A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro blends contemporary young adult fiction with classic Sherlock Holmes elements, earning praise for its clever premise and engaging protagonists. However, some critics feel the plot can be predictable and relies too heavily on the legacy of the original Holmes stories. Overall, it captivates with sharp dialogue and inventive twists.

Readers who enjoy witty, suspenseful YA mysteries with a modern twist on classic literature will delight in Brittany Cavallaro’s A Study in Charlotte. Fans of Sherlock Holmes, Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson, and The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes will appreciate the clever dynamics and thrilling plot.

In Brittany Cavallaro’s A Study in Charlotte, James Watson and Charlotte Holmes, descendants of Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes, attend Sherringford Academy, where they must clear their names while solving campus crimes echoing Sherlock Holmes stories. Set in a modern Ivy League prep school, their investigation highlights their familial legacies and the themes of Mind and Heart. This novel references incidents of rape and frequent drug use.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Adventurous / Gritty / Humorous

- A Study in Charlotte is the first book in a young adult series that reimagines Sherlock Holmes and introduces Sherlock's great-great-great-granddaughter, Charlotte Holmes, alongside Jamie Watson, the great-great-great-grandson of Dr. John Watson.
- Brittany Cavallaro, the author of A Study in Charlotte, is also a poet whose work has appeared in various literary journals, showcasing her diverse writing talents beyond the realm of novels.
- The series not only plays homage to Arthur Conan Doyle's original characters but also explores contemporary themes, crafting a fresh narrative for a new generation of readers.

**Charlotte Holmes**  
A 16-year-old British student at Sherringford Academy in Connecticut with a keen analytical mind and a family legacy tied to the famous detective Sherlock Holmes.

**James Watson**  
A 16-year-old American student and rugby star at Sherringford Academy, who seeks a connection to his family's history with the Holmes family and befriends Charlotte.

**Mr. Watson**  
James's father, who attempts to reconcile with his son and supports him and Charlotte during their time at Sherringford Academy.

**Detective Ben Shepard**  
The middle-aged detective assigned to investigate the mysterious events at Sherringford Academy, though he is often exasperated by the teen detectives' involvement.

**Milo Holmes**  
Charlotte’s older brother, who runs an international security service and is protective of his younger sister, often intervening in her affairs.

**August Moriarty**  
A highly intelligent tutor of the Holmes family who encounters professional and personal challenges connected to Charlotte and his family’s legacy.

**Lucien Moriarty**  
August’s brother, implicated in a drug bust and seeking revenge, as he navigates the complexities of his relationship with Charlotte.

**Bryony Davis-Downs**  
August’s former fiancée, who harbors resentment against Charlotte and plots against her under the guise of a nurse.

**Lee Dobson**  
A student at Sherringford Academy interested in manipulating drug use for personal gain, who becomes entwined in the novel’s darker plot elements.

**Elizabeth Hartwell**  
A freshman at Sherringford Academy who has a crush on James, becoming unintentionally involved in the unfolding drama.

**Lena**  
Charlotte’s carefree and wealthy roommate who participates in school activities and assists Charlotte in her schemes.

**Tom**  
James’s roommate at Sherringford Academy, whose feelings of inadequacy and temptation lead him to make dubious decisions.

**Mr. Wheatley**  
James’s creative writing teacher at Sherringford Academy, interested in crafting a sensational story about the academy’s events.

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