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Veronica Speedwell #6
An Unexpected Peril
A princess is missing, and a peace treaty is on the verge of collapse in this new Veronica Speedwell adventure from the New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-nominated author Deanna Raybourn.
January 1889. As the newest member of the Curiosity Club—an elite society of brilliant, intrepid women—Veronica Speedwell is excited to put her many skills to good use. As she assembles a memorial exhibition for pioneering mountain climber Alice Baker-Greene, Veronica discovers evidence that the recent death was not a tragic climbing accident but murder. Veronica and her natural historian beau, Stoker, tell the patron of the exhibit, Princess Gisela of Alpenwald, of their findings. With Europe on the verge of war, Gisela's chancellor, Count von Rechstein, does not want to make waves—and before Veronica and Stoker can figure out their next move, the princess disappears.
Having noted Veronica's resemblance to the princess, von Rechstein begs her to pose as Gisela for the sake of the peace treaty that brought the princess to England. Veronica reluctantly agrees to the scheme. She and Stoker must work together to keep the treaty intact while navigating unwelcome advances, assassination attempts, and Veronica's own family—the royalty who has never claimed her.
January 1889. As the newest member of the Curiosity Club—an elite society of brilliant, intrepid women—Veronica Speedwell is excited to put her many skills to good use. As she assembles a memorial exhibition for pioneering mountain climber Alice Baker-Greene, Veronica discovers evidence that the recent death was not a tragic climbing accident but murder. Veronica and her natural historian beau, Stoker, tell the patron of the exhibit, Princess Gisela of Alpenwald, of their findings. With Europe on the verge of war, Gisela's chancellor, Count von Rechstein, does not want to make waves—and before Veronica and Stoker can figure out their next move, the princess disappears.
Having noted Veronica's resemblance to the princess, von Rechstein begs her to pose as Gisela for the sake of the peace treaty that brought the princess to England. Veronica reluctantly agrees to the scheme. She and Stoker must work together to keep the treaty intact while navigating unwelcome advances, assassination attempts, and Veronica's own family—the royalty who has never claimed her.
344 pages, Paperback
First published March 2, 2021
779 people are currently reading
11153 people want to read
About the author
Deanna Raybourn
40 books9,440 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist Deanna Raybourn is a 6th-generation native Texan. She graduated with a double major in English and history from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Married to her college sweetheart and the mother of one, Raybourn makes her home in Virginia. Her novels have been nominated for numerous awards including two RT Reviewers’ Choice awards, the Agatha, two Dilys Winns, a Last Laugh, three du Mauriers, and most recently the 2019 Edgar Award for Best Novel. She launched a new Victorian mystery series with the 2015 release of A CURIOUS BEGINNING, featuring intrepid butterfly-hunter and amateur sleuth, Veronica Speedwell. Veronica has returned in several more adventures, most recently AN IMPOSSIBLE IMPOSTOR, book seven, which released in early 2022. Deanna's first contemporary novel, KILLERS OF A CERTAIN AGE, about four female assassins on the cusp of retirement publishes in September 2022. (Please note: Deanna is not active on GR.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,577 reviews
August 10, 2021
As soon as I saw shining, blazing, tempting cover of the book promising me another dazzling Veronica and Stoker adventure, I clicked the request button so hard and I broke several keyboard letters of my longtime friend/ companion pc! Sorry! When I am getting too excited about something I turn into readzilla ( new name of extra dedicated avid reader)
This book is quite satisfying like the other installments. There is still amazing sizzling chemistry, smart banters between characters make you squirm in your seat.
This time Veronica finds herself impersonating a princess as she’s in the middle of a suspicious accident investigation which is highly a murder!
Mystery part was well developed and some twists are truly fascinating. I also enjoyed the evolvement of Veronica and Stoker’s relationship because after they come clean I was wondering which direction the author will follow for them. I was a little worried about probable separation or angsty heartbreaking parts but I’m so happy that their blooming relationship is going better than I imagine. Especially some parts of the book made me sigh for a long time. A few tears dropped but I dried them quickly, wore my big girl’s pants!
Overall: the author never disappoints me! I had fantastic time with smart mystery and heartwarming romance! I’m addicted to this series! I’m looking forward to devour the next installment!
Special thanks to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this remarkable arc copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
This book is quite satisfying like the other installments. There is still amazing sizzling chemistry, smart banters between characters make you squirm in your seat.
This time Veronica finds herself impersonating a princess as she’s in the middle of a suspicious accident investigation which is highly a murder!
Mystery part was well developed and some twists are truly fascinating. I also enjoyed the evolvement of Veronica and Stoker’s relationship because after they come clean I was wondering which direction the author will follow for them. I was a little worried about probable separation or angsty heartbreaking parts but I’m so happy that their blooming relationship is going better than I imagine. Especially some parts of the book made me sigh for a long time. A few tears dropped but I dried them quickly, wore my big girl’s pants!
Overall: the author never disappoints me! I had fantastic time with smart mystery and heartwarming romance! I’m addicted to this series! I’m looking forward to devour the next installment!
Special thanks to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this remarkable arc copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
February 9, 2024
This was another fun adventure of Veronica Speedwell and her now boyfriend, Stoker. This time, the author invents a country in Europe together with a full royalty and a murderer. As I said, fun and light.
May 22, 2023
2023 ⭐️4
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/MrU2exNWEJA
This is the only one that I stand by being less of a delight than the rest of the series. It's still great in it's own right. But compared to every other book in the series? Um...it's mid for me.
Quote that took me out
2022 ⭐️3.5
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/2vf4HqIG5z4
I am sure that I would enjoy this even more upon reread. I was binging this series and having such a lovely time. This wasn't above other 5 star reads I had in this series but I still thoroughly enjoyed it and am so happy to have these characters in my life
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/MrU2exNWEJA
This is the only one that I stand by being less of a delight than the rest of the series. It's still great in it's own right. But compared to every other book in the series? Um...it's mid for me.
Quote that took me out
2022 ⭐️3.5
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/2vf4HqIG5z4
I am sure that I would enjoy this even more upon reread. I was binging this series and having such a lovely time. This wasn't above other 5 star reads I had in this series but I still thoroughly enjoyed it and am so happy to have these characters in my life
July 27, 2021
Veronica Speedwell - the intrepid lepidopterist, natural history buff and part time sleuth - is at it again. This time she’s attempting to solve a crime involving the famous female alpinist Alice Baker-Greene, who may or may not have been murdered while climbing a mountain in the tiny foreign country of Alpenwald. Along with her handsome and stalwart - although sometimes argumentative - lover Stoker, Veronica will need to investigate without creating a political incident. When the Princess Gisela of Alpenwald goes missing, Veronica is pressed into service to impersonate her Serene Highness. They do have common ancestors so their resemblance isn’t too shocking. Investigations and impersonations make for a fun and interesting new installment of Veronica’s adventures.
