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Veronica Speedwell #3
A Treacherous Curse
London, 1888. As colorful and unfettered as the butterflies she collects, Victorian adventuress Veronica Speedwell can’t resist the allure of an exotic mystery—particularly one involving her enigmatic colleague, Stoker.
His former expedition partner has vanished from an archaeological dig with a priceless diadem unearthed from the newly discovered tomb of an Egyptian princess. This disappearance is just the latest in a string of unfortunate events that have plagued the controversial expedition, and rumors abound that the curse of the vengeful princess has been unleashed as the shadowy figure of Anubis himself stalks the streets of London.
But the perils of an ancient curse are not the only challenges Veronica must face as sordid details and malevolent enemies emerge from Stoker’s past.
Caught in a tangle of conspiracies and threats—and thrust into the public eye by an enterprising new foe—Veronica must separate facts from fantasy to unravel a web of duplicity that threatens to cost Stoker everything. . . .
His former expedition partner has vanished from an archaeological dig with a priceless diadem unearthed from the newly discovered tomb of an Egyptian princess. This disappearance is just the latest in a string of unfortunate events that have plagued the controversial expedition, and rumors abound that the curse of the vengeful princess has been unleashed as the shadowy figure of Anubis himself stalks the streets of London.
But the perils of an ancient curse are not the only challenges Veronica must face as sordid details and malevolent enemies emerge from Stoker’s past.
Caught in a tangle of conspiracies and threats—and thrust into the public eye by an enterprising new foe—Veronica must separate facts from fantasy to unravel a web of duplicity that threatens to cost Stoker everything. . . .
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2018
1544 people are currently reading
16611 people want to read
About the author
Deanna Raybourn
40 books9,384 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 2,768 reviews
September 26, 2022
4.5 STARS
Finally! If you're a fan of Veronica and Stoker but haven't read the latest installment surrounding their adventures yet, you'll be pleased to hear this was a nearly perfect read. Without spoiling the plot, we have officially come full circle back to Stoker's past and many secrets from the previous two novels are revealed in the third. I found my emotional attachment to our main characters deepened through this adventure, as there was much more emotion and characterization here. Don't despair dear reader-there is still plenty of action and a fully fleshed out mystery that kept me guessing until the big reveal, so pacing and intrigue are not sacrificed here. Highly recommended, and I hope you find A Treacherous Curse as exciting, uplifting, and curious as I did! Note- new readers should begin with book one, A Curious Beginning, as these installments to build on each other and there will be spoilers along the way otherwise.
*Review copy furnished by the publisher.
Buddy Read with Irina<3
Finally! If you're a fan of Veronica and Stoker but haven't read the latest installment surrounding their adventures yet, you'll be pleased to hear this was a nearly perfect read. Without spoiling the plot, we have officially come full circle back to Stoker's past and many secrets from the previous two novels are revealed in the third. I found my emotional attachment to our main characters deepened through this adventure, as there was much more emotion and characterization here. Don't despair dear reader-there is still plenty of action and a fully fleshed out mystery that kept me guessing until the big reveal, so pacing and intrigue are not sacrificed here. Highly recommended, and I hope you find A Treacherous Curse as exciting, uplifting, and curious as I did! Note- new readers should begin with book one, A Curious Beginning, as these installments to build on each other and there will be spoilers along the way otherwise.
*Review copy furnished by the publisher.
Buddy Read with Irina<3
July 25, 2018
I LOVE THIS SERIES. Somewhere along the way this has become one of my favorite series. I love Veronica and Stoker so goddamn much. If they don't kiss in the next book I'm going to fUCKING DIE. I'd describe this series as Bones meets Sherlock Holmes. If you're looking for something with extremely intelligent characters (they're both scientists), slow burn romance, Victorian wit, and the intrigue of Sherlock, this is for you.
Me every second of reading:
Me every second of reading:
September 1, 2023
2023 ⭐️ 5
Lemme tell you something. I had originally collected this series in hardcover. Only to discover that the first book has an outdated cover that's never been updated. You can buy a not-cute hardback from Ebay/PangoBooks or you won't have a hardback at all. So I sold my hardbacks and repurchased them in paperback. Here's the thing though - the paperbacks take an absolute AGE to release. I can't wait that long to annotate. I twiddled my thumbs for books 5 through 8, just to fold and, in a manic episode, repurchase the entire series in hardback. So I am now re-re-reannotating the series in a more stylistic manner. It looks so good if I can be un-humble for a moment. An Annotate-With-Me video will be coming soon based on this series.
2023 ⭐️ 5
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/MrU2exNWEJA
Binging this series the first time around was why I gave this 4 stars. Upon reread, I am over the moon with this book. 5 stars. An absolute delight. Please heed my advice and take this series slowly. It is delectable if you let it simmer. I adore these characters and their wit and chemistry. Deanna Raybourn really put her foot into these books.
A quote I think about daily
2022 ⭐️ 4
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/2vf4HqIG5z4
Veronica and Stoker could be reading a phone book and I'd give it at least 4 stars.
Lemme tell you something. I had originally collected this series in hardcover. Only to discover that the first book has an outdated cover that's never been updated. You can buy a not-cute hardback from Ebay/PangoBooks or you won't have a hardback at all. So I sold my hardbacks and repurchased them in paperback. Here's the thing though - the paperbacks take an absolute AGE to release. I can't wait that long to annotate. I twiddled my thumbs for books 5 through 8, just to fold and, in a manic episode, repurchase the entire series in hardback. So I am now re-re-reannotating the series in a more stylistic manner. It looks so good if I can be un-humble for a moment. An Annotate-With-Me video will be coming soon based on this series.
2023 ⭐️ 5
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/MrU2exNWEJA
Binging this series the first time around was why I gave this 4 stars. Upon reread, I am over the moon with this book. 5 stars. An absolute delight. Please heed my advice and take this series slowly. It is delectable if you let it simmer. I adore these characters and their wit and chemistry. Deanna Raybourn really put her foot into these books.
A quote I think about daily
2022 ⭐️ 4
Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/2vf4HqIG5z4
Veronica and Stoker could be reading a phone book and I'd give it at least 4 stars.
May 28, 2020
I needed a break from the usually bleak prize worthy literary fiction that I’ve been reading recently and this series is the perfect interlude. With a balanced combination of Victorian setting, mystery and romance, Veronica Speedwell series continues to entertain me. However, even though I enjoyed this even more than the previous two installments, I cannot make myself give it more than 3*. It just does not have that extra element that makes it a very good read. Despite that, I recommend this series for every (woman) reader who enjoys the three elements mentioned above.
I thought the mystery to be more interesting this time, a man disappears during an archaeological dig in Egypt and a curse seems to plague the expedition. We get to learn more about Stoker’s past which is what I was looking forward to explore and the romance part is less developed.
“Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you. You said of us once that we were quicksilver and the rest of the world mud. We are alike, shaped by Nature in the same mold, and whatever that signifies, it means that to spurn each other would be to spit in the face of whatever deity has seen fit to bring us together. We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself. Make of that what you will.”
I thought the mystery to be more interesting this time, a man disappears during an archaeological dig in Egypt and a curse seems to plague the expedition. We get to learn more about Stoker’s past which is what I was looking forward to explore and the romance part is less developed.
“Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you. You said of us once that we were quicksilver and the rest of the world mud. We are alike, shaped by Nature in the same mold, and whatever that signifies, it means that to spurn each other would be to spit in the face of whatever deity has seen fit to bring us together. We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself. Make of that what you will.”
March 31, 2020
for the past three books Veronica and Stoker have refused to proclaim their undying love and eternal devotion to each other but then say ish like this instead
“Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you . . . We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself.”
JUST SAY YOU LOVE EACH OTHER, YOU FOOLS
“Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you . . . We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself.”
JUST SAY YOU LOVE EACH OTHER, YOU FOOLS
April 11, 2023
i need the next book right. now.
January 7, 2018
Veronica Speedwell is back, the little spitfire!
Deanna Raybourn can write authentic historical dialogue so beautifully. The language! It just gets me. And the characters she crafts are so wonderful. Veronica is truly going down as one of my all time favorites, she is such an atypical Victorian little saucy, feisty spitfire.
