Elizabeth B. (Cattriona) -
Helpful Score: 11
This is the first volume in the "Mary Russell" series, a new set of Sherlock Holmes adventures. The same cleverness, skills and thoughtful logic prevail with a new twist: a female counterpart. Mary Russell is not just thrown in as some sort of token or romantic female -- she is quite bright and becomes Holmes' student and colleague, eventually his equal in solving crimes. Very highly recommended.
Abby I. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
This is the first of the Mary Russell-Sherlock Holmes series in which the now retired Holmes first meets his future wife, as a young, extremely intelligent, 15 year old who becomes his student and friend. This series is a marvelous continuation of the Sherlock Holmes saga and in Laurie King's skillful hands, the series is as captivating as it is addictive. This is intelligent, thoughtful reading and while the stories do not have to be read in order to be appreciated, it, of course, helps, as details accrued along the way add to the pleasure of the reading. I cannot recommend this story highly enough.
Rhiannon reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I've read a lot of Holmes books and even saw the CSI episode with "Sherlock Holmes's" death, but this book is the most fulfilling extrapolation of the Holmes's world. A must read if you're a Holmes fan, or just want some good fiction with settings from England to Israel. The story is told from a wonderful viewpoint of a girl who knows she's lucky to be there to help her hero.
Anna S. (annapi) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 334 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
A thoroughly entertaining story with a fascinating premise! It is 1915 and Sherlock Holmes has retired in the country, pursuing a hobby of raising bees, when he meets 15 year old Mary Russell. Thus begins an unconventional apprenticeship as Holmes recognizes a mind to rival his own and proceeds to shape and hone it to eventually produce a female version of himself. Mary, with Holmes's help, solves a few mysteries as the book progresses, but her mettle is not truly tested until an attempt is made on Holmes's and her own life. Now it becomes a chess game to see if they can overcome an adversary that is proving to be as formidable as any as Holmes has ever encountered before. And thus begins a series that I hope will continue to be as enjoyable as its opening novel. Mary is as engaging a character as Holmes himself, and the author gives us an interesting view of the early 20th century. I'm looking forward to the next novels.
Linda S. (thk) -
Helpful Score: 4
Excellent characters and story. Sherlock Holmes in later life, and his new apprentice. First book in a marvelous series.
ILuvShakespeare reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I really enjoyed this book! I have read all of the Arthur Conan Doyle books featuring Sherlock Holmes, and this was a fun and interesting twist on a favorite of mine. I admit I was skeptical, but it kept me interested. I am currently on page 11 of the next one in the series.
Nancy G. (ComfyReader) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 330 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I don't like being the dissenting opinion, but this book just hit me a little wrong or maybe it is my inability to have a beloved character toyed with; but this story of Mary Russsell, a precocious 15 year old, whom after the death of her family moves to a farm with an aunt, and who just happens to run into the famous Sherlock Homes on one of her daily sojourns into the country is just too contrived for me.
The idea that this young woman can match wits with Sherlock is a little overdrawn and as the years go by and they investigate a few cases much in the same way as Holmes and Watson, just seems as if the author is stealing an idea instead of coming up with one of her own.
Unfortunately, I don't think I will continue on with this series, but will once again go back and read the original Conan Doyle accounts of a fascinating character.
The idea that this young woman can match wits with Sherlock is a little overdrawn and as the years go by and they investigate a few cases much in the same way as Holmes and Watson, just seems as if the author is stealing an idea instead of coming up with one of her own.
Unfortunately, I don't think I will continue on with this series, but will once again go back and read the original Conan Doyle accounts of a fascinating character.
Traci B. (cockermama) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
A good read for anyone who likes mysteries and Sherlock Holmes. The time frame is after the Great Detective's retirement to keep bees on the Sussex Downs when a chance meeting with a 15-year-old girl brings someone into his ken who can match his intellect.
Elizabeth B. (Cattriona) -
Helpful Score: 2
This is the first volume in the "Mary Russell" series, a new set of Sherlock Holmes adventures. The same cleverness, skills and thoughtful logic prevail with a new twist: a female counterpart. Mary Russell is not just thrown in as some sort of token or romantic female -- she is quite bright and becomes Holmes' student and colleague, eventually his equal in solving crimes. Very highly recommended.