Raybourn is a favorite author of mine and Veronica is my favorite heroine from all of her books. Her writing style is gorgeous. The imagery is enough to set the scene without sacrificing characterization or plot. In fact, her imagery usually sets tone, illustrates characters and their personalities, as well as develops the action and movement of the scene. That’s a lot to do but Raybourn does it well. I never feel like the story is bogged down by descriptions of clothing, setting, characters and food. More often than not, I love to soak in the ambience of her descriptions.
I love the sense of humor and the romance in these books. Some of the lines had me laughing out loud or sighing in rapture.
“The baroness gave me a thin smile. ‘We have a saying in the Alpenwald, Fraulein. Plans are jokes written by men for God’s amusement.’
‘That is hardly reassuring,’ I told her.
‘It sounds better in German.’
There is a scene where Stoker expresses just how much he loves Veronica and my heart melted into a puddle. Just as good as the scene in A Dangerous Collaboration that I loved so much. Stoker’s poetic words and his tendency to quote Keats just make him that much more lovable.
Veronica and Stoker have a beautiful relationship. It’s taken awhile to get to this point but they are finally open with their feelings. While Veronica loves Stoker beyond doubt, she is struggling in her new committed relationship. She has spent her life being independent and free from confines. Although, I would say that she probably ran away from things more than she ran towards anything. Veronica has had something missing from her life and Stoker fills that void. The problem is Veronica is afraid and this novel finds her running straight into a mystery in order to distract her from serious relationship worries. What I love about Stoker is that he understands all of this and supports her in her identity crises, even when he’s afraid he’ll lose the love of his life. I love these two so much.
The mystery is good and twisty - just how I like them. There’s a lot going on with Alice’s murder and the missing Princess Gisela. The clues and foreshadowing are well done and I definitely had a fun time figuring it out before the big reveal. Raybourn always makes you work for it, which I appreciate.
If you have tried the others in the series, this one is just as good as A Dangerous Collaboration (#4). I know some reviewers were disappointed with A Murderous Relation (#5). I would say that this one made up for some of those issues. Although, I have loved all of them! An Unexpected Peril was a joyful reading experience - just like all the others.
Raybourn is a favorite author of mine and Veronica is my favorite heroine from all of her books. Her writing style is gorgeous. The imagery is enough to set the scene without sacrificing characterization or plot. In fact, her imagery usually sets tone, illustrates characters and their personalities, as well as develops the action and movement of the scene. That’s a lot to do but Raybourn does it well. I never feel like the story is bogged down by descriptions of clothing, setting, characters and food. More often than not, I love to soak in the ambience of her descriptions.
I love the sense of humor and the romance in these books. Some of the lines had me laughing out loud or sighing in rapture.
“The baroness gave me a thin smile. ‘We have a saying in the Alpenwald, Fraulein. Plans are jokes written by men for God’s amusement.’
‘That is hardly reassuring,’ I told her.
‘It sounds better in German.’
There is a scene where Stoker expresses just how much he loves Veronica and my heart melted into a puddle. Just as good as the scene in A Dangerous Collaboration that I loved so much. Stoker’s poetic words and his tendency to quote Keats just make him that much more lovable.
Veronica and Stoker have a beautiful relationship. It’s taken awhile to get to this point but they are finally open with their feelings. While Veronica loves Stoker beyond doubt, she is struggling in her new committed relationship. She has spent her life being independent and free from confines. Although, I would say that she probably ran away from things more than she ran towards anything. Veronica has had something missing from her life and Stoker fills that void. The problem is Veronica is afraid and this novel finds her running straight into a mystery in order to distract her from serious relationship worries. What I love about Stoker is that he understands all of this and supports her in her identity crises, even when he’s afraid he’ll lose the love of his life. I love these two so much.
The mystery is good and twisty - just how I like them. There’s a lot going on with Alice’s murder and the missing Princess Gisela. The clues and foreshadowing are well done and I definitely had a fun time figuring it out before the big reveal. Raybourn always makes you work for it, which I appreciate.
If you have tried the others in the series, this one is just as good as A Dangerous Collaboration (#4). I know some reviewers were disappointed with A Murderous Relation (#5). I would say that this one made up for some of those issues. Although, I have loved all of them! An Unexpected Peril was a joyful reading experience - just like all the others.
Want to read
June 16, 2020
...
...
"Veronica and her natural historian beau, Stoker"
me @ how long i've had to wait for this to happen:
...
"Veronica and her natural historian beau, Stoker"
me @ how long i've had to wait for this to happen:
February 22, 2021
Normally the Veronica Speedwell series is one I look forward to each release and read almost immediately upon receiving it. I love the adventures Stoker and Veronica find themselves in and the settings are always amazing, not to mention the chemistry between these two is always off the charts.
And while I did like this newest installment, it felt different from past installments and I have to be honest, I didn't always like Veronica. At times she felt selfish, petulant and downright horrible in character, especially in dealing with Stoker and he concerns for her and I just felt myself not liking her at all, which is something that has never happened with this series for me. I've always admired how headstrong Veronica is and so out of characters (in the best possible way!) for women of this era but this time, it felt forced and made Veronica out to be a not very nice person and someone that was unable to compromise and had to have her way, damn the consequences. At times I confess, she didn't seem worthy of Stoker at all. In fact, I almost put this down and stopped reading altogether.
It wasn't until about the 40% mark that things felt more normal for this series and Veronica stopped acting the spoiled petulant child and started being her head strong adventure loving self again...for the most part.
Honestly if it wasn't for Stoker and his tender moments, I'm not sure I would have finished this one at all. I can't really explain it but I'm hoping with the way this one ended, the next book will be better. I'm not quite ready to give up on this series yet.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
And while I did like this newest installment, it felt different from past installments and I have to be honest, I didn't always like Veronica. At times she felt selfish, petulant and downright horrible in character, especially in dealing with Stoker and he concerns for her and I just felt myself not liking her at all, which is something that has never happened with this series for me. I've always admired how headstrong Veronica is and so out of characters (in the best possible way!) for women of this era but this time, it felt forced and made Veronica out to be a not very nice person and someone that was unable to compromise and had to have her way, damn the consequences. At times I confess, she didn't seem worthy of Stoker at all. In fact, I almost put this down and stopped reading altogether.
