Background
A Study in Scarlet is the first novel with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Written in 1886 by Arthur Conan Doyle. This work introduces Mr. Holmes’ famed powers of deduction and sets up his rocky association with Scotland Yard.
Also included is a short story of “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” which is a quick murder mystery which is solved by Mr. Holmes.
My Thoughts
Surprisingly, it was more a story of the killer than of Sherlock and Watson. More surprising, it gave a description of the Mormon Pioneers and life in frontier Salt Lake City before Utah became part of the United States after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I was surprised and a little dismayed by the light cast on the church and how they did business at that time. Conan Doyle stated it was a work of fiction and “best to let the matter rest”. I will also let it rest but simply to say, I didn’t expect it.
Recommendation
I enjoyed the read. It also spurred me to check out a number of sources regarding the time period. I would recommend it.