Egyptology plays a large role in the story, it is something I knew to be popular during this time but didn’t know much about. It was definitely interesting to learn more about this subject.
I feel like I definitely missed out by skipping the second in the series - I went straight from the first to this one, the third, which I wouldn’t recommend. I look forward to going back to seeing how the characters developed here.
For me, this book has 5 star writing and a 3 for plot/pacing, so I’m going with 3.5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley, Deanna Raybourn and Berkeley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Deanna Raybourn can write authentic historical dialogue so beautifully. The language! It just gets me. And the characters she crafts are so wonderful. Veronica is truly going down as one of my all time favorites, she is such an atypical Victorian little saucy, feisty spitfire.
Egyptology plays a large role in the story, it is something I knew to be popular during this time but didn’t know much about. It was definitely interesting to learn more about this subject.
I feel like I definitely missed out by skipping the second in the series - I went straight from the first to this one, the third, which I wouldn’t recommend. I look forward to going back to seeing how the characters developed here.
For me, this book has 5 star writing and a 3 for plot/pacing, so I’m going with 3.5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley, Deanna Raybourn and Berkeley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Sometimes it is easy to forget how much you love two characters until you are immersed back into their world and then all those old feelings and thoughts about them resurface and you remember why this is one of your most favorite series and some of your most favorite people.
Veronica and Stoker are those people for me. This series is just so much fun with the Victorian old world London setting, mystery, and of course the adventures that always await these two. Not to mention the chemistry between them is off the charts.
I would say there is very little romance in this series, if any at all in fact and yet these two have such a passion, such a spark that it is hard to resist reading about them and not sensing it and just waiting for that spark to ignite and set fire to the world.
With nonstop action, mystery and intrigue, this really has become a favorite and a series that is just getting better and better with time. Fans of the genre really need to pick this up, because I can guarantee that this series will be one that will not disappoint.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Sometimes it is easy to forget how much you love two characters until you are immersed back into their world and then all those old feelings and thoughts about them resurface and you remember why this is one of your most favorite series and some of your most favorite people.
Veronica and Stoker are those people for me. This series is just so much fun with the Victorian old world London setting, mystery, and of course the adventures that always await these two. Not to mention the chemistry between them is off the charts.
I would say there is very little romance in this series, if any at all in fact and yet these two have such a passion, such a spark that it is hard to resist reading about them and not sensing it and just waiting for that spark to ignite and set fire to the world.
With nonstop action, mystery and intrigue, this really has become a favorite and a series that is just getting better and better with time. Fans of the genre really need to pick this up, because I can guarantee that this series will be one that will not disappoint.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
June 17, 2021
While each particular "adventure" is pretty well self-contained, this series does a lot of character work between Veronica and Stoker and their circumstances that builds over time. For that reason alone, I'd suggest reading these in order because being along for the ride is pretty outstanding.
While not quite as good as A Curious Beginning, the plot is once again heavily entwined with important back story and, frankly, I love that Raybourn chose to bring in Stoker's past and previous marriage this soon. Seeing his ex-wife, Caroline, goes a long way to mapping the route to his current emotional landscape and that was outstanding.
The plot itself was a bit outrageous, but in a way you'd expect for this series—i.e. it's over the top and and involves lots of extreme situations and large characters. But it also holds up to scrutiny and the final reveal was everything it needed to be.
And I think I'll end there, except to say that we get some hint that a very slow-burn romance just might be on the table and I'll move on to the next for that alone. Also, five stars because, like the first, I was engaged from the start and enjoyed every moment.
A note about Audiobook: Angele Masters has been the narrator throughout and she is really outstanding. Unfortunately, she's one of those British actors who can't quite manage an American accent. This always strikes me as odd, but I don't know why. I mean, obviously not everyone can sound so naturally American despite all the children around me every day who manage it quite effortlessly...
A note about Chaste: Their intimacy is about where it has been to this point, though they're beginning to admit and lean into their emotional intimacy. But there's still no physical relationship and I kind of like how they're not treating themselves or each other casually. There are a few scenes with frank discussions of sex, as I've come to expect from these stories, but I don't consider those steamy at all. Stricter evaluations very well could, however, so you might want to take that into account. Though again, if you've read the previous books, you know very well what you can expect and this one had a good deal less than A Perilous Undertaking.
While not quite as good as A Curious Beginning, the plot is once again heavily entwined with important back story and, frankly, I love that Raybourn chose to bring in Stoker's past and previous marriage this soon. Seeing his ex-wife, Caroline, goes a long way to mapping the route to his current emotional landscape and that was outstanding.
The plot itself was a bit outrageous, but in a way you'd expect for this series—i.e. it's over the top and and involves lots of extreme situations and large characters. But it also holds up to scrutiny and the final reveal was everything it needed to be.
And I think I'll end there, except to say that we get some hint that a very slow-burn romance just might be on the table and I'll move on to the next for that alone. Also, five stars because, like the first, I was engaged from the start and enjoyed every moment.
A note about Audiobook: Angele Masters has been the narrator throughout and she is really outstanding. Unfortunately, she's one of those British actors who can't quite manage an American accent. This always strikes me as odd, but I don't know why. I mean, obviously not everyone can sound so naturally American despite all the children around me every day who manage it quite effortlessly...
A note about Chaste: Their intimacy is about where it has been to this point, though they're beginning to admit and lean into their emotional intimacy. But there's still no physical relationship and I kind of like how they're not treating themselves or each other casually. There are a few scenes with frank discussions of sex, as I've come to expect from these stories, but I don't consider those steamy at all. Stricter evaluations very well could, however, so you might want to take that into account. Though again, if you've read the previous books, you know very well what you can expect and this one had a good deal less than A Perilous Undertaking.
January 16, 2018
Storywise do I think this is the strongest and most interesting one so far in this series. Not that the previous two books have been bad, more that I found this book mystery to be much more fascinating to read about, with a less obvious ending than the previous book. This is not a series that you have to read in order to enjoy, but it's a marvelous series so reading in order may be more fun would I think.
Veronica Speedway is such a wonderful character, not always bound to the traditional female role of the time and a bit outspoken. She also has an interesting family situation, with a quite absent father. Stoker, as well, has a bit of a family problem, quite similar to Speedways, but Veronica lacks the ex-wife who makes her first introduction in this book. I quite enjoyed learning more about Stoker's past and what really happened in the Amazons.
But, it's the humor that really makes me love this book, the banter between Speedway and Stoker are always marvelous and makes me often smile while I read this book. This is the kind of book I pick when I want something easy-going, but not too light.
A Treacherous Curse is a delightful book, with lots of funny moments, an interesting plot and wonderful characters. It was with a bit of sadness that I read the last page, now I have to wait until next year for a new book ... at least I hope a new one will come out next year...
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through Edelweiss for an honest review!
Veronica Speedway is such a wonderful character, not always bound to the traditional female role of the time and a bit outspoken. She also has an interesting family situation, with a quite absent father. Stoker, as well, has a bit of a family problem, quite similar to Speedways, but Veronica lacks the ex-wife who makes her first introduction in this book. I quite enjoyed learning more about Stoker's past and what really happened in the Amazons.
But, it's the humor that really makes me love this book, the banter between Speedway and Stoker are always marvelous and makes me often smile while I read this book. This is the kind of book I pick when I want something easy-going, but not too light.
A Treacherous Curse is a delightful book, with lots of funny moments, an interesting plot and wonderful characters. It was with a bit of sadness that I read the last page, now I have to wait until next year for a new book ... at least I hope a new one will come out next year...
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through Edelweiss for an honest review!
October 1, 2017
Veronica Speedwell ranks at the top of my favorite female protagonist list with Maggie Hope and Ruby Proulx. Veronica is witty, brilliant, likeable and outspoken, and Stoker is the perfect sidekick for her. A Treacherous Curse focuses more on Stoker and his dark and mysterious past, and Veronica and Stoker tackle a mystery that is interesting but a little drawn out. While I really enjoyed A Treacherous Curse, my favorite in the series is still A Perilous Undertakling. The series is a ton of fun, and I cannot wait for the next one. Thanks to Berkley for an ARC; all opinions are my own.
