A Treacherous Curse (A Veronica Speedwell Mystery)

I love the humor in this series, how Veronica goes out of her way to embarrass Revelstoke and in no way backs down or defers to her male counterparts.

Head of Scotland Yard’s Special Branch, Sir Hugo Montgomerie, has called upon Veronica and Stoker to look into the disappearance of John de Morgan. He was last seen leaving a dig in Egypt and now both he and a priceless headpiece are missing and with a supposed curse involving the Princess Ankheset’s tomb, and also the director of the expedition dead, Veronica and her devilish mind must put the pieces together without further involving Stoker’s name or an old scandal.

Turns out that Stoker has a curious tie to de Morgan and his wife, who swears that even the room that she left him in has changed, yet Stoker cannot let himself be distracted during this case. There is too much riding on his reputation and though he is many things, he is not what he was once accused of being, and he desperately needs Veronica to standby his side and help to fight for not only his name, but to find the people behind de Morgan’s disappearance.

With Veronica’s semi-legitimate ties to the British throne, she is both protected and invisible, allowing her to delve into areas that would not be available to Revelstoke alone. Combined, this duo holds each other’s secrets and pieces together a conspiracy that will both enlighten and free Stoker. Many answers are revealed in this third book of the Veronica Speedwell series and it needs to be read slowly and thoroughly to get a deeper understanding of Revelstoke Templeton-Vane and why Veronica would fighter harder for Stoker than she would ever fight for herself.

This is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell mysteries by Deanna Raybourn, due out January 16th, 2018 from Penguin/Random House - Berkley imprint.

This is a Victorian cozy mystery with modern characters, language and, mostly, sensibilities. It goes quite well on a shelf with Amelia Peabody, Kathryn Ardleigh, Charlotte Pitt, and others in that vein. I love that genre (Victorian cozy mysteries with plucky modern heroines?). I don't think many would argue that a big pot of Earl Grey tea, a wet and wintry afternoon and a fully charged kindle loaded with modern Victorian mysteries is a guaranteed recipe for bliss.

Other reviewers have done a stellar job of summarizing the plot. I'll just add that the pacing is well done and though the book is relatively long, at 352 pages, it doesn't drag. The story is cleverly written and even though the dialogue is fairly snarky in places, I didn't feel tempted to roll my eyes much at all.

I like that Veronica is a lepidopterist and naturalist. I also enjoyed the romantic tension between her and her colleague Stoker. Even though it seems inevitable that they will wind up together, I hope Ms. Raybourn delays the inevitable as long as possible. The book is well written and the scene descriptions are wrought with care and technical expertise.

The cover art for this series is beautiful and intricate.

Four stars

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher.

John de Morgan has disappeared, along with a priceless artifact from the Tiverton expedition's Egyptological dig. Has he simply absconded and abandoned his beautiful but shrewish wife, or is something more sinister afoot? Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (Stoker) and Veronica Speedwell need to find the answer before the police, the press, and the public ask too many questions about Stoker's connection to Mr. and Mrs. de Morgan.

A Treacherous Curse is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell series, but it isn't necessary to have read the previous books. It works quite well as a complete, stand-alone mystery. Having said that, however, if you are like me, finding a series with characters intriguing enough to make you want more is a great joy, and Veronica Speedwell is such a series!

Veronica is intelligent, capable, and unconventional. Stoker is mysterious, interesting, and hurls insults and epithets while remaining a gentleman. Being privy to their partnership is a treat.

Will Veronica and Stoker ever confess their feelings for each other, let alone act on them? Will Veronica ever meet her father? When will Lady Cordy return? Are we going to learn more of Lady Wellie? When he has fully recovered, will Lord Rosemorran undertake that South Seas expedition along with Stoker and Veronica?

I would like to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for a copy of A Treacherous Curse; however, my review and opinions are my own and were not influenced by them

veronica and stoker are at it again in a treacherous curse. this time stoker's past has them all caught up in a mysterious disappearance, and we finally learn more about stoker's disastrous first marriage and what happened on the fateful expedition that cost him his reputation and marked his body forever.

it's his former best friend who has disappeared. the man who married his ex-wife. and considering the acrimony between them he's been declared scotland yard's most likely suspect. unwilling to have stoker's reptation further blackened or to face the strong likelihood that the royal family will intervene in their partnership, veronica sets herself on the task of figuring out what went wrong with the egyptian expedition that preceded the disappearance.

with her trademark wit and her staunch lack of squeamishness veronica carefully pulls apart all the tangled threads of this web of lies and murder and mystery. but this particular mystery reveals more to veronica about what she might feel for stoker. she understands him even more. she's afraid of what it all means. a feeling that veronica is not at all acquanted with as she has not much use for fear. this world, this relationship, these characters continue to be delightful and entertaining and smart. and i can't help but be excited for the next book in the series.

