Sherlock Holmes: The Army of Dr. Moreau

Adams' inventive mash-up of H.G. Wells and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (his second pastiche, following 2011's Sherlock Holmes: The Breath of God) offers more action than deduction. Holmes' brother, Mycroft, takes the unusual step of travelling to Baker Street to enlist his sibling's help. Under Mycroft's guidance, the British government's efforts to safeguard the nation resulted in investigations into how humans might be modified to fight in harsh environments and climates. That initiative led Mycroft to the experiments of Dr. Charles Moreau, who fled England after details of his gruesome vivisections were exposed. Subsequently, reports emerged that the scientist had started anew on a remote island, where he created "absurd combinations of man and beast." Mycroft fears that the resultant creatures may be connected with a series of savage deaths near Rotherhithe, which appear to be the work of mysterious animals. Despite an over-the-top ending, Adams' obvious affection for the characters will leaving more traditional Sherlockians hoping he'll uses his gifts at recreating them in a less-fantastic narrative. Even so, Adam's decision to let the long-suffering and snarky Watson vent some frustration will delight fans of the series. (Aug.)