February 20, 2018
A Treacherous Curse is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell series. I absolutely love the main character in this series. Veronica is intelligent, outspoken and strong. Readers looking for a series featuring a strong, female main character will love this series! This third book focuses on Stoker Templeton-Vane. His former partner has disappeared from a dig site along with a priceless artifact from the tomb. Unfortunately, the item is allegedly cursed, causing Anubis himself to appear in London. Wickedly creepy and mysterious, this story was so much fun to read!
I like this series....it's a nice mix of wit, mystery and suspense with a nice dash of creepiness thrown in for good measure. I like the fact that this book focuses on Stoker, revealing more about the character. It keeps the series fresh, and made for a nice action-filled story. Veronica Speedwell is a creative and different sort of main character. She breaks social norms, lives on her own terms and is an awesome strong female character.
Another great addition to this series. I can't wait for the next book!!
Deanna Raybourn is also the author of the Lady Julia Grey series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Berkley Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I like this series....it's a nice mix of wit, mystery and suspense with a nice dash of creepiness thrown in for good measure. I like the fact that this book focuses on Stoker, revealing more about the character. It keeps the series fresh, and made for a nice action-filled story. Veronica Speedwell is a creative and different sort of main character. She breaks social norms, lives on her own terms and is an awesome strong female character.
Another great addition to this series. I can't wait for the next book!!
Deanna Raybourn is also the author of the Lady Julia Grey series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Berkley Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Currently reading
December 26, 2025I think that I can move past the issues that I was having before with this book and I really love this series and I am looking forward to continuing this mystery series! I’m super excited!!!
I’m DNFING due to dogs 🐶 eating horse 🐴 bones and a litter of dead kittens 🐱 being found in a taxidermy rhino 🦏. I can’t handle this at the moment and it’s making me sad.
I’m DNFING due to dogs 🐶 eating horse 🐴 bones and a litter of dead kittens 🐱 being found in a taxidermy rhino 🦏. I can’t handle this at the moment and it’s making me sad.
February 5, 2018
“Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you. You said of us once that we were quicksilver and the rest of the world mud. We are alike, shaped by Nature in the same mold, and whatever that signifies, it means that to spurn each other would be to spit in the face of whatever deity has seen fit to bring us together. We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself.”
Doesn't this quote seem a bit Wuthering Heights-ish? Well it does to me and I'm veeery weak when it comes to it. No wonder I found this quote to be the highlight of the series so far (and very romantic as well!)
Anyway, it doesn't make sense but I actually really enjoyed this book. That's right, I lowered my expectations so low that I was even afraid to start reading. This doesn't mean that the series improved a lot, it's just that I let myself enjoy the parts that I know I would like rather than be annoyed at everything.
What I liked:
The witty banters and writing: the author hasn't let me down yet on this - she writes amazing historical dialogues and her descriptions and banters are humorous and interesting! It's what I enjoyed since book one.
The building romance: it seems that the focus of this book was on Stoker and Veronica's slow-burn romance and the author made it clear in this book that they love each other. There is even a scene in which Stoker almost confesses his love to her. BUT if you are familiar with Raybourn's writing then you know that she likes her romance in small doses and prefers to torture her readers (especially me). However, I was touched by Veronica's protectiveness of Stoker and enjoyed the ending. It was really promising.
What I disliked:
Egypt? Where? Unfortunately, there wasn't enough Egyptology in this book, the description is a bit misleading. Neither do they travel to Egypt, the curse takes a small portion of the mystery part and it is underwhelming. It is obvious why it is so lacking - the author chose to focus more on the relationship of the main couple. I personally think she should and could have handled it better.
Stoker was annoying as fuck. There's nothing more I hate than self-pitying men and Stoker was really irritating, I wanted to stick something up his ass, luckily he redeemed himself in the end.
Overall
If you've read the previous two books and expect a major character development and romance - you will be disappointed. BUT if you would like a short, light, and humorous read of two friends who go on an adventure - then go for it.
I have to admit - I'm looking forward to the sequel, I just need them to FINALLY GET TOGETHER. Please don't let me down Ms Raybourn, I'm really rooting for them.
March 12, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
Why did I wait so long to read this book? I have no excuses but now that I have finished the book, I know that putting it off for a year was a bad plan. I really enjoyed this installment in the series, probably even more than the previous book. Once I got into this book, I didn't want to put it down because I was completely pulled into the mystery.
The mystery in this book was solid. Veronica and Stoker are trying to find a missing man. A man who happens to be a big part of Stoker's past. This mystery reaches all the way to the caves in Egypt and is much more involved than originally thought. I was pulled in a lot of different directions and was completely stumped when it came to trying to figure out what really happened.
One of the things that I love about this series is the characters. Veronica is very smart and able to think on her feet. She isn't like most women of her time and cares less about what is proper than what she wants. I knew that Stoker had a very interesting past and was thrilled to get some big pieces of it filled in during the course of this book. I think that the things that we learn about Stoker in this book really make it easier to understand him better. I love the relationship between Stoker and Veronica. They work so well together and make a great team. There is a part of me, okay a big part, that wants to see a romance develop between the pair but I am also okay with the sexual tension between them continuing to pop up and make things interesting.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell Mystery series which really should be read in order if at all possible since the relationships between the characters have built over the course of series. This book was filled with fantastic characters solving a very well done mystery and revealing a few secrets. I can't wait to get started on the newest book from this series very soon.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
It took me a long time to read this book that has more to do with my life than the book. Once I had a chance to sit down and read, I didn't want to put this book down. I was completely stumped by the mystery and didn't figure out anything until it was revealed. Veronica and Stoker are great characters and it was nice to learn a bit about Stoker's past.
Why did I wait so long to read this book? I have no excuses but now that I have finished the book, I know that putting it off for a year was a bad plan. I really enjoyed this installment in the series, probably even more than the previous book. Once I got into this book, I didn't want to put it down because I was completely pulled into the mystery.
The mystery in this book was solid. Veronica and Stoker are trying to find a missing man. A man who happens to be a big part of Stoker's past. This mystery reaches all the way to the caves in Egypt and is much more involved than originally thought. I was pulled in a lot of different directions and was completely stumped when it came to trying to figure out what really happened.
One of the things that I love about this series is the characters. Veronica is very smart and able to think on her feet. She isn't like most women of her time and cares less about what is proper than what she wants. I knew that Stoker had a very interesting past and was thrilled to get some big pieces of it filled in during the course of this book. I think that the things that we learn about Stoker in this book really make it easier to understand him better. I love the relationship between Stoker and Veronica. They work so well together and make a great team. There is a part of me, okay a big part, that wants to see a romance develop between the pair but I am also okay with the sexual tension between them continuing to pop up and make things interesting.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell Mystery series which really should be read in order if at all possible since the relationships between the characters have built over the course of series. This book was filled with fantastic characters solving a very well done mystery and revealing a few secrets. I can't wait to get started on the newest book from this series very soon.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
It took me a long time to read this book that has more to do with my life than the book. Once I had a chance to sit down and read, I didn't want to put this book down. I was completely stumped by the mystery and didn't figure out anything until it was revealed. Veronica and Stoker are great characters and it was nice to learn a bit about Stoker's past.
December 2, 2017
Because there is no power on earth that could make me abandon our friendship. There is no deed you could confess so dark that it would make me forsake you.
This book is well-paced, well-written and highly engaging. It keeps you guessing from start to finish, trying to put together all the pieces of a rather convoluted puzzle.
Veronica Speedwell is undoubtedly one of my favorite heroines of all time. Intelligent, determined, confident, independent, self-reflective and stubborn, she goes against almost all of societies expectations of her and completely unapologetic about. Veronica knows what she wants and she both skillful and patient enough to achieve it. No challenge is insurmountable, no mystery unsolvable. She uses her wits to find a solution to nearly every problem that comes her way.
As with her previous adventures, Veronica once again partners with her colleague and friend Stoker, this time to solve the mystery of missing man from Stoker's past along with debunking the rumors of Egyptian curse arriving, along with a sarcophagus, to London. We delve further into Stoker's dark and emotionally charged past, as new a heartwrenching revelations come to light.
