Observations by Gaslight

Stories from the World of Sherlock Holmes

De: Lyndsay Faye

Narrado por: Dan Calley, Polly Lee

Lyndsay Faye - international best seller, translated into 15 languages, and a two-time Edgar Award nominee - first appeared on the literary scene with Dust and Shadow, her now-classic novel pitting Sherlock Holmes against Jack the Ripper, and later produced The Whole Art of Detection, her widely acclaimed collection of traditional Watsonian tales. Now Faye is back with Observations by Gaslight, a thrilling volume of both new and previously published short stories and novellas narrated by those who knew the Great Detective.

Beloved adventuress Irene Adler teams up with her former adversary in a near-deadly inquiry into a room full of eerily stopped grandfather clocks. Learn of the case that cemented the lasting friendship between Holmes and Inspector Lestrade, and of the tragic crime that haunted the Yarder into joining the police force. And witness Stanley Hopkins' first meeting with the remote logician he idolizes, who will one day become his devoted mentor.

From familiar faces like landlady Mrs. Hudson to minor characters like Lomax the sub-librarian, Observations by Gaslight - entirely epistolary, told through diaries, telegrams, and even grocery lists - paints a masterful portrait of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as you have never seen them before.

©2021 Lyndsay Faye (P)2021 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

Brilliantly conceived and artfully executed

These stories of Holmes are told through the perspectives of supporting characters like Lestrade, Hopkins, Wiggins and Mrs. Hudson rather than through our regular guide Watson, and this allows us a more rounded view of the famous detective. (Watson as well, and there is a bit of a missed opportunity there - I would have enjoyed seeing more of him through other people's eyes as he often minimized his own participation according to Holmes) Thoughtful characterization throughout - was impressed by how well-articulated and individuated each perspective came across. Language is period perfect and sumptuous. Plots are rather beside the point here as this is more a character piece but they are still interesting, emotionally affecting and at many points evocative of the original tales.

Performances are very well done, especially the accent work, through Watson seems a bit more breathy gothic heroine than stalwart army medico it works as an acting choice I grew to appreciate as it emphasized his gentle demeanor, decency and kindness. Mrs. Norton/Irene Adler was especially well-acted and historically appropriate - so many people forget her background. For Sherlockians, there is much to dig your teeth into here as this author has definitely done their homework.

Completely original ides, very well done.

I really enjoyed the new depth in the relationships with those who interact with SH & JW, as experienced through the perspectives of those individuals, instead of just Watson's. Very imaginative, and creative. Yet completely true to the character of Holmes & Watson as given by SACDoyle. A treat for true Sherlockians.

Ms. Faye is the best

I loved her first two Holmes books and was so happy to hear this. Hope it’s not her last!

Rounding out the characters of Conan Doyle's books

What a delightful take on the characters and environment of Sherlock Holmes -- examining, giving voice to, and listening to the fascinating secondary characters around the famous detective. Each time I was skeptical about a new voice I quickly found myself absorbed and appreciative.

just a treasure

this book is just a treasure. It is perfection in terms of content and performance. All sherlockianss everywhere should consume this book with glee. This will be a tremendous contribution to the unofficial canon. The author shows a deep and abiding love and care for all the characters. Anything by Lindsey fate is to be highly recommended.

Would not recommend

Overall the book was disappointing. The male narrator has a habit of ending every sentence with the same uplift of his voice in the same tone. It can be grating after awhile.
The author goes overboard with her use of adjectives and too often feels it necessary to describe every physical feature of the surroundings, Holmes etc. to the point of redundancy. This practice does not add to the story after awhile but rather detracts from it. Because if the above mentioned redundancy the stories take much longer than they need to. A lot of words, not much plot.
Henry Wiggins and Martha Hudson’s stories were fresh and added details not found in other Holmes pastiches. Irene Adler’s story, while interesting, had a mundane and unsatisfying plot and ending and was way too lengthy. The last story by Lorax was one I quit half way through. The book is ok but would not recommend it for the reader well acquainted with original Holmes stories and the myriad of excellent pastiches available on audible.

Absolutely loved it!

Intellectual yet very human. Ms Faye has used many different viewpoints to deepen our relationship with Mr Holmes. She is different than Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, but in many ways better!

The Best is Still The Best

Faye continues to be the best modern voice of our favorite fictional detective; and in this work, the voice of his closest relations as well.

If you love Holmes, you will love this book. By nature of its focus on secondary characters, we get a bit less of Holmes himself here. But, of course, if you're a fan of the original novels, you'll know that this is quite in keeping with Doyle's work.

I've read dozens of Holmes pastiches, and Faye continues to produce the best of them all.

Disappointing

Painful narration. I liked the male narrator, he just didn’t seem suited to this style of writing, and did not care for the woman at all. I have to say, the writing itself was part of the the wooden, strangely convoluted and flowery feel - but the dragging pedantic reading was hard to take. I had the strong impression both narrators were told to read in this way, maybe the idea is that it added to the period feel. I’d say this is totally wrongheaded.

Mediocre

These stories apparently aim to provide atmosphere and background for the Holmes canon. Lindsay is s capable writer, but these are practically plotless. I couldn't sustain much interest in any of them.