They are putting an exhibit together for the queen. It's to honor a woman mountain climber. It's going well until Stoker shows Veronica where the rope was broken. It was not a simple break, it was cut by a knife.

Berkley and Net Galley let me read this book for review (thank you). It will be published today.

Veronica immediately wants to solve this murder. Stoker tries to talk her out of it because they are working with royals. She's bound and determined to find the truth but she won't advertise it.

Veronica is an illegitimate relative of the Royal Family. When the princess goes missing, she is asked to fill in. She does this twice and manages to carry it off. The princess does this regularly so no one worries about her. Veronica is watching how the family behave to see if she might find the killer. She and Stokes argue but she doesn't give up.

The words flow in this book and Victoria pieces together a theory. She was right but with a gun in the killer's hand it's not going to be easy to defend themselves...

The killer surprised me. There was an illicit romance going on and this was a way to stop it.

This series is always a good read and there's tension and drama in all of them. I recommend this series. It gets better each book.

Alpinist Miss Baker-Greene has died climbing in the country of Alpenwald, an accident. But was it, Stoker has found evidence showing otherwise. Now the ruler of the country wishes to open the exhibit at the Hippolyta Club celebrating her life. Unfortunately the princess, her Serene Highness, Gisela Frederick Victoria Helena, soon disappears. So they have two mysteries to solve with the added complication that Veronica needs to impersonate Gisela at various important functions.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery. A good addition to the series with its likeable characters.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

OH Veronica, how happy I am to, once again, be back in your crazy little world. And now you're posing as a princess??? Oh what a fun story this was to read. Y'all, if you love historical fiction and mysteries, you HAVE to read this series. And while the mystery itself can be read as a standalone, I do recommend highly that you read this from the beginning so you can see the progression of Veronica and Stoker (how can you not love Stoker?!).

What I love best about these stories is just how snarky Veronica is. This woman has got spunk and isn't afraid of a challenge. *Though, Stoker, I may have to agree with you as to part of the reason why she keeps putting herself in these situations. 😉* Speaking of Stoker, at times I think I love him more than Veronica! Their relationship is a perfect mix and when he jokingly "punishes" her by telling her she will need to clean his walrus, it is NOT a euphemism. He actually has a dead walrus that needs cleaning. That's right.

I'm not going to bore you with alllll the reasons why this series is so wonderful. And this installment is definitely up as one of my faves. If you love sassy protagonists, you will LOVE Veronica. Travel back to 1889 and join them on a royal adventure.

I was very excited to win a giveaway from Berkley and NetGalley which allowed me to receive an early copy of the 6th book in the Veronica Speedwell mystery series by Deanna Raybourn . I am also very happy to be able to share my honest review.

My verdict: I loved this book.

Because I am just starting to be actively aware of books published in this century (don’t judge), I have not read the other books in this series. But I had no problems at all jumping into the lives of the characters; I didn’t feel confused and was able to catch on quickly.

I just loved the writing style of the book. It takes place during the Victorian Age, and I adored the vocabulary and the educated tone of the narrator, Veronica. She is a fantastic heroine, full of intelligence and independence. Indeed, women and their struggle for independence is a big theme of this book, and one that is explored from different angles.

The story involves visiting royalty, impersonations, and the mysterious death of a famous female mountain climber. The pacing was great; I was never bored and I was always looking forward to what might happen next.

This book has humor, romance, touching depictions of grief, and fascinating examinations of real issues of the time period. I loved all of this, and most of all I loved the main characters, Veronica and Stoker. I highly recommend this book to all my friends who like historical mysteries. It’s a total winner for me.

An Unexpected Peril is the sixth book in the Veronica Speedwell series by Deanna Raybourn. I adore the series and the leading characters Veronica and Stoker so much.

This Installment in the series brings a mystery that Veronica jumps head first into while Stoker is much more hesitant. A suspicious death of a female pioneering mountain climber and a missing foreign princess leads to Veronica impersonating royalty and their lives being put at risk once again.