Patty P. (Patouie) -
Helpful Score: 2
This is fun and clever look at the "true" Sherlock Holmes, combining good sleuthing with the story of a bright and engaging girl who is coming of age against the backdrop of World War I.
Rebekah P. (fuzzkit) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 45 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Great book for fans of Sherlock Holmes.
Issac C. (domesticavalanche) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Laurie R King brings Sherlock Holmes back to life. This is the first Mary Russell novel that I read. She impresses without being too overbearing.
A reasonably well written novel which does not disappoint a true Sherlock Holmes fan. You would see the same mannerisms and character that you admire a lot.
A reasonably well written novel which does not disappoint a true Sherlock Holmes fan. You would see the same mannerisms and character that you admire a lot.
Helen S. (mommahelen) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 57 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This series pairs a strong young woman with a very elderly Sherlock Holmes. Facinating and delightful!
Sidney H. (shardie1) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this a lot -- hated to put it down and couldn't wait to pick it up again.
Winston C. (Crabby-doctor) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 296 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first of the Sherlock Holmes/Mary Stewart (later Holmes after they get married) books and is really good, especially for an old Holmes fan.
Barbara M. (WingedLady) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Holmes done almost as well as by Doyle
Heather F. (AZmom875) -
Helpful Score: 1
Sure I know who Sherlock Holmes is, but I have not read any of the books written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
I found our main character Mary Russell to be a real joy. Even if you do not like feminist, you will like her.
The book is not a fast paced summer beach read. I can read very very fast and this book took me several days to read, with much needed pauses. The writing is well done, and does seem to be to set a slower pace of yesteryear's writing. The kind of writing that will stand the test of time. The kind of writing where the author needs to have more than average talent to tell a story.
The mysteries are interesting, even in todays modern age of CSI and DNA you will not be bored with the clues nor the outcomes.
I love my women's fiction, and chick lit and cozy mysteries, and I still found room to enjoy this type of book too. Give it a chance, I think it will hook you in as well.
I found our main character Mary Russell to be a real joy. Even if you do not like feminist, you will like her.
The book is not a fast paced summer beach read. I can read very very fast and this book took me several days to read, with much needed pauses. The writing is well done, and does seem to be to set a slower pace of yesteryear's writing. The kind of writing that will stand the test of time. The kind of writing where the author needs to have more than average talent to tell a story.
The mysteries are interesting, even in todays modern age of CSI and DNA you will not be bored with the clues nor the outcomes.
I love my women's fiction, and chick lit and cozy mysteries, and I still found room to enjoy this type of book too. Give it a chance, I think it will hook you in as well.
Cheryl R. (Spuddie) -
Helpful Score: 1
#1 Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes mystery. Set during WWI, Mary Russell is a young woman who is neighbor to Sherlock Holmes in the countryside, he having retired to live a quiet life. She stumbles upon him watching his bees and after a brief conversation, figures out who he is--and he recognizes that he's met a superior mind as well. That chance meeting begins a friendship and Miss Russell spends much time with Holmes, learning his methods of deduction, conducting scientific experiments and the like.
Her 'home' life with an aunt who seeks only to criticize--her guardian since her parents died, but essentially dependent on Mary as she has the trust fund--Mary spends as much time away from there as she can. Soon she's enrolled at Oxford, coming home to visit Holmes on breaks, and they embark on several cases using his technique of disguise and employing various forensic techniques that were way ahead of their time. When Holmes is sought indirectly by an American Senator whose daughter has been kidnapped, he takes Mary along and they work their magic to get the six-year-old Jessica Simpson (ha ha!) back--and only then realize that they are working against a foe who has targeted Holmes specifically--someone who is as brilliant as Holmes himself with far-reaching plans.
I enjoyed this take on the whole Holmes character and I liked Mary Russell too, but at times the book was just...I don't know...too wordy, too explanatory, too long-winded, too detailed and I wished she'd just get on with it already. Lots and lots of prose and not a whole lot of dialogue--sometimes it just got sloggy, as interesting as the story was. I also figured quite far in advance who the baddie was, which surprised me. I do intend to read on in the series but probably will space these out quite a lot.