It wasn't until about the 40% mark that things felt more normal for this series and Veronica stopped acting the spoiled petulant child and started being her head strong adventure loving self again...for the most part.
Honestly if it wasn't for Stoker and his tender moments, I'm not sure I would have finished this one at all. I can't really explain it but I'm hoping with the way this one ended, the next book will be better. I'm not quite ready to give up on this series yet.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
April 10, 2021
Easily the best part of this book was that it wasn't the previous installment. As in, it was better. Not that it counts for much as I felt book five just so overwhelmingly.. well, not good. But anyway, yes, this was likely the closest to being what I loved from these books in the early installments. For which I'm grateful, even as I continue to believe I have just lost the love for this world. Or maybe the magic just isn't there anymore. One or the other.
While I won't say that this mystery was compelling or edge of your seat, I do think the diversion of the politics of this little country, and the involvement of the princess to the murder victim, was well done. I even appreciated that despite how things are now going for our investigative duo, there are still moments of friction and disagreements and yet it doesn't become a big moment of drama. They work through their clashes, resolve them, and I appreciate that adult behaviour. I do think my love for Veronica will never quite return and it's definitely Stoker that is keeping me in this game but she does have her moments.
Overall, even though we had some near death/disaster moments, the stakes never really feel high or even remotely tense. I think the series has just become somewhat.. fluffy? Lighthearted? I think I saw another reviewer say cozy and I don't disagree with that actually. They are a little silly, while balancing real moments of history, and maybe I just have to stop taking them as seriously as I have during the last few installments. I don't know. Time will tell. Because I still don't think we know how many more books are to come. I wish we did.
Ultimately this wasn't a bad addition to the series and I am happy to not have been disappointed yet again.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
While I won't say that this mystery was compelling or edge of your seat, I do think the diversion of the politics of this little country, and the involvement of the princess to the murder victim, was well done. I even appreciated that despite how things are now going for our investigative duo, there are still moments of friction and disagreements and yet it doesn't become a big moment of drama. They work through their clashes, resolve them, and I appreciate that adult behaviour. I do think my love for Veronica will never quite return and it's definitely Stoker that is keeping me in this game but she does have her moments.
Overall, even though we had some near death/disaster moments, the stakes never really feel high or even remotely tense. I think the series has just become somewhat.. fluffy? Lighthearted? I think I saw another reviewer say cozy and I don't disagree with that actually. They are a little silly, while balancing real moments of history, and maybe I just have to stop taking them as seriously as I have during the last few installments. I don't know. Time will tell. Because I still don't think we know how many more books are to come. I wish we did.
Ultimately this wasn't a bad addition to the series and I am happy to not have been disappointed yet again.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
March 2, 2021
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I loved this book! I have been a fan of this series from the start and it seems to just get better with each installment. I started reading this book just as soon as a copy made its way into my greedy little hands just because I couldn't wait to see what was next for Veronica and Stoker. I found this installment to be incredibly entertaining and have a fantastic time with it.
Veronica and Stoker learn about a female mountain climber and they suspect that her untimely death may not be the accident that it has been believed to be. Soon after they inform the Princess of their suspicions, the Princess goes missing and Veronica is asked to step in and take her place. Things get really interesting very quickly with Veronica posing as the Princess while still investigating the death of the mountain climber.
I found this book to be incredibly exciting. I had a lot of fun watching Veronica and Stoker step into a different role even for a little while. They both have such strong personalities so it was very entertaining to see them act differently than they would naturally. The mystery itself was very interesting and much more involved than I thought it would be at the start of the story. There were a few times that I worried if Veronica and Stoker would be able to get out of this situation unscathed. I really loved seeing the relationship between Veronica and Stoker grow during this installment. These two really care about each other and can be quite protective of each other.
I would highly recommend this series to others. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order if at all possible since each installment builds on the events of the previous books. I have found each book to be incredibly well-written and entertaining. I cannot wait to read future installments in this fantastic series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This book was so good! I have been a fan of this series from the start and I think that these books just keep getting better and better. Veronica and Stoker are both awesome as always but I loved seeing the changes in their relationship and how they have grown together through everything. There was even a scene or two that might have melted my heart more than a bit. The mystery was very well done and I continue to be entertained by the situations this pair seems to find themselves in. I had a wonderful time reading this book.
I loved this book! I have been a fan of this series from the start and it seems to just get better with each installment. I started reading this book just as soon as a copy made its way into my greedy little hands just because I couldn't wait to see what was next for Veronica and Stoker. I found this installment to be incredibly entertaining and have a fantastic time with it.
Veronica and Stoker learn about a female mountain climber and they suspect that her untimely death may not be the accident that it has been believed to be. Soon after they inform the Princess of their suspicions, the Princess goes missing and Veronica is asked to step in and take her place. Things get really interesting very quickly with Veronica posing as the Princess while still investigating the death of the mountain climber.
I found this book to be incredibly exciting. I had a lot of fun watching Veronica and Stoker step into a different role even for a little while. They both have such strong personalities so it was very entertaining to see them act differently than they would naturally. The mystery itself was very interesting and much more involved than I thought it would be at the start of the story. There were a few times that I worried if Veronica and Stoker would be able to get out of this situation unscathed. I really loved seeing the relationship between Veronica and Stoker grow during this installment. These two really care about each other and can be quite protective of each other.
I would highly recommend this series to others. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order if at all possible since each installment builds on the events of the previous books. I have found each book to be incredibly well-written and entertaining. I cannot wait to read future installments in this fantastic series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This book was so good! I have been a fan of this series from the start and I think that these books just keep getting better and better. Veronica and Stoker are both awesome as always but I loved seeing the changes in their relationship and how they have grown together through everything. There was even a scene or two that might have melted my heart more than a bit. The mystery was very well done and I continue to be entertained by the situations this pair seems to find themselves in. I had a wonderful time reading this book.
May 10, 2021
I'm so sad at how underwhelmed I was by this. 😔I didn't hate it as much as the last installment but it just didn't give me the satisfying feeling that books 1-4 did. I also hate the way Veronica and Stoker's romance gets glossed over now that they're together. I'm not saying I expected full on sex scene but I definitely expected more than what we've been given in the last 2 books. If there's going to be another book in the series I hope the mystery takes place somewhere other than England because that setting is quite stale now.
