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The Sign of Four

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( 173,961 ratings, 9,170 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle, detective Sherlock Holmes and his partner Dr. Watson are drawn into a complex mystery involving a woman named Mary Morstan, a missing father, and a cryptic message from a mysterious source. Their investigation leads them through a trail of hidden treasure and secrets from the past. This classic tale weaves intrigue, adventure, and tension in the heart of Victorian London.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're a fan of classic detective stories and enjoy following a thrilling mystery with unexpected twists. With its intelligent detective, intriguing plots, and vivid Victorian London setting, this story will keep you guessing until the end. The interplay between logic, friendship, and adventure offers an engaging reading experience.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

At first the interruption to the boredom of Sherlock Holmes seems to have little to do with crime. A governess, whose father vanished ten years ago and who has been receiving money each year, now needs an escort to meet her unknown benefactor. But before the night is over, murder has occurred.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

As a dense yellow fog swirls through the streets of London, a deep melancholy has descended on Sherlock Holmes, who sits in a cocaine-induced haze at 221B Baker Street. His mood is only lifted by a visit from a beautiful but distressed young woman, Mary Morstan, whose father vanished ten years before.

Four years later, she began to receive an exquisite gift every year: a large, lustrous pearl. Now she has had an intriguing invitation to meet her unknown benefactor and urges Holmes and Watson to accompany her.

In the ensuing investigation—which involves a wronged woman, a stolen hoard of Indian treasure, a wooden-legged ruffian, a helpful dog, and a love affair—even the jaded Holmes is moved to exclaim, "Isn't it gorgeous!"

The Sign of Four is a captivating tale of mystery and adventure showcasing Arthur Conan Doyle's masterful storytelling and Holmes's unparalleled deductive prowess.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle is praised for its intricate plot and the way it deepens the character of Sherlock Holmes. Reviewers often admire the book's ability to weave a story full of mystery and suspense, highlighting Holmes' deductive skills. The introduction of Dr. Watson's romantic subplot is also noted as adding an additional layer of interest to the narrative.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140439076

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 05 July 2001

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Peter Ackroyd
  • Edited by Ed Glinert

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 10.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 124g

Pages: 160

About the Author

Arthur Conan Doyle (Author) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was born in Edinburgh where he qualified as a doctor, but it was his writing which brought him fame, with the creation of Sherlock Holmes, the first scientific detective. He was also a convert to spiritualism and a social reformer who used his investigative skills to prove the innocence of individuals. Ed Glinert (External Editor) Ed Glinert was born in Dalston, east London. he is the author of The Literary Guide to London and The London Compendium and leads a variety of walking tours around London. His fascination with people and place, the bizarre and the arcane, coupled with his forensic gift for digging out obscure stoires, is perfectly suited to this uniquely intriguing place. Peter Ackroyd (Introducer) Peter Ackroyd is a well known writer and historian. He has been the literary editor of The Spectator and chief book reviewer for the The Times, as well as writing several highly acclaimed books including a biography of Dickens and London- The Biography. He resides in London and his most recent highly acclaimed work is Thames- Sacred River.

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