Relationships (May Contain Some Spoilers):
Veronica & Stoker: I have such a love-hate relationship with these two. I want them together so badly. It is as though I am trying to build a ship, but things keep getting in the way when all I want is for my ship to finally sail.
Honestly, these two are MADE for each other.
"We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself. Make of that what you will."
And in truth, they are already partners in almost every other way that counts.
I just hope they will both find a way to finally let down their defenses and let this happen.
Veronica & Tiberius: Stoker's eldest brother, The Viscount Templeton-Vane, has made it perfectly clear since he and Veronica met in the previous book that he is attracted to her. It is such a shame we do not get more of him in the book. I like his chemistry with Veronica, and I laugh when he Stoker try to make digs at each other. And while I do ultimately want her with Stoker. I love Veronica and Tiberius' flirtations. They are hot and if Stoker was not in the picture I would support these two.
Henry & Figgy:
In all honesty, I did not particularly like Henry or Figgy much at all. But in that moment, I saw two young people so utterly devoted to each other I could not help but admire for the sheer amount of loyalty they held.
With old friends, uncertain allies and new enemies Veronica and Stoker certainty had their work cut out for them. And I, for one, thoroughly enjoyed seeing it all unfold. If you like historical fiction, mystery and some romance, then my dear I do believe this is for you.
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is well-paced, well-written and highly engaging. It keeps you guessing from start to finish, trying to put together all the pieces of a rather convoluted puzzle.
Veronica Speedwell is undoubtedly one of my favorite heroines of all time. Intelligent, determined, confident, independent, self-reflective and stubborn, she goes against almost all of societies expectations of her and completely unapologetic about. Veronica knows what she wants and she both skillful and patient enough to achieve it. No challenge is insurmountable, no mystery unsolvable. She uses her wits to find a solution to nearly every problem that comes her way.
As with her previous adventures, Veronica once again partners with her colleague and friend Stoker, this time to solve the mystery of missing man from Stoker's past along with debunking the rumors of Egyptian curse arriving, along with a sarcophagus, to London. We delve further into Stoker's dark and emotionally charged past, as new a heartwrenching revelations come to light.
Relationships (May Contain Some Spoilers):
Veronica & Stoker: I have such a love-hate relationship with these two. I want them together so badly. It is as though I am trying to build a ship, but things keep getting in the way when all I want is for my ship to finally sail.
Honestly, these two are MADE for each other.
"We are the same, and to leave you would be to leave myself. Make of that what you will."
And in truth, they are already partners in almost every other way that counts.
I just hope they will both find a way to finally let down their defenses and let this happen.
Veronica & Tiberius: Stoker's eldest brother, The Viscount Templeton-Vane, has made it perfectly clear since he and Veronica met in the previous book that he is attracted to her. It is such a shame we do not get more of him in the book. I like his chemistry with Veronica, and I laugh when he Stoker try to make digs at each other. And while I do ultimately want her with Stoker. I love Veronica and Tiberius' flirtations. They are hot and if Stoker was not in the picture I would support these two.
Henry & Figgy:
In all honesty, I did not particularly like Henry or Figgy much at all. But in that moment, I saw two young people so utterly devoted to each other I could not help but admire for the sheer amount of loyalty they held.
With old friends, uncertain allies and new enemies Veronica and Stoker certainty had their work cut out for them. And I, for one, thoroughly enjoyed seeing it all unfold. If you like historical fiction, mystery and some romance, then my dear I do believe this is for you.
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2025
if true love was a book series, it would be this series
August 25, 2020
This book has been out a while and is the 3rd in the series. I totally enjoy the sassy sometimes over the top heroine and the brooding hero. Add an Egyptian mummy and I love it. I did not figure out the mystery and that is part of the fun of Raybourn's books.
March 2, 2018
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so that's 4.5 stars
Deanna Raybourn continues her series of late-Victorian historical mysteries featuring the intrepid lepidopterist Veronica Speedwell and her piratically handsome, enigmatic associate, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (Stoker) in A Treacherous Curse. The big draw of this third instalment was the prospect of at last getting to know more about Stoker’s chequered – and sometimes heartbreaking – past and what exactly happened to turn him into a social pariah with the blackest of reputations. We’re also treated to a mystery concerning a missing Egyptian artefact and an ancient curse – and the two storylines are inextricably linked by virtue of the fact that one of the parties involved is none other than Stoker’s ex-wife, Caroline.
A Treacherous Curse can easily be read as a standalone, but readers will gain a far greater understanding of the still-evolving, complex relationship between Veronica and Stoker by reading the novels in order. I’ll also say now that there are likely to be spoilers in this review for the earlier books, so proceed with caution if you have yet to read them.
If you have read the previous books, then you’ll know that Veronica and Stoker have been employed by the Earl of Rosemorran to catalogue his family’s vast collection of art, artefacts, natural history specimens and mementoes with a view to eventually curating a museum, and that they both work and live on site at the Belvedere, a ‘singularly extraordinary structure’ in the grounds of Rosemorran’s Marylebone estate. Although they have separate apartments, their living arrangements are regarded as being somewhat unorthodox, but then they’re unorthodox individuals, both fiercely independent free-thinkers, estranged from their families and not really caring about the strictures of society. These commonalities are just two of the things that bind this unusual pair; from almost the beginning of their association, each recognised in the other a kindred spirit, and Ms. Raybourn has done a splendid job of developing their friendship and strengthening their unique bond, a bond that relies on an almost soul-deep connection and a love for each other that goes far beyond the romantic and sexual attraction that continues to crackle between them.
“Whatever this thing is that makes us different, this thing that makes quicksilver of us when the rest of the world is mud, it binds us. To break that would be to fly in the face of nature.”
(Stoker in A Perilous Undertaking)
Veronica and Stoker are surprised when they are approached by Sir Hugo Montgomerie of Special Branch and asked to look into the disappearance of John de Morgan, the man who had once been Stoker’s closest friend. De Morgan was engaged as photographer for Sir Leicester Tiverton ‘s most recent expedition to Egypt, but departed unexpectedly and was accompanied back to England by his wife – whose very public divorce from Stoker some years earlier saw Stoker disgraced and vilified.
Sir Hugo explains that the de Morgans stopped for the night in Dover, and in the morning, John de Morgan was discovered to have vanished, along with a priceless diadem from the tomb of Princess Ankheset. Making things even more intriguing is the fact that not only have man and artefact gone missing, but so has John de Morgan’s hotel room! Caroline de Morgan states that her husband’s room was blue with rose-print wallpaper – yet no such room exists, and according to the hotel proprietor, Mrs. de Morgan was travelling alone. Add to this the rumours of a curse affecting members of the dig and the sightings of the figure of Anubis (the Egyptian god of the dead) striding through the streets of London and the stage is set for an entertaining mystery in which our heroes must dispel a curse, fight for their lives, battle vicious rumour and find a murderer.
With that said, however, the mystery feels a little less intricately plotted than those in the other books, and it does take a bit of a back seat to the unravelling of Stoker’s backstory – although I’m not going to complain about it, given I’ve been eagerly awaiting that very thing.
Veronica and Stoker know it’s only a matter of time before the press gets hold of the story, and that once they do, they’re going to “hunt you [Stoker] like a pack of feral dogs” and take great delight in dredging up all the old scandal that painted him as the worst sort of villain, a man whose wife was so terrified of his violent nature that she took advantage of the offer of escape made her by his friend, filed for divorce and then married said friend. We already know Stoker was wronged, and now, Ms. Raybourn fills in the gaps and reveals the whole truth behind his ill-fated marriage and how his career as one of the foremost explorers and natural scientists of the age came to an ignominious end. I love the way she reveals Stoker to be a man of sensitivity and vulnerability while at the same time showing him to be possessed of an incredible determination and inner-strength:
“I have watched you claw your way back to life in the past months, taking an interest in your work, in your future. You have been the agent of y our own resurrection, and you do not even see it… You are a savage miracle, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, knit together by the hands of Nature herself.”