Her 'home' life with an aunt who seeks only to criticize--her guardian since her parents died, but essentially dependent on Mary as she has the trust fund--Mary spends as much time away from there as she can. Soon she's enrolled at Oxford, coming home to visit Holmes on breaks, and they embark on several cases using his technique of disguise and employing various forensic techniques that were way ahead of their time. When Holmes is sought indirectly by an American Senator whose daughter has been kidnapped, he takes Mary along and they work their magic to get the six-year-old Jessica Simpson (ha ha!) back--and only then realize that they are working against a foe who has targeted Holmes specifically--someone who is as brilliant as Holmes himself with far-reaching plans.
I enjoyed this take on the whole Holmes character and I liked Mary Russell too, but at times the book was just...I don't know...too wordy, too explanatory, too long-winded, too detailed and I wished she'd just get on with it already. Lots and lots of prose and not a whole lot of dialogue--sometimes it just got sloggy, as interesting as the story was. I also figured quite far in advance who the baddie was, which surprised me. I do intend to read on in the series but probably will space these out quite a lot.
Lynda J R. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 39 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Sherlock Holmes meets his equal -- and it's a woman! Well, a young girl in this, the first book about Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes. Read them all -- and in order to best enjoy how the relationship develops. The books are a wonderful continuation of where Arthur Conan Doyle began and are more lively and funny, too. Laurie King is a wonderful writer.
Kathy C. (ktsmny) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
First of the Mary Russell series. Set in 1915 when the 15 year old Mary meets the retired Sherlock Holmes and begins her long relationship with the great detective. I really enjoyed this book and its sequels.
Sherri R. (drawsit) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The beginning of the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes story. Very good.
America G. (mightymitemom) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on
Helpful Score: 1
Enjoyable read. It was a great dipiction of Holmes outside of his own chronicles by Doyle!
Brian M. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 70 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I bought this book since I collect Holmes stories, so I partially judged it by its cover. I had every instinct that this was going to be a feminist "Girl power!" "Hey get outta my way old man, I just solved this case! kinda vibe, typical feminist/update bashing of my beloved detective, portraying him as a buffonish, senile, old fashioned, non pc type of old hero. I WAS WRONG! The book, as told through Mary Russell's eyes is much more of loving homage, as she first mets his future mentor/friend/ect and becomes a dectective/spy in training. She is s strong,smart, resourceful character, whom reminds me slightly of Harry Potter, orphaned, forced to live with odius relatives, then grows up to escape and met the world's greatest detective. My only gripe is that I thought the ending could have been a little more original........SPOILER DON"T READ ANY FURTHER...I would have rather had a more original villian rather than have to dip back into the Canon. But that besides, it is a great book, which deserves to be a movie. By far the best book in the series, although the other have bright spots and sometimes less Holmes. Probably won't appeal to Holmes purists, since it is set in the mid 1900's and not in the victorian era, very little Watson. But it is cleverly/lovingly written with both characters strong,clever, and appealing...and very respectful to the Canon.
Wilma F. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 113 more book reviews
After Sherlock Holmes has retired, he meets a very modern 15 year old girl, who under his tutelage becomes involved in deduction, disguises, and danger. The villain tries to end their partnership, and their lives. A very imaginative story - great fun to read.
An engaging and clever book. I haven't read a ton of Sherlock Holmes, so I don't know how this compares in style and characters to the original stories, but I can vouch that you don't need to know the originals well to enjoy this one (although I have a feeling there are a number of references I missed). The plot doesn't actually involve bees in any major way (at least, not to the extent that The Secret Life of Bees does). Mary Russell is a strong, intelligent heroine without being boringly perfect.
Beth J. (Soprano) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
Cute stories if you like to think that Sherlock Holmes would have developed a love interest in his sunset years.
Judie F. (Judie) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 19 more book reviews
I had read this some time ago, but it was the only one in the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes not in my library, and this series is so good, I enjoy re-reading from the beginning, so I'm delighted to have my own copy.
Paula B. (KsPaula) -
It took me a little bit to start enjoying this book, but it had been recommended by someone who knows my tastes, so I kept reading. I came to really look forward to reading it each day and was very sad when I finished it. I am eagerly looking forward to reading more about Mary Russel and her exploits with Sherlock Holmes. They are fun and exciting. Highly recommend for Sherlock lovers and strong woman protagonists lovers.