Story wise I enjoyed the mystery and working through the why's and how's along with Veronica. She was as witty and strong-willed as always. I was a little disappointed in her struggles with being in an arrangement with Stoker. While I understand with her personality she will always fear being domesticated, bored, and in the fear of losing her freedom. I guess this is just the romantic in me, but I wanted them to sail off into the sunset happily ever after solving mysteries and doing what they do best. 😂 Anyways, Veronica still without a doubt loves Stoker, and he loves her fiercely in return. His declarations of love and adoration never fail to make my heart skip a beat. {Sigh} I love that man.

All in all I was very much satisfied with An Unexpected Peril. I'm hoping that the next book in the series has them going on a grand adventure to appease Veronica's need to be always on the go.

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.

In Deanna Raybourn's "An Unexpected Peril," set in London in 1889, the independent, fiercely intelligent, and thrill-seeking Veronica Speedwell again takes on the role of amateur sleuth. Her fellow investigator is the Honorable Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (Stoker). Veronica and Stoker share a passion for natural history, and both bear physical and emotional scars from ugly encounters they have had in the past. Now, they live on the estate of their employer and patron, the Earl of Rosemorran. The Earl's sister, Lady Cordelia Beauclerk, enlists Veronica and Stoker's help in setting up an exhibition to honor an accomplished British climber and feminist, Alice Baker-Green, who "had perished a few months previously on the highest peak in the Alpenwald," a fictional country on the border between France and Germany.

Everything changes when Stoker finds evidence pointing to an alarming possibility—that someone may have cut Alice's climbing rope, an act that could have led to her fatal plunge. Veronica is eager to find and capture the perpetrator, but Stoker is tired of sticking his nose into other people's business. Such exploits generally land Stoker and Veronica in trouble, and they are fortunate to have survived repeated attempts on their lives. Other key characters, in addition to our hero and heroine, are Princess Gisella, the hereditary ruler of the Alpenwald; Baroness von Wallenberg, Gisella's lady-in-waiting; Duke Maximillian, Gisella's suitor; and J. J. Butterworth, a reporter who writes sensational stories for a disreputable newspaper.

The author is an accomplished descriptive writer who, for example, can take us into a master chef's kitchen and make our mouths water with her detailed depiction of delectable treats that are a feast for the eyes and palate. In addition, here is a poignant and poetic passage about butterflies: "They lived out their brief existence, bursting into jeweled magnificence and then, after a few short months of activity, fading into oblivion." The cast is lively, the plot engaging, and Raybourn's language is rich and literate. The laughs keep coming in this entertaining romp that does not take itself too seriously. When Veronica is enlisted to masquerade as Princess Gisella, we cannot help but smile, since for someone like Veronica—who disdains elaborate coiffures and extravagant attire—having to pose as royalty is akin to torture. "An Unexpected Peril" explores women's struggles to fulfill their professional and personal ambitions; the selfishness and hypocrisy of corrupt people, whether they are high-born or barely able to make ends meet; and the joy that one experiences when he or she has a colleague and lover who is also a kindred spirit.

Veronica Speedwell and her lover, Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, a.k.a. Stoker, have been living in unaccustomed and not entirely comfortable domesticity. They're staying at home in London, and preparing an exhibit for the Curiosity Club, the women's adventurers club of which Veronica is now a member. The exhibit is to honor a recently deceased mountain climber, Alice Baker-Greene, and will be attended, and is sponsored by, Her Serene Highness Princess Gisela of Alpenwald. (Alpenwald is the fictional independent German principality in which Miss Baker-Greene had recently settled permanently.

Stoker and Veronica, in the course of preparing for the opening of the exhibit, discover evidence that Miss Baker-Greene's death was not a tragic mountain-climbing accident, but murder. They tell the Princess, who has come to inspect the exhibit. The Chancellor assures them that the matter will be handled--but they are both skeptical. This trip, with the exhibit featuring the charms of Alpenwald, an opera featuring both an Alpenwald composer and an Alpenwald soprano, is all about boosting the principality's image and charms as a tourist destination. Murder wouldn't fit that.