**a treacherous curse will publish on january 16, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/berkley publishing group in exchange for my honest review.

“I assure you, I am perfectly capable of identifying a phallus when I see one” .. How more enticing of a first line can you get? Veronica and Stoker unpack a crate of artifacts sent to a museum they are charged with the organization of and allowed to live in. The collection of ... enticements were a gift from a previous case the duo solved, saving an innocent man from a prison continuance.
It is 1888 in London. Both yearn for a new expedition to take them from their tedious doldrums, but what they get in lieu is less adventure and more necessity. A once partner, now nemesis of Stoker has come up missing, along with an extremely valuable diadem unearthed on a recent archeological dig and believed to be in his possession. Their history sets Stoker as suspect in the sudden disappearance, so he and Veronica set off to find the hidden and reclaim the stolen. Clearing Stoker’s good name will be but another line in their curriculum vitae.
This is the 3rd in the Victoria Speedwell adventure series. Each gives our heroine a most forward thinking flair for the joie de vivre she is accustomed to enjoying.
Being a steadfast Will & Grace fan, I readily admit to delighting in the snarky quips on our stateside politics and flippant opinions on our materialistic, boastful rich. We are a tacky lot, for sure.
Quite capable in most situations, and the pair do find themselves in a comical array of such, they work in near perfect synchronized tandem. Aristocracy abounds in this cast of characters, all with a smudge of scandal to keep them interesting.
Writing of and speaking in the era, I find it causes my own grammar to improve and saddens me how far from it we have drifted.
As an added bonus, I learned the eloquent term for a delectable confection, pets de nonnes, or “nun’s farts”, as well as the reference to the “iliac furrows” .. of which I beseech you to look up, should you not already know.

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 the stores.

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...

This is a fantastic Victorian England mystery steeped with murder, intrigue and tension. I have not read the first two books in this series. I didn't know it was a part of a series when I requested it from NetGalley- I just loved the description! It was so well written and had me guessing who the bad guy was til the very end. The two main characters are amazing and you wish you could meet them in real life.

Veronica and Stoker are cataloging a private collection set to be public when they hear of a tragedy at an Egyptian dig site. One of the people missing is Stoker's old partner and Veronica had no clue. You learn a lot of back story about both characters and I think it really adds a real connection to them both.

I love this time period and the author did a beautiful job capturing it. Veronica is very opposite of a lady from the Victorian era. She doesn't take crap from anyone and does what she wants. She is brave and inquisitive. This book surpassed my expectations and I am SO glad I read it! I never felt lost having not read the previous books in this series. It can be read as a standalone.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for offering me a free eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review!

I love Julia Raybourn’s Lady Julia Grey series, so I was anxious to dive into her new Veronica Speedwell series. I’ve not been disappointed, and in fact, may like Veronica even more than Lady Julia. Brilliant, outspoken, strong-willed and far ahead of her time, Veronica is a fascinating character, as is her partner, Stoker. I received this as an ARC through Netgalley, but decided to read the first two books before diving into this one. That turned out to be an excellent decision, as the relationship between Veronica and Stoker develops through the first 3 books, and secrets from both their backgrounds are revealed over the course of the series, and there are surely more to come.
The lovely relationship that has developed between Veronica and Stoker has been enjoyable to watch develop. Their banter makes me laugh out loud at times, and conveniently the mysteries they solve are interesting. And while I feel like I have a pretty good vocabulary, I’m always grateful for my Kindle’s built-in dictionary when I read a Deanna Raybourn book - I do believe I use that feature more for her books than for any other author’s. (And that’s a positive in my book.)

Copy provided by Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an unbiased review

A TREACHEROUS CURSE is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell series and I believe that they just keep getting better. By having the book centered around the myths and lore of Egypt, Raybourn allows there to be a more interesting play with what is real and what isn't. The characters as well as the reader are sent down a path to piece together what is invention and what is reality.

