Absolutely recommended read! From start to finish it was gripping. The plot twist isn't what you might think. The ending was abrupt, but a good set up for the sequel. Cleverly done and it was quite a treat to meet the various famous literary and historical figures. (view spoiler)[ I was just disappointed Holmes was never more than a constant allusion. I was hoping he'd pull a Reichenbach Fall and pop up to save the day, but alas. (hide spoiler)]