Then the Princess disappears. With the Chancellor and the Princess's senior Lady in Waiting have noticed and commented on Veronica's resemblance to the Princess, they ask her to stand in for Gisela--to avoid insulting their hosts, but also to preserve a treaty about to be signed with France.

Stoker is opposed for the same reason he's been insisting on staying in England. He's no longer willing to risk Veronica's life in dangerous adventures. And despite assurances from the Alpenwalders that Princess Gisela just does this from time to time, and always returns, neither he no Veronica really believes there is nothing wrong.

Veronica, though, would rather take the risk.

And soon they are discovering just how complicated and dangerous Alpenwalder politics really is. With multiple different intrigues going on simultaneously, an unexpected connection between Miss Baker-Greene and Princess Gisela, thefts from the exhibit, and Gisela's continued absence forcing Veronica to masquerade as the Princess while with members of her own family that has never claimed her, the British royal family, the situation is spiraling out of control.

All of this, of course, before they discover how close to them the real enemy is.

It's a complicated, intriguing adventure, with all the danger Stoker was hoping to keep himself and Veronica out of. Both Stoker and Veronica have to confront some of their own issues along the way, and decide whether they can make peace with them.

Recommended.

I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.

This is one of my favorite series. I cant get enough of Veronica and Stoker. The two of them are total relationship goals. Their adventures are always the perfect mx of adventure and humor. Love, Love, Love.

This is a fun series, and I'm always excited when the next book comes out! It was great to be back with Veronica and Stoker. Overall, I didn't find myself quite as engaged with this one as past books in the series. The set-up was really interesting and of course Veronica and Stoker find themselves in some surprising circumstances, but the pacing of the mystery felt a bit more slower-moving to me this time. I always thought the parts of the story focused on Veronica and Stoker's relationship were a bit few and far between--in retrospect, I think the mystery they get involved in didn't allow for much interaction between them in at least the back half of the book. I'm definitely still invested in the series and will keep reading each new book that comes out, but I'm hoping for a bit more exciting entry that also has more Veronica/Stoker back-and-forth next time!

An Unexpected Peril
by Deanna Raybourn

“Any person who pitted themselves against mountains must be fashioned of something indomitable.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

This line may be in reference to Alice Baker-Greene, the deceased mountaineer around whom An Unexpected Peril revolves, but truly this line is a banner to be waved above Veronica Speedwell. Perhaps she does not scale actual cliffs and summits, but she does indeed pit herself against mountains.

An Unexpected Peril was an unexpected delight for me. While I always enjoy Deanna Raybourn’s books, this one in particular gripped me. I believe it is because it was a keenly personal one for Veronica.

A Unexpected Peril allows Veronica to explore the life to which she should have been born and yet do so without the imminent threat to her person from members within that household. The emotional waves crest and crash quite often in this book, though not in a soppy, sappy, undisciplined manner, a thing for which I am immensely grateful. I admire the way Vernoica navigates the ups and downs.

Veronica Speedwell is a woman who knows her mind. She knows herself and her capabilities. Furthermore, she is forthright about her flaws. However, as is the way of human nature, we are not always perfectly honest with ourselves when it comes to true introspection. So, when Veronica gets the proverbial bee in her bonnet to investigate what really happened to Alice Baker-Greene the fateful day when she fell to her death climbing the Teufelstreppe in the small nation of Alpenwald, she maintains that it is because she wants to see truth revealed and justice done.

From one small observation Stoker makes while unpacking Alice Baker-Greene’s belongings for the honorary homage exhibit the Curiosity Club is hosting, Veronica determines that Baker-Greene was murdered. She declares this in front of the Alpenwald Princess Gisela, inadvertently, and from there a series of events unfolds almost if their own volition.

First, the death of such a famous mountaineer in a nation known chiefly for its mountaineering, particularly in regard to the summit of the Teufelstreppe, has left a black mark on Alpenwald. The princess wishes to honor Baker-Greene for her achievements as well as minimize the damage her death has done to the tourism of her country. An accident is one thing; murder is quite another.

