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3.91 AVERAGE
3.91 AVERAGE
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Loveable characters:
Yes
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I liked this more than I thought I would, very interested to read the series
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A well-paced historical mystery with lovable and entertaining characters you’ll want to root for. This twisty tale marks the beginning of the Veronica Speedwell Mysteries. The main characters are exceptionally well-developed, and the supporting characters are equally impressive. Veronica, the female protagonist, is a strong, highly educated, and independent woman who defies the societal norms of the Victorian era. Her spunk, sass, and obvious disregard for societal expectations make her a truly captivating character. Stoker, her loyal sidekick, is a curmudgeonly and abrasive individual, but his loyalty and protective nature are undeniable. In this installment, Veronica is the target of a failed abduction, and Stoker is entrusted with her safety. After a few missteps, the pair will uncover a plot that will surprise even the main characters. The chemistry between the two main characters is undeniable, and they serve as the perfect foil for each other. This series is sure to leave you craving more after you’ve finished the first book.
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I think I finished this book in like, two days.
A victorian tale about an adventuress with free agency is just so fun - The main character, Veronica, starts out her 6-7 book series solving the mystery of her own identity, which was kept hidden from her for her entire life. Left in the "care" of a very interesting man named Stoker, they set out to first solve a man's murder, which is closely connected with Veronica's identity.
I'm beginning to read the second book in this series, and I think Raybourn does an awesome job of picking a Victorian-era "thing" and zooming in on it. For "A Curious Beginning," it was very much so an introduction to the period, a traditional Victorian woman's role (and how Veronica is definitely NOT traditional), and of course, the Victorian obsession with naturalism, history, etc, as well as curiosity shows, or traveling circuses. For the second book, I believe the focus will be on art (and murder, again).
With Veronica, there's less character development but far more character discovery; we discover her likes, dislikes and thought processes across the book, and she's witty, intelligent and very, very persuasive when she wants to be. She's a larger than life character, for sure, but somehow I still find her relatable in some regards. Stoker is hilarious in that "Grumpy Man," kinda way, which is also very enjoyable.
A victorian tale about an adventuress with free agency is just so fun - The main character, Veronica, starts out her 6-7 book series solving the mystery of her own identity, which was kept hidden from her for her entire life. Left in the "care" of a very interesting man named Stoker, they set out to first solve a man's murder, which is closely connected with Veronica's identity.
I'm beginning to read the second book in this series, and I think Raybourn does an awesome job of picking a Victorian-era "thing" and zooming in on it. For "A Curious Beginning," it was very much so an introduction to the period, a traditional Victorian woman's role (and how Veronica is definitely NOT traditional), and of course, the Victorian obsession with naturalism, history, etc, as well as curiosity shows, or traveling circuses. For the second book, I believe the focus will be on art (and murder, again).
With Veronica, there's less character development but far more character discovery; we discover her likes, dislikes and thought processes across the book, and she's witty, intelligent and very, very persuasive when she wants to be. She's a larger than life character, for sure, but somehow I still find her relatable in some regards. Stoker is hilarious in that "Grumpy Man," kinda way, which is also very enjoyable.
Frustrating diction, slow plot, and not a wholly satisfying reveal. I heard of this series on BookTok, and thought it would be a fast and compelling read, but was sorely disappointed. I don’t plan to read any more of this series!
The high points included interesting female characters who talk about their intelligence, interests and sex drive. A nice sprinkling of science and discovery, but way too much time wasted otherwise.
The high points included interesting female characters who talk about their intelligence, interests and sex drive. A nice sprinkling of science and discovery, but way too much time wasted otherwise.