A Singular and Whimsical Problem

Herringford and Watts Mysteries #0.5

by Rachel McMillan

In this bonus e-only novella, Merinda and Jem are confronted by the strangest mystery they've encountered since they started their private investigation firm. This will be the most exciting Christmas the girls have had yet...if they can stay alive long enough to enjoy it.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Short Stories, Historical Mystery

78 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2015

About the author

Rachel McMillan is the author of over 20 novels including the bestselling The London Restoration and The Mozart Code and the upcoming Operation Scarlet. She has also co-written The Liberty Scarf and The Castle Keepers with Aimie K Runyan and J'nell Ciesielski. Her works of non-fiction include Dream, Plan and Go: A Travel Guide for Independent Adventure and the upcoming: An Aim at Eternity: The Life of Christopher Wren. Rachel lives in Toronto where she works as a literary agent and is always planning her next trip to Vienna.

Reviews

[Rachel McMillan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really think it could have featured more of the cat. Like if I wanted a people mystery, I wouldn't have bought a mystery with the cat on the cover.

you know?

[Rissi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since I learned fellow blogger was writing a book, I was as usual, thrilled. Not only that, but that same blogger was also publishing said book with Harvest House. As time passed, Rachel shared more details about her upcoming novel and eventually we learned it was not just a novel, but a series of books. All of which begins with this novella. Coming in at a mere 54 pages (there's no shortage of amazing), this novella introduces us to Jem and Merinda. Two women living in 1900s Toronto, who are not only unconventional (to say nothing of their lack of proper pursuits like keeping a home for a husband), they are also consulting detectives.

I don't want to say too much about this story because spoiling it would certainly spoil not just the plot but the "effect" of it. There is something remarkably addictive about this introductory story. The characters "pop" off the page with aplomb and the teasers of what is to come is written to perfection. If you're a fan of period mysteries (like Murdoch Mysteries or even Grantchester, despite its vastly different time period), you're sure to enjoy these women's world. I recognized so many nods to some of these series, which made me love this world all the more. Also a strong influence on not only the writing but the characters is Sherlock Holmes right down to the opposites scenario between the two main characters.

With the quick wit I've come to expect of Rachel and an intriguing mystery that actually is fleshed out nicely, this is sure to pique anyone's interest for The Bachelor's Guide to Murder, releasing March 1st. Spending time with these ladies isn't a bad way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon curled up on the couch and all of this is delivered with the pizazz of a singular new debut talent.

[Hayden · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, I love the title. For obvious reasons.

I finally caved and bought this ebook because I received a free ebook copy of The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder for review and I wanted to read this one first. A Singular and Whimsical Problem was a little too short for everything that occurred within its 54 pages, but it was entertaining (although I will admit I was bugged by the anachronistic use of "Ms." but I just have weird history-related pet peeves that pop up every once in awhile.)

I shall start Bachelor Girl's Guide as soon as I finish my lunch.

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

FUN, FUN, FUN!!
{Review to come.}

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

In an era when most women aspired to the comforts of hearth, home, and marriage, Merinda Herringford and Jem Watts prefer to spend their time solving mysteries rather than perfecting their cooking skills or learning to stitch a straight hem. Taking their inspiration from the most famous fictional detective of the day, Sherlock Holmes, Merinda and Jem are well on their way to becoming Toronto's most notorious bachelor girls, their exploits chronicled in the Hogtown Herald. But the fame of their fictional idol does not come easily, as their desire to help the unfortunate -- who often cannot pay -- war with the necessity of bills and food. But when the wife of a wealthy shipping magnate begs their help in finding her lost cat Pepper, the girls have little reason to expect the mystery this wayward feline will lead them into, uncovering a far-reaching web of intrigue and danger that could make their reputation...if they can survive to bring the truth to light.

