Mrs. Sherlock Holmes by

Mrs. Sherlock Holmes is the gripping narrative biography of Grace Humiston, a trailblazing lawyer and detective who defied the norms of her time. Nominated for the Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime, this book reveals how Humiston turned her back on high society to become one of the nation's most formidable crime-fighters, all while women were still denied the right to vote. The book delves into Humiston's most famous case, the disappearance of 18-year-old Ruth Cruger. Alongside her partner, detective Julius J. Kron, Humiston navigated a treacherous web of secret relationships, corrupt cops, and underground tunnels to uncover the truth. Her relentless pursuit of justice and the media's fascination with her work earned her the nickname 'Mrs. Sherlock Holmes.' This poignant story offers a unique perspective on crime, missing persons, and the power of the press.

Reviews

The StoryGraph · tapestryofwords · 2025-10-13

satisfying 4.20

The mystery of Ruth Cruger's disappearance is the most gripping part of the story. Grace Humiston's journey is also compelling, making the book a satisfying read.

The reviewer from The StoryGraph finds the mystery of Ruth Cruger's disappearance to be the most gripping part of 'Mrs. Sherlock Holmes'. They appreciate Grace Humiston's journey and her significant contributions to solving the case. The book is described as a satisfying read, with a good balance of historical detail and engaging narrative. The reviewer highlights the emotional depth and the human elements of the story, making it a compelling account of a pioneering woman in law enforcement. They also note that the book provides a fascinating glimpse into the social and legal challenges of the early 20th century.

Quick quotes

Overall, I found this quite a compelling read.

The mystery of Ruth Cruger's disappearance is the most gripping part of the story.

What happens to Grace Humiston is equally compelling, making the book a satisfying read.

Life of a Female Bibliophile · 2025-10-13

detailed 3.50

The book is lengthy and detailed, packed with facts, but the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming. The depth of research is impressive, though it sometimes feels like an information dump.

This review highlights that 'Mrs. Sherlock Holmes' is a very detailed and fact-filled book, which can be both its strength and weakness. The reviewer appreciates the extensive research but notes that the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming at times. They suggest that while the book is engaging, it might benefit from a more streamlined approach to make the story more accessible. The reviewer acknowledges the historical significance of Grace Humiston's work and finds her story compelling, but the delivery could be improved for a smoother reading experience.

Quick quotes

This is definitely a lengthy book and by all means it is also very detailed and laced with facts.

There is a lot of information dumped on the reader and at times it can be a bit overwhelming.

The depth of research is impressive, though it sometimes feels like an information dump.

MojoFiction · 2019-03-25

compelling 4.00

Grace Humiston's life and the 1917 murder case that brought her national fame are chronicled in this compelling read. The mystery of Ruth Cruger's disappearance is particularly gripping.

The reviewer finds 'Mrs. Sherlock Holmes' to be a compelling read, particularly focusing on the mystery surrounding Ruth Cruger's disappearance. They highlight Grace Humiston's significant role in solving the case and her impact on the legal and detective fields. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and the way it brings to life the historical context and the challenges faced by women in law enforcement during that era. The reviewer appreciates the detailed account of Humiston's life and her pioneering efforts, making it a captivating story for those interested in true crime and historical biographies.

Quick quotes

Mrs. Sherlock Holmes chronicles the life of Grace Humiston, a lawyer and detective in New York City, and the 1917 murder case that brought her national fame.

The mystery of Ruth Cruger's disappearance is the most gripping part of the story.

It's a compelling read that brings to life the historical context and the challenges faced by women in law enforcement during that era.

Appears in Lists

Top Ten True Crime Books