I will admit that I am a sucker for an intelligent, cunning, and at times plucky female lead in these types of mysteries. When authors even the playing field between the men and women all the while managing to show the prejudice and bias that is prevalent in the era, it gives license to more complicated and intriguing stories.

For those who have not yet met Veronica Speedwell, I implore you read these books. They are wonderful mysteries infused with unique and refreshing characters.

This series has become one of my all time favorites. Veronica is a fantastic character who is unique and strong. She has remained true to the character we were introduced to in the first book, which I love. This installment has all the intrigue and hijinks of the previous books and the relationship between Stoker and Veronica is continuing to develop. We learn a lot more about Stoker in A Treacherous Curse and the more we learn the more I love him. The mystery revolves around the disappearance of his ex-wife's new husband who was working on an Egyptian expedition. I love the Victorian fascination with Egypt and the undercurrent of mysterious curses and ancient unknowns builds the perfect atmosphere for this book. If you enjoyed the first two books in this series you won't be disappointed by this one.

Veronica and Stoker are back to solve another mystery. This time the mystery is a curse that clouds the archaeological dig where an Egyptian Princess is buried with a priceless diadem. The diadem has gone missing along with Stokers former expedition partner and his disreputable past is re-surfacing.

Anubis, the god of tombs who has the head of a jackal, has been seen haunting the shadows of London. Is the curse real? Can Veronica solve the mysteries that plague the princess and Stoker?

This was a great read, but not my favorite Veronica Speedwell mystery. It is well written and Veronica’s sassy attitude is always entertaining. However, I prefer a more historically based book where I am entertained and also learn something.

I am looking forward to the next Veronica Speedwell mystery.

Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

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 Undertaking. The series is a ton of fun, and I cannot wait for the next one. I received this book to read and review; all opinions are my own.

Deanna Raybourn's accounting of the activities of intrepid Veronica Speedwell and her mysterious friend Stoker are again on display in this, the third book in the series. It's pretty much nonstop from beginning to end, as the duo searches for a missing "enemy" of Stoker's and missing Egyptian jewels. Ms. Raybourn is indeed a master of plotting, and every book displays that.

My quibbles with this particular outing include the heavy-handed constant reference to Veronica's "uniqueness among women" and Stoker's angst. That, and the name dropping that seems to happen on every page -- "it used to belong to Catherine the Great/was at Versailles." I don't believe by the third book that I need to be reminded of how different these characters are. Be that as it may, I intend to continue following their adventures, and I appreciated the opportunity via Net Galley to do so.

Raybourn cleverly incorporates Victorian fascination with Egypt into this latest installment in the terrific Veronica Speedwell series. Don't worry if you haven't read the earlier books- you'll be just fine with this. Veronica is a classic feisty independent woman at a time when many women were not as mobile due to society's strictures. Her pal, Stoker, comes to the forefront here, as it's his frenemy John de Morgan who has gone missing (with some jewels btw). We all know curses aren't real and that Anubis can't really be alive and in London but something creepy and bad is happening. Trust Veronica and Stoker, who have a fast repartee and good instincts, to untangle things. I know some might want them to get together romantically (or see a Veronica/Tiberius match) but that would ruin the books, imho. The tension is part of the charm. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Two thumbs up!

A Treacherous Curse, from Deanna Raybourn, is the first book in the Veronica Speedwell series that I have read and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It was easy to read it as a standalone while also creating the desire to go back and read the earlier volumes.

I can't speak to how this compares to the other volumes but I can say that Veronica and Stoker are fun and interesting characters, ones I would want to read more about, both their adventures and their lives. This, I think, is the core of any good series.

I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a nice mystery, fun character interaction and a glimpse at Victorian England as well. The plot moves steadily along while the characters endear themselves to the reader. All in all a fun read.

Reviewed from a copy made available through Goodreads First Reads.

