In honor of Arthur Conan Doyle’s birthday on May 22nd we’re celebrating his legacy and that of his most famous character, Sherlock Holmes. Easily considered the world’s most famous detective, Holmes has captivated audiences for over a century. His legacy stretches beyond the original stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, influencing writers who have continued to reimagine his world. One such author, Leonard Goldberg, introduces a bold new character—Joanna Holmes, the daughter of the Great Detective.
In this exclusive interview, Leonard shares his literary inspirations, creative choices, and the reasoning behind their unique take on Sherlock Holmes’ universe.
A Lifelong Fascination with Sherlock Holmes
For many readers, Sherlock Holmes is a gateway into the world of detective fiction. The author’s journey was no different. Leonard Goldberg explains:
“As a youngster, I read all of Sherlock’s stories so many times that the volumes became
dog-eared. I knew all the characters in depth, so it was no problem for me to feature Inspector Lestrade’s son and the son of John Watson in my novels, and endow them with some of the talents (and flaws) their fathers had. It made for a nice continuum to go with the definite Sherlockian characteristics that Joanna possessed.”
This deep connection to the original characters and their complexities allowed the author to craft a narrative that honors the past while introducing fresh elements. The inclusion of characters with familiar family ties creates a bridge between the past and present, adding depth to the new story.
The Enduring Appeal of Sherlock Holmes
Why does Sherlock Holmes continue to captivate audiences worldwide? Goldberg has a compelling answer.
“Sherlock Holmes has been with us for over one hundred years, and the public’s interest in him remains unquenchable. He is known the world over, and his name has become part of our vernacular. Moreover, he is the most portrayed character in film and television, no matter who plays the part—Basil Rathbone, Jeremy Brett, or Benedict Cumberbatch. The Great Detective is someone we adore for his wondrous talent and forgive for his obvious flaws. In essence, he is a unique combination of what we yearn to be and what in some measure we already are.”
Sherlock’s timeless appeal lies in his blend of brilliance and vulnerability. His unmatched intellectual prowess and quirky personality resonate with readers and audiences across the globe.
A New Holmes for a New Era
One of Leonard Goldberg’s most intriguing decisions was to introduce Joanna Holmes, Sherlock’s daughter. But why not a son?
“Creating such a daughter would not be expected to have Sherlock’s marvelous skills and would be constantly underestimated. The conventions of the Edwardian era would have her constantly swimming upstream and against the current. Yet she still succeeds and eventually gains everyone’s admiration and confidence. Plus, she would have feminine instincts that Sherlock lacked and which she uses so well.”
Joanna is not just a female version of her father—she is a distinct character with her own strengths and challenges. Her journey offers a fresh perspective on the world of Sherlock Holmes, as she navigates the limitations and expectations placed on women in her time.
A Father-Daughter Mystery
Though Sherlock Holmes is known for his emotional detachment, the author introduces a poignant twist in the relationship between Sherlock and his daughter. Says Goldberg:
“Joanna’s mother dies shortly after childbirth, and Sherlock has no intention to raise the newborn, so he and Watson arrange for the baby to be adopted by a well-to-do couple, with the papers permanently sealed. Strange, indeed! But not true, for later in Joanna’s adventures, her life is threatened by Professor Moriarty’s twin, who seeks revenge for Sherlock disposing of his brother at the Falls of Reichenbach.”
This revelation adds a layer of complexity to Sherlock’s character. While he may have initially distanced himself from Joanna, the deep care he feels for her eventually surfaces in the form of a final request.
A Legacy for Modern Times
Sherlock Holmes has inspired countless adaptations over the years, and the author’s addition to this legacy is a refreshing one. By creating a strong, intelligent daughter, Goldberg introduces a new chapter for readers—one that expands upon the original canon while paying tribute to it.
By handling Conan Doyle’s work with deep respect and creating a fresh narrative vision in A Scandalous Affair, Leonard Goldberg ensures that the important legacy of Sherlock Holmes will continue to evolve and captivate new generations.
