Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ordered Occupations

By: Nick Howlett

Narrated by: Adam Blanford

Length: 39 mins

Publisher's summary

A story to accompany publication of The Medical Casebook Of Sherlock Holmes And Dr John Watson.

Dr Watson attends a hansom cab accident on Kensington High Street, in which a fellow general practitioner is seriously injured. Acting as a locum for his colleague, Watson is called to a mysterious death. Sherlock Holmes is asked for help, and discovers another similar death. Unravelling the mystery makes full use of Watson’s medical knowledge, but can our heroes prevent further deaths?

©2023 Nick Howlett (P)2023 MX Publishing

The mysterious casebook of Howlett

As an avid fan of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's timeless detective tales, I was both thrilled and skeptical when I stumbled upon Nick Howlett's "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ordered Occupations," beautifully narrated by the talented Adam Blanford. It is no small feat to tread in the footsteps of a literary giant like Doyle, but Howlett not only manages to pay homage to the original works but also brings his own flair to the table, creating an enthralling narrative that seamlessly fits within the Sherlock Holmes universe.

Let's start with the narration by Adam Blanford, whose voice becomes the vessel for the unfolding mysteries within the audiobook. Blanford's delivery is nothing short of spectacular, capturing the essence of the characters with precision. His vocal nuances give life to each personality, from the inquisitive and logical Holmes to the ever-loyal Dr. John Watson. Blanford's mastery of pacing and tone adds an extra layer of suspense, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats throughout the entire adventure.

One of the most commendable aspects of Blanford's narration is his ability to channel the spirit of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. His voice echoes the same cadence and charm found in the original Holmes stories, creating an authentic experience for listeners. It's almost as if Doyle's literary spirit has found a new vessel in Blanford, and together they transport us back to 221B Baker Street. The meticulous attention to detail in the narration mirrors the distinctive style of Doyle, ensuring that fans of the original series will feel right at home.

Moving on to the writing by Nick Howlett, it is evident that he approached the task of crafting a Sherlock Holmes story with both reverence and innovation. "The Adventure of the Ordered Occupations" is a captivating tale that seamlessly integrates itself into the existing Sherlock Holmes canon. Howlett's writing is not a mere imitation; it's a celebration of the detective genre and a testament to his understanding of the characters and their world.

Howlett's narrative prowess shines through in the intricate plot that he weaves. The story kicks off with Dr. Watson thrust into the midst of a hansom cab accident, and from there, a cascade of mysterious events ensues. The plot's foundation rests on Watson's medical expertise, a clever choice that adds a unique layer to the investigation. It's a testament to Howlett's understanding of both the Holmesian universe and medical practices of the time, making the story not only intellectually stimulating but also historically immersive.

The author's skillful use of suspense and deduction mirrors the original Holmes stories, leaving listeners guessing and eagerly anticipating each revelation. Howlett pays homage to Doyle's legacy by maintaining the perfect balance between intricate detail and brisk pacing. The banter and camaraderie between Holmes and Watson, a hallmark of the original stories, are brilliantly captured by Howlett, making it feel like the duo never left the pages of Doyle's works.

What sets "The Adventure of the Ordered Occupations" apart is its ability to transport readers into the heart of Victorian London, immersing them in the foggy streets and gas-lit alleys that are synonymous with Holmesian mysteries. Howlett's descriptive prowess is reminiscent of Doyle's own, creating a vivid tapestry of the era that serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. It's a testament to the author's commitment to maintaining the authenticity of the setting.

As the mystery deepens and Holmes unravels the intricacies of the case, the stakes heighten, and the story takes unexpected turns. Howlett's narrative choices and plot twists are not only engaging but also respectful of the intelligence of the audience. The ability to keep seasoned Holmes enthusiasts guessing is no small feat, and Howlett accomplishes it with finesse.

"Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ordered Occupations" is a triumph on multiple fronts. Nick Howlett's writing seamlessly blends with the original Holmes canon, while Adam Blanford's narration breathes life into the characters with a finesse that rivals the greats. The audiobook is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes and a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to the detective genre. With its gripping plot, authentic atmosphere, and a nod to the classic Holmesian banter, this adventure is a delightful addition to the detective's illustrious repertoire.