I will still stand by recommending this series since there's 4 really great books to start with but I've just been thoroughly disappointed by the last two installments. 🥺
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I will still stand by recommending this series since there's 4 really great books to start with but I've just been thoroughly disappointed by the last two installments. 🥺
Booktube | Instagram | Twitter
February 9, 2025
The mysteries, shenanigans, and razor sharp wit I adore about this series is alive and well in book six.
Veronica has barely gotten her feet wet as a member of the Curiosity Club (elite society for intrepid women) when she discovers evidence that points to murder in the death of Alice Baker-Greene a pioneering mountain climber. She and Stoker soon realize a princess is missing and note a peace treaty is poised to fall through if immediate action isn’t taken.
I had never given much thought to early female mountaineering, but I found the topic fascinating. The author further discusses the topic in the author’s note so stick around for that.
As always this series delivers on all fronts and Angele Masters’s top tier narration is the perfect fit for Veronica. 🩵
Veronica has barely gotten her feet wet as a member of the Curiosity Club (elite society for intrepid women) when she discovers evidence that points to murder in the death of Alice Baker-Greene a pioneering mountain climber. She and Stoker soon realize a princess is missing and note a peace treaty is poised to fall through if immediate action isn’t taken.
I had never given much thought to early female mountaineering, but I found the topic fascinating. The author further discusses the topic in the author’s note so stick around for that.
As always this series delivers on all fronts and Angele Masters’s top tier narration is the perfect fit for Veronica. 🩵
August 20, 2021
"Stoker, as you well know, murders happen," I told him.
"But why must they happen to us?"
This one gets off to a rough start with Raybourn basically repeating a line from the second novel in the series about men being happiest when they are mansplaining, and things really don't get much better from there.
At least some of the magic is back with regards to the dialogue:
"She is a woman of advanced years. Women of advanced years always live in cottages. Usually with cats of malodorous appearance."
"That is the most absurd statement," he began.
"Your old nanny," I hazarded, "probably lives in a cottage." It was always a winning strategy to prod his overweening sense of chivalry.
He snorted. "My old nanny has a boardinghouse in Brighton that is fitted with an electric generator because she blackmailed my father into giving her half of my mother's jewels."
I blinked at him. "She what?"
He picked up his teacup again. "That is a tale for another time."
And, I much rather would have heard that tale than the one told in Raybourn's sixth Veronica outing. After wading through an insanely tedious chapter in which Veronica is carefully corsetted, clothed, and concocted to resemble a wayward princess, no amount of pay-off could be big enough.
I'm not giving up on the series, but I certainly won't be awaiting the next volume with bated breath.
"But why must they happen to us?"
This one gets off to a rough start with Raybourn basically repeating a line from the second novel in the series about men being happiest when they are mansplaining, and things really don't get much better from there.
At least some of the magic is back with regards to the dialogue:
"She is a woman of advanced years. Women of advanced years always live in cottages. Usually with cats of malodorous appearance."
"That is the most absurd statement," he began.
"Your old nanny," I hazarded, "probably lives in a cottage." It was always a winning strategy to prod his overweening sense of chivalry.
He snorted. "My old nanny has a boardinghouse in Brighton that is fitted with an electric generator because she blackmailed my father into giving her half of my mother's jewels."
I blinked at him. "She what?"
He picked up his teacup again. "That is a tale for another time."
And, I much rather would have heard that tale than the one told in Raybourn's sixth Veronica outing. After wading through an insanely tedious chapter in which Veronica is carefully corsetted, clothed, and concocted to resemble a wayward princess, no amount of pay-off could be big enough.
I'm not giving up on the series, but I certainly won't be awaiting the next volume with bated breath.
April 5, 2021
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
This series continues to make me happy and keep me entertained. The things that I loved in the other installments still thrill me in this one - especially Veronica and Stoker - and I want this series to continue with more books. But I am beginning to need something... more. Something new. Perhaps more LGBTQ, which was a new element in this book.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Stoker and Veronica: There's is no way I will ever stop shipping this couple. They are just so amazing for each other and have so much chemistry, affection and care for each other. They will always be couple goals to me.
Mystery: The mystery of these books are, of course, always a big draw for me, but this one was particularly well crafted. It took some delightful turns on the way that I really appreciated.
LGBTQ: This was a great addition to the universe, some LGBTQ representation. I wouldn't mind even more of that in the upcoming novels.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Something new: I hesitate to even call this something that I 'dislike', but I did think that this book didn't add that much new to the series. I would like for Veronica and Stoker to be challenged in some new way (in regards to their mysteries, not their relationship). Or for something new and unexpected to enter this world.
This series continues to make me happy and keep me entertained. The things that I loved in the other installments still thrill me in this one - especially Veronica and Stoker - and I want this series to continue with more books. But I am beginning to need something... more. Something new. Perhaps more LGBTQ, which was a new element in this book.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Stoker and Veronica: There's is no way I will ever stop shipping this couple. They are just so amazing for each other and have so much chemistry, affection and care for each other. They will always be couple goals to me.
Mystery: The mystery of these books are, of course, always a big draw for me, but this one was particularly well crafted. It took some delightful turns on the way that I really appreciated.
LGBTQ: This was a great addition to the universe, some LGBTQ representation. I wouldn't mind even more of that in the upcoming novels.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Something new: I hesitate to even call this something that I 'dislike', but I did think that this book didn't add that much new to the series. I would like for Veronica and Stoker to be challenged in some new way (in regards to their mysteries, not their relationship). Or for something new and unexpected to enter this world.
February 10, 2021
Ugh. This poor book.
I struggled with the last one. And this just could not get off the ground.
Veronica’s irreverence came across as selfish and harpy. Even while she had someone else to think about she was focused on “adventure” and herself. It felt like she hadn’t grown or changed or improved since the first book - and that was disappointing.
The “mystery” was far-fetched and uncomfortable - and awful reason to throw away an amazing man.
I’m done with this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to offer my honest opinion.
I struggled with the last one. And this just could not get off the ground.
Veronica’s irreverence came across as selfish and harpy. Even while she had someone else to think about she was focused on “adventure” and herself. It felt like she hadn’t grown or changed or improved since the first book - and that was disappointing.
The “mystery” was far-fetched and uncomfortable - and awful reason to throw away an amazing man.
