Professor Moriarty summary

Introduction to the Mastermind

In Professor Moriarty by Kim Newman, we are introduced to the infamous Professor James Moriarty, who is most famous as the arch-nemesis of Sherlock Holmes. The story is set in a Victorian London where the criminal mastermind is the undisputed ruler of the underworld. We are also introduced to Colonel Sebastian Moran, who is Moriarty's right-hand man and a ruthless killer.

The novel explores the relationship between the two men, showing how their personalities complement each other. While Moriarty is the calculating mastermind, Moran is the violent enforcer who carries out the Professor's orders without question. Together, they form a formidable team, ensuring that their criminal empire remains unchallenged.

The Web of Intrigue

As the story progresses, we see Moriarty's web of intrigue expand. He manipulates the police force, the judiciary, and the political establishment to serve his own ends. His criminal network is vast and well-organized, allowing him to stay several steps ahead of his adversaries. We see how he uses his intellect and influence to orchestrate crimes and cover his tracks, making him an elusive and dangerous opponent.

Meanwhile, Moran's brutal efficiency ensures that anyone who dares to oppose Moriarty meets a swift and violent end. The Colonel's loyalty to his master is absolute, and he carries out his duties with a chilling detachment. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with, and the London underworld operates under their iron rule.

The Game is Afoot

However, a new player enters the scene in the form of Sherlock Holmes. The great detective becomes aware of Moriarty's existence and begins to investigate his criminal activities. This puts him on a collision course with the Professor, and a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues. While Holmes is the embodiment of reason and justice, Moriarty represents chaos and evil, making their confrontation all the more intense.

Despite their conflicting ideologies, Holmes and Moriarty share a mutual respect for each other's intellect. They engage in a battle of wits, each trying to outmaneuver the other. Moriarty, in particular, takes a keen interest in Holmes, recognizing him as the only person capable of challenging his supremacy. Their interactions are tense and electrifying, driving the narrative forward.

The Final Showdown

The tension between Holmes and Moriarty reaches its climax at the Reichenbach Falls in Switzerland. In a dramatic showdown, the two adversaries confront each other, and the struggle ends with both of them falling to their apparent deaths. The world believes that both Holmes and Moriarty are gone, and London breathes a sigh of relief, thinking that the reign of terror is over.

However, we know that this is not the end. The legacy of Professor Moriarty lives on, and his criminal empire continues to operate in the shadows. Meanwhile, the world mourns the loss of Sherlock Holmes, unaware that he has survived and is biding his time, waiting to return and resume his fight against crime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Professor Moriarty by Kim Newman provides a fascinating exploration of one of literature's most iconic villains. Through his portrayal of Moriarty, Newman shows us the darker side of Victorian London, where evil thrives and the line between good and bad is often blurred. The novel is a gripping and atmospheric tale that sheds new light on the enigmatic character of the Professor, making it a must-read for fans of Sherlock Holmes and Victorian-era mysteries.