The Return Of Sherlock Holmes (1905) By Arthur Conan Doyle

"You know, Watson, I don't mind confessing to you that I have always had an idea that I would have made a highly efficient criminal."

This 1905 collection of mysteries became the sixth Sherlock Holmes book, from the iconic British author; Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, that I had read this year. Thus far, I had enjoyed them all, for the most part. I did find that the other books that served as collections of shorter mysteries did not grab me quite as much as those that were larger one-hit mysteries, but I had still enjoyed them, so I was not expecting anything different here.

"It is a pity he did not write in pencil. As you have no doubt frequently observed, the impression usually goes through - a fact which has dissolved many a happy marriage."

Thankfully, this was another rather enjoyable selection of stories, which highlighted the quick-witted, sardonic, and exceedingly intelligent detective and his often hapless, occasionally useful, companion. I enjoyed that this particular collection slipped into some dark and rather sad themes - in my experiences, those moments have been the most compelling aspects of any Holmes and Watson mystery.

"Work is the best antidote to sorrow, my dear Watson."

I also enjoyed the variety in case type, in this collection. I appreciated that not every case was a 'whodunnit' - if each case was a murder, I feel they would blur together somewhat. However, my favourite case from this particular book had nothing to do with death, and yet Arthur Conan Doyle still built up a good degree of suspense and mystery, which was slowly unveiled in the classic detective style. Yes, one can certainly say that the mysteries, almost by definition, begin to feel a little repetitive, because they follow a very definite structure, of sorts, but they entertain even so, in my view.

"It was at such moments that for an instant he ceased to be a reasoning machine and betrayed his human love for admiration and applause."

Overall, I thought this was another intriguing set of short stories, which only furthered the dramatic and exciting legacy of the world's most famous detective, and his good friend and companion. I do wonder how much more variety can be achieved with this formular, but I should still like to read the rest of the Holmes and Watson mysteries to find out, particularly if they can capture the magic of some of the other mysteries I've read thus far.

"I believe you are a wizard, Mr. Holmes."