Deanna Raybourn introduced the world to Veronica Speedwell in A Curious Beginnings (read my review *here*). A scientist who travels around the world to study butterflies, Veronica finds herself mixed up in a mystery and with the brutish but daring Stoker. A Treacherous Curse is the third novel in the series and Veronica and Stoker are involved in yet another dangerous intrigue.
Stoker's ex-wife's husband has vanished along with a valuable diadem from the Egyptian archaeological dig where he was working as a photographer. Could it be just another example of the Egyptian curse that has plagued the entire dig? The archeologist's are determined to have the diadem returned before their exhibition and a nosy journalist is already implying that Stoker was involved in the disappearance of de Morgan. Veronica is determined to clear Stoker's name and solve the mystery.
I fell for the spunky and witty Veronica Speedwell in her first novel. I did buy the second copy but I didn't get the chance to read it before the third novel arrived. I think it is important to read the first one to get to know the characters before reading A Treacherous Curse but I didn't find it necessary to have read A Perilous Undertaking (I do plan to read it soon). Veronica and her partner Stoker are definitely the best part of these mysteries. Raybourn creates characters that are delightful and fun. The chemistry between the two is palpable yet leaves the reader hungry for more.
The plot moves along at a steady pace though there are extensive interviews with people who were actually at the dig in Egypt. But Veronica and Stoker have several near scrapes as they discover that their own lives are in danger. The mystery keeps the reader guessing while extorting the occasional chuckle from Veronica's jocular observations and responses.
A Treacherous Curse by Deanna Raybourn is a wonderful addition to the Veronica Speedwell mysteries. I'm definitely a fan.
A Treacherous Curse by Deanna Raybourn is published by Berkley and released on January 16, 2018.
**I received a complimentary copy of the book. This review reflects my honest opinions. No compensation was received.**
This sounds good! I need to try this series.
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