Sunday Suspense: The Hound of the Baskervilles Part 4 – What to Expect

The Sunday Suspense radio drama series has captivated listeners with its faithful adaptations of classic mysteries. Part 4 of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" brings Arthur Conan Doyle's chilling tale to a thrilling conclusion. If you've been following along, you know the tension has been building. This article breaks down what happens in Part 4, why it matters, and how to get the most out of the experience.

The Build-Up to Part 4

By now, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson have been deep in the foggy moors of Devonshire. The legend of the monstrous hound has claimed another victim—Sir Charles Baskerville. His nephew, Sir Henry, has arrived from Canada and is staying at Baskerville Hall, despite warnings. In Part 3, Holmes was absent, leaving Watson to investigate. Watson uncovered suspicious behavior from the servants and the neighboring Stapletons. The episode ended with Watson hearing a terrifying howl across the moor.

What Happens in Part 4

Part 4 delivers the resolution. Sherlock Holmes returns, having been secretly on the moor all along, monitoring the case from a hut. He reveals his plan to catch the criminal. The climax takes place on a foggy night when Sir Henry walks across the moor to visit the Stapletons. The hound appears—a massive, glowing beast. Holmes and Watson are ready. They fire at the creature, which turns out to be a large dog covered in phosphorus paint. The culprit is revealed: Jack Stapleton, the naturalist neighbor, who is actually Rodger Baskerville, the younger brother of Sir Charles, seeking to inherit the estate by murdering the heirs. Stapleton flees into the Grimpen Mire and drowns. The case is closed.

Why This Adaptation Stands Out

The Sunday Suspense version stays remarkably true to the original story. The audio production uses atmospheric sound effects (baying hounds, howling wind) and a gripping musical score to heighten the suspense. The voice acting brings each character to life, especially the gravelly tones of Holmes and the nervous energy of Watson. Part 4 is the payoff to all the careful setup—listeners experience the hound's reveal exactly as intended.

Key Themes in Part 4

• Justice vs. Revenge: Holmes seeks justice, not revenge. He prefers to let Stapleton be caught by the law or nature.
• The Power of Superstition: The legend of the hound is used to mask a very human crime. The adaptation emphasizes how fear can cloud judgment.
• Isolation and Danger: The moor is a character itself—beautiful yet deadly. Part 4 uses the fog and mire to create a sense of inescapable doom.

How to Listen to Sunday Suspense

Sunday Suspense episodes are typically broadcast on specific radio stations or available through podcast platforms. To find Part 4:

• Check your local public radio station's schedule for Sunday night broadcasts.
• Subscribe to the show's podcast feed on major platforms (like Apple Podcasts or Spotify).
• Look for the official website or app for archive episodes.

The series releases new episodes weekly, so you can catch up on previous parts before Part 4 airs. Many listeners enjoy binging the entire adaptation in one sitting because the episodes flow seamlessly together.

Tips for the Best Listening Experience

• Use headphones to catch the subtle audio details.
• Listen in a dark room for full immersion—the moody sound design shines.
• Read the original novel first? Not necessary—the adaptation stands alone, but fans of the book will appreciate the faithfulness.
• Avoid distractions; the plot is dense with clues.

Final Thoughts on Part 4

Sunday Suspense's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" Part 4 is a masterclass in audio drama. It respects the source material while delivering a gripping, atmospheric experience. Whether you're a longtime Sherlock Holmes fan or new to the series, this episode will satisfy. The production quality is top-notch, and the payoff is worth the buildup. If you haven't listened to the earlier parts, start from Part 1—you'll thank yourself when you reach the thrilling conclusion.

Our Recommendation

If you enjoy classic mysteries and well-crafted radio drama, make time for Sunday Suspense's entire run of "The Hound of the Baskervilles." Part 4 is the highlight, but the journey matters. Set aside an evening, prepare your listening space, and let the foggy moors of Devonshire draw you in.

For new listeners, begin with Part 1 to understand the full context. The series is suitable for all ages and perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes, mystery enthusiasts, or anyone who loves a good story told through sound. Don't miss the climax on Sunday—or whenever you choose to press play.