<p>Laurie R. King illuminates the hidden corners of her beloved Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes series in this dynamic story collection.</p><p>In nine short stories seven of which have never previously been available in print and one brand-new never-before-seen Sherlock Holmes mystery - available together for the first time - Laurie R. King blends her long-running brand of crime fiction with historical treats and narrative sleight of hand. At the heart of the collection is a prequel novella that begins with England's declaration of war in 1914. As told in Mary Russell's teenage diaries the whip-smart girl investigates familial mysteries tracks German spies through San Francisco and generally delights with her extraordinary mind - until an unimaginable tragedy strikes. </p><p>Here too is the case of a professor killed by a swarm of bees; Mrs. Hudson's investigation of a string of disappearing household items - and a lifelong secret; a revealing anecdote about a character integral to The God of the Hive; the story of Mary's beloved uncle Jake and a monumental hand of cards; and a series of postcards in which Mary searches for her missing husband Sherlock Holmes. </p><p>Last but not least fans will be especially thrilled by Mary's account of her decision at age 92 to publish her memoirs - and how she concluded that Ms. King should be the one to introduce her voice to the world. </p>