I’m done with this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to offer my honest opinion.
May 1, 2021
I started this series loving Veronica. The problem I have is that I just finished book 6 and there has been no growth in her character. She seems to be selfish, opinionated and bored. The plot and mystery were weak. I love the character of Stoker. There has been growth and maybe he needs to find someone else as I no longer feel the chemistry between them.
July 23, 2021
It is with decided disappointment that I must report this latest addition has not in fact recaptured the magic of the earlier books in this series.
Entertaining enough, but certainly not the best of the bunch. The mystery, while interesting in some regards, did not strongly hook my interest until close to the near end.
Stoker & Veronica
While I again find myself disappointed by the continued tell rather than show in terms of their liaisons, I am happy to report they did make progress in terms of discussing what it is they mean to each other, and what they both want/expect out of their relationship. Though at times, Veronica's vehemence at remaining her own woman who belongs to no one grew tiresome. She and Stroker are in a committed relationship, so to some degree, they do belong to each other. That's what it means to love someone. Her stubbornness to acknowledge that very fact began to grate.
So while there were parts I liked, there was nothing that I particularly loved. Aside from Stroker, he continues to be a hopeless romantic and, for some reason, I cannot fault him that.
The book, in my opinion, is not some fast-paced, edge of your seat page-turner, but rather a comfortable tea read. A book you can enjoy at your leisure when the mood suits you.
Now I know there is to be at least one more book in this series, so I hope that if it proves to be the final installment that we see some much-needed character growth. And perhaps the return of Stroker's eldest brother Tiberius. I miss him.
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Big thank you to Berkley Publishing for providing me with a copy!
Entertaining enough, but certainly not the best of the bunch. The mystery, while interesting in some regards, did not strongly hook my interest until close to the near end.
Stoker & Veronica
While I again find myself disappointed by the continued tell rather than show in terms of their liaisons, I am happy to report they did make progress in terms of discussing what it is they mean to each other, and what they both want/expect out of their relationship. Though at times, Veronica's vehemence at remaining her own woman who belongs to no one grew tiresome. She and Stroker are in a committed relationship, so to some degree, they do belong to each other. That's what it means to love someone. Her stubbornness to acknowledge that very fact began to grate.
So while there were parts I liked, there was nothing that I particularly loved. Aside from Stroker, he continues to be a hopeless romantic and, for some reason, I cannot fault him that.
The book, in my opinion, is not some fast-paced, edge of your seat page-turner, but rather a comfortable tea read. A book you can enjoy at your leisure when the mood suits you.
Now I know there is to be at least one more book in this series, so I hope that if it proves to be the final installment that we see some much-needed character growth. And perhaps the return of Stroker's eldest brother Tiberius. I miss him.
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Big thank you to Berkley Publishing for providing me with a copy!
March 3, 2025
love how they literally almost die in every book lmfao
April 29, 2021
An absolute delight, as usual. Ms. Raybourn, thank you for the continuing perils of Miss Veronica Speedwell. She is an entrancing feminist in a stuffy Victorian setting, and I absolutely adore her. Plus, her charming associate, Mr. Templeton-Vane. He is described delectably.
If you have read this far in the series, you know of Veronica’s connections to the Royal Family, murky as they are. In this volume, these bonds do up the ante, requiring our heroine to attempt a dangerous deceit and having an unanticipated run in with her famous father. Having just dealt admirably with ambassadors and diplomats, Veronica is rendered speechless when he suddenly appears and she sees him in person for the first time.
As always, Stoker can be depended upon to try to be the voice of reason, and as usual resistance is futile. He makes the best of things by eating whenever food is available and stashing sweets in his pockets. The dynamic between the two has taken a much more serious turn, and I will be interested to see where Raybourn intends to take it. Because there must be another book coming, judging by the final chapter. (Although I thought that about her Lady Julia series and was seriously mistaken sadly.) Shall we say that I hope there are more Veronica adventures to come? Please, Ms. Raybourn, may we have some more?
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
If you have read this far in the series, you know of Veronica’s connections to the Royal Family, murky as they are. In this volume, these bonds do up the ante, requiring our heroine to attempt a dangerous deceit and having an unanticipated run in with her famous father. Having just dealt admirably with ambassadors and diplomats, Veronica is rendered speechless when he suddenly appears and she sees him in person for the first time.
As always, Stoker can be depended upon to try to be the voice of reason, and as usual resistance is futile. He makes the best of things by eating whenever food is available and stashing sweets in his pockets. The dynamic between the two has taken a much more serious turn, and I will be interested to see where Raybourn intends to take it. Because there must be another book coming, judging by the final chapter. (Although I thought that about her Lady Julia series and was seriously mistaken sadly.) Shall we say that I hope there are more Veronica adventures to come? Please, Ms. Raybourn, may we have some more?
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
February 27, 2021
NEW FAV MYSTERY
Glory days, I’ve found a new fav mystery series! AN UNEXPECTED PERIL, the latest of six, works as a stand-alone but you betcha I’m adding the first five to my TBR pile!
How I adore protagonist Veronica Speedwell, a fiercely independent amateur detective in 1889’s England, and Stoker, her lover and partner in detection. In their latest adventure, they investigate the tragic death of a female climber who fell off a mountain. And, Veronica, who looks like a twin to a missing princess, takes her place to ensure a vital peace treaty holds.
Did the climber fall or was she murdered? Will the princess be found and the treaty kept safe? Will Veronica and Stoker’s love grow even deeper? Ignore AN UNEXPECTED PERIL at your peril — or happily read it and be outrageously entertained! Out March 2.
QOTD: What’s your fav mystery series?
~~
Thanks Deanna Raybourn, Berkley Publishing, and Edelweiss+ for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#AnUnexpectedPeril #deannaraybourn
#BerkleyPub #edelweissbyabovethetreeline
#historicalfictionmysteries #histfic #femalesleuths #victorianeramystery #victoriaspeedwell #moutainmurder #alpinistas
#princessmystery
Glory days, I’ve found a new fav mystery series! AN UNEXPECTED PERIL, the latest of six, works as a stand-alone but you betcha I’m adding the first five to my TBR pile!
How I adore protagonist Veronica Speedwell, a fiercely independent amateur detective in 1889’s England, and Stoker, her lover and partner in detection. In their latest adventure, they investigate the tragic death of a female climber who fell off a mountain. And, Veronica, who looks like a twin to a missing princess, takes her place to ensure a vital peace treaty holds.
