Release date: 22nd May 2025
A cross between Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Who, this sci-fi murder mystery is the most bizarre book I have ever read (and that might be a compliment). If you’ve read ‘A Study in Scarlet’ then you already know the plot. However, this retelling is set in space!
Our protagonist, Kellieth, is a non binary alien chemist with a respiratory disability. Not quite Dr Watson but their narrative often feels close to the original; if the original had a YA romance undertone. I could do without the numerous references to how good looking Raithan (the Sherlock equivalent) is. Raithan’s character feels slightly off and true Sherlock fans may consider the alien version lacking. Or rather, not lacking. He claims to be lacking in compassion and empathy but his actions are entirely the opposite. He’s a perfect gentleman – intriguing, considerate, obliging. This mismatch felt odd, the character didn’t seem to have any real flaws other than a lack of boundaries and there wasn’t any personal growth.
I should address the sexual tension. While many fans ship Sherlock and Watson, I’ve never felt there was anything other than friendship between the two. In this version, Kellieth is *thirsty* and occasionally comes across more fanfic than literature. That said, the change in the dynamic makes this book feel like its own thing and aside from the many references, I often forgot it was based on Arthur Conan Doyle.
My main gripe is that the worldbuilding felt so underdone. The pacing is spot on and keeps the book moving forward but there are dozens of races and planets with little snippets about them thrown in haphazardly. This does give the setting a feel of diversity but makes it hard to imagine at the same time.
Speaking of diversity, I’m always a fan of disability and LGBTQ+ representation. The former really hammered the point home in places, perhaps a tiny bit overdone, but the latter was exceptionally well executed. I appreciated both.
Overall, and despite what feels like a lot of critique, I do think Howatt is a gifted writer. The book ends well and feels satisfying. I would happily read the next instalment and any of her other work.
Written By: ivetafox
Favourite Game – Long Live the Queen || Favourite Film – Sweeney Todd || Favourite Book – Wuthering Heights
About: Ivy is a disabled, autistic writer from the UK, passionate about inclusive gaming. When not reviewing, she can be found writing short stories and micro fiction or reading the latest gothic novel.
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