The way Veronica so passionately champions Stoker is one of the things I really enjoyed about her in this book. She’s opinionated, independent, flawed and unconventional (and thankfully, Ms. Raybourn has toned down those ‘look at me, I’m unconventional!’ aspects of Veronica’s character that grated in the last book), but she will fight to the death for what she believes in – and she believes in Stoker. That’s not so say that things are all one-sided; far from it, as we already know that Stoker would do the same for Veronica (and did, when he took a bullet for her at the end of A Perilous Undertaking). That unquestioning loyalty is one of the things that makes their friendship so special, but I will admit that I’ve become a little impatient at its lack of development in this novel. On the one hand, the author has done a terrific job of building and showing her readers a strong, deeply affectionate and trusting relationship between two extraordinary people; a pair of social misfits who have been lucky enough to find the one person in the world who truly understands them and sees them for who and what they are. And that’s wonderful. BUT… given the off-the-charts sexual tension that has existed between the couple from the get-go, I’ve been expecting their relationship to turn romantic, and so far, it hasn’t. It’s fairly clear that this is partly because both Stoker and Veronica value what they have so greatly that they are wary of changing it, but this book (like the others) is littered with references to the fact that Veronica has the serious hots for Stoker – she’s forever ogling his gorgeously muscled body and pointing out that he has no idea what a babe magnet he is… and after three books, it’s become just a bit tedious and more than a bit frustrating. With the truth of Stoker’s past now out in the open, I’d expected a little movement on the romantic side of their relationship and although it seems that both of them are, at different points, on the verge of an important revelation, it wasn’t enough to satisfy my shippy little heart.
YMMV, of course; the mystery is fun, the dialogue is sharp and witty, and the secondary characters – of whom my favourite is undoubtedly Lady Wellie, the doyenne of society who knows everyone and everything there is to know – are expertly crafted. A Treacherous Curse earns a strong recommendation in spite of my quibbles, and I’ve got my fingers crossed for a bit more romance in the next instalment.
Deanna Raybourn continues her series of late-Victorian historical mysteries featuring the intrepid lepidopterist Veronica Speedwell and her piratically handsome, enigmatic associate, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (Stoker) in A Treacherous Curse. The big draw of this third instalment was the prospect of at last getting to know more about Stoker’s chequered – and sometimes heartbreaking – past and what exactly happened to turn him into a social pariah with the blackest of reputations. We’re also treated to a mystery concerning a missing Egyptian artefact and an ancient curse – and the two storylines are inextricably linked by virtue of the fact that one of the parties involved is none other than Stoker’s ex-wife, Caroline.
A Treacherous Curse can easily be read as a standalone, but readers will gain a far greater understanding of the still-evolving, complex relationship between Veronica and Stoker by reading the novels in order. I’ll also say now that there are likely to be spoilers in this review for the earlier books, so proceed with caution if you have yet to read them.
If you have read the previous books, then you’ll know that Veronica and Stoker have been employed by the Earl of Rosemorran to catalogue his family’s vast collection of art, artefacts, natural history specimens and mementoes with a view to eventually curating a museum, and that they both work and live on site at the Belvedere, a ‘singularly extraordinary structure’ in the grounds of Rosemorran’s Marylebone estate. Although they have separate apartments, their living arrangements are regarded as being somewhat unorthodox, but then they’re unorthodox individuals, both fiercely independent free-thinkers, estranged from their families and not really caring about the strictures of society. These commonalities are just two of the things that bind this unusual pair; from almost the beginning of their association, each recognised in the other a kindred spirit, and Ms. Raybourn has done a splendid job of developing their friendship and strengthening their unique bond, a bond that relies on an almost soul-deep connection and a love for each other that goes far beyond the romantic and sexual attraction that continues to crackle between them.
“Whatever this thing is that makes us different, this thing that makes quicksilver of us when the rest of the world is mud, it binds us. To break that would be to fly in the face of nature.”
(Stoker in A Perilous Undertaking)
Veronica and Stoker are surprised when they are approached by Sir Hugo Montgomerie of Special Branch and asked to look into the disappearance of John de Morgan, the man who had once been Stoker’s closest friend. De Morgan was engaged as photographer for Sir Leicester Tiverton ‘s most recent expedition to Egypt, but departed unexpectedly and was accompanied back to England by his wife – whose very public divorce from Stoker some years earlier saw Stoker disgraced and vilified.
Sir Hugo explains that the de Morgans stopped for the night in Dover, and in the morning, John de Morgan was discovered to have vanished, along with a priceless diadem from the tomb of Princess Ankheset. Making things even more intriguing is the fact that not only have man and artefact gone missing, but so has John de Morgan’s hotel room! Caroline de Morgan states that her husband’s room was blue with rose-print wallpaper – yet no such room exists, and according to the hotel proprietor, Mrs. de Morgan was travelling alone. Add to this the rumours of a curse affecting members of the dig and the sightings of the figure of Anubis (the Egyptian god of the dead) striding through the streets of London and the stage is set for an entertaining mystery in which our heroes must dispel a curse, fight for their lives, battle vicious rumour and find a murderer.
With that said, however, the mystery feels a little less intricately plotted than those in the other books, and it does take a bit of a back seat to the unravelling of Stoker’s backstory – although I’m not going to complain about it, given I’ve been eagerly awaiting that very thing.
Veronica and Stoker know it’s only a matter of time before the press gets hold of the story, and that once they do, they’re going to “hunt you [Stoker] like a pack of feral dogs” and take great delight in dredging up all the old scandal that painted him as the worst sort of villain, a man whose wife was so terrified of his violent nature that she took advantage of the offer of escape made her by his friend, filed for divorce and then married said friend. We already know Stoker was wronged, and now, Ms. Raybourn fills in the gaps and reveals the whole truth behind his ill-fated marriage and how his career as one of the foremost explorers and natural scientists of the age came to an ignominious end. I love the way she reveals Stoker to be a man of sensitivity and vulnerability while at the same time showing him to be possessed of an incredible determination and inner-strength:
“I have watched you claw your way back to life in the past months, taking an interest in your work, in your future. You have been the agent of y our own resurrection, and you do not even see it… You are a savage miracle, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, knit together by the hands of Nature herself.”
The way Veronica so passionately champions Stoker is one of the things I really enjoyed about her in this book. She’s opinionated, independent, flawed and unconventional (and thankfully, Ms. Raybourn has toned down those ‘look at me, I’m unconventional!’ aspects of Veronica’s character that grated in the last book), but she will fight to the death for what she believes in – and she believes in Stoker. That’s not so say that things are all one-sided; far from it, as we already know that Stoker would do the same for Veronica (and did, when he took a bullet for her at the end of A Perilous Undertaking). That unquestioning loyalty is one of the things that makes their friendship so special, but I will admit that I’ve become a little impatient at its lack of development in this novel. On the one hand, the author has done a terrific job of building and showing her readers a strong, deeply affectionate and trusting relationship between two extraordinary people; a pair of social misfits who have been lucky enough to find the one person in the world who truly understands them and sees them for who and what they are. And that’s wonderful. BUT… given the off-the-charts sexual tension that has existed between the couple from the get-go, I’ve been expecting their relationship to turn romantic, and so far, it hasn’t. It’s fairly clear that this is partly because both Stoker and Veronica value what they have so greatly that they are wary of changing it, but this book (like the others) is littered with references to the fact that Veronica has the serious hots for Stoker – she’s forever ogling his gorgeously muscled body and pointing out that he has no idea what a babe magnet he is… and after three books, it’s become just a bit tedious and more than a bit frustrating. With the truth of Stoker’s past now out in the open, I’d expected a little movement on the romantic side of their relationship and although it seems that both of them are, at different points, on the verge of an important revelation, it wasn’t enough to satisfy my shippy little heart.
YMMV, of course; the mystery is fun, the dialogue is sharp and witty, and the secondary characters – of whom my favourite is undoubtedly Lady Wellie, the doyenne of society who knows everyone and everything there is to know – are expertly crafted. A Treacherous Curse earns a strong recommendation in spite of my quibbles, and I’ve got my fingers crossed for a bit more romance in the next instalment.
July 2, 2019
I am genuinely so torn on this entire series. I want to like it SO BADLY but it just doesn't quite cut it.