Did the climber fall or was she murdered? Will the princess be found and the treaty kept safe? Will Veronica and Stoker’s love grow even deeper? Ignore AN UNEXPECTED PERIL at your peril — or happily read it and be outrageously entertained! Out March 2.
QOTD: What’s your fav mystery series?
~~
Thanks Deanna Raybourn, Berkley Publishing, and Edelweiss+ for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#AnUnexpectedPeril #deannaraybourn
#BerkleyPub #edelweissbyabovethetreeline
#historicalfictionmysteries #histfic #femalesleuths #victorianeramystery #victoriaspeedwell #moutainmurder #alpinistas
#princessmystery
April 23, 2023
Another wonderful adventure in this series. I love the characters of Veronica and Stoker. They just make me laugh with their banter back and forth. Veronica’s masquerading of Princess Gisela of Aldenwal amidst her own family drama was extraordinary. The adventures of mountain climbing was very interesting.
December 14, 2024
I've been enjoying this series. This book's plot felt slower to me than the others. Lots of information being repeated and not a lot of plot. The logic at the climax failed and the ending was contrived
However, like most series, there are good installments and not-so-good. I do love the characters and the world and the narrator, so I'll keep listening.
However, like most series, there are good installments and not-so-good. I do love the characters and the world and the narrator, so I'll keep listening.
August 25, 2025
Unfortunately this has been my least favourite of the series so far, the bantering will-they/won't-they of earlier books came across as petulant bickering, needling and very nit-picky in this instalment. I am sure it was supposed to be quaint or something, but honestly it just annoyed the heck out of me.
I really dislike the way Veronica picks at other characters from her self-appointed high horse, it comes across condescending and superior - when she really is just throwing theories at a wall to see what sticks.
Stoker has had some good character growth since the series started, hopefully his explanation to her at the end will help open her eyes to get her there or else I may have to end my adventure alongside Miss Speedwell 🤔
The mystery while interesting in how it all shakes out by the end hit new levels of unbelievable on another hand - just really?
We all know certain key aspects of this series don't float my boat and this although a slightly new twist with an international element fell flat as I just don't buy it *sigh* 🫥
I feel we sadly don't get enough of the side characters that have been introduced, Tiberius got quite a lot of page time a few books back and that was unsurprisingly my fav of the series so far.
Y'all know I'm a sucker of side characters and there are so many good ones that have been introduced so far yet time and again they are sidelined to bring in new people in each book, who don't return, at the expense of the characters we already know and are invested in - - but instead they get brought in as convenient means of moving the plot along rather than allowing them the page time to shine that was afforded to T.
The same is happening with who have been there since book1 and while I enjoy when they appear, I am saddened that they aren't given more page time.
I have the audioversion of the next book borrowed from the library so will give that one a whirl and see if Veronica can learn anything from Stoker's revelations/musings at the end of this one or if it will be more of the same I may have to dip out on this series...
I really dislike the way Veronica picks at other characters from her self-appointed high horse, it comes across condescending and superior - when she really is just throwing theories at a wall to see what sticks.
Stoker has had some good character growth since the series started, hopefully his explanation to her at the end will help open her eyes to get her there or else I may have to end my adventure alongside Miss Speedwell 🤔
The mystery while interesting in how it all shakes out by the end hit new levels of unbelievable on another hand - just really?
We all know certain key aspects of this series don't float my boat and this although a slightly new twist with an international element fell flat as I just don't buy it *sigh* 🫥
I feel we sadly don't get enough of the side characters that have been introduced, Tiberius got quite a lot of page time a few books back and that was unsurprisingly my fav of the series so far.
Y'all know I'm a sucker of side characters and there are so many good ones that have been introduced so far yet time and again they are sidelined to bring in new people in each book, who don't return, at the expense of the characters we already know and are invested in - - but instead they get brought in as convenient means of moving the plot along rather than allowing them the page time to shine that was afforded to T.
The same is happening with who have been there since book1 and while I enjoy when they appear, I am saddened that they aren't given more page time.
I have the audioversion of the next book borrowed from the library so will give that one a whirl and see if Veronica can learn anything from Stoker's revelations/musings at the end of this one or if it will be more of the same I may have to dip out on this series...
December 6, 2024
Veronica Speedwell is one of my all-time favorite historical fiction heroines, but this was far from the best book in this fantastic series. Was it still good? Yes, but given the excitement of prior novels, I was bored with the pacing in several instances. I liked the background, but the mystery was solved in my head from the beginning, and nothing occurred to dissuade me from my theory. And it took FOREVER to get to solving a crime.
Stoker was my least favorite in this novel. His drive and spunk were sorely missing, and he had few witty comments. He was more of a backdrop while being present in many scenes. Veronica was a joy as always, but some vocabulary additions felt forced in comparison to earlier books. She can breeze them it eloquently.
I liked the overall plot and the more details we get into the family life. I guess I feel this one was rushed to print and didn't have the same flair of prior adventures. It felt unfinished and lacked polish. Perhaps there is a new Raybourn editor. If so, please find the old one. I want more passion. We got one good scene, and there are too many instances: I won't write that here. It was used at least five times for language that felt jarring from the story experience instead of keeping the book flow.
Overall, I will read any Speedwell adventure Deanna Raybourn writes, and I hope we are far from the end of her expeditions. She needs to get away from London for a time.
3.75-4 Stars for me.
Stoker was my least favorite in this novel. His drive and spunk were sorely missing, and he had few witty comments. He was more of a backdrop while being present in many scenes. Veronica was a joy as always, but some vocabulary additions felt forced in comparison to earlier books. She can breeze them it eloquently.
I liked the overall plot and the more details we get into the family life. I guess I feel this one was rushed to print and didn't have the same flair of prior adventures. It felt unfinished and lacked polish. Perhaps there is a new Raybourn editor. If so, please find the old one. I want more passion. We got one good scene, and there are too many instances: I won't write that here. It was used at least five times for language that felt jarring from the story experience instead of keeping the book flow.
Overall, I will read any Speedwell adventure Deanna Raybourn writes, and I hope we are far from the end of her expeditions. She needs to get away from London for a time.
3.75-4 Stars for me.
March 8, 2021
Veronica and Stoker become embroiled in another dangerous escapade when a member of the Hippolyta Club’s tribute turns into a murder mystery involving royalty.