Natisha G. (ngriff87) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on
it was great i cant wait until i can read the next one
Melissa A. (areadingwoman) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 30 more book reviews
Though an interesting idea, I found this story tedious. When I read a mystery, I prefer to read a long, in-depth story, but this novel has three smaller mysteries in it before getting to the main plot in the last 300 pages and even then there is a huge digression from the plot while Mary and Holmes try to hide. Perhaps the later books are better, but I'm not sure I'll be giving them a try. Even the end is rushed. Mary is traumatized and it only takes 5 pages for her to fully recover from an emotional problem that leaves most people scarred for years.
Fay B. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Well written, great book if you are a Sherlock Holmes fan. Highly recommended and a selection of our bookclub.
Christina R. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
A truly interesting book. Difficult to put down. Very human characters, well fleshed-out. A great read.
MP G. (philomene) -
Imagine if Sherlock Holmes in his semi-retirement took on a young female apprentice and you have the audacious premise behind King's captivating story line. Young Mary Russell proves a far more satisfying partner than faithful Watson could ever be. This is book one and it definitely satisfies and leaves me searching for the next in the series.
Rosemary F. (canadianeh) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 242 more book reviews
I think even Laurie King's grocery list would read well: her style is just a joy. I'm in love. I'm supposed to fall asleep reading at night in bed, but this holds my attention so well that I can't. This is not a story about Holmes, which is a relief, because no one could imitate him well enough for me. But the tension between him and his "apprentice" is very well done indeed. I can't say enough: character, plot, descriptions, 10 stars. You can even read the last page and still go back and enjoy the whole adventure: rare for me.
Donna H. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Set in the early 1900's, retired Sherlock Holmes
teaches a young woman & together they go after a murderer
teaches a young woman & together they go after a murderer
Richard D. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
First of a series about Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell, a much younger woman invented by the author who becomes involved with the famous detective. (She is his equal in deductive intelligence, which makes for some interesting stories and equally interesting dialogue.)
Janet B. (Janetb21) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 103 more book reviews
I loved this book!
Beth H. (beth213) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 31 more book reviews
I really REALLY wanted to like this book, but for the life of me I just could not get into it. I tried three times to read it, and it just did not keep my interest. It just kept plodding along and you kept wanting it to get on already. I usually finish any book, but just couldn't do it with this one.
Elizabeth S. (flooblover) -
A slow, slow read. It just couldn't keep my attention.
Jeanie S. (JeanieS) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 192 more book reviews
A good group of stories.
I did not expect to like this as much as I did - it was very entertaining. Will definitely read more of the series.
Joan L. (yolojoan) -
Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes. A good read.
Jennifer E. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 110 more book reviews
Loved it! Very intriguing and love the idea behind the series of Sherlock Holmes with a young female cohort
River M. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
The Beekeepers Apprentice is a compelling, intelligent, sophisticated, read with a gutsy heroine. The complex relationship between the main characters keeps you longing for more adventures.
Patsy A. S. (duetproductions) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 47 more book reviews
Faux Sherlock Holmes at its best.
Laura E. (retro-redux) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 219 more book reviews
superb victorian era mystery featuring sherlock holmes and his young associate mary russell
Candace G. (Ogre) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 1568 more book reviews
A mythic Sherlock Holmes story, with a teen-aged American girl in the role of apprentice detective to the Master Detective. Their exploits, written in near Conan Doyle manner, ring very true to the original tales of Sherlock Holmes.
In 1915, long since retired from his observations of criminal humanity, Sherlock Holmes is engaged in a reclusive study of honeybee behovior on the Sussex Downs. Never did he think to meet an intellect to match his own--until his acquaintance with Miss Mary Russell, a very modern fifteen-year-old whose mental acuity is equaled only by her audacity, tenacity, and penchant for trousers and cloth caps, unthinkable in any young lady of Holmes' own generation . . .
Great fun
In 1915, long since retired from his observations of criminal humanity, Sherlock Holmes is engaged in a reclusive study of honeybee behovior on the Sussex Downs. Never did he think to meet an intellect to match his own--until his acquaintance with Miss Mary Russell, a very modern fifteen-year-old whose mental acuity is equaled only by her audacity, tenacity, and penchant for trousers and cloth caps, unthinkable in any young lady of Holmes' own generation . . .