I really enjoy the writing, I enjoy the time period and the characters (for the most part). It just doesn't ever feel quite real . Despite this series being written from Veronica's perspective, she is incredibly cagey about her emotions and feelings towards things. Literally NOTHING rattles her, to the point where she doesn't feel like a fully formed character, and more like a collection of very feminist traits. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy her wit, her humour and her self-confidence. She just doesn't haven any flaws . Sure, she's stubborn, she's wilfull and entirely incapable of compromise. But none of these things are considered negative traits in her world. Everyone loves her - especially everyone with a penis - and she seems never to make any mistakes. So while I do enjoy her during her kickass moments, I find her lacking in depth and dimension. I wish more time had gone into her character to make her more than just a slightly embellished cardboard cutout.
The same kind of goes for Stoker. The two never talk about their feelings, they never go to any depth of discussion, they seem to just read each other's thoughts throughout the books and then eventually they'll make some deep, accurate remarks about how well they understand each other. It's honestly frustrating.
As for the mystery, I did enjoy this one a bit more since it's actually directly connected to the main characters and ends up revealing a lot more about Stoker's past with Caroline, which I definitely appreciate. Again though, I wish it had been fleshed out a bit more and were less predictable. There never really seem to be very high stakes either, considering that nothing of note ever happens to the main characters and no one is actually every *afraid* in the first place.
Overall, continuing with this series is somewhat akin to self-torture, because while the books aren't bad enough to make me stop, they're also not good enough for me to actually fully enjoy them. It's a weird spot between a rock and a hard place and I'm neither satisfied with reading and not reading them.
I really enjoy the writing, I enjoy the time period and the characters (for the most part). It just doesn't ever feel quite real . Despite this series being written from Veronica's perspective, she is incredibly cagey about her emotions and feelings towards things. Literally NOTHING rattles her, to the point where she doesn't feel like a fully formed character, and more like a collection of very feminist traits. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy her wit, her humour and her self-confidence. She just doesn't haven any flaws . Sure, she's stubborn, she's wilfull and entirely incapable of compromise. But none of these things are considered negative traits in her world. Everyone loves her - especially everyone with a penis - and she seems never to make any mistakes. So while I do enjoy her during her kickass moments, I find her lacking in depth and dimension. I wish more time had gone into her character to make her more than just a slightly embellished cardboard cutout.
The same kind of goes for Stoker. The two never talk about their feelings, they never go to any depth of discussion, they seem to just read each other's thoughts throughout the books and then eventually they'll make some deep, accurate remarks about how well they understand each other. It's honestly frustrating.
As for the mystery, I did enjoy this one a bit more since it's actually directly connected to the main characters and ends up revealing a lot more about Stoker's past with Caroline, which I definitely appreciate. Again though, I wish it had been fleshed out a bit more and were less predictable. There never really seem to be very high stakes either, considering that nothing of note ever happens to the main characters and no one is actually every *afraid* in the first place.
Overall, continuing with this series is somewhat akin to self-torture, because while the books aren't bad enough to make me stop, they're also not good enough for me to actually fully enjoy them. It's a weird spot between a rock and a hard place and I'm neither satisfied with reading and not reading them.
August 15, 2024
I live for Veronica and Stoker! I equally want them to get together NOW and also drag us along for 10 more books. I'm obsessed!
"Don't! Don't you dare feel sorry for yourself. Self-pity is a gutter from which you will never arise. Do you know how hard I have worked to keep your head above the mud? But I was not the one who rescued you, you impossible fool. You were half-alive when I met you, a ruin of the man you could be. I have watched you claw your way back to life in the past months, taking an interest in your work, in your future. You have been the agent of your own resurrection , and you do not even see it. Have you no sense of your own gifts, of your own strengths? You are more blessed with natural abilities and native intelligence than any man I have ever met. You are a savage miracle, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, knit together by the hands of Nature herself. But you cannot see it."
"I only wanted you to understand that I will do many things in this life, but watching you destroy yourself is not one of them."
This whole scene literally had me dropping everything I was doing including breathing. I listened to it twice. My breath, taken entirely away!
"Don't! Don't you dare feel sorry for yourself. Self-pity is a gutter from which you will never arise. Do you know how hard I have worked to keep your head above the mud? But I was not the one who rescued you, you impossible fool. You were half-alive when I met you, a ruin of the man you could be. I have watched you claw your way back to life in the past months, taking an interest in your work, in your future. You have been the agent of your own resurrection , and you do not even see it. Have you no sense of your own gifts, of your own strengths? You are more blessed with natural abilities and native intelligence than any man I have ever met. You are a savage miracle, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, knit together by the hands of Nature herself. But you cannot see it."
"I only wanted you to understand that I will do many things in this life, but watching you destroy yourself is not one of them."
This whole scene literally had me dropping everything I was doing including breathing. I listened to it twice. My breath, taken entirely away!
January 17, 2018
Snuck this in pretty close to the wire to wrap up 2017. And what a way to go!
"I won't kill a man on his knees."
"There, you see? Stoker has standards."
Right now my brain is just kind of an endless happy-pained shriek (ala the snapchat voice filter) because of that ending. I was sort've warned and I thought I could handle it but oh god I couldn't. I lost it. Raybourn is wicked, totally wicked, and I have to respect her for toying with the fangirls the way she is.
"They disrobed you?"
"They stripped me mother-naked."
"Well, that must have intimidated them."
A TREACHEROUS CURSE has all the hijinks, snark, atypical historical behaviour from our leading lady, investigative gumshoeing, and still-not-a-couple torment we've come to expect from this series. It's funny, clever, and in the third installment we really got into the deep, dark, and heavy with some of Stoker's past (which I so desperately wanted after book two!) and it was delicious and rewarding and made me equally murderous, too. I'll admit that somewhere around the 70% mark I did lose a little traction with some of the wind up of the mystery coming to a head but the first half was so strong, so solid, and the ending made me feel all the things.
"You fight harder for me than you would ever do for yourself. Why?"
"Because there is no power on this earth that could make me abandon our friendship."
There characters are so strong, so flawed, so brilliant when they get on and yet I love them equally when they are in sync as when they are fighting and sulking and refusing to speak to each other. This relationship is so real and true and honest and it's just everything.
"What is it about the pair of you that you must be so contrary?"
"What is it about the rest of the world that it cannot take us as we are?"
I can't wait for book four (and I'll be waiting a long ass time, sigh, #arcproblems).
4.5 "she regarded him and counted only the damage; I saw only the places where he had stitched himself back together" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
"I won't kill a man on his knees."
"There, you see? Stoker has standards."
Right now my brain is just kind of an endless happy-pained shriek (ala the snapchat voice filter) because of that ending. I was sort've warned and I thought I could handle it but oh god I couldn't. I lost it. Raybourn is wicked, totally wicked, and I have to respect her for toying with the fangirls the way she is.
"They disrobed you?"
"They stripped me mother-naked."
"Well, that must have intimidated them."
A TREACHEROUS CURSE has all the hijinks, snark, atypical historical behaviour from our leading lady, investigative gumshoeing, and still-not-a-couple torment we've come to expect from this series. It's funny, clever, and in the third installment we really got into the deep, dark, and heavy with some of Stoker's past (which I so desperately wanted after book two!) and it was delicious and rewarding and made me equally murderous, too. I'll admit that somewhere around the 70% mark I did lose a little traction with some of the wind up of the mystery coming to a head but the first half was so strong, so solid, and the ending made me feel all the things.
"You fight harder for me than you would ever do for yourself. Why?"
"Because there is no power on this earth that could make me abandon our friendship."
There characters are so strong, so flawed, so brilliant when they get on and yet I love them equally when they are in sync as when they are fighting and sulking and refusing to speak to each other. This relationship is so real and true and honest and it's just everything.
"What is it about the pair of you that you must be so contrary?"
"What is it about the rest of the world that it cannot take us as we are?"
I can't wait for book four (and I'll be waiting a long ass time, sigh, #arcproblems).
4.5 "she regarded him and counted only the damage; I saw only the places where he had stitched himself back together" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
December 20, 2017
Fun, quirky and just shy of “evah-so-propah,” A TREACHEROUS CURSE by Deanna Raybourn is Victorian mystery and adventure at its most entertaining. An ancient mummy’s curse seems to be claiming the members of an Egyptian expedition and the plucky Veronica Speedwell is on the case. A man from Stoker’s past has gone missing, as has a priceless artifact from the tomb of an Egyptian princess. Is this part of the curse? Is Anubis actually walking the streets of London on a mission of revenge?
