Book Review – The Case of the Cryptic Crinoline by Nancy Springer.

Series: Enola Holmes, #5

The Case of the Cryptic Crinoline is my first Enola Holmes, but the fifth in the series. Which wasn’t an issue as there weren’t any references that made you wish you’d started with book one.

Other than her occasional run-ins with her brother Sherlock, and missing her mother, Enola has little friends and family. While kind, homely Mrs Tupper is nearly deaf and cannot cook to save her life, the landlady is her nearest and dearest – and kidnapped. And somehow Florence Nightingale is involved. Enola is on the case. Goodreads

Listening to the audiobook I was uncertain if it was the tone of the narrator or the actual words which made Enola (the teen detective) sound condescending and imperious rather than experienced and thoughtful.

Can’t quite put my finger on why I was unmoved by this story because on paper it’s exactly the type of book I’d enjoy: strong teen protagonist making their way in the world. Perhaps it was the interjection of her brother Sherlock Holmes at opportune moments and her reliance on his name and presence to aid her in solving the mystery of her landlady’s kidnapping. Regardless, not for me.

2 Stars – It Was Okay