Customer Reviews

The Beekeeper's Apprentice

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Someone at the library recommended this to me as I was perusing the shelves. After reading the summary, I contemptuously put the audio version back on the shelf; after all, if an author has to use someone else's characters (Sherlock Holmes and company) to come up with a story, she can't possibly be good. But, when continued scrutiny of my choices offered nothing better, I checked out the Beekeeper's Apprentice anyway. I am glad I did! Despite using Sherlock Holmes, the story is completely original. The main character is Mary Russel, whose chance encounter with an older, retired Sherlock Holmes results in his taking her on as his apprentice. The characters are well developed, the plot interesting, and the overall "read" is very enjoyable. Plus, Jenny Sterlin (the narrator of the audio versions) is quite gifted at bringing the story to life.

Laurie King brings her characters to life with well written descriptions and realistic dialogs. The master, Sherlock Holmes, is instantly challenged by a fifteen year old with an American attitude and a logical mind. And he enjoys it even though she is female. We see the relationship and adventures through the apprentice's eyes which allows us to view an older, already established Holmes without getting bogged down in the details of his back story. The apprentice tells a good tale.