A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro

The darkness in the story though, the darkness in Holmes, was surprising and true and at first, hard to grasp, because Holmes in this case is a young female protagonist. I love a sprinkle of romance in stories, especially the YA kind, and this one, although not a main storyline was so natural that I really didn't question it too much. Perhaps many readers and true Sherlock fans would balk at such an implication, but I loved it. However, a few differences would be the level of maturity - given that they are teenagers - but also, a different kind of chemistry that is conveyed in the story. Looking after her, caring for her, worried for her, made sure she was OK, and just generally tried to be protective of her.

I loved how in true Watson nature, Jamie felt a responsibility towards Charlotte. I loved their chemistry, their partnership, the journey to finding clues and breaking rules and going on their own manhunt, it felt very akin to reading a true Sherlock mystery. The mystery was also fantastic, and the hunt for the murderer was such a thrill. It doesn't matter anymore, you get used to the character and you remember why you love the interaction between Watson and Holmes so much when you see the interaction between Jamie and Charlotte. But a few chapters into it and it suddenly starts to make sense. The same sarcasm, cynicism and darkness, all wrapped into a 16 year old girl was just.weird.

I couldn't allow myself to accept a female version of the great detective. When I started reading it, and we are first introduced to Charlotte, it all felt a bit off. You also have an entire storyline dedicated to the Moriarty's and how the families still cannot stand each other although there was a brief truce at one time. I really liked the idea of a female descendant of Sherlock Holmes - Charlotte Holmes - who is British, and another American descendent of John Watson - Jamie Watson.

I love anything Sherlock Holmes, and upon reading the synopsis I couldn't help but purchase the book.

A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro