Story Title: “The Adventure of the Tempting Tower”
Book Title: Sherlock Holmes of Baking Street
Author: Julie Ditrich
Editors: Margie Deck and Nancy Holder
Genre: Crime / Detective
Book Description: Sherlock Holmes of Baking Street is a unique collection of 37 essays, reflections, and short stories inspired by the worlds of Sherlock Holmes and baking. From culinary mysteries to ingenious literary puzzles, the anthology celebrates the wit, imagination, and enduring appeal of the Great Detective through an unexpected gastronomic lens.

Story Synopsis: When Sherlock Holmes accepts an invitation to an exclusive progressive dinner in aid of an orphanage, he expects an evening of fine French cuisine and polite society. Instead, Holmes finds himself confronting a masterfully orchestrated jewel theft concealed beneath layers of etiquette, deception, and culinary artistry. As three celebrated chefs compete to create the evening’s most spectacular feast, Holmes must untangle a mystery where every course serves another clue. But before the final dessert is served, he must discover which guest has come to dinner with murder—and theft—in mind.
The Story Behind the Story: Some mysteries begin with a crime. This one began with dessert.

When I was invited to contribute to Sherlock Holmes of Baking Street, I knew immediately that I wanted to celebrate the pleasures of fine food. Inspired by an elaborate French dessert brought back to the public’s attention in Masterchef Australia, and which I had once spent an entire day creating, I began imagining a mystery that unfolded through an elegant progressive dinner, with each course revealing another clue.

The story quickly became one of the most research-intensive pieces I have written. Set during the Victorian era, it required extensive research into period locations, costuming, transport, etiquette, occupations, language and social customs. At the same time, I carefully designed a three-course French menu that would become an essential part of the storytelling rather than simply decoration.

My lifelong love of cookbooks proved invaluable. I returned to my treasured Foods of the World collection—particularly the classic French and provincial French cooking volumes that had fascinated me since childhood—and worked closely with a French culinary consultant to create a genuine and balanced menu. Because every course deserved an equally authentic wine pairing, I also sought the advice of a professional sommelier. As someone who doesn’t drink alcohol, I wanted every detail to ring true.

Writing the story itself became another rewarding challenge. I wanted readers to feel as though they had stepped into Arthur Conan Doyle’s world, so I worked hard to capture the voice, atmosphere and rhythm of the original Sherlock Holmes stories. The commissioning editors, both respected Holmes scholars, generously refined the manuscript, strengthening its pace and helping the mystery unfold more elegantly. It was a privilege to learn from their insights.

Looking back, The Adventure of the Tempting Tower reminds me that mysteries and memorable meals have something in common. Both depend upon thoughtful preparation, careful balance and impeccable timing. Every ingredient has its purpose, every course builds anticipation, and the greatest satisfaction comes when everything finally comes together exactly as it should.