Veronica is one of those heroines you can’t help but adore, brilliant, witty, and more like a tiger lily with claws than a shrinking violet. Who wouldn’t like a woman strong enough to go with her instincts and blaze her own trail, rather than follow the crowd?
A TREACHEROUS CURSE is a fast and a refreshing escape into another time following a heroine who is always full of surprises as she gleans the facts from the chaff of fantasy to get to the truth.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley.
Series: Veronica Speedwell - Book 3
Publisher: Berkley (January 16, 2018)
Publication Date: January 16, 2018
Genre: Victorian Suspense
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Veronica is one of those heroines you can’t help but adore, brilliant, witty, and more like a tiger lily with claws than a shrinking violet. Who wouldn’t like a woman strong enough to go with her instincts and blaze her own trail, rather than follow the crowd?
A TREACHEROUS CURSE is a fast and a refreshing escape into another time following a heroine who is always full of surprises as she gleans the facts from the chaff of fantasy to get to the truth.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley.
Series: Veronica Speedwell - Book 3
Publisher: Berkley (January 16, 2018)
Publication Date: January 16, 2018
Genre: Victorian Suspense
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 9, 2025
oh INSANE to end a book that way actually
October 28, 2023
I’m really loving this series!!! Veronica and Stoker are back and still bickering back and forth with each other as much as ever. It is still as amusing and entertaining as ever too! I love the way that Veronica still teases and shocks him with her snappy retorts and expertly executed snark as well as her modern and progressive (at least for 1888 London) attitudes and behavior of an independent woman. However, there is now a whole new layer to Veronica’s teasing of Stoker. She is now lusting after him and is reminded of how long it’s been since she’s had sex, which makes for some absolutely hilarious interactions between the two of them. Raybourn’s mastery of British humor is as sharp as ever too. Think 19th century Monty Python.
The book summary basically just introduces the premise for the primary storyline: the investigation of Stoker’s former friend and partner who is accused of stealing a valuable artifact. What the book summary doesn’t really mention are the secondary storylines like the one where Stoker’s wife left him and ran off and married Stoker’s friend (hence former friend) and Stoker very publicly beat the crap out of him not too long ago. As such, the press is dragging Stocker’s name through the mud in the papers regarding the disappearance of said former friend. There is also the storyline where Veronica’s father, the prince, is trying to quash any mention of Veronica in the press for fear that her connection/birth can be traced back to him (a whole other storyline from the previous installment).
Most of the story has Veronica and Stoker investigating the disappearance of Stoker’s former friend and the hopeful retrieval of the stolen Egyptian artifact. Veronica and Stoker’s investigation reveal some strange clues like Stoker’s ex-wife being pregnant, the appearance of a strange looking Anubis, as well as an attempt on their lives when someone set their hotel room they were sleeping in, on fire.
The final 20% or so of the story moves quickly with a handful of discoveries, revelations and a flurry of activity and a satisfying ending. This would not make a good standalone. As is often the case, without knowing the history or the characters that have been depicted in the previous two installments I truly believe that this installment would not be as enjoyable. Furthermore, this installment makes numerous references to incidents and events from previous installments. To really enjoy this book, you must know the history of the characters. JMHO
I listened to the audiobook for this installment and the narrator, Angèle Masters, superbly gives life to Veronica as well as Stoker and the rest of the cast in her wonderful British accent. Masters is an extraordinary narrator, and sometimes, it felt like being at a live reading.
The book summary basically just introduces the premise for the primary storyline: the investigation of Stoker’s former friend and partner who is accused of stealing a valuable artifact. What the book summary doesn’t really mention are the secondary storylines like the one where Stoker’s wife left him and ran off and married Stoker’s friend (hence former friend) and Stoker very publicly beat the crap out of him not too long ago. As such, the press is dragging Stocker’s name through the mud in the papers regarding the disappearance of said former friend. There is also the storyline where Veronica’s father, the prince, is trying to quash any mention of Veronica in the press for fear that her connection/birth can be traced back to him (a whole other storyline from the previous installment).
Most of the story has Veronica and Stoker investigating the disappearance of Stoker’s former friend and the hopeful retrieval of the stolen Egyptian artifact. Veronica and Stoker’s investigation reveal some strange clues like Stoker’s ex-wife being pregnant, the appearance of a strange looking Anubis, as well as an attempt on their lives when someone set their hotel room they were sleeping in, on fire.
The final 20% or so of the story moves quickly with a handful of discoveries, revelations and a flurry of activity and a satisfying ending. This would not make a good standalone. As is often the case, without knowing the history or the characters that have been depicted in the previous two installments I truly believe that this installment would not be as enjoyable. Furthermore, this installment makes numerous references to incidents and events from previous installments. To really enjoy this book, you must know the history of the characters. JMHO
I listened to the audiobook for this installment and the narrator, Angèle Masters, superbly gives life to Veronica as well as Stoker and the rest of the cast in her wonderful British accent. Masters is an extraordinary narrator, and sometimes, it felt like being at a live reading.
April 15, 2022
Caper#3 the duo are at it again. I just love this series. I love the banter between Veronica and Stoker.
Stoker’s former expedition partner has mysteriously disappeared, along with the cursed Princess diadem from the tomb of Princess Ankheset.
Stoker could be a suspect, as John de Morgan married his ex wife Caroline.
We learn some secrets from Stoker’s past.
Veronica has her work cut out for her. She must finally met Caroline and question her as to what happened to her husband.
This is a very well written mystery filled with plenty of twists and turns.
Stoker’s former expedition partner has mysteriously disappeared, along with the cursed Princess diadem from the tomb of Princess Ankheset.
Stoker could be a suspect, as John de Morgan married his ex wife Caroline.
We learn some secrets from Stoker’s past.
Veronica has her work cut out for her. She must finally met Caroline and question her as to what happened to her husband.
This is a very well written mystery filled with plenty of twists and turns.
August 13, 2017
4.5 stars. Funny, moving, exciting, and deftly plotted -- until one twist toward the end struck me as too unlikely to be believed.
If you enjoyed Julia and Brisbane in Deanna Raybourn's excellent Lady Julia series, you will probably like Veronica and Stoker, although they are a totally different couple. Both are mysteries with a touch of romance.
I would recommend that you read the first two installments of Veronica Speedwell mysteries before tackling this one. Since it doesn't come out until next year, there's plenty of time.
If you enjoyed Julia and Brisbane in Deanna Raybourn's excellent Lady Julia series, you will probably like Veronica and Stoker, although they are a totally different couple. Both are mysteries with a touch of romance.
I would recommend that you read the first two installments of Veronica Speedwell mysteries before tackling this one. Since it doesn't come out until next year, there's plenty of time.
July 7, 2025
☆☆☆☆
In A Treacherous Curse, Deanna Raybourn once again proves that few can balance historical detail, sharp wit, and character chemistry quite like she can. This third installment in the Veronica Speedwell series finds our ever-curious lepidopterist drawn into the mysterious disappearance of a man linked to a cursed Egyptian expedition—and once again, scandal seems to be lurking just beneath the surface.
Veronica remains a delightful protagonist: fiercely independent, intellectually bold, and refreshingly unapologetic in an era that expects quite the opposite. Her partnership with Stoker continues to evolve with delightful tension—equal parts intellectual sparring and emotional undercurrent. Their interactions are consistently one of the novel’s greatest strengths, striking that perfect note between flirtation and friction.
The central mystery is intriguing, laced with enough twists and gothic atmosphere to keep things engaging, though the pace does slow somewhat in the middle. Still, Raybourn’s vivid prose and strong sense of setting more than compensate. She draws the reader into a world where ancient relics and Victorian social mores collide, raising questions about legacy, truth, and reputation—without ever losing the light, adventurous tone that makes this series so enjoyable.
A Treacherous Curse is a satisfying and clever mystery, rich in character and charm. Raybourn fans—and fans of spirited historical heroines in general—will find a lot to enjoy here.