This slim novella is the introduction to McMillan's Herringford and Watts mysteries, if if this is any indication, Merinda and Jem's Holmesian adventures will be a welcome and sparkling addition to the ranks of cozy historicals. This is a cozy mystery to be sure, but one with a bit of bite, as sandwiched between the fluff of their search for a missing cat is a glimpse into a darker world kidnapping and exploitation, where those women without the benefit of family and resources find themselves at the mercy of unscrupulous predators.

For anyone who, like myself, loves stories of women who break societal boundaries, this all-too-brief introduction to Jem and Merinda's world is a promising start to McMillan's new series. While Merinda's favorite exclamation of "cracker jacks!" wears thin, the exuberance charm of this new world and the characters populating it cannot be denied. Following this rollicking, fast-paced debut, I am eagerly looking forward to following Jem and Merinda's further adventures!

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had been excitedly anticipating Rachel's series for months prior to this little novella getting published! After reading (and loving) her blog for several years, I knew her fictional writing could only be more awesome. She simply has a way with words. A fellow blogger called it endearing and I have to agree that's the perfect word for it!

This world she's created is simply a delight to be introduced to, even with its Morality Squad and murder mysteries yet to be solved. As for Jemima and Merinda? Oh my, what characters these ladies are! I loved Jem immediately, but Merinda had to grow on me. Considering this series is based on Sherlock Holmes though, it's understandable that Merinda would be a bit difficult to get a handle on. She intrigues me and I shall look forward to getting to know her better!

The gentlemen connected to these ladies are just as quirky in their own ways and certainly make an impression. We don't get tons of time with them, as this is only a novella and therefore the amount of page time has to be limited, but what little we get makes it abundantly clear that these men are NICE. Yay for nice guys! Literature could use more of those.

The murder mystery is sufficiently compelling and while I slowly put the pieces together, naturally Merinda was far ahead of me. But she could stand to be a bit more quick on the uptake, especially for poor Jem's sake! ;)

A wonderful introduction to the series that only whets my appetite for more time with these characters.

[Karen Collier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story? These characters? Brilliant!

It’s been a while, but back when I was in high school, I read every Sherlock Holmes story I could get my hands on. In this novella-length introduction to the new Herringford and Watts mystery series, Rachel McMillan does an amazing job evoking the tone and style of Doyle’s famous detective series, while making the story and characters her own.

Merinda and Jem are lively and engaging characters I look forward to revisiting again and again. I love the bits of wit interjected, even in less-than-whimsical situations. I love the way the various plot threads come together and blend into a single cohesive story. And my favorite scene by far is the one with the snow, with its hints of romance to come. :)

Being both short and intricate, the story feels told at something of a brisk clip, relying on summary at points to whisk us from one important moment to another, much as Doyle’s stories do. But the details included are well-chosen and evocative, resulting in a beautifully told story.

After reading A Singular and Whimsical Problem, I can’t wait to read The Bachelor Girl’s Guide to Murder when it releases in March. And maybe I’ll have to go back and revisit some of my favorite Sherlock Holmes stories in the meantime….

Highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries in general and Sherlock Holmes stories in particular.

Review appeared first at www.karencollier.com.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful surprise. We're dropped into Merinda and Jem's life in the first page and soon discover they are private detectives operating out of the apartment they share. Within a few pages they are engaged in not one but three unusual cases and it becomes apparent Merinda is the instinctive brains of the duo and Jem is the analytical conservative one. What ensues is a jolly good story with two fabulously matched and admirable characters.

McMillan's writing is first class with such wit and clever turn of phrase that makes the story simply compelling. Merinda and Jem are marvellously strong characters, clearly influenced by Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Watson. I'm so looking forward to spending more time with them, their eclectic support crew and admirers plus discovering more of downtown Toronto circa 1910.

I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading it and was disappointed it ended so quickly.