A Treacherous Curse by Deanna Raybourn (Gdrd only/need A & BN)
I kept hearing “Another fine mess you’ve gotten me into” as I read the adventures of Veronica Speedwell, new and most deserving member of the Hippolyta Club, which “does not permit gentlemen to enter” except for “extraordinary circumstances . . . only to the Parley Room . . . for twenty-nine minutes.” Rest assured, the gentleman is worthy of the exception, a brave and equal partner in extraordinary escapades. (A special nod to literacy with “Reader, I carried him” made me smile).
I was also reminded of the adage that if a prop is introduced, expect it to be used, as will knowledge of Egyptology and drains, and butterflies, at least metaphorically, with the lovely word eclosed.
I’m late to the series, ready to remedy my not having read the first two . . . and hoping to see many more.

Deanna Raybourn consistently produces light reading at its best, and the third Veronica Speedwell historical mystery is no exception. Veronica is an appealing heroine: spirited, unconventional, and uninhibited, she happily defies multiple conventions of Victorian society. Here she and Stoker, her brilliant male colleague, find themselves in the company of explorers recently returned from Egypt who have become unnerved by an unexpected death and the disappearances of both a member of their team and a valuable object found during their latest excavation. Could a mummy's curse be to blame? With Speedwell and Stoker on the case answers will be found - including some revealing facts about Stoker's mysterious past. This series is a pleasing mash-up of romance, adventure, and detective genre traditions that will entertain a wide readership.

I think, in terms of mystery, A Treacherous Curse is now my favorite of the series.

Immediately, Veronica and Stoker meet up with a sick Inspector Montgomerie, who warns them about a storm about to break, one that will dredge up Stoker's past and destroy beyond repair what reputation he's built back up for himself. John de Morgan, a former expedition partner of Stoker's, has gone missing along with a priceless diadem belonging to an Egyptian princess, leaving behind a wife too distraught to answer any further questions.

Signs point to foul play with Stoker as the likeliest culprit since de Morgan had no known enemies save for Stoker. Worse, that wife he left behind? Meet Caroline de Morgan, formerly Caroline Templeton-Vane, Stoker's ex-wife and the woman responsible for leaving Stoker for dead and destroying his reputation in the first place.

Thus, Veronica and Stoker race to discover what really happened on that Egyptological expedition, one that was apparently fraught with death and misfortune, seemingly cursed by the dead princess who unleashed Anubis on the excavation party. Now, Anubis has followed the heads of the expedition to London, and the press is stirring up rumors of the curse and the players whenever they get a chance. It's only a matter of time before they discover the missing de Morgan's tie to Stoker and stir up rumors of a very different sort.

I enjoyed this mystery the most out of the previous books because it was a lot more murky and complicated. The culprits and answers weren't immediately obvious, and it took Veronica and Stoker a while to work everything out. The new characters introduced were varied and engaging, especially Julien d'Orlande, Sir Leicester, Lady Tiverton, and Figgy. I love how Raybourn writes characters, that no matter what they're doing or how long they're on the page, they feel fleshed out and real on her Victorian canvas. She truly has an innate talent.

Once again, though, Veronica and Stoker's relationship takes center stage for me above everything. The mutual respect, the sparks between them, the stubbornness, the competition, the loyalty--I am a total sucker for them. (Besides, anyone who's willing to go tearing off into a sewer with you and save your life in the process, keep them! Do you know how rare of a Ride-or-Die find that is??? Y'all are meant for each other, deal with it.)

By facing Stoker's past together, they grow closer as friends, their bond deepening towards something more. But slowly, so agonizingly slowly, especially compared to what happened in A Perilous Undertaking. However, I still like the slow pace because there's a lot that both Stoker and Veronica need to work out with themselves and each other before both of them would be ready to take that final step. Here, we see some of those vital details being seen to.

Case in point: confronting Caroline de Morgan. Every scene with her was excruciating both because of how deeply Stoker is still hurt and affected by her (or rather how he let himself get duped by her) but also because of the woman herself. Like Veronica, I wanted to throttle her within the first few words she spoke. Caroline is a real piece of work, and I am currently living for the scene where Veronica called her out on her privilege and her BS. Thank you, Veronica, for never being afraid to say what's on your mind. You're the real MVP!

Also, the little moments with Veronica and her father had me feeling Some Typa Way. I loved the item he sent her (with a butterfly!) because it was so unexpected that he actually is keeping tabs on her and learning about her from a distance. Veronica's mixed feelings about it were matched only by my own. I really hope that Veronica gets to meet him at some point and find her peace with everything.

