The Lantern's Dance: A novel of suspense featuring (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, Book 18) By Laurie R. King

In this national bestseller, Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes find themselves embroiled in a perplexing case during their retreat in the French countryside. Their plans for relaxation with Holmes' son, Damian Adler, are disrupted when they discover the Adlers have fled due to a mysterious threat.

As Holmes rushes after Damian, Russell, hindered by an injury, stays behind to investigate. In Damian's studio, she uncovers crates filled with memorabilia belonging to Holmes' granduncle, artist Horace Vernet. Among the items is an antique zoetrope and a cryptic journal written in code.

Intrigued, Russell endeavors to decode the journal, revealing cryptic entries centered around images. The discovery of a child abducted from her mother's sight raises alarming questions about the journal's origins and its connection to Damian, the Vernets, and the looming threat.

As Russell delves deeper, she realizes the secrets of the past are intertwined with the present. Each decoded entry raises more questions, prompting Russell to confront the possibility of hidden aspects of Holmes' history that even the great detective may not perceive.

Filled with intrigue and suspense, the novel expertly weaves together past and present, offering fascinating insights into Holmes' family history while unraveling a captivating mystery. As Russell races to uncover the truth, the stakes heighten, leading to a thrilling conclusion that challenges perceptions and exposes hidden truths. 📚❤️