I was given a free e-copy of this novel by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
During a critical stage in World War One, the Governor-General of South Africa journeys to London for a meeting of The Imperial War Conference. Days prior to the conference, the Governor-General is scheduled to have an audience at Buckingham Palace at which time a most precious blue diamond will be presented to King Edward as a symbolic gesture of the colonies’ resolute and never-ending allegiance to England.
The flawless blue diamond, with its magnificent luster, weighs nearly 3000 carats which renders it one of the world’s largest and most valuable gems. On the Governor-General’s arrival, he is ensconced at the fashionable Windsor Hotel under the tightest security, with his entire entourage and formidable security team occupying the entire penthouse floor. All entrances and exits are locked down and closely guarded, and no one is allowed entrance after 6 PM.
Despite the extreme precautions, the famous diamond is stolen from the Governor-General’s suite in the middle of the night, with no clues left behind. With Scotland Yard baffled, Joanna and the Watsons are called in to investigate the theft and it becomes clear that the crime is not simply the work of a master thief, but one that could greatly aid the Germans and turn the tide of war in their favor. Time is of the essence and the blue diamond must be recovered before it begins its travels which could cause irreparable damage to the allied war plans. (Goodreads synopsis)
I have read all of Leonard Goldberg’s novels in his Daughter of Sherlock Holmes series, and consider it one of my go-to pastiches.
I have said it before and I will say it again, Joanne is Sherlock Holmes with more personality. This time we see her as a daughter in law being concerned for her father in law. I can relate to that, except my father in law doesn’t take care of himself which is the opposite of John H Watson. There is also the obvious presence of her deceased father, Sherlock, as she consistently asks Watson about him. Mentions of his past cases, emphasis to the Dancing Men, and even “what would he do” situations.
It would appear that the elder John Watson has redeemed himself in this novel as he showed the reader his clever side. This is an improvement from the previous novel, as stated in my review. The younger John seemed to have more difficulty coming to the point at a few occasions but very clearly put his faith in his wife.
The mysteries (because if you have read the series you know there is more than one) flow very well, and give attention to the conflicts of the era. Again, there is another connection to Sherlock Holmes as Joanna is asked to assist with the recovery, and ultimately the relationship, of the Blue Diamond and South Africa to England. There are secret service agencies and spies aplenty.
Overall I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.
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