The Whole Art of Detection: Lost Mysteries of Sherlock Holmes

Actor Vance’s reading of Faye’s expertly rendered collection of “lost” Sherlock Holmes adventures is a delight for any fan of the Great Detective. Set in chronological order, the 15 stories compiled in this anthology cover Holmes from the beginning of his career, before taking up residence at 221B Baker Street, to the 20th century. Along the way he solves cases of theft, deceit, blackmail, and, of course, murder most foul. Vance impeccably captures the tone of these tales of crime and deduction. His characterizations are faultless: Watson sounds sincere, stalwart, and true. Vance keeps Holmes analytical, sardonic, and cool, for the most part, but does not miss any opportunity to show the more human side of the detective, something that is often lacking in other pastiches. But it is Vance’s ability to portray the strong friendship between the two that listeners will remember. A Mystery Press hardcover. (Mar.)