[Kate Breslin · Rating 5 out of 5]

These two female sleuths grabbed me from the first page in this delightful novella set in 1910 Toronto. In the spirit of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, author Rachel McMillan introduced me to Merinda Herringford and Jemima Watts, two turn-of-the-century, ground-breaking gals who love cracking a case. I loved their snappy repartee, quirky personalities, and unabashed daring as they work to solve the mystery of a missing suffragette, a one-eared cat, and some pretty strange occurrences at the local women’s reformatory. Along with a cast of colorful characters, including the ladies’ romantic interests, Ray DeLuca and Jasper Forth, Merinda and Jem continue their crime solving adventures in McMillan’s debut novel, The Bachelor Girl’s Guide to Murder. I’m looking forward to reading more about this dynamic duo!

[Christen Krumm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know so many people who skip out on novellas because they don't seem like a "real book". I'm telling you right now, don't do that to yourself. Get yourself this book, a large cup of tea, and a comfy seat. I am in love with Merinda, Jem, Jasper, and DeLuca. I can't wait for more installments! This is perfect for any fans of Sherlock, mystery, or just plain good books!

[Miranda Atchley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jem Watts and Merinda Herringford are two Edwardian bachelor girls on the wrong side of twenty living in their own apartment in the bustling Canadian city of Toronto. Yet these two ladies are anything but the typical Edwardian women of the 1910s. They're up-and-coming detectives and charge people to investigate cases around the city. In their unusual careers, Jem and Merinda often disguise themselves as men, wearing trousers, bowler hats, and the occasional fake mustache, in order to blend in during certain circumstances they go through to solve cases. And neither one could keep house well enough to save their lives. In A Singular and Whimsical Problem, the two are asked to find a missing one eared black cat named Pepper by his wealthy owner. Feisty Merinda is put out with the seemingly miniscule case, but Jem treats the situation just as she would other cases and takes it seriously. As they meet newspaper writer Ray DeLuca for lunch, they're approached by a waitress who is worried about her sister and her "loose" lifestyle. As the two investigate the case, they find themselves in unsavory parts of the city. What seem like simple cases could lead to much bigger issues.

I can't say enough good things about this book. This was the first time I've read anything in the mystery/detective genre. I had sort of been interested, but never got around to reading anything in the genre. Yet the premise of this series really intrigued me. First of all, I love the Edwardian era. And I love the idea of two female sleuths running around Toronto in the 1910s solving cases, sometimes in proper ladies attire, other times disguised as men. It sounds so incredibly fun. And trust me; it's as fun as it sounds. The writing is done beautifully and flows at a wonderful pace. There are plot twists, but they all make sense and tie in together. All of the characters balance out one another perfectly. *Sigh* It's simply lovely.

I love Jem and Merinda. They make the perfect pair of friends. Jem is more levelheaded and easy going, whereas Merinda is a "guns-blazing" type of person who's ready to jump straight into the thick of things. I have a feeling in future books, Merinda will help challenge Jem to have a little more fun and come more out of her shell, and that Jem will keep Merinda from getting in over her head. Like peanut butter and jelly, Thelma and Louise, Jem and Merinda are meant to be best friends. And in case you were wondering, yes; there is romance. Jem has her eye on the tall, dark, and handsome newspaper reporter Ray DeLuca. But there's also a friendship/partnership about the two. Ray helps the girls with the ins and outs of the business and supports them greatly. He's a nice contrast to many men of the 1910s; a very forward thinking type of guy. If you know me, then you might find my statement biased, but I do love a newspaper guy that supports women's rights. ;-) And though we don't see an awful lot of Jasper in this novella, I've heard that he plays a bigger role in future books, and I must admit to being intrigued, especially after seeing Rachel's visual inspiration.

I really love seeing women's rights being written about in Christian fiction. I feel like you don't see that topic much in this particular genre, but I wish it were more prominent. Suffrage and romance are balanced beautifully in this book. Jem and Merinda want to have their careers and to be treated fairly, but they also look for romance. It shows us that it's okay to be strong and independent and to do bold things, as well as fall in love with the perfect guy. You can have both.

There are so many reasons why I love A Singular and Whimsical Problem. It's a wonderful start to a beautiful series that I can't wait to read more of. If you love books at all, check this one out.