Alice Baker-Green, a member of the Hippolyta Club, fell to her death in what was thought to be a tragic climbing accident. While preparing for her tribute, Stoker and Veronica stumble upon evidence that shows her fall was no accident. Stoker would like to leave things to the authorities of the Alpenwald, where the “accident” occurred, but Veronica is determined to find justice for Ms. Baker-Green. Just as Veronica think she’s hit a roadblock, another avenue of investigation opens up. The royal delegation of Alpenwald reaches out to Veronica for help in a desperate situation giving Veronica the perfect inside access to those with firsthand knowledge of Alice before her death.
Veronica Speedwell never fails to make me laugh. Her adventures and romance with Stoker are endlessly entertaining. These two found exactly the right person in each other to fall in love with.
Although,
Another clever, engaging installment in the Veronica Speedwell series. If you haven’t started this series yet you’re missing out!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Alice Baker-Green, a member of the Hippolyta Club, fell to her death in what was thought to be a tragic climbing accident. While preparing for her tribute, Stoker and Veronica stumble upon evidence that shows her fall was no accident. Stoker would like to leave things to the authorities of the Alpenwald, where the “accident” occurred, but Veronica is determined to find justice for Ms. Baker-Green. Just as Veronica think she’s hit a roadblock, another avenue of investigation opens up. The royal delegation of Alpenwald reaches out to Veronica for help in a desperate situation giving Veronica the perfect inside access to those with firsthand knowledge of Alice before her death.
Veronica Speedwell never fails to make me laugh. Her adventures and romance with Stoker are endlessly entertaining. These two found exactly the right person in each other to fall in love with.
Although,
Another clever, engaging installment in the Veronica Speedwell series. If you haven’t started this series yet you’re missing out!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2022
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
4.5 hearts
The Veronica Speedwell series is very much a Sherlock Holmish mystery and while An Unexpected Peril is again a mystery, this time Veronica spends more time pretending to be someone she is not, than solving a mystery.
Veronica, Lepidopterist by trade, is no stranger to royalty since she is the illegitimate (or legitimate sort of a grey area there) of the King. Not that he can or will acknowledge her. You would think she would stay far away from court intrigues then but Veronica seems to get pulled into them every now and then, and this time she will be impersonating a Princess from a small country in London to sign a secret treaty.
I really enjoy Veronica and Stoker’s relationship. Stoker is everything I love in a hero. Smart, a little broody, prone to spouting poetry and just broken enough that he needs the right woman to help put him back together again. Also he says things like:
So how could I not love him. It has taken Stoker and Veronica a long time to get here but finally they get to openly explore their relationship and how that changes the dynamic slightly between them.
One of accomplished ladies of the Club for women Veronica belongs to fell to her death while climbing in the small country of Alpenwald. When Veronica and Stoker are going through the items sent back with the body, Stoker notices the rope was cut. Veronica and Stoker will again try to find the murder of their acquaintance and figure out what it has to do with the missing princess. That is if Veronica doesn’t get outed as a fraud.
I enjoyed this story and it is a good character development in Stoker and Veronica’s relationship. As much of a strong person Veronica is, she is really bad at depending on anyone and definitely has some demons of her own that are standing directly in the way of her being open and happy in a relationship. She has come far but still has a ways to go. I love seeing how these two characters complement each other and fit together so well. It is a lot of fun to read their banter and enjoy all of their interactions.
Please note - this is the sixth book in the series and to be fully enjoyed I think you have to have gone along on the journey from the beginning.
Narration:
Angele Masters is back again to reprise her role as Veronica. I think she has done a solid job with the entire series and captures Veronica's no nonsense approach to life well. She does great with the banter between Veronica and Stoker as well. I think of her as the voice of this series and was able to listen to the book at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
4.5 hearts
The Veronica Speedwell series is very much a Sherlock Holmish mystery and while An Unexpected Peril is again a mystery, this time Veronica spends more time pretending to be someone she is not, than solving a mystery.
Veronica, Lepidopterist by trade, is no stranger to royalty since she is the illegitimate (or legitimate sort of a grey area there) of the King. Not that he can or will acknowledge her. You would think she would stay far away from court intrigues then but Veronica seems to get pulled into them every now and then, and this time she will be impersonating a Princess from a small country in London to sign a secret treaty.
I really enjoy Veronica and Stoker’s relationship. Stoker is everything I love in a hero. Smart, a little broody, prone to spouting poetry and just broken enough that he needs the right woman to help put him back together again. Also he says things like:
“You are not among the good that has happened to me. You are the best of all that I have known. You are what I searched for when I left that house and wandered this earth, boy and man. You are the part of myself I never thought to find because I did not even dare to dream you existed. You are all that I want and more than I deserve, and I will go to my grave thanking a god in whom I do not believe for bringing me you.”
So how could I not love him. It has taken Stoker and Veronica a long time to get here but finally they get to openly explore their relationship and how that changes the dynamic slightly between them.
One of accomplished ladies of the Club for women Veronica belongs to fell to her death while climbing in the small country of Alpenwald. When Veronica and Stoker are going through the items sent back with the body, Stoker notices the rope was cut. Veronica and Stoker will again try to find the murder of their acquaintance and figure out what it has to do with the missing princess. That is if Veronica doesn’t get outed as a fraud.
I enjoyed this story and it is a good character development in Stoker and Veronica’s relationship. As much of a strong person Veronica is, she is really bad at depending on anyone and definitely has some demons of her own that are standing directly in the way of her being open and happy in a relationship. She has come far but still has a ways to go. I love seeing how these two characters complement each other and fit together so well. It is a lot of fun to read their banter and enjoy all of their interactions.
Please note - this is the sixth book in the series and to be fully enjoyed I think you have to have gone along on the journey from the beginning.
Narration:
Angele Masters is back again to reprise her role as Veronica. I think she has done a solid job with the entire series and captures Veronica's no nonsense approach to life well. She does great with the banter between Veronica and Stoker as well. I think of her as the voice of this series and was able to listen to the book at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
May 19, 2023
“You are not among the good that has happened to me. You are the best of all that I have known. You are what I searched for when I left that house and wandered this earth, boy and man. You are the part of myself I never thought to find because I did not even dare to dream you existed. You are all that I want and more than I deserve, and I will go to my grave thanking a god in whom I do not believe for bringing me you.”
EXCELSIOR!
