🕵️♀️ Book Review: Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes Series (Mystery Box Set 1–3) by Liz Hedgecock
A clever, feminist reimagining of the Sherlock Holmes universe, where Mrs Hudson isn’t just a landlady—she’s the brains behind the mystery.
This box set collects the first three novels in Liz Hedgecock’s Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes series, offering a fresh and engaging twist on classic detective fiction. With an impressive Goodreads rating of 4.54/5, the series is praised for its witty writing, strong female lead, and richly atmospheric Victorian setting.
📖 Included Titles
1. A House of Mirrors
When Nell Villiers’ husband disappears under suspicious circumstances, she assumes the identity of Mrs Hudson and takes up residence at 221B Baker Street. Two years later, she rents a room to a young man named Sherlock Holmes—and begins investigating her husband’s disappearance behind the scenes. This origin story sets the tone for a partnership built on secrets, intellect, and quiet power.
2. In Sherlock’s Shadow
Nell, now working as a department store detective, finds herself drawn into a case involving military secrets and a suspicious prisoner. As tensions rise and family loyalties are tested, she’s offered a chance to become a spy—forcing her to choose between duty and personal identity.
3. A Spider’s Web
London is under siege from a mysterious bomber, and Sherlock is pulled into the chase. But when ghosts from Nell’s past resurface, she must confront old enemies and protect the life she’s built. The stakes are higher, the danger more personal, and the web more tangled than ever.
💬 Why Readers Love It
- Mrs Hudson Reimagined: Nell is smart, resourceful, and quietly formidable—a refreshing lead who challenges Holmes’ spotlight.
- Historical Detail: The gaslit streets of Victorian London are vividly rendered, adding depth and atmosphere.
- Twist on Canon: Hedgecock plays with familiar Holmes tropes while carving out a unique narrative voice.
- Character-Driven Mystery: The emotional stakes are just as compelling as the investigative ones.
📣 Reader Praise
“A brilliant reworking of the Holmes mythos—Mrs Hudson finally gets her due.”
“Smart, stylish, and full of surprises. Nell is the heroine we didn’t know we needed.”
🏁 Final Verdict
Mrs Hudson & Sherlock Holmes (Box Set 1–3) is a delightful and thought-provoking series for fans of historical mysteries, Sherlock Holmes adaptations, and strong female protagonists. If you’ve ever wondered what might happen if the woman behind the curtain stepped into the spotlight, this is your answer.