Great fun
Terri R. (coolys-gal) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 39 more book reviews
A classic Sherlock Holmes whodunit book. Follow Holmes and his female assistant Mary Russell throughout the world solving mysteries.
Barbara L. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 988 more book reviews
In 1915 long since retired from his observations of criminal humanity, Sherlock Holmes is engaged in a reclusive study of honeybee behavior on the Sussex Downs. Never did he think to meet an intellect to match his own - until his acquaintance with Miss Mary Russell, a very modern fifteen year old whose mental acuity is equaled only by her audacity, tenacity and penchant for trousers and cloth caps, unthinkable in any young lady of Holmes's own generation.
This is a wonderfully intelligent and imaginative follow up to the Sherlock Holmes novels with a heroine you'll love from the beginning page to the end.
This is a wonderfully intelligent and imaginative follow up to the Sherlock Holmes novels with a heroine you'll love from the beginning page to the end.
Susan R. (SuRay) - , reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 20 more book reviews
This is the first of a very interesting series that brings new energy to the Sherlock Holmes we have known. The young woman with whom he is paired is amazing, and their shared adventures make great reading!
Cindy B. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
The first in the incredible Mary Russell series!! A wonderful, thrilling book. If you like Sherlock Holmes, you will love this book!!!!!!!!!!!
John P. (smoulie) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
If you enjoy the Sherlock Holmes stories you will enjoy this view of him from a female writer. Holmes has "retired" to the country and raising bees. He befriends a precocious 15 year old girl who becomes his partner in several cases. Not quite up to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's standards but an interesting look at Holmes more femine side. Enjoy.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 1223 more book reviews
It is 1915, a year into the Great War, when young 15-year-old Mary Russell literally stumbles into a retired Sherlock Holmes who is busy studying bees in Sussex Downs. Thus begins the friendship and apprenticeship of Mary to the great Sherlock Holmes. You see, Mary seems to be the equal in intellect to Holmes and thus becomes a very suitable partner for him who can actually help him in any cases he may get involved with in his retirement. This of course is in contradiction to Dr. Watson, who was Holmes chronicler but only participated in his cases to a very minor extent.
So this is the first of a series of books featuring Russell and Holmes. I actually read another one of these several years ago, The Moor, which I remember enjoying but don't remember any of the details of the story. This one actually covers about four years from 1915 thru 1919 with Mary waiting patiently to come of age and receive her inheritance. In the meantime, she becomes fast friends with Holmes and actually works with him on his cases. She is instrumental in rescuing a young girl who has been kidnapped and then comes someone who is out to kill both Holmes and Russell as well as Dr. Watson. But who is this fiendish person who starts out by bombing Holmes' beehives and then sets a bomb for Mary in her rooms at Oxford? And what is the motivation?
I rather enjoyed this Holmes pastiche and I have a few others in the series that I look forward to reading.
So this is the first of a series of books featuring Russell and Holmes. I actually read another one of these several years ago, The Moor, which I remember enjoying but don't remember any of the details of the story. This one actually covers about four years from 1915 thru 1919 with Mary waiting patiently to come of age and receive her inheritance. In the meantime, she becomes fast friends with Holmes and actually works with him on his cases. She is instrumental in rescuing a young girl who has been kidnapped and then comes someone who is out to kill both Holmes and Russell as well as Dr. Watson. But who is this fiendish person who starts out by bombing Holmes' beehives and then sets a bomb for Mary in her rooms at Oxford? And what is the motivation?
I rather enjoyed this Holmes pastiche and I have a few others in the series that I look forward to reading.
Becky C. (meadowildflower) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast and smooth reading, It had some action and some reflection. It led me to read the next book which was not quite as good. I love mysteries with some characterization so I was interested in the Mary character and I had read another series by the author so I knew I liked her writing style.
Patricia L. (LadyMicha) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Unique plot with an older Sherlock Holmes and young Mary Russell. Intricate plot with a good bit of narrative about the development of the characters. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
At first I didn't think I would really like this book, but as I read it I fell in love with it.
Kate P. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 36 more book reviews
very interesting book about a young girl who becomes Sherlock Holmes student.a near fatal bomb on her doorstep and another on Holmes's sends the two sleuths on the trail of the would be murderer.
