A foreboding coded message reaches Sherlock Holmes: A Mr. Douglas at Birlstone Manor is in grave danger. Before Holmes can act, the shocking news arrives that Douglas has been found dead—shot in the face with a shotgun. Scotland Yard is called in but is left helpless. Is it a suicide, or has Douglas been brutally murdered? Sherlock Holmes, on the other hand, is certain of what has happened; he recognizes the calling card found by the body. It belongs to none other than his nemesis, Professor Moriarty. The Valley of Fear is the fourth and final novel about Sherlock Holmes, often considered the very best. It was first published in Strand Magazine between 1914-15. SIR ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE [1859-1930], was a Scottish physician and author, best known for his stories about the groundbreaking master detective Sherlock Holmes. Doyle wrote a total of 56 short stories and four novels about Sherlock Holmes and his constant companion Dr. Watson.