Fans of Benedict Cumberbatch may not see their favorite TV detective in "Sherlock" soon, but can hear the actor's smooth voice and sexy British accent as he narrates Franz Kafka's "The Metamorphosis".

According to The Independent, Cumberbatch has read the German writer's seminal work in its entirety. The narration, which Cumberbatch had recorded a few years ago, was originally broadcasted over at BBC Radio 4 Extra yesterday in commemoration of the novel's centennial anniversary. But for those who missed it (just want to listen to it once again), may stream the audio via BBC's website.

The novel, written by Kafka, was first published in German in 1915 with its original title "Die Verwandlung". It tells the story of Gregor Samsa, a travelling salesman who wakes up one morning and finds himself transformed to a large insect. Unable to work and provide for his family, Gregor slowly finds himself a burden to his sister and eventually dies to rid of his family's inconveniences.

"The Metamorphosis" deals with "the difficulties of living in a modern society and the struggle for acceptance of others", a website dedicated to the author says. The book has been widely accepted worldwide and was even hailed as one of the most notable works of fiction in the 20th century.

In other Cumberbatch-related news, Digital Spy reports that the filming of "Sherlock" season 4 will not start until next year. Steven Moffat, the show's co-creator confirms that filming will start spring of 2016.

"[Series four] is going to be... I suppose you'd say... consequences. It's consequences. Chickens come to roost," Moffat said during the recent BAFTA Awards' winners press conference, where the TV show won the Radio Times Audience Award. "It's dark in some ways - obviously it's great fun and a Sherlock Holmes romp and all that - but there's a sense of things coming back to bite you," he was quoted as saying.

Moffat revealed that fans can expect more exciting plot twists and character revelations. "I do think our plan is devastating. We've practically reduced our cast to tears telling them the plan," The Independent reports.

Meanwhile, a different kind of "Sherlock" is set to be released soon, reports The Entertainment Weekly. The TV special will still feature the same main characters but will be set in Victorian London. Fans have long speculated about the TV special, after seeing Cumberbatch and his co-star Martin Freeman in circa 1900s costumes.

Fans can expect to catch the "Sherlock" special by December.