Second, though Veronica is hell for leather that Stoker and her begin an investigation immediately, there are diplomatic problems. They cannot start any sort of inquiry in a foreign nation. They have no grounds and no back up from Scotland Yard. When Stoker points out the flimsy proof, their diplomatic issues, and the fact that he’s down right done in from all their sleuthing, Veronica is almost peevish in her response to him. It’s murder, and there’s no other recourse for them but to investigate. Period. She won’t hear another word about it. In fact, she very nearly accuses Stoker of being a coward for not wanting to see a miscarriage of justice rectified.

I found myself a little stupefied at her reaction, I’ll admit. However, in the next scene (Ch 6), she visits her vivarium where the last of her Malachite butterflies has come to his final rest. It might seem an odd place to put what seems to be an aside, delving into the reasons why Veronica has pursued a life as a lepidopterist, but in the quiet words of those pages much is revealed.

“I sat in the fragrant steamy air of the vivarium, perspiration pearling my temples, and marveled at this exquisite creature with his viridian wings, so delicate they seemed hardly capable of holding his weight aloft. And yet they had, bearing him throughout his adventures until at long last his voyaging was done… Known to his friends at Hercules. It was a curious thing to write an epitaph for a butterfly, but it seemed wrong not to honor the dead when we had known them, not matter how small.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

This particular portion is not only beautifully written, but it elegantly and eloquently conveys the impetus behind why Veronica is so moved to find out the truth behind Alice’s death. Stoker’s objections to investigating make logical sense, particularly given the harrowing adventure endured on their last investigation. It stands to reason that he would want to stand down. It almost felt unfeeling of Veronica in the prior chapter to unbraid him so and then give him the cold shoulder when he doesn’t kowtow. But this small vignette into her passion and profession is a good insight into her very soul. Her tenderness and her compassion and joy in the beauty of nature fully realized in itself is what drives her to see justice done and injustice purged. Though she had only once met Alice at the Curiosity Club, the impression the mountaineer left on Veronica is enough for her to need to see justice met.

However, there is more to Veronica’s need to investigate. For many, many months, Veronica has largely maintained her residence in England. She has gone on no expeditions to hunt her beloved lepidoptera. She has contented herself with organizing and cataloguing the butterfly collection in the Belvedere. In short, she’s bored.

“The remedy, I had found, was movement. To hurls one’s few possessions into a carpetbag and embark for a new adventure was the only solace. To leave behind one’s woes in a damp and fogbound land, awakening in brilliant sunshine, the air heavy with spices and the promise of new endeavors, this was true happiness.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

Certainly, she’s had several investigations that were all perilous in nature and all which provide that sense of movement that compels her. One might think that is enough adventure to satiate her appetite. Perhaps, if the circumstance were different, it would be. However, during these adventures, she’s built a community around herself. Her relationships have taken on new, and as is the case with Stoker, deeply intimate meaning for her life.

“I was accustomed to living my life as unfettered as one of my beloved butterflies, and these new bonds of attachment brought with them not only connection and warmth but a dreadful sensation of loss when my companions were not present.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

You see, her usual recourse of escape is not open to her. Whether she likes it or not, her life feels like it’s not hers alone. And she is uncertain how she feels about this. If one thing she is certain, though, it makes her very uncomfortable indeed.

Furthermore, given the burgeoning nature of her relationship with Stoker, she’s trepidatious as to what next steps to make.

That’s why when the possibility of foul play presents itself, Veronica snatches at it like a life line. Of course, she’s correct. Justice needs to be served. Alice Baker-Greene was murdered and those responsible have not been apprehended. And regardless of whether he’s reluctant or not, Stoker follows her as they plummet into unknown danger.

“I understand you, Veronica, because I am you. I know that England is too small and too safe to contain you because it confines me as well. Do you think a day does not pass that I do not long to be aboard a ship, salt spray in my face and sails snapping in the wind, bound for the other side of the world? We have known such liberty, such wideness of experience that most can only imagine. And we will know such things again,” he promised. “But I should reconcile myself to the fact that whilst we are here, we must take our adventures where we can.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

What they don’t expect is to be pressed into the unlikely service of standing in for royalty. Princess Gisela of Alpenwald is missing, as her lady in waiting explains to Veronica, and, given the uncanny resemblance between the princess and Ms. Speedwell, would Veronica pretty please sub for the errant princess to help stem all the international fracas about to be unleashed.

