While not the first literary detective, Sherlock Holmes is one of the most read, viewed, and heard. Holmes has been depicted more than 250 times; with his partner, Dr. John Watson, the pair have not only captured the imaginations of mystery (and non-mystery) lovers, but also authors, the world over. 

Fan fiction about Holmes and Watson dates back to the 19th century, often featuring playful, satirical, or even harsh wit. On this episode of Milford House Mysteries & Histories, Tory Gates sits down with P.A. O'Neil as she recounts her fascination and her identification with Watson.

Two Sides of the Same Coin: In-between Stories of Sherlock Holmes and John H. Watson comes from O'Neil's pen, a series of tales that take the good doctor's point of view. We follow Watson, mustered out of the British Army after being wounded, not quite himself as he navigates Victorian England and tries to find his place once more.

”On That Last Day” chronicles Watson's meeting with a potential flatmate, the enigmatic Holmes. In the stories that follow, including ”The Curse of the Scottish Play,” ”The Case of the Venetian Glass,” and others, O'Neil fashions tales in the tradition of Arthur Conan Doyle, but more from Watson's frank and direct view. O'Neil also offers her inspiration for these stories, and her assessment of Watson, his place beside Holmes, and how the pair never seem to die.

P.A. O'Neil is originally from Southern California. Her writings have appeared in numerous anthologies, journals, and magazines. A further collection of Holmes and Watson works can be found In for a Penny. She is also the author of Witness Testimony and Other Tales. She is a member of Sound of the Baskervilles and the John H. Watson Society. Her piece ”The Great Burro Revolt” won her the 2023 Mustang Flash Fiction Award. 

Her writings can be found through Clarendon House Books — she now lives in Olympia, Washington.