Also, ALSO, I could've screamed when the Viscount interrupted Veronica's moment at the very end. Listen, Tiberius Templeton-Vane, you are distractingly and admittedly attractive, but now is not the time!

Ugh.

Anyway.

Now I have to wait for the next book. It doesn't even have a release date yet. How will I go on?

This is the third book in the Veronica Speedwell series and I am delighted to share my review. We learned more about Stroker, her partner. A pass colleague has returned to England from an Egyptian expedition and has disappeared. Since Stroker is known to dislike him, it is fear that his past will examine in the papers and bring to light his connection with Veronica. Veronica feels she must explore his connection to this colleague and his wife. Will Veronica find the answer before her past becomes fodder for the tabloid press? I highly recommend this book and series.

Disclosure: I received a free copy from Berkley Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review.I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.

If you haven't found Veronia Speedwell mysteries you are missing out. Veronica and her partner Stoker look for a missing man and uncover much more in London 1988. Veronica collects butterflies and is outspoken and curious. Stoker has a dark pass and is a taxidermist a wonderful combination of skills when detecting.
The missing man has come to London to set up an Egyptian exhibit of unknown Egyptian princess, is also an old friend of Stoker's married to Stoker's ex-wife. Before the exhibit opens London is threatened by the princess's curse and Anubus walks the streets of London.
This strong female character based in Victorian England provides much reading enjoyment. Hopeful the series will continue.

Oh, how I love Deanna Raybourn's mystery-solving pair Veronica and Stoker! I am a fan of historical mysteries, and this series is one of my absolute favorites. Books one and two, A Curious Beginning and A Perilous Undertaking, are absolutely delightful! There are so many things to admire in this series. Raybourn’s tone is playful, irreverent, and deliciously English in the old-fashioned sense. Still, she incorporates modern ideals and themes into the Victorian-set VERONICA SPEEDWELL series. Here's a summary of the third book, A Treacherous Curse, from Goodreads:

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. . . .

*******************************

As the summary indicates, Veronica Speedwell is a counter-cultural character—an adventurous lepidopterist with an unconventional perspective on love and romance. Her partnership and close friendship with Stoker, a sort of pirate-esque taxidermist in the extreme sense (read: elephants not cats), defies cultural mores and is as down-to-earth as it gets. Their developing relationship is one of the best parts of these books. There’s the inevitable “will they” question, but Raybourn really focuses on the friendship and how they come to understand each other. I appreciate a slow burn, myself, so I love the way she handles the relationship.

This book had the added benefit of an Egyptology connection, which is a subject that has always fascinated me. I took a community education class on Egyptology as a kid, and it made a huge impact on me. My ears immediately perk up at the word. I find the whole culture and subject fascinating!

I’m not going to say too much about the plot apart from the description above, because it would spoil the first two books. So, without further ado, my VERDICT: I loved this book! It is exactly what I want in a good historical mystery. With hints of humor, impropriety, and scandal, this is a great page-turner that I read in just two sittings.

READALIKE: I recommend this series to those who enjoyed Lauren Willig’s PINK CARNATION series, because of the powerhouse female heroine, light tone, intrigue, and bits of espionage.

***My thanks to Netgalley and to Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***

I loved this English fictional Sherlockian crime-solving story that deals with murder, some stolen Egyptian property and a slew of lies and deceit. Our Victorian heroine Veronica Speedwell, the young illegitimate daughter of the Prince of Wales, has teamed up with her partner Revelstoke Templeton - Vane at the museum, they are working on establishing to solve the mystery of his ex-wife's missing husband and the theft of a priceless Egyptian headpiece. Can't wait to read the other stories by Deanna Raybourn in this series!

4.25 stars

Thanks to Berkley Publishing, I was able to win this ARC through a Goodreads Firstreads giveaway.

This is my favorite book in this series so far. This is not my typical genre, but I'm so glad I gave it a chance. This installment's mystery is centered around an Egyptian archaeological expedition's curse and some people from Stoker's past. While I liked the mystery in this book, it was well plotted and paced. For me the best part of these books is the journey. Veronica, Stoker and their relationship is what keeps me reading.

I've decided these books remind me a lot of the TV series Bones. Veronica is a lot like Temperance Brennan if she had had a sense of humor. Veronica is smart, sassy and such an unconventional character for her time period and a breath of fresh air.

