It’s been a while since I’ve read the Lady Sherlock series, but I’m back! The Art of Theft reminded me why I love the series so much. Bringing back a cast of characters I love and providing so much overarching plot development, I need to read the next one now. Keep reading this book review to see my full thoughts.
Summary
As “Sherlock Holmes, consulting detective,” Charlotte Holmes has solved murders and found missing individuals. But she has never stolen a priceless artwork—or rather, made away with the secrets hidden behind a much-coveted canvas.
But Mrs. Watson is desperate to help her old friend recover those secrets and Charlotte finds herself involved in a fever-paced scheme to infiltrate a glamorous Yuletide ball where the painting is one handshake away from being sold and the secrets a bare breath from exposure.
Her dear friend Lord Ingram, her sister Livia, Livia’s admirer Stephen Marbleton—everyone pitches in to help and everyone has a grand time. But nothing about this adventure is what it seems and disaster is biding time on the grounds of a glittering French chateau, waiting only for Charlotte to make a single mistake…
Review
The Art of Theft brings me back to all the reasons I love the Lady Sherlock series. It’s easy to say I admire Charlotte’s cunning and the obscene color combinations of her wardrobe. But I truly love all the characters in this story. Charlotte’s love for pastries and fashion choices that offend. Or Livia’s contentment with a simpler life, but her ability to rise to the life with her chosen friends. Watson’s, not only queer identity in this book, but also the ways she has to grapple with her past mistakes. Stephen’s almost puppy like adoration and sweetness, despite a life on the run. And Lord Ingram’s haunted past and familial obligations.
One of the things I loved about The Art of Theft was how much we can see the unfolding and continuing story lines. I was entirely swept away in the mystery and intrigue. I wish there had been a little more romance development, just because I have some serious ships to pursue, but that’s just me! These characters have made a place in my heart because they have these strengths and vulnerabilities which we’ve come to know. This has swept me away in a way that some of the previous ones haven’t. Overall, if you love the idea of a Sherlock Holmes re-telling with a fabulous heroine and cast of characters, then start this series!
Find The Art of Theft on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.
I’ve always wanted to start this series because I like other books by Sherry Thomas. Your review has gotten me really excited to put the first book on my summer TBR list. Thanks. Natalie @ Literary Rambles
YAY! Yeah I like love this series so much, it gets me for like a good vacation read