Sherlock is now 15 and "stepping out" (dating, in the 19th century way) with Irene--they go to the theater together, etc. When the famous magician Hemsworth is arrested and charged with murdering his rival, Nottingham, Irene implores Sherlock to investigate and clear his name, because Hemsworth had promised to give Irene a job singing with his act. Hemsworth certainly had the motivation to kill Nottingham, because he stole Hemsworth's wife away from him. But Sherlock's not so sure--how did the magician manage to kill Nottingham in such a way that nothing is left of him but a few grisly chunks of flesh and a lot of blood? It almost looks like Nottingham was eaten by a beast--but surely the "fire-breathing dragon" of Hemsworth's famous stage act is just a marvelous magician's trick? It can't possibly exist in real life...or can it? I loved this installment of the series because Sherlock is maturing, and getting to have more of a personal life with Irene (although, what's this? There is also the lovely Beatrice, the hatter's daughter, to vie for his affections! What's an awkward future detective to do?). And the glimpses behind the scenes of 19th century theatrical life are fascinating. And, there's a terrifically exciting fight and chase scene that I don't want to spoil for anyone! And, as usual, Sherlock's eccentric mentor Bell puts in some funny appearances.