[E.A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this little introduction to Rachel's characters in perpetration for her first novel release. I have a love/hate relationship with novellas. I love that they are fast to read, easy to get into usually, and a complete story in a "bite sized" way. I don't love the fact that they are sooo short though. I think that is the case with Rachel's novella...maybe it was too short? I definitely enjoyed it, but I felt like it breezed past the characters not allowing me to really get to know them (again, I know: novella). But a little more characterization would have drawn me in I think. I did like being dropped into the story as if we had been there the whole time though, that was a lovely touch.

As for the plot, I thought it was fun, interesting, and held my attention. I got the feeling of Sherlock Holmes from the characters and loved the fact that they are women. I was, however, surprised that there were a few errors (like a character magically knowing a name without it being stated) but those things to tend to happen.

All in all, a good read and it has whetted my appetite for her novel release happening soon! Can't wait to see what Jem and Merinda get themselves into in The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder.

[Elisabeth]

I picked up this free e-novella because I was in the mood for a good old-fashioned mystery, and the concept looked promising—Edwardian-era young lady detectives? Yes, please! Unfortunately, I didn't find A Singular and Whimsical Problem the least bit convincing. A pair of young women running around wearing men's clothes and false moustaches, getting their pictures in the paper for their detective exploits, and apparently taking the question of how this affects their own respectability very lightly...it just didn't ring true to the period for me. Nor did most of the characters' mannerisms or dialogue. (It probably didn't help that I'd just finished re-reading a few favorite novels actually written in the Edwardian era.)

For a short story/novella, three or four threads of story seemed like an awful lot to try and cram in as well, and there were some holes left that I never figured out. Why did Mabel just disappear from the story? Was Jenny really her sister, or not? (and in consequence of that question, I never figured out how much of the story Jenny told was actually true.)

I really hate to give negative ratings/reviews, and I'd have loved to find a good new mystery series to follow, but this one didn't quite cut it for me.

[Julie Graves · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a bit of a problem trying to figure out where this one comes in the series. I couldn't decide whether it was a sequel to The Bachelor's Girl Guide To Murder or if it came after. But when I started reading it there were events that didn't fit with either. So then it finally dawned on me that this story must have occurred during The Bachelor's Girl Guide To Murder. That would fit perfectly. Ok, so now that I have that figured out it all makes sense! I know, if you have read the books you all probably figured that out, but it was kind of like an "ah ha" moment for me and so I just had to share!

I love the characters of Jem and Merinda. Their guys weren't too featured in this novella, it mainly focused on the gals. I love the characters of Kat and Mouse. Mainly I think I enjoy their names! How clever! ha! This case focuses once again on some corrupt politicians, women being abused by the power of men because they have no rights, and a missing cat that brings the whole thing together. I enjoyed Jem and Merinda's detective skills and their signature dressing like men to ferret out clues while undercover. If you like cozy little mysteries mixed with a bit of humor then I recommend you read this series.

[Pepper Basham · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have not had opportunity to read very many novellas, but I could NOT pass up this introduction to Rachel McMillian’s writing and the chance to meet a new duo of delight. With rich vocabulary, charming wit, and delightful exploits, McMillian brings this twosome to life through the eyes of Jem. With her solid historical research and wonderful descriptions, the author transports us into the dark streets of London through, sometimes, a whimsical lens. I enjoyed this sampling into the lives of Jem and Merinda, and hope that McMillian’s upcoming novel will allow for more time and space to deepen these loveable and quirky characters as well as the storyline. I wait in anticipation for more.

[Mikal Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO fun!!! This novella gives a great indication of what Rachel McMillan's debut novel will be like: well written/edited/proofed, full of mystery, clever sleuthing, hilarity, deep issues, and, well, whimsy. And the covers for this series? Such a gorgeous throwback and soooo appropriate to the novels!!

If you love Sherlock, you will so want to read this novella. And then preorder her debut, The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder.

