Book Reviews - Sherlock Holmes and The Mystery of Einstein's Daughter
Posted by Steve Emecz on
Wendy Heyman-Marsaw
"When I was given Sherlock Holmes and The Mystery of Einstein’s Daughter to review I was surprised to learn that its “plot is based on an original online research paper published by Tim Symonds, titled ‘A Vital Detail In The Story Of Albert Einstein’.” I was instantly intrigued to learn what this detail might have been. Even Tim Symond’s “End Notes” provide insights into his rare breadth of research and context for a myriad of elements noted in this excellent pastiche.
The novel begins in 1905 with Dr. Watson accepting a lucrative commission from the Strand Magazine. They want to increase sales with a front cover featuring a photograph of Sherlock Holmes at Reichenbach Falls. Dr. Watson arranges for an Honorary Doctorate at Berne University for Holmes to entice him to return to Switzerland. Once Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes arrive in Berne, Symonds takes the reader on an eye-opening adventure that is rooted in historical fact.
Holmes and Watson are asked by the heads of the Physics Department of the Polytechnikum to look into the background of a recent graduate, Albert Einstein, who is seeking the post of a lecturer at the school. The investigation reveals that Einstein has both a studious and personal relationship with a brilliant female mathematician, Mileva Maric’. They have a baby girl, Lieserl, together but suddenly there is no trace of her.
The result is a harrowing search that takes Holmes and Watson to Serbia. Here folk tales abound with hauntings, symbolic marionette shows and reclusive priests provide clues regarding the child’s possible whereabouts. Holmes and Watson finally discover the mystical truth about the child’s disappearance. They also learn of the fundamental and significant role Mileva Maric’ played in the development of Einstein’s elegant theory of relativity which ultimately propels him to the preeminent role in physics."
Wendy Heyman-Marshaw (Author, Mrs Hudson's Kitchen)
Shamira
"Absolutely charming old world style. This book reaches back to the classical Sherlock Holmes story telling but without the unconnectable instances and characters that sometimes enter the pages of the old ones. I feel that this author has successfully taken the much loved story of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson and made it enjoyable for new generations. Being based on fact, this mystery will be a delight for historical fiction fans as well as those that enjoy historical and mystery genres. I don’t normally find this genre to my taste, but enjoyed this story a lot and appreciated the author’s respect for his readers. Sherlock Holmes is a much loved character and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is believed to be in a list of literary greats; I feel that Mr. Symonds has done a marvellous job of staying true to Sir Doyle and the characters that so many people enjoy.”
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Also available from:
Amazon USA The Strand Magazine (special offer)