Stoker is man before is time. He treats Veronica as his equal and supports her and her crazy ideas. I'm glad we got to know more about his past and why he is the way he is.

Stoker and Veronica are so loyal and accepting of each other. I'm excited for coming installments to answer more questions about both of their pasts. There is some major tension between them too, which is fun. Will they ever act on their attraction?

I read the first 3 books in this series pretty quickly and now I have to wait for the 4th and I'm sad because these books just make me happy.

The third installment of the Veronica Speedwell mysteries was superb. Still in Victorian England but now with an Egyptian curse! The series is getting better and better, and while you don’t have to read the prior ones, I’d highly suggest it. I love the Egyptology and how pervasive and fashionable it was during that time. However the best part was the exploration of Stoker’s backstory, finally meeting more characters and finding out his history. The past continues the slow buildup of the relationship between the characters, something we all hope speeds up in the next novel. If you love historical feminist mysteries, this is for you.

Thank you to NetGallery for the free review copy

Completely ridiculous, but thoroughly entertaining. I love Veronica and Stoker. They have great chemistry and their banter is highly amusing. The mystery was fine, but many of the things that happened were truly ludicrous. However, I would gladly put up with some eye-rolling to spend more time in their company. I look forward to the next one.

Another ripping entry in the Veronica Speedwell series, this time jam packed with enemies and lovers from Stoker's past, Egyptian curses, and sexual tension between Veronica and every man she meets (which, really?). I was lucky enough to win an ARC from Goodreads and the publishers and dove right in - this is def a book that one could start in the morning and not want to put down until the late hours, especially as Ms. Raybourn's sense of pacing is excellent. We ramble along through the plot, with just enough quieter moments to appreciate the action-packed ones, and Veronica is given quite a few opportunities knock someone down to size with a great speech (think Julia in Designing Women). A very, very fun time.

I love the Veronica and Stoker books. And this one did NOT disappoint. I especially love the character of Veronica. She is just wonderful. The only reason I'm disappointed? Because now I have to wait for the next book in the series. I swept through this book quickly - and should have taken my time. Veronica and Stoker together are pure genius!

Deanna Raybourn's third novel in her Veronica Speedwell series is "A Treacherous Curse," set in 1888. It is the story of a British excavation in Egypt that did not go exactly as planned. Sir Leicester Tiverton, his wife, and a philologist, Patrick Fairbrother, were elated to have made an amazing discovery—the sarcophagus of Princess Ankheset of the Eighteenth Dynasty, along with other artifacts. Unfortunately, the expedition's director's died and its photographer disappeared, along with a valuable diadem. Veronica and her partner, the Honorable Revelstoke Templeton-Vane (who has experience as a "scientist, explorer, natural historian, naval surgeon, and taxidermist"), become involved when it comes to light that the aforementioned photographer, John de Morgan, was Stoker's archenemy. If it turns out that someone killed Morgan, Stoker would be a prime suspect.

Part of this series' charm lies in its sprightly and occasionally naughty dialogue. Stoker and Veronica argue and banter frequently like obstreperous school children, but are devoted to one another. As Stoker reveals long-buried secrets from his tragic past, Veronica begins to understand why this enigmatic, repressed, and at times, cantankerous, man behaves the way he does. Their physical attraction remains just that—an attraction--since they are not yet ready to embark on an intimate relationship. Still, they are intellectual equals, amateur detectives, curators of a planned museum, and fierce street fighters who will do anything—include wading through London's fetid sewers--to catch a villain.

The author's large and colorful cast includes Veronica, an outspoken feminist, lepidopterist, and busybody; Stoker's ex-wife, the gorgeous Caroline, whom he once worshipped; the aforementioned Lord and Lady Tiverton, aficionados of Egyptian archeology; their daughter, Figgy (Iphigenia), an irritable and rebellious fifteen-year old; Lady Wellingtonia Beauclerk, an influential and autocratic grande dame; and Mr. Horace Stihl, an American millionaire who was a close friend of Sir Leicester and his first wife. Raybourn sends her hero and heroine on a merry chase. Thanks to their brilliant minds, persistence, shrewd insight into human nature, and willingness to risk their lives, Veronica and Stoker finally get to the bottom of what turns out to be a complex and sordid mystery. "A Treacherous Curse" is another engaging, atmospheric, and well-researched Victorian novel by the talented Ms. Raybourn. It is a lively, humorous and, at times, grim tale of greed, betrayal, and murder.

