Arthur Conan Doyle's first 'Sherlock Homes' novel introduces the talented detective Holmes to his loyal partner in investigation, Dr. John Watson. A Study in Scarlet is the first of four full length Sherlock Holmes novels written by Arthur Conan Doyle. The novel begins with a war-wounded Watson being introduced to Holmes by a common friend, when looking for a place to stay. Initially wary of Holmes's eccentricities, Watson gradually starts appreciating Sherlock's knowledge and exceptional abilities of logical deduction. A Study in Scarlet first appeared in 1887 in Beeton's Christmas Annual and was marked the first appearance of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, who would become the most famous detective duo in popular fiction.