Sherlock Holmes in Montague Street: Volume 1

By: Arthur Morrison

Narrated by: Charles Featherstone

Length: 7 hrs and 38 mins

Publisher's summary

In 1893, Dr. Watson and Conan Doyle published what they believed was the last Sherlock Holmes story, "The Final Problem". The world was stunned, and The Strand Magazine rushed to fill the vacuum. Fans were soon introduced to a new detective, Martin Hewitt, as presented by Arthur Morrison. Although initially different than Holmes, Hewitt also showed a number of interesting similarities as well.

For many years, Martin Hewitt has been mostly forgotten, except in some Sherlockian circles, where it has long been theorized that he was a young Mycroft Holmes. However, recent evidence has come to light that Hewitt's adventures were cases undertaken by a young Sherlock Holmes when he lived in Montague Street, several years before he would take up his legendary rooms in Baker Street with Watson.

These volumes are the complete Martin Hewitt stories, taking Arthur Morrison's original publications and presenting them as Sherlock Holmes adventures. If you are a fan of Holmes, enjoy! And by all means, seek out the original Hewitt stories and enjoy them as well.

The game is afoot!

©2016 David Marcum (P)2023 MX Publishing

If you liked the film Young Sherlock Homes......

In the realm of classic detective fiction, Arthur Morrison's tales featuring Martin Hewitt have often played second fiddle to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved Sherlock Holmes. However, with the release of David Marcum's audiobook "Sherlock Holmes in Montague Street: Volume 1," a remarkable transformation unfolds. This audiobook not only resurrects Morrison's captivating detective stories but also dares to rewrite history by seamlessly integrating Hewitt into the Holmesian canon. Narrated by the talented Charles Featherstone, this audiobook takes listeners on a mesmerizing journey through Victorian London's foggy streets, where mysteries abound and detectives with unique personalities roam.

David Marcum's tribute to Arthur Morrison and his works is nothing short of monumental. Through "In Montague Street," he breathes new life into Hewitt's character, propelling him from relative obscurity into the spotlight of Holmesian lore. Marcum boldly asserts that Martin Hewitt was a pseudonym concealing the early exploits of none other than Sherlock Holmes himself, a theory that has tantalized Sherlockian circles for years. In this audiobook, Morrison's original stories are presented with a simple but significant alteration: Hewitt becomes Holmes. This audacious twist opens up a world of possibilities and adds a layer of intrigue to the tales.

The audiobook begins with a thought-provoking foreword that explains the rationale behind this transformation from Hewitt to Holmes. This thorough introduction prepares listeners for the narrative shift and sets the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary listening experience. Importantly, Marcum's approach is respectful of the source material, ensuring that Morrison's original stories remain intact while seamlessly fitting into the larger Holmesian universe.

One cannot help but appreciate the genuine reverence that Marcum and Featherstone bring to these narratives. Featherstone's narration is, without a doubt, one of the most remarkable aspects of this audiobook. From the moment he begins to speak, listeners are transported to the Victorian era, where gas lamps flicker and intrigue lurks around every corner. His skillful delivery captures the essence of the time, immersing listeners in a world where mysteries are solved with intellect and deduction.

Featherstone's portrayal of Martin Hewitt, or rather, the young Sherlock Holmes, is a masterclass in voice acting. He effortlessly embodies the character, bringing to life his sharp intellect and unwavering determination. Featherstone's nuanced performance distinguishes Hewitt/Holmes from other characters in the stories, making it easy for listeners to connect with and root for the detective.

One of Featherstone's most impressive feats is his ability to convey the distinct personalities of each character, whether they are clients seeking help or suspects entangled in the mysteries. His voice modulation and delivery breathe life into these characters, making them feel real and relatable.

Featherstone's pacing is impeccable, maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the audiobook. His narration ensures that the stories remain engaging and easy to follow, whether you are a seasoned Holmesian or a newcomer to the world of detective fiction. His delivery keeps listeners eagerly awaiting each twist and revelation, keeping them on the edge of their seats.

What truly sets Featherstone's narration apart is his evident passion for the material. It is clear that he has a deep appreciation for the source material and understands its historical significance. This enthusiasm shines through in his performance, making it apparent that he is not merely narrating a story but sharing a piece of literary history with the audience.

In conclusion, Charles Featherstone's narration in "Sherlock Holmes in Montague Street: Volume 1" elevates an already compelling collection of detective stories to new heights. His ability to breathe life into characters, maintain impeccable pacing, and convey suspense is truly remarkable. Featherstone's passion for the material is infectious, making this audiobook a must-listen for both dedicated Holmesians and those seeking an entry point into the world of Victorian mysteries.

Marcum's audacious reimagining of Martin Hewitt as a young Sherlock Holmes adds a layer of complexity and excitement to these classic narratives. It invites listeners to explore the multifaceted nature of the Holmesian canon and embrace the idea of alternate "What If" scenarios. While this may not be traditional canon, it is an immensely enjoyable and thought-provoking addition to the Sherlock Holmes universe.

As you listen to Featherstone's captivating narration, you will find yourself transported to the gaslit streets of Victorian London, where Holmes, in his earlier years, tackles cases with boundless enthusiasm and an inquisitive mind. It is, after all, a testament to the enduring appeal of the great detective that we can continue to explore new facets of his character, even in a multiversal context.

So, whether you are a die-hard Sherlockian or simply a lover of finely narrated mysteries, "Sherlock Holmes in Montague Street: Volume 1" is an audiobook that promises hours of delight and intrigue. Allow Featherstone's voice to guide you through the foggy streets of London as you unravel mysteries alongside a young Sherlock Holmes, or perhaps, a renamed Martin Hewitt. Embrace the sense of fun and adventure that this audiobook offers, and remember that in the world of Holmes, there is always room for a clever disguise or a pseudonym. The game is indeed afoot, and it's a game you won't want to miss.