Nicole Adam investigates the popular BBC detective series and marvels at Sherlock's cool-faced logic.

Perhaps as anticipated in some circles as the New Year itself, the first of January brought more than just resolutions, it welcomed the return of the highly anticipated Sherlock. The critically acclaimed, modern adaptation of Sherlock Holmes returned to eager fans and did not disappoint.

Creators Moffat and Gatiss certainly play fast and loose with their adaptation. Described by Moffat as an “open relationship”, it clearly has no compunctions tweaking the original. Traditionalist fans may struggle with the necessary updates – Irene Adler is a dominatrix and Baskerville is a centre for government experimentation. These may not adhere to a strict interpretation but it’s hard not to fall for the charm that oozes out of every episode.

Holmes is enigmatic and obnoxious yet incredibly alluring. Each time we become semi convinced that his hard shell will crack to reveal the sympathetic human centre we are disappointed but nevertheless still very much drawn to the creation. Superb performances by both Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Watson (Martin Freeman) combined with the compelling cast that surrounds them in each episode make this show hard not to love especially as the bromantic chemistry between Watson and Holmes has only increased.

Each of the three ninety minute episodes is dynamic and engaging, keeping the audience at the edge of our comprehension but not leaving us feeling too stupid, we always had Watson for company after all. Balancing gripping drama and humour that verges on the absurd Sherlock is able to delight and shock over and over again.

Despite its popularity the season was not without fault. Though the ending was undoubtedly suspenseful it was not in keeping with the tradition of Sherlock Holmes. The withholding of an explanation to a part of the mystery is not only incredibly annoying but breaks with what we expect from Sherlock, a display of unparalleled witticism and logic. The shock finale has already started a mass of speculation online with every scenario, no matter how improbable or impossible, being suggested and no real conclusion in sight.

Let’s face it; we have no idea how long we may have to wait for the already commissioned third season (after all, Freeman does have that whole Hobbit thing keeping him busy). It really is quite mean to keep us waiting with such baited breath.

For those who have faithfully followed it’s going to be yet another long wait. For those who have yet to enjoy this gem of British drama, hop on the bandwagon and thank your lucky stars you have six episodes to enjoy.