I really loved this book - it felt so good to come back to this series after what feels like too long. I adore the way Deanna Raybourn lays out the mystery for us: presenting us with a crime and then as Veronica and Stoker investigate, an array of suspects come to light with various motivations that make you continuously guess and theorise - and I think An Unexpected Peril had a REALLY compelling mystery! It all starts with the death of a female mountaineer and a theft but then took a turn towards politics and disguises.
"I understand you, Veronica, because I am you."
I loved Stoker and Veronica's banter and seeing their relationship develop in emotion and intimacy. It just completes the book for me - like, without it, I don't think I would love this series as much as I do. I found, as well, that in this book, Stoker was a lot more open about his adoration for Veronica. His quoting of Keats and his tenderness was just too cute. I only wish Veronica would be more open with her adoration for him, too.
Every time I finish one of these books, I'm just so excited to read the next one
EXCELSIOR!
I really loved this book - it felt so good to come back to this series after what feels like too long. I adore the way Deanna Raybourn lays out the mystery for us: presenting us with a crime and then as Veronica and Stoker investigate, an array of suspects come to light with various motivations that make you continuously guess and theorise - and I think An Unexpected Peril had a REALLY compelling mystery! It all starts with the death of a female mountaineer and a theft but then took a turn towards politics and disguises.
"I understand you, Veronica, because I am you."
I loved Stoker and Veronica's banter and seeing their relationship develop in emotion and intimacy. It just completes the book for me - like, without it, I don't think I would love this series as much as I do. I found, as well, that in this book, Stoker was a lot more open about his adoration for Veronica. His quoting of Keats and his tenderness was just too cute. I only wish Veronica would be more open with her adoration for him, too.
Every time I finish one of these books, I'm just so excited to read the next one
November 30, 2020
While better than the previous volume, this series has provided ever diminishing returns since at least the fourth installment. And, if I’m being precise, I’d go back to the third book to find the source of where the narrative began to show cracks. This book, while entertaining, was probably the coziest entry in the series, and that did not exactly make for thrilling reading. More focused on “humor,” not many pages, if any, were devoted to the peril mentioned in the title. My opinion is that Deanna Raybourn thinks she’s very funny, but unfortunately her quips barely pass as clever. Moreover, I’m not sure I want to read mysteries that are funny rather than thrilling. Part of the problem is that the main character is very much like Diane from Cheers, and while that can work in limited doses, that kind of self-satisfied, know-it-all personality grates after a while. At times, that veneer does slip, but Veronica never has enough room to fully get out from under her own pluck. I also feel this book had gaps. It’s as if the characters had conversations the readers aren’t privy to, but we are expected to possess full context when none is given. I’m hoping some real ground is covered in future. Lately, these have been more entertaining for a rainy day than compelling, and they could be if the author put in a bit more effort.
July 12, 2024
3.5 stars
Stoker: We should stop with dangerous adventures.
Veronica: We should continue.
Stoker: Excelsior!
Stoker: We should stop with dangerous adventures.
Veronica: We should continue.
Stoker: Excelsior!
April 18, 2021
One of my favorite mystery series, and it keeps getting better.
February 27, 2021
Death by design!
Lepidopterist, Veronica Speedwell is dealing with issues of commitment. Her relationship with Stoker (the Honorable Revelstoke Templeton-Vane) has undergone change. Although blissful it has her deeply worried. She’s dreading he might want the full thing. Marriage is too much like being strangled for her. Not that Stoker has suggested this. However Veronica is full on into panic mode. Just as well that their newly embarked on physical relationship is wonderful. Veronica’s emotions impact their interactions to the extent that Veronica appears petulant to the point of churlishness—most un Veronica!
However the two suddenly find themselves in the midst of a political landmine. Veronica has been asked to put together an exhibition as a tribute to a female mountaineer from the tiny kingdom of Alpenwal who tragically died in a fall. Having previously met the intrepid climber Alice Baker-Greene, Veronica was honored to do this. Amazingly it seems Veronica eerily resembles the hereditary Princess, Her Serene Highness, Gisela Frederica Victoria Helena, ruler of Alpenwal, which later becomes a huge problem. Meanwhile after inspecting some of the items for the exhibition, Stoker and Veronica are convinced Baker-Greene was murdered. However after disclosing this to the princess she disappears, something she apparently does this from time to time, and her entourage ask Veronica to masquerade as Gisela. This could become complicated politically as Veronica is secretly the illegitimate daughter of the Prince of Wales. However she’s assured that this would only be for a short period. Of course things don’t go according to plan.
A different type of case, a different dynamic between Stocker and Veronica, and a rather special moment for Veronica despite all the twisted happenings. The resolution of the mystery was a huge surprise to me.
Another fabulous read about this duo, that I so adore.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
Lepidopterist, Veronica Speedwell is dealing with issues of commitment. Her relationship with Stoker (the Honorable Revelstoke Templeton-Vane) has undergone change. Although blissful it has her deeply worried. She’s dreading he might want the full thing. Marriage is too much like being strangled for her. Not that Stoker has suggested this. However Veronica is full on into panic mode. Just as well that their newly embarked on physical relationship is wonderful. Veronica’s emotions impact their interactions to the extent that Veronica appears petulant to the point of churlishness—most un Veronica!
However the two suddenly find themselves in the midst of a political landmine. Veronica has been asked to put together an exhibition as a tribute to a female mountaineer from the tiny kingdom of Alpenwal who tragically died in a fall. Having previously met the intrepid climber Alice Baker-Greene, Veronica was honored to do this. Amazingly it seems Veronica eerily resembles the hereditary Princess, Her Serene Highness, Gisela Frederica Victoria Helena, ruler of Alpenwal, which later becomes a huge problem. Meanwhile after inspecting some of the items for the exhibition, Stoker and Veronica are convinced Baker-Greene was murdered. However after disclosing this to the princess she disappears, something she apparently does this from time to time, and her entourage ask Veronica to masquerade as Gisela. This could become complicated politically as Veronica is secretly the illegitimate daughter of the Prince of Wales. However she’s assured that this would only be for a short period. Of course things don’t go according to plan.
A different type of case, a different dynamic between Stocker and Veronica, and a rather special moment for Veronica despite all the twisted happenings. The resolution of the mystery was a huge surprise to me.
Another fabulous read about this duo, that I so adore.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
July 26, 2022
I enjoyed this book's story very much. It is such a delight to read about Veronica Speedwell and I love her attitude to life and background (read the books to learn more).
If you enjoy historical mystery series with humor, this series is for you.
If you enjoy historical mystery series with humor, this series is for you.
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