Phillip A S. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 19 more book reviews
Holmes is back with some female help.
LOIS P. (reomom) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 247 more book reviews
I found this book to be very interesting and hard to put down.
Gloria C. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
A new take on Sherlock Holmes!
Ken S. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 48 more book reviews
Sherlock meets a young girl and teaches her his methods.
Susan L. (Suzieleigh) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on
This is the first book in the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes novels.
In the early years of WW I, 15-year-old American Mary Russell encounters Holmes, retired in Sussex Downs where Conan Doyle left him raising bees. Mary, an orphan rebelling against her guardian aunt's strictures, impresses the sleuth with her intelligence and acumen. Holmes initiates her into the mysteries of detection. The collaboration is ignited by the kidnapping in Wales of Jessica Simpson, daughter of an American senator. The sleuthing duo find signs of the hand of a master criminal, and after Russell rescues the child, attempts are made on their lives (and on Watson's), with evidence piling up that the master criminal is out to get Holmes and all he holds dear.
In the early years of WW I, 15-year-old American Mary Russell encounters Holmes, retired in Sussex Downs where Conan Doyle left him raising bees. Mary, an orphan rebelling against her guardian aunt's strictures, impresses the sleuth with her intelligence and acumen. Holmes initiates her into the mysteries of detection. The collaboration is ignited by the kidnapping in Wales of Jessica Simpson, daughter of an American senator. The sleuthing duo find signs of the hand of a master criminal, and after Russell rescues the child, attempts are made on their lives (and on Watson's), with evidence piling up that the master criminal is out to get Holmes and all he holds dear.
Cyndi J. (cyndij) reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 1032 more book reviews
I think this is one of those "love it or hate it" series. I love it, but there are some things about it I have to push to the back of my mind...like the 40-year difference in age between Mary and Sherlock. But in this book, the romantic angle doesn't come into play so much. Fifteen-year-old intellectual genius Mary Russell, wandering on the moor, stumbles over Sherlock Holmes who is now retired and keeping bees in Sussex. Holmes of course instantly deduces her potential and trains her as his detecting partner. Their first real case together is the kidnapping of a US senator's daughter...but there's mor(iarty) than meets the eye.
Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
First Line: I was fifteen when I first met Sherlock Holmes, fifteen years old with my nose stuck in a book as I walked the Sussex Downs, and nearly stepped on him.
In 1915, a gawky young girl with her nose in a book stumbled over Sherlock Holmes on the Sussex Downs, and life was forever changed for the both of them. Having retired a few years previously Holmes was not finding the study of honey bees as rewarding as he'd hoped, and bookish, egotistical Mary Russell was like a fierce wind blowing straight out of the Arctic. He sees that she could be a match for him, and she becomes Holmes' protégée, with the approval of both Dr. Watson and Mrs. Hudson.
The Beekeeper's Apprentice tells of the very first cases Holmes and Russell worked together-- scary ones indeed of the kidnap of a little girl, and of a bomber who will stop at nothing to end this new partnership. It works as a mystery to puzzle over, and it works as a character study of two fascinating people. The Beekeeper's Apprentice makes you laugh, it makes you narrow your eyes in suspicion and in thought, and it tugs at your heart strings. Mind and heart, it satisfies on a lot of levels.
This book is one of those that have been recommended to me countless times, and each time, I smiled politely and said that I'd make a note of it. (Well, I did-- a mental note!) I've even had the book sitting on my shelves staring at me balefully each time I walked by. For some reason, I pulled it off the shelf this summer, began to read, and by page 8, I was completely enthralled and utterly unable to stop turning the pages. (Page 8 was the first belly laugh the book got from me.)
I haven't read much of the Sherlock Holmes canon. From what I did read, I enjoyed the intricate plots, but I felt Watson was a twit, Holmes an insufferable know-it-all, and Mrs. Hudson quite possibly the best of the lot, but since she was a woman, she was scarcely mentioned. What Laurie R. King does with these legendary characters is spectacular. She stays true to the time period and true to Conan Doyle, but blows all the dust off these Victorian tales. What would the great Holmes do if confronted with himself in female form? All you have to do to find out is to read this book.