In A Treacherous Curse, Deanna Raybourn once again proves that few can balance historical detail, sharp wit, and character chemistry quite like she can. This third installment in the Veronica Speedwell series finds our ever-curious lepidopterist drawn into the mysterious disappearance of a man linked to a cursed Egyptian expedition—and once again, scandal seems to be lurking just beneath the surface.
Veronica remains a delightful protagonist: fiercely independent, intellectually bold, and refreshingly unapologetic in an era that expects quite the opposite. Her partnership with Stoker continues to evolve with delightful tension—equal parts intellectual sparring and emotional undercurrent. Their interactions are consistently one of the novel’s greatest strengths, striking that perfect note between flirtation and friction.
The central mystery is intriguing, laced with enough twists and gothic atmosphere to keep things engaging, though the pace does slow somewhat in the middle. Still, Raybourn’s vivid prose and strong sense of setting more than compensate. She draws the reader into a world where ancient relics and Victorian social mores collide, raising questions about legacy, truth, and reputation—without ever losing the light, adventurous tone that makes this series so enjoyable.
A Treacherous Curse is a satisfying and clever mystery, rich in character and charm. Raybourn fans—and fans of spirited historical heroines in general—will find a lot to enjoy here.
August 8, 2019
"I have seen evil, and it wears a smiling face."
This third installment of the Veronica Speedwell and Stoker (Revelstoke Templeton-Vane) series is set in London, 1888, and has the pair investigating the untimely disappearance of Stoker's former best friend (who incidentally married his ex wife). Sure, there's bad blood between the two men, but Veronica and Stoker can't resist becoming involved with the circumstances surrounding John de Morgan and the former Caroline Templeton-Vane. He vanished during an excavation of the Egyption tomb of Princess Ankheset, along with a valuable diadem. Has he absconded with the treasure and betrayed his archelogical partner, Sir Leicester Tiverton? And there's this small matter of a curse -- inscribed on the sarcophagus of the entombed princess. The sensation has got the attention of the newspapers and tabloids are bringing up Stoker's unsavory past history. Veronica and Stoker want to get to the bottom of this mystery but it does bring up some very awkward moments as they confront and interview all the parties involved.
I really like this series. The interaction between Veronica and Stoker is barbed and often hilarious. Veronica is an independent woman in a time when her sort is not appreciated. She's fiercely independent and a free spirit and is much a match to the hard-boiled Stoker. Yes, we know they are wild about each other, but their romance never quite gets going, and that was a disappointment to me even though I usually hate that part of a good story! Enough already -- let them get on with it! They sort of already live together and it's obvious that they are going to end up a pair. Anyway, despite my frustration over their lack of communication on the subject, they do complement each other perfectly and the witty repartee is one of the best aspects of the narrative.
Suffice to say they bring the case to its conclusion in their usual dogged fashion and the bad guys get their comeuppance. NO SPOILERS. Very entertaining!
I am looking forward to the next book in what I hope is a long running series that I think needs to be read in order so as to be fully appreciated. Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for granting me access to this e-book ARC to read and review. I have read many other books by this author and have enjoyed them all!
This third installment of the Veronica Speedwell and Stoker (Revelstoke Templeton-Vane) series is set in London, 1888, and has the pair investigating the untimely disappearance of Stoker's former best friend (who incidentally married his ex wife). Sure, there's bad blood between the two men, but Veronica and Stoker can't resist becoming involved with the circumstances surrounding John de Morgan and the former Caroline Templeton-Vane. He vanished during an excavation of the Egyption tomb of Princess Ankheset, along with a valuable diadem. Has he absconded with the treasure and betrayed his archelogical partner, Sir Leicester Tiverton? And there's this small matter of a curse -- inscribed on the sarcophagus of the entombed princess. The sensation has got the attention of the newspapers and tabloids are bringing up Stoker's unsavory past history. Veronica and Stoker want to get to the bottom of this mystery but it does bring up some very awkward moments as they confront and interview all the parties involved.
I really like this series. The interaction between Veronica and Stoker is barbed and often hilarious. Veronica is an independent woman in a time when her sort is not appreciated. She's fiercely independent and a free spirit and is much a match to the hard-boiled Stoker. Yes, we know they are wild about each other, but their romance never quite gets going, and that was a disappointment to me even though I usually hate that part of a good story! Enough already -- let them get on with it! They sort of already live together and it's obvious that they are going to end up a pair. Anyway, despite my frustration over their lack of communication on the subject, they do complement each other perfectly and the witty repartee is one of the best aspects of the narrative.
Suffice to say they bring the case to its conclusion in their usual dogged fashion and the bad guys get their comeuppance. NO SPOILERS. Very entertaining!
I am looking forward to the next book in what I hope is a long running series that I think needs to be read in order so as to be fully appreciated. Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for granting me access to this e-book ARC to read and review. I have read many other books by this author and have enjoyed them all!
August 6, 2025
3.75*
I enjoyed this more than book2 and while I rate it similarly to book1 it is for different reasons. I didn't love the ultimate reveal in the first book & the second was just a bit bland after the excitement of the first for me.
Book3 picked back up the pace and I enjoyed the mystery more in this book + the new characters introduced each had moments to shine and stand for themselves on page although we probably will only see the same players return in later books which is OK too, but I do hope might find a way to return as I reckon they could be a spicy fun addition especially if they turn the inspectors eye *grin* I'd like to see those interactions unfold through Veronica's perspective 😈
Part of what keeps me from rounding this up to 4* or higher is I'm getting quite tired of Veronica "tuning out" people talking to her based on gender or preconceived notions as to whether what they're saying will be of interest to her. I find it condescending, rude and unappealing in someone I'm supposed to root for 🤷♀️
I am glad to see the storyline pick up a little, I hope we'll get to spend more time there and meet many more of the members as they surely must be fascinating considering the time period 🤓
I am not usually a big fan of a slowburn - but the nuggets, growth & healing DR is providing for the MCs is such fun to tag along for. They both still have a lot to talk about and learn from, no doubt, but I am so invested in following the tale to see when/how we hopefully get there & hope that after all V's talk it'll pack a punch 😏
We got some good answers + backstory revealed in this instalment and I'm enjoying their interactions and fierce loyalty based on friendship & shared intelligence, complimentary interests in the world + adventures...but seriously the next book better give us something to hold fast to plz! 🫠
I don't want to rush them at all, as we want endgame not on again/off again...but a little something more than aborted thoughts/sentences would be much appreciated 😅
PS - I hope we'll get to see V pursue some butterflies somewhere exciting soon 🤞🏼
I enjoyed this more than book2 and while I rate it similarly to book1 it is for different reasons. I didn't love the ultimate reveal in the first book & the second was just a bit bland after the excitement of the first for me.
Book3 picked back up the pace and I enjoyed the mystery more in this book + the new characters introduced each had moments to shine and stand for themselves on page although we probably will only see the same players return in later books which is OK too, but I do hope might find a way to return as I reckon they could be a spicy fun addition especially if they turn the inspectors eye *grin* I'd like to see those interactions unfold through Veronica's perspective 😈
Part of what keeps me from rounding this up to 4* or higher is I'm getting quite tired of Veronica "tuning out" people talking to her based on gender or preconceived notions as to whether what they're saying will be of interest to her. I find it condescending, rude and unappealing in someone I'm supposed to root for 🤷♀️
I am glad to see the storyline pick up a little, I hope we'll get to spend more time there and meet many more of the members as they surely must be fascinating considering the time period 🤓
I am not usually a big fan of a slowburn - but the nuggets, growth & healing DR is providing for the MCs is such fun to tag along for. They both still have a lot to talk about and learn from, no doubt, but I am so invested in following the tale to see when/how we hopefully get there & hope that after all V's talk it'll pack a punch 😏
We got some good answers + backstory revealed in this instalment and I'm enjoying their interactions and fierce loyalty based on friendship & shared intelligence, complimentary interests in the world + adventures...but seriously the next book better give us something to hold fast to plz! 🫠
I don't want to rush them at all, as we want endgame not on again/off again...but a little something more than aborted thoughts/sentences would be much appreciated 😅
PS - I hope we'll get to see V pursue some butterflies somewhere exciting soon 🤞🏼
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