[Melanie Fishbane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella is a wonderful introduction to Rachel McMillan's Herringford and Watts mysteries. Set against Edwardian Toronto during the holiday season, our female detectives (who guise themselves in men's trousers to get around) are tasked with finding a missing cat without an ear, a missing suffragette and the sister of a waitress. What they discover is anything but singular, nor whimsical. Highly recommend.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novella by Rachel McMillan. It is a short, but well-written mystery rich with historical detail. I am looking forward to reading more of Jemima and Merinda's adventures in McMillan's new series.

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cracker Jack!

Merinda's favorite catch phrase lost its charm quickly, but this was an utterly charming story for fans of whip smart women, tales of deep friendship, and fellow Sherlockians. And Toronto! Looking forward to more!

[Tasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very fast-paced, almost too much so, but it does a great job of introducing the central characters. I'm definitely looking forward to reading A Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder!

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

What fun! I liked that! :)

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things around Toronto are disappearing; a favorite feline, a beloved sister, and a compatriot of women's independence.

Merinda Herringford and Jemima Watts are thrilled beyond belief that their detective skills are being taken seriously by the women of Toronto. Donning disguises and slipping into places where no female in her right mind would dare to go, the two sleuths utilize their wit and wiles to get the information they need; only to discover that the truth of the matter might be slightly more dangerous than they thought. Thank goodness for handsome and able-bodied men!

Enjoy every word of this clever escapade!

[Andree · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was intrigued by the idea of a female-led mystery set in historical Toronto. And let's face it, the title appeals to me a lot. Instead I was disappointed. This is aiming for fun and whimsical, but in the end I just found it too flippant and superficial. It's possible that's due in part to the novella length, but I although suspect the tone plays a significant part. Some of the things touched on were interesting, but I just wanted a little more depth in the characterization. I don't know, I have e-copies of the rest of the series, and I may continue at some point, but not right now.

[Hope · Rating 2 out of 5]

The delightful titles in this series made me think the books would be more literary.

The main difficulty I had was with the first person narration. It sounded like entries in an adolescent's diary, which meant that I never could take the women detectives seriously.

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute but meaningful

This was a short, cute cozy mystery novella but it dealt with an important subject.

Already looking forward to the next antics of Jem and Merinda.

[Camille Eide · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a charming, sassy, and superb little mystery set in 1910 Toronto about two young women turned sleuth on the trail of secrecy, subterfuge, and missing suffragettes. The dialogue is lively and full of wry wit--my favorite kind. Melinda and Jem are women we find indomitable, capable, and yet still vulnerable, another favorite. I can almost see them teamed up with their heroes, Sherlock & Watson.

This was my first Herringford & Watts Mystery but won't be my last. I'm looking forward to the release of the next novella in the series: The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder (Harvest House 2016).

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I admit to getting a little lost through-out this short novella; but was still intrigued enough by the historical aspect and the two women detectives that I wanted to finish reading it. I would have liked to have know Jem and Merinda more; to understand how they came about their profession. I did enjoy it; I'm not sorry I paid for this new introduction to a new author. I will also continue on in the series!! I also thought the cover held just enough inviting mystery.

[Courtney Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I had to choose 1 word to describe this novella, it would be endearing.

More words: witty, intriguing, humorous, sweet. Yet still serious and emotional with depth to the characters. This was a fun glimpse of the characters in the upcoming series by Rachel. Yet make no mistake, this was not just an introduction to this world, but a great little mystery all its own. I can’t wait for more from these Herringford and Watts girls!

[Annette Gilbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is a terrifically entertaining mystery driven by the adventures of two witty female detectives. The story doesn't shy away from the appalling status of women in 1910 Toronto, but I found myself smiling all the while as I vicariously enjoyed the friendship and sassy banter between Jem and Merinda. Well-crafted writing and character development are this narrative' s engine. I didn't want the story to end. A delightful read that guarantees I'll purchase the next in the series.

[Gerry McMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though the book was short it was a great read. Interesting characters and story line. I especially liked the historical background. You can tell the author did a lot of research of early 1900's Toronto. I Can't wait to read the rest of the series.