First published in 1994, The Beekeeper's Apprentice has already been reviewed hundreds (if not thousands) of times while I was stubbornly staying beneath my rock. Now that I'm out in the full light of day, I can tell you that there are a couple of words you'll very seldom ever see me use in a book review. "Enchanted" is one of them-- and I was enchanted by this book. I had to say so on Facebook and on Twitter, and I'm happy to say that I encouraged another book blogger to get her hands on a copy of her very own. We both chirped away quite happily with @mary_russell and discovered that there are two short stories available for eReaders-- "Beekeeping for Beginners" telling of the meeting of Holmes and Russell from Holmes' point of view, and "Mrs. Hudson's Case" in which the housekeeper gets to do a bit of sleuthing on her own-- that are brilliant little glimpses into this marvelous series. Oh yes, I've been busily gathering up all the rest of the books in King's series, and I have yet to make up my mind whether to have a feast, or to savor each book slowly at long intervals.
What do you think?
In 1915, a gawky young girl with her nose in a book stumbled over Sherlock Holmes on the Sussex Downs, and life was forever changed for the both of them. Having retired a few years previously Holmes was not finding the study of honey bees as rewarding as he'd hoped, and bookish, egotistical Mary Russell was like a fierce wind blowing straight out of the Arctic. He sees that she could be a match for him, and she becomes Holmes' protégée, with the approval of both Dr. Watson and Mrs. Hudson.
The Beekeeper's Apprentice tells of the very first cases Holmes and Russell worked together-- scary ones indeed of the kidnap of a little girl, and of a bomber who will stop at nothing to end this new partnership. It works as a mystery to puzzle over, and it works as a character study of two fascinating people. The Beekeeper's Apprentice makes you laugh, it makes you narrow your eyes in suspicion and in thought, and it tugs at your heart strings. Mind and heart, it satisfies on a lot of levels.
This book is one of those that have been recommended to me countless times, and each time, I smiled politely and said that I'd make a note of it. (Well, I did-- a mental note!) I've even had the book sitting on my shelves staring at me balefully each time I walked by. For some reason, I pulled it off the shelf this summer, began to read, and by page 8, I was completely enthralled and utterly unable to stop turning the pages. (Page 8 was the first belly laugh the book got from me.)
I haven't read much of the Sherlock Holmes canon. From what I did read, I enjoyed the intricate plots, but I felt Watson was a twit, Holmes an insufferable know-it-all, and Mrs. Hudson quite possibly the best of the lot, but since she was a woman, she was scarcely mentioned. What Laurie R. King does with these legendary characters is spectacular. She stays true to the time period and true to Conan Doyle, but blows all the dust off these Victorian tales. What would the great Holmes do if confronted with himself in female form? All you have to do to find out is to read this book.
First published in 1994, The Beekeeper's Apprentice has already been reviewed hundreds (if not thousands) of times while I was stubbornly staying beneath my rock. Now that I'm out in the full light of day, I can tell you that there are a couple of words you'll very seldom ever see me use in a book review. "Enchanted" is one of them-- and I was enchanted by this book. I had to say so on Facebook and on Twitter, and I'm happy to say that I encouraged another book blogger to get her hands on a copy of her very own. We both chirped away quite happily with @mary_russell and discovered that there are two short stories available for eReaders-- "Beekeeping for Beginners" telling of the meeting of Holmes and Russell from Holmes' point of view, and "Mrs. Hudson's Case" in which the housekeeper gets to do a bit of sleuthing on her own-- that are brilliant little glimpses into this marvelous series. Oh yes, I've been busily gathering up all the rest of the books in King's series, and I have yet to make up my mind whether to have a feast, or to savor each book slowly at long intervals.
What do you think?
In 1915, long since retired from his crime-fighting days, Sherlock Holmes is engaged in a reclusive study of honeybees on the Sussex Downs. Never did the Victorian detective think to meet an intellect matching his ownuntil his acquaintance with Miss Mary Russell, a young twentieth-century lady whose mental acuity is equaled only by her penchantfor deduction, disguises, and danger. Under Holmess reluctant tutelage, Russell embarks on a case involving a landowners mysterious fever and the kidnapping of an American senators daughter in the wilds of Wales.
Philip S. reviewed The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
"In 1915, long since retired from his ovservation of criminal humanity, Sherlockj Holmes is engaged in a reclusive study of honeybee behavior on the Sussex Downs..."