The risks are mounting and Veronica is positively excited about it all. Stoker’s enthusiasm is nearly non-existent. Nevertheless, she dons the royal duds and diamonds and debuts as Princess Gisela. But, Veronica gets more than she bargained for, and I’m not just talking about the death treats and near miss bombings.

“I was still myself, as much plain Veronica Speedwell as I had ever been, but since I had been presented to them as a princess, they believed it. The jewels and the gown and the fact that people called me “Highness” had somehow rendered me almost sacred, and there was a touch of worshipfulness I did not entirely like. Strip away the costly trappings and I was no more or less than any of them, I thought angrily. And yet they could not see past the dazzling display of wealth and power.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

I appreciate this plot line because it does not surround Veronica’s royal heritage but she gets to explore the actual experience of walking out a very public royal life. The realizations and sympathies she’s encounters within herself provide tremendous growth for her character but also humanize her in a way heretofore I have not seen.

Veronica is always so in control of herself. She knows her mind so well at all times. But in An Unexpected Peril, she learns a vast deal about herself, things she had hidden away from, things she did not what to consider, things that frightened her. Though apprehending a murderer, challenging social norms, and even enacting a successful façade for famous dignitaries and royalty are all mountains to be scaled, contending head on with one’s own fears, foibles, and flaws showcases Veronica’s indomitable spirit best of all.

“It occurred to me then that, were it not for an accident of birth, a peculiarity of the law, I might have rightfully worn such things. I was the child of a prince, the descendant of queens, and the blood in my veins was no less blue for having been mixed with an Irish actress’s. If her marriage had been recognized, I would have worn such garments from my youth, enjoyed the adulation and the applause. But I would also have stifled my own spirit, I reflected. Those quirks of character that made me the woman I had become were because I had been given the freedom to do as I pleased. No royal protocol dictated my upbringing; no august personages dictated my education. I had been at liberty to study as I wished, pursuing my own interests and friendships, embarking upon travels and learning to rely upon no one but myself. I had not had the privileges of royalty, but neither had I endured the privations, and of these I could number many.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

I appreciate this aside because it allows Veronica a taste of what she could have had, and if the machinations of her uncle has succeeded, could have stepped into. However, she is a woman who knows herself. And though it is impossible to say she has no regrets, it is good to see that the avant-garde choices she made for her life are the ones she is most contented with.

All this warp and weft weaves together into a rich tapestry of suspense, thrills, and- at times- mayhem. But perhaps the aspect of this book that I appreciated most is the unfolding of the relationship between Stoker and Veronica. Many enjoy the anticipation before two characters ‘get together’ as the modern vernacular would have it. However, I prefer to see the growth of two individuals who have come together already, how their relationship progresses and how they grow together as well as separated secure in their love for one another.

“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 to you.”
- An Unexpected Peril, Deanna Raybourn

Much like the lepidoptera that Veronica hunts, her relationship with Stoker is both delicate, subtle even, as well as awe inspiring. In A Dangerous Collaboration, we saw the beginnings of the emergence from the chrysalis. In An Unexpected Peril, we see the butterfly unfurl it’s magnificent, iridescent wings for the first time. Like with all first times, their newness is marked with a measure of trepidation. But, the desire to fly is innate and will not be denied. There are real fears and worries, but with honesty and a measure of bravery, they face them together.

This may be my favorite offering in the Veronica Speedwell series, although that is hard to say as I so enjoyed A Treacherous Curse and A Dangerous Collaboration immensely. Two words- Egyptology and Cornwall. But I digress. An Unexpected Peril offers new aspects of Veronica and Stoker as well as a foray into mountaineering and the international climate in Europe as Bismarck made his mark.

