A Study in Silks

Evelina Cooper has a taste for science, a gift of magic, a famous uncle (Sherlock Holmes himself), and an uncertain future. Her parents’ scandalous elopement is the talk of the town, and she’s fending off the attentions of both her friend Imogen’s ne’er-do-well brother, Tobias, and her dashing childhood friend, circus performer Nick. Then her stay with Imogen’s family for her debut season is disrupted by the murder of a servant. As they investigate the murder, Evelina and Imogen are drawn into a web of plots surrounding the steam barons who dominate London, and even Evelina’s uncle may not be safe. Holloway stuffs her adventure with an abundance of characters and ideas and fills her heroine with talents and graces, all within a fun, brisk narrative. The importance of Evelina’s friendship with Imogen is especially welcome, though Holmes’s role in solving the central mystery gilds the lily a little too much. Agent: Sally Harding, Cooke Agency. (Sept.)