The Poisoned Penman Paperback – Illustrated, May 15, 2014

A friend of mine recommended that I read “The Poisoned Penman,” and I decided to read it as I love Sherlock Holmes pastiches. I was only half-way through that book when I decided to buy “The Amateur Executioner.” I know I probably should have read them in order, but when the authors alluded a few times in Penman to the Hangman Murders, then I decided to read the first book as well.I enjoyed Penman and the adventure Enoch Hale took me on. The story is very creative, using a newspaper reporter (excuse me, Journalist) to go about uncovering clues. I have sent an email to my friends, recommending The Enoch Hale series of books, and I hope to read more Enoch Hale stories in the future.As stated previously, I love Sherlock Holmes pastiches as it keeps the Master alive. And, let’s face it, Doyle isn’t writing any more of them.

Although this was a decent outing, I felt that too often the various locations and landmarks took center stage. In my mind, the story must always be the thing with all other elements being supportive. That didn't happen here. Often the plot seemed of secondary importance. Those who enjoy reading about landmarks that are still in existence along with the details pertaining to them may enjoy this. As noted, to my mind, the plot is everything. There were some nice twists and turns but my final reaction was close to 'Ho, Hum.'One thing I would request of Holmes/Watson pastiche writers is they include some footnotes giving us American types--who speak American not English--some documentation pertaining to the values of various money discussed in the stories. What was a Guinea worth back then? A Sovereign? That would be of great benefit to us semi-literate Yanks.

I just can't understand how two authors with success in individual series can combine and create a third successful series. Andriacco's Sebastian McCabe - Jeff Cody series is a delightful humorous group of tales in contemporary U.S. with wonderful characters who just love Sherlock. McMullen has four standard Sherlockian pastiches that read true to the Canon. This is the second Enoch Hale mystery taking place in the early 1920's with an American journalist in London being involved in a good mystery which includes real persons from the era in believable roles. Only near the end does the "retired" Holmes get involved in solving the case.

I found this outing to be yet more of the authors' fondness for name dropping famous names into the plot rather than actually developing the plot itself. "The Poisoned Penman" is the best of the (so far) three Enoch Hale novels, but still not outstanding. Instead of name dropping and sending the protagonist all over the countryside, bring in Holmes earlier in the plot and have them work together. Hale as the 'new Watson' would be intriguing, whereas this story line is not.

The Enoch Hale series are a wonderful read. You will be a fan after the first page.

Dan Andriacco lives up to his reputation as a solid storyteller. His nods to Sherlock Holmes with subtle asides is finessed as always. Sometimes he does just hit you over the head with it but it just makes the story better.

Dan Andriacco and Kieran McMullen’s Enoch Hale mystery The Poisoned Penman is set in one of my favorite time periods and favorite locales—1920s London. It is the second book in this series, and I’ve read it twice—cover-to-cover. The story begins when Langdale Pike, a notorious tabloid gossip-journalist who lived above famous Fitzroy Tavern (still in operation today), ends up poisoned while enjoying a cup of tea at his club. Hale happens to be there when Pike utters his last words and tips over. Upon discovering that Pike was murdered, Hale sets out to find who’s responsible. His investigation takes him to the Central Hall of Westminster, where he runs into Winston Churchill. The two acquaintances enjoy a private joke. Hale then visits his friend T.S. “Tom” Elliot who drops a name and supplies Hale with a promising lead. The infamous Horatio Bottomley, a flim-flam guy who served time in prison, and in Parliament, then becomes one of Enoch’s suspects. And Kate Meyrick, the proprietor of The 43, makes a brief appearance. (This actual nightclub was located in the red-light district and known as the meeting place for late-night Londoners.) Hale’s investigation takes him all over London, and especially to establishments that allow a thirsty sleuth to wet his whistle. He visits Arthur’s Gentlemen’s Club, Ye Olde Cock Tavern, the Museum Tavern, and Murray’s Night Club. (Except for Arthur’s, all the pubs and clubs are also still operating today.) Speaking of operating, Hale prefers to work alone. But since die-hard mystery readers expect every sleuth worth his/her detective-weight to have a Dr. Watson, Captain Hastings, or Archie Goodwin in tow, the authors provide Hale with a partner—much to his chagrin. His helper is a spunky, overly opinionated, loud and stubborn copywriter for the S. H. Benson Advertising Agency. She drinks, smokes, and rides a motorcycle. Her name is Dorothy L. Sayers, and at times is too much for Hale to handle. In further mention of actual people and historically accurate places, therein, I save the best for last. Three of my favorite characters play roles in The Poison Penman. Investigating in an official capacity is Chief Inspector Wiggins, all grown up and making a name for himself at Scotland Yard, thanks to his Baker Street mentor. Mycroft Holmes offers words of wisdom and warning; and Sherlock Holmes himself provides the confused Hale with seven (count ‘em!) possible solutions. While Hale is poking holes in Holmes’ theories, the reporter comes dangerously close to losing his head. Fortunately, Holmes acts quickly and saves Hale’s skin. Andriacco and McMullen provide clever methods of introducing each chapter by displaying a vintage photo accompanied by a classic quote. My favorite was Chapter Eleven, “The Paradoxical Mr. Chesterton” (Yes, G.K.C. was indeed one of Hale’s murder suspects). Under the photo of G.K.C. and his wife, Frances, was his witticism, “The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people.” I’ve read a few of the Father Brown mysteries, but weaving Chesterton into the story gave me a deeper understanding into the personality and habits of the great writer. In fact, because of Dan and Kieran’s brilliant portrayal of G.K.C., I’ve added the Father Brown series to my mystery reading list. Oh, and the story also has an element of romance. On this, I’ll remain silent. You’ll just have to read the book.The original review was published in King's River Life online magazine on June 21.