The only criticism- if you can call it that- is that Raybourn does seem to over beat the drum where women’s suffrage and equality is concerned. I understand the reasoning, but the constant reminder of women being underestimated, limited, and repressed by men did get a little tiresome. I know Veronica is a singular woman who knows her mind and acts according to her conscience, which puts her at odds with the societal norms of her day. But her actions demonstrate this more eloquently than the multiple mentions and reminders do. Furthermore, with the inclusion of characters like Lady C, Lady Wellingtonia, Princess Gisela, Alice Baker-Greene, and even Aunt Vicky, this books positively brims with strong, independent women who walk out their decisions with integrity and gumption.

As always, Deanna Raybourn’s attention to detail is fastidious and her historical knowledge is exemplary. These Veronica Speedwell books just keep getting better and better. I highly recommend An Unexpected Peril to anyone who enjoys an engaging story, fleshed out characters, meticulous historical research, and superb writing. Honestly, however you likes to read- digital or hard copy- get this book. It is a satisfying read.

Review also posted to personal blog, Whiskers on Kittens:
http://www.whiskersonkittens.co/new-blog/2021/2/28/books-to-love-an-unexpected-peril

Veronica Speedwell and her lover Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (better known as Stoker) are adventurers, even when they are intending to stay out of trouble. In this installment, they're working on a tribute exhibition to a climber who lost her life at too early an age on what should have been a pretty easy climb for her. As they go through Alice's belongings to put together the exhibit, they find a climbing rope that appears to have been cut! The proper authorities are notified, and Veronica is sure an investigation will follow.

When they're summoned to the hotel suite where the chancellor who was informed is staying, Veronica and Stoker are surprised to find the case is not being pursued. Instead, the visiting government has an altogether different task they'd like Veronica's help with. They'd like Veronica to impersonate a princess who has a habit of wandering off at a couple of events that require her attendance. Veronica is happy to help, and to follow her own leads in finding out the true cause of Alice's untimely demise.

Veronica and Stoker are so true and adorable together. Their sweetness had me originally thinking this was a YA series, and then as I sat down to read again, they had some...obvious intimacy. Yeah, sex. So not a schoolkid book, but the rest of their characters' parts in the book have an innocent sort of charm that was refreshing.

I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars and would recommend the whole series to someone who enjoys historical mysteries without a lot of negative drama. Veronica is a strong female character who of course has strenghts and weaknesses, but is overall supremely likable. Stoker plays a great supportive male who deals with issues of his own. Together, they are a winning pair against all the shenanigans they stumble into.

As an avid reader of romance I’d be hard-pressed to pick one hero to spend a lifetime with, but it might well be Revelstoke Templeton-Vane, better known as the hunky, clever, and oh so sensitive and poetic Stoker!

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 to you.

Deep sigh!

So...here we are on the sixth book of the A Veronica Speedwell Mystery series and, IMHO, this is one of the best of the set. There will be spoilers about previous books in this review so if you are planning on reading the series, stop here and go pick up A Curious Beginning!

An Unexpected Peril picks up soon after the heart-racing adventures of book five have come to an end, and Stoker is looking forward to a little peace and quiet. It is not to be, however. Veronica and Stoker have been asked by Lady Cordelia (sister to their benefactor Lord Rosemorran) to install at the Curiosity Club (an exclusive club of female scientists) an exhibition of mountaineering in the Alpenwald as a tribute to Curiosity Club member and famous mountaineer Alice Baker-Greene. Alice recently died during a routine climb of the Teufelstreppe, in the middle of the tiny country of Alpenwald between France and Germany. Veronica remembers meeting Alice the previous year, remembers her zest for life and her excitement to be moving permanently to Alpenwald. And now Alice is dead and Veronica and Stoker suspect foul play in the form of a rope that appears to have been cut.

The exhibition is to be opened by Her Serene Highness Gisela, the Hereditary Princess of the Alpenwald and ruler of the country. When Stoker and Veronica bring their suspicions to the Princess, she is unconvinced - it would be a massive public relations problem for Alpenwald - whose economy is mostly supported by climbers - to have a murder in the climbing community on their mountain. Stoker feels he and Veronica have done their duty by bringing it to the attention of the Alpenwalders but Veronica wishes to pursue the investigation.