Another intriguing mystery fuels the intelligent investigator, Veronica Speedwell, and her just as skilled mysterious friend Stoker. This one hits closer to home as it involves the disappearance of John De Morgan who was at one time very close to Stoker’s world indeed a best friend. The mystery begins with an archaeological dig in Egypt which centers on the discovery of the burial site of the Egyptian Princess Ankheset. But along with the discovery comes a curse that has shadowed the expedition with first a death and then the disappearance of both De Morgan and the diadem of the Princess.
This third mystery in the Speedwell series is not as engaging in plot as it is in diverse types of characters. You’ll meet the eccentric head of the expedition and his cool, deviously calm character who knows more than she tells, as well as their son who is a keen observer and not as detached as he often appears. Jealous couples, a friend of both Veronica and Stoker who knows everyone and a tad of information about the present disappearance and theft, and someone willing to commit murder over a lost relationship. Add to bone-chilling scenes the presence of ancient Anubis, god of the embalming process and dead, who visibly appears to a few of the characters at the exhibition site.
There are also some interesting discussions about how mummies of royal Egyptian rulers and their keepsakes buried with them were deliberately moved from their known burial sites and hidden.
The end of the plot left this reader a bit weary as it’s rather anticlimactic. However, if one is into a good mystery, with plenty of scintillating banter (as usual) between not only Veronica and Stoker but also other characters, and some fascination with exotic locales, this is a good read. Nicely done, Deanna Raybourn!

A mysterious disappearance is ensconced within an Egyptian mummy’s curse, leaving a strange string of clues for a witty and clever woman and her partner to solve in A Treacherous Curse by Deanna Raybourn.

Unfortunate and mysterious events, including a figure of Anubis wandering around, surround those recently returned to London who were involved in a recent Egyptian expedition to unearth artifacts. This news captures the attention of Veronica Speedwell due to the nature of the events and their connection to her investigative partner Stoker. As Stoker’s former best friend John de Morgan went missing along with the precious diadem that the archaeological dig uncovered, the pair investigate the circumstances of de Morgan’s disappearance and through keen observation and deductive skills unearth some leads to solve the mysterious events while simultaneously trying to prevent Stoker from being considered as a primary suspect for de Morgan’s fate due to their rocky recent history.

An entertaining mystery with an intelligent and spirited female protagonist, this narrative moves swiftly as it builds the case from mysterious events and unravels the clues as a satisfying pace befitting the developed suspense. Though there are many coincidences that take place to progress the story, it’s kept rather light and fun, which makes it easier to accept the coincidences and enjoy the ride the story provides. As the first installment of this series that I’ve read, the narrative does a good job of providing readers with enough details of previous exploits as they are mentioned throughout the text so as to not leave anyone behind while also successfully navigating the difficult line between providing enough and too much information.

Overall, I’d give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

When Stoker’s ex-wife’s husband mysteriously disappears, he and Veronica take the case in order to clear his name. Their exploits take them into the market of Egyptian antiquities newly acquired from a “cursed” expedition in which Anubis himself has been seen.

Veronica and Stoker continue to grow closer in their friendship, and I am enjoying how they are being forced to deal with their demons. Who knew Stoker’s ex would prove an even worse demon than I imagined?

The adventure continues for Stoker and Speedwell. I enjoyed the humor, the plotting, and the characters. As part of a series, I don't believe it would stand alone, but the series is well worth reading.

A Treacherous Curse is the third entry in Deanna Raybourn's Veronica Speedwell Mystery series. While Ms. Raybourn is a good writer, this series lacks the magic of her Lady Julia series. Stoker and Veronica's relationship seems forced; there is none of the spark and passion of the Lady Julia books. When not solving mysteries, this duo spend most of their time sniping at each other.

When we last left our protagonists, they had just saved Miles Ramsforth from a hangman's noose. They are now safely ensconced at Bishop's Folly opening a thank you gift from Miles. When not solving mysteries or attempting to navigate Veronica's difficult relationship with the Royal Family, Veronica and Stoker reside at Bishop's Folly. They have been retained by the Earl of Rosemorran to catalog his vast collection of artifacts so that Bishop's Folly may one day be opened as a public museum. Though they're being compensated for this task, Veronica and Stoker seem to spend more time on personal business then finishing their actual day job.

