheric." ( Washington Post Book World)
"Along the way, we are treated to a great deal about ancient sites in England; a major supporting role from Holmes' brother, Mycroft; information on an occult set of beliefs possibly related to Aleister Crowley; a terrifying set piece on the horrors of early air travel; and discourse on the queasy pleasures of surrealist art - all in Mary Russell's wry, brilliant, and occasionally utterly deluded voice." ( Booklist)

Love this series

I love this series and the inspirational character of Mary Russell. The historical details and the riveting plots keep me coming back for more!

Another one

This MAY be my favorite of the series but I’m so glad I’ve got more to go before I can rate them,., I never want it to end

Laurie King’s writing

Character and relationship depth and authenticity along with the author’s language skill make this series engaging, pleasurable, and page turning.

If you like the rest of the series...

... you will probably like this one. I've enjoyed all these Russell/Holmes books in varying degrees. The first one,"The Beekeeper's Apprentice" is a classic not to be missed. Other books in the series are more a matter of taste. In this one, the introduction of Holmes's adult son (by Irene Adler) is a welcome addition. The cliff-hanging ending leaves Mary Russell in charge of her stepgranddaughter, Mycroft Holmes (possibly) under arrest, and Sherlock gone off to who-knows-where. Stay tuned!

I found the "cult religion" plot interesting but scattershot; something (I'm not sure what--perhaps the presence of a more tangible villain, or just a tighter concept) was lacking. The ending chase (Mary rides an aeroplane!) to stop a human sacrifice goes on a little too long, but has some unexpected turns that keep you listening. As others have pointed out, this is clearly "part one of two," but since Part Two ("The God of the Hive") is readily available, that shouldn't deter anyone.

I've had mixed reactions to Jenny Sterlin's narrations of other material, but having listened to most of the series, I find her renditions pitch-perfect for these books. She has become the voices of Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes to me.

Great book, great series

Wonderful characters, great protagonist, this book has religion, fanaticism, the occult and art. It doesn't get much better for me.

Such a fun read...I want to read all of the books in the series.

I found this book to be the perfect blend of exciting, plot-twisting story, accessible writing, and terrific vocal storytelling. I would recommend the whole series to fans of mysteries, Sherlock Holmes, and pre-WW 2 history. The book was intellectually stimulating without seeming stuffy or drab. I plan on reading more in the series ASAP!

Another hit from Ms. King as fascinating as ever

have loved all of the Sherlock series, and this is another finely crafted, beautifully narrated tale of phones and Russell.

Quite the adventure!!

This was my first time hearing a Laurie King book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

It Continues to Get Better and Better

Talk about a cliffhanger! Not many in my past have been as good as this one. Mary Russell and Holmes continue to surprise.

You will enjoy.

Russel inconsistent

I wish King had not decided to have Russel constantly asking stupid questions. These books have a chance to draw strong, thinking women and yet so often she reverts Mary to a stereotype.