Vanishing Girl

by Shane Peacock (Canadian author)
Tundra Books, 2009

The boy Sherlock Holmes cracks his third case, following Eye of the Crow and Death in the Air.

Still smarting from the lack of recognition accorded to him after solving his first two cases, Sherlock is determined to outsmart Inspector Lestrade of Scotland Yard and get the attention and appreciation he is due. When wealthy Lord Rathbone's daughter is abducted in broad daylight, Sherlock is soon on the trail of her kidnappers. But his initial deductions appear to have been wrong when, four months after Victoria's apprehension, she is returned to her family. It isn't long, though, before Lord Rathbone's home is picked clean by thieves. Soon Victoria disappears again. Who is holding her, and why? Can Sherlock piece the clues together in time to save her life, and that of a little workhouse blind boy? Who can he trust, and will he get his just reward or be thwarted once again?

Peacock writes this series very much in the style of 19th century author and Sherlock Holmes creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. He has obviously studied the character minutely, and has a sound grasp of 19th century England and the London of Holmes' youth. This is a riveting mystery that ends on a note that will surprise, but not likely disappoint fans of this intrepid detective.