The Darlington Substitution by Melvyn Small
THE DARLINGTON SUBSTITUTION
Melvyn Small
With Watson's literary career going from strength to strength, he secures a slot on local radio to publicise his new book. Uncertain as how to well it went, he is still a little surprised when the recording isn't broadcast. Although disappointed, he disregards this snub to his confidence as a peculiar but unimportant bend in the path of his literary career.
Sherlock Holmes is not so dismissive. He seizes upon the event, certain that there is more to this rebuff than meets the eye. He grills Watson to the content of his interview, convinced a key fact will reveal all. There is nothing. Watson is sure off that. An investigation ensues that takes Holmes to the end of the known world, a place just near Thirsk.
This is actually a novella and, in keeping with the original Sherlock Holmes stories, can be read quickly and probably in around a hour or so. It's a treat to enjoy a shorter novel in between longer reads and there is something very satisfying about completing an entire story in one sitting. I would recommend this novella as the perfect accompaniment to a lazy breakfast or to save for an afternoon read.
We are all familiar with Sherlock Holmes and we are all familiar with some of the re-imaginings or interpretations of the charismatic detective. Lots of us have favourite actors or favourite versions of the stories and I'm sure it won't be long before Small's Watson and Holmes are added to this list.
Fluent, engaging, and with a well judged balance of wit and humour set against the investigation of a mystery , Small has incorporated the best aspects of Sherlock Holmes while adding his own imaginative twist. The dynamics between the two main protagonists is well captured and feels authentic. Watson's role has been cleverly updated and the author has a lot of fun with all the characters, the setting and the action which remains in keeping with the original yet brings something new and fresh.
This is a punchy tale which is neatly executed. There's enough time to form a relationship with Watson and Holmes and the plot delivers all the twists, turns, mysteries and clever revelations which we have come to expect from any Sherlock story.
Intrigued? You should be! But look - how about you click on the link below and have a read for yourself! Go on, stick the kettle on and enjoy a bit of this fab novella!
MELVYN SMALL
Melvyn Small is an author and the founder of Indipenned, a website that champions the work of independent literature. Thus far he has written two books, Holmes Volume 1 and the imaginatively titled follow up Holmes Volume 2 (Subsequently republished by Fahrenheit Press as the Victor Locke Chronicles)
Mel's perhaps unique spin on Sherlock Holmes, which places the character in a different time, location and section of society, has found fans around the world and is fast becoming a cult classic. His writing style is pacey and littered with gin-dry humour. It has been described as "hilarious, clever and hugely enjoyable." The Darlington Substitution novella is his longest story so far and perhaps his best work to date.
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