1st book of the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes series. Holmes is a retired beekeeper and meets Mary who is 15 years old. She becomes his female apprentice and partner. Her intelligence is a good match for his. Their 1st case is the kidnapping of a US Senator‘s daughter. Laurie King‘s writing is engrossing. Humorous in parts with lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to book 2 and highly recommend this series to Sherlock Holmes‘ fans!