View source for A Case of Witchcraft by Joe Revill

{{infobox1
|title=A Case of Witchcraft
|sort= Case of Witchcraft
|author=Joe Revill
|reviewer=Susmita Chatto
|genre=General Fiction
|summary=Holmes is astonished to receive a request to investigate a case of possible witchcraft. This results in a journey which takes him into realms that even the Great Detective himself has never even considered, much less entered, during his career.
|rating=4
|buy=Yes
|borrow=Yes
|pages=300
|publisher=MX Publishing
|date=September 2011
|isbn=978-1780920092
|website=http://www.mxpublishing.co.uk/engine/shop/brand/Joe+Revill
|cover=1780920091
|aznuk=1780920091
|aznus=1780920091
}}

Revill's work brings us the Holmes we love very quickly. Instantly recognisable with his usual ascerbic wit and attractive peculiarities, this novel draws in the reader rapidly, and sets up the storyline clearly.
 
As Holmes embarks on a journey towards the Northern Isles, we are treated to a comprehensive background of the ways of witches all over the world; all points are pertinent and the history is fascinating as well as necessary. The introduction to the ways of witchcraft demonstrates the worldwide links that will become highly significant later. Revill weaves in the relevant history and all its complications with ease, and the novel flows in spite of having to accommodate this.
 
We are also introduced to Aleister Crowley and the two quickly make an engaging pair, ensuring that the reader at least doesn't miss Watson too much. Crowley is painted with flair and character and Holmes' observations on him are, in themselves, a window into Holmes' personality. This theme continues as several incidents spark a thoughtfulness in Holmes which enable the reader to become more intimate with him.
 
Revill provides a great deal of attention to detail, from scene setting to the inclusion of items with which the reader has familiarity in ordinary daily life, Heinz baked beans being one example! His descriptive talents are clear as he evokes a Victorian world, and creates scenes of sorcery with vivid imagination. The test of Holmes' sense of logic, having been plunged into a world where it seems the impossible could be true, makes for several interesting dilemmas and questions.
 
Overall, this is a rich and satisfying tale that provides us with a new insight into the most private recesses of the mind of Sherlock Holmes.

If this book appeals then you might like to try [[Shadowfall: A Novel of Sherlock Holmes by Tracy Revels]].

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