On this particular afternoon, Veronica finds herself interested in the newspaper account of the scandalous Tiverton Expedition. While in Egypt, Sir Leicester Tiverton discovered the sarcophagus of a princess and other burial artifacts. Before he could bring everything back to London, the expedition's photographer, John de Morgan, absconds with the diadem of the Egyptian princess. He seemingly disappears a second time when he arrives in Dover with his wife, checks into a room, and is not seen again. At first his wife falls under suspicion, but it's her connection to Stoker that propels this mystery.

The tabloids are ascribing an ancient curse as the cause of all the problems that have enveloped the Tiverton Expedition and caused them to cut short their stay and return to England. To buttress the story of a curse, the paper notes that not only has de Morgan disappeared, but the director of the expedition died while in Egypt. Veronica learns that Stoker was previously married to Caroline de Morgan and their very public divorce nearly destroyed him. If the newspapers discover Stoker's connection to the de Morgans, he'll have to relive the ugly circumstances surrounding the divorce again.

While we learn a bit more about Stoker's former marriage and even meet his ex-wife, I'm still left with the feeling that the story hasn't advanced much from the first two books. There are hints that Veronica and Stoker are falling for each other, but it's only hints. Also, after three books, Veronica is still a hard character to warm up to. I feel that the author tries too hard to place modern day feminism onto a 19th Century character. This is never more abundant then when Veronica repeatedly mentions her many lovers or how she casually throws an unconscious Stoker over her shoulder and carries him out of a burning building. I know Veronica's love life is based on an actual woman, but it still doesn't feel authentic to the time period.

So, for those wanting to learn a little more about Stoker's past, we get a few morsels. For those wanting Veronica and Stoker's relationship to progress to the next step, that will have to wait for future books.

An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Once again, Raybourn takes the reader on an historic ride.
Marvelous, engaging characters. New back story reveals.
Egyptian mayhem!
London mayhem!
All in all, quite delicious and satisfying.

Once again a spectacular read with lots of different scenarios taking place but all to a satisfying climax. Interesting information about the fad of the times of everything Egyptian, but not so much as to weigh down the story and become dull. Veronica Speedwell is definitely a woman ahead of her time!

I received an ARC through Penguin First To Read in exchange for an impartial review.

I love the Veronica Speedwell novels! They’re full of all sorts of historical details and the repartee between Veronica and Stoker is witty and real at the same time. In this novel we get a closer look into another part of Stokers mysterious past ... I can’t wait to sit down and read it again!

Deanna Rayburn's Veronica Speedwell series has yet to disappoint me. The character development of Veronica and Stoker, the fast paced action and adventure, and the perfect mix of mystery and humor have driven me to devour the series and leave me clamoring for more. Deanna can't write these books fast enough for me!

Veronica and Stoker are back! The Tiverton Egyptian Expedition digs up a cache of Eighteenth Dynasty goods including a sarcophagus. A series of misfortunes make the public assume the Expedition is cursed. When a former friend of Stoker disappears along with the diadem, or jeweled crown, of the dead Egyptian princess, Stoker and Veronica investigate. The friend's wife tells investigators that the night her husband vanished, his hotel room vanished too. There are mysterious sightings of Anubis in both Egypt and England.

This is the third book in the series. While I enjoyed the first, this one was rather slow moving. Despite the disappearance and theft being set in Egypt, the pair never leave England during their investigations. There are endless interviews with the parties involved in the Expedition. There is a lot of talk about the two previous books' plots. Basically, there was much too much telling rather than showing in the plot. I was expecting more Evil Under the Sun but received more The Curse of King Tut's Mummy. I wanted more mystery, adventure, and romantic involvement between the characters. For someone with such free sexual morals, Veronica is not moving very fast with Stoker. There is a bit more of Stoker's backstory. I recommend the first book, A Curious Beginning with 4 stars but this one only gets 3 stars from me.

Thanks to the publisher, Berkley, and NetGalley for an advanced copy.

An Egyptian curse, a stolen diadem, a mysteriously vanished person, and the witty banter between Veronica and Stoker made this impossible to put down. Another brilliant story by Ms. Raybourn, and I am very much looking forward to the next installment in this fascinating and highly entertaining series!