A Scandalous Affair

A Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mystery

By: Leonard Goldberg

Narrated by: Steve West

During the height of the Great War, Joanna Holmes and the Watsons receive a late-night, clandestine visit from Sir William Radcliffe, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who brings with him an agonizing tale of blackmail; a case so sensitive that it can only be spoken of in the confines of 221B Baker Street.

An unknown individual has come into possession of salacious photographs, which not only sullies the family name, but may force the chancellor to vacate his seat on the War Council where his advice is most needed. The blackmailer has in their possession revealing photographs that show Sir William's granddaughter in romantic encounters with a man other than the aristocrat to whom she is engaged to marry. Should the pictures be released to the public, the wedding would be immediately called off, and the prospect of the granddaughter ever finding a suitable husband would vanish.

Sir William's family has been forced to pay exorbitant sums for several of the photographs, but even more salacious pictures remain in the blackmailer's possession—and will no doubt carry greater demands and threats. Scotland Yard cannot be involved, for fear of public disclosure. It thus falls on the shoulders of Joanna and the Watsons to expose the blackmailer and procure the photographs before irreparable harm comes to the chancellor and his family.

©2025 Leonard Goldberg (P)2025 Tantor Media

Spin on a Classic

I like this book because it puts a fresh spin on a classic story while still respecting the world it comes from. The twist feels intentional rather than forced, and it draws you in quickly, making you want to keep reading. The pacing works well, the mystery stays engaging, and it feels familiar in the best ways while still offering something new.

The narrator is exceptional!

Never skipping a beat, the story captivated throughout. When you almost think you may have figured it out. The story takes another twist.

One of my favorite “Daughter of Sherlock Holmes” audibles.

Not only one of my favorite audible stories in this remarkable series, but also one of my favorite audibles, period. Not only was it a very good mystery, but also showed JoAnna to be a warm and caring human being. With her intellect, her humanity toward her fellow human beings is not shown to this degree.

A well told tale

This book was an absolute masterpiece in the collection of the adventures of the Daughter of Sherlock Holmes. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to the next book in the wonderful series.