While they are debating what to do next, a summons arrives from the Chancellor of the Alpenwald. Assuming they are beginning a murder investigation, the couple heads off to the Sudbury Hotel to meet with the Alpenwalders - Veronica excited, Stoker resigned. But when they arrive, they are informed that the Princess is missing and the Alpenwalders appeal to Veronica (who looks remarkably like Gisela) to impersonate the Princess at upcoming events, which include signing a treaty of mutual defense brokered by the Dowager Empress of Germany - aka the Princess Royal, Vicky, between the Alpenwald and France against the German Empire.

What follows is a delightful mystery full of blackmail, murder, disguises, and betrayals. As always, the supporting cast is well-drawn and engaging. We see very little of old favorites like Mornaday and Lady Wellie, but J.J. Butterworth is back writing sensational stories and impeding Veronica and Stoker’s investigations (because of course they are going to investigate Alice’s death on the side!) The charming Julien d’Orlande, chef at the Sudbury, returns, providing details about guests and creating lavish delicacies. I’m not sure which descriptions I enjoyed more - the desserts or the descriptions of the outfits worn by Veronica when she impersonates Gisela. The Alpenwalders are an amusing lot with their customs, food, mannerisms, and elaborate moustaches. Ms. Raybourn also does a thorough job painting a picture of Alice Baker-Greene. Rarely is a dead character so vibrant!

This is a fascinating time in European history, with the rise of Germany and the growing rift between Kaiser Wilhelm and his mother Princess Vicky. Ms. Raybourn places her fictional Alpenwald directly between Germany and France - not the place a tiny sovereignty can feel comfortable at this juncture of history. When Stoker asks why the Princess Vicky has brokered a treaty against her own son, the Alpenwalders respond:

“Because his interests are not those of good and peaceful men,” the chancellor said sternly. “She has tried the whole of her life to instill in him the principles of democracy upon which she was weaned, but his upbringing was taken out of her hands by his grandfather. He was schooled to admire all things military and warlike, to love aggression and fighting and the glory of Germany.” His moustaches quivered in disgust. “He was never taught to cherish peace, to work for the good of his people. His mother is deeply afraid, you see.”

Again, a fascinating time and Ms. Raybourn handles the international tension deftly. It is easy to feel the discomfort and apprehension radiating from the Alpenwalders.

Veronica and Stoker’s relationship continues to take center-stage. Veronica is starting to feel the pull/dread of domesticity and for a few brief pages I was preparing a tirade of ‘no, no, no Veronica, do not be a fool!’ but then Stoker steps in, reads the situation perfectly, and says and does exactly what Veronica needs him to do. This man! Veronica does some maturing in this book as she starts to see some of the selfishness in her decisions. I am hoping that she finally realizes that she can be daring and adventurous and committed to one person for the long haul. More and more she is starting to see the treasure she has in Stoker.

Longtime lovers of the series will be on pins and needles near the end when Stoker and Veronica go to Windsor Castle to sign Princess Vicky’s treaty. They had been assured that members of the Royal Family were at Sandringham but some have returned early. The last few chapters are a race to the finish and, at the end, J.J. Butterworth is still in disguise at Windsor Castle. One can only guess what this will lead to in Book Seven. I can’t wait!

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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
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

Six books in and Veronica and Stoker continue to please. I really enjoyed this installment in their adventures. The mystery is interesting and engaging and the developments in their relationship felt very true to their characters. The ending left me very hopeful and excited for the next book.

Flat. That is the best word that I can use to describe this shallow and superficial sixth outing featuring Veronica Speedwell. Gone is the sexual tension and humorous retorts between Veronica and Stoker. There are a few quips, but so few and far between that you almost forget that there had been any.

