“Sherlock Holmes and the Nine-Dragon Sigil by Tim Symonds. MX Publishing. 2016. 364pp. (pbk) The frontispiece tells us that a sigil is an inscribed or painted symbol or occult sign considered to have magical power. It’s an intriguing opener for an entirely captivating story transporting us back, effortlessly, to the Forbidden City of China in 1906. There is great attention to detail, demonstrating the author’s clear love of both the Canon and world history. The tale revolves around an assassination plot and the welldrawn characters of Emperor Ch’ing and his aunt, the Empress Dowager Cixi. The pace is fast throughout, but Symonds is skilful at painting in lots of period features and fascinating facts which add great texture and encourage us to pause and reflect ont he strange world that our heroes are thrust into. There is also a helpful glossary at the end. This is clever pastiche with a strong narrative and well-judged humour. A thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish.”

Sherlock Holmes and The Nine-Dragon Sigil is available from all good bookstores including The Strand Magazine, Amazon USA, Amazon UK, Waterstones UK and for free shipping worldwide Book Depository. In ebook format it is in Kindle, Kobo, Nook and Apple iBooks (iPad/iPhone).