Putting together an exhibit at London’s Curiosity Club to honor the late Alice Baker-Greene, a mountaineer from Alpenwald, Veronica comes to realize that all the pieces of the story are not melding. With the help of Stoker, they begin to realize that it was no accident that claimed Alice’s life. When Princess Gisela of the Alpenwald, who came to view the exhibit goes missing, Veronica is coerced to stand in her place. Little did she know that this would put her in the same room as her biological father.

In a panic, and with time running out and an assassin on her heels, Veronica needs to find the missing Gisela, solve a murder, answer a few nagging questions, figure out why she is feeling despondent, and ultimately decide if her life with Stoker is what would make her truly happy or does she need time away to rediscover her independence.

Not my favorite in the series. I found this book to be more of a turning point between Veronica and Stoker. Where will they go now that there is no underlying tension? Has Veronica scratched that proverbial itch and it is time to take her lepidopterist nets and search out new adventures?

Veronica Speedwell and Stoker got me through the pandemic so it was lovely to get to read the latest installment a bit early. Veronica's experience impersonating royalty - when the trappings might have rightfully been hers - was unexpectedly moving and added a nice touch to a satisfying mystery.

i'm horrible at reviewing the books in this series, because i always say the same things - i *adore* these characters, this world, the writing, everything. it's just so freaking delightful. always a good time, one of my favourite series, would absolutely recommend it overall. love the banter, the swoony romantic moments, laughed a few times... not my absolute favourite plot/mystery, but enjoyable nonetheless. can't wait for more!

I received a copy of this book for review from Netgalley. Life has barely had a chance to calm back down for Veronica and Stoker since their last adventure, but she is already struggling with the quiet life. Luckily for her, a mystery presents itself to her while she is setting up an exhibit at her club. Never one to let anyone tell her not to pursue an adventure, she jumps headfirst into a royal mess.
If you are familiar with the books, this will feel like a natural progression of the series. As usual, Veronica is willing to drag Stoker right into the adventure with her, and Stoker is willing to do whatever he needs to do to protect his partner. While I know that there are some readers that struggle with finding Veronica likeable, I did not have an issue with her as a character until certain parts of this book. She was unusually lacking in self awareness, and would not listen to Stoker's opinions even when it was to her own detriment. While this worked out fine for her, I did have the compulsion to yell at her a few times. While this did not impair my overall enjoyment of the book, be aware that this is an issue. The mystery was fun, and Veronica got to shine as a detective. I look forward to the continuation of the series, and the truly excellent cover art.

I'll start by saying thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC in return for a fair and honest review. I'm extremely invested in the characters in this series and I honestly don't think that any of their adventures could be boring at this point. In this sixth installment, Stoker and Veronica are investigating the potential murder of a fellow Curiosity Club member. In doing so, Veronica discovers that she looks very much like the Crown Princess of the Alpenwald, paving the way for her to step into this princess's shoes when she mysteriously disappears for a bit.

Nothing shocked me more than the first book in this series did. Though I think this book fell a little short of where the other books did in terms of the mystery, I think it made up for that with the banter and character development of our two protagonists. I read a lot of historical fiction and when I tell people that, they expect it to be something stuffy or difficult to understand. Veronica Speedwell is anything but, though it doesn't completely disregard the mentalities of the time period in definitely infuses it with witty conversations and personalities that a typical person would not expect.

I had 33 highlights in this book, more than I think I've ever done in any book. I can't describe how clever everything has been during the course of this series. Everything that you expect is completely subverted, from the tropes to the mysteries. When we were first introduced to Stoker in the first book, I don't think I could ever have expected him to be quoting Keats and stealing sweets. And Veronica, she has her moments but she's really growing and realizing that you don't have to be all of one thing. While I have loved her throughout the entirety of the books, I love that she's not so selfish and that she recognizes the things that she wants even outside of her independence. I really appreciate that their growth is authentic to their characters, they're consistent to who they were at the beginning they're just stronger and better people.

So as I do every year when one of these books comes out, I strongly recommend reading this series. It has literally everything that you need from a book and continues to get better with every installment. Veronica and Stoker will always hold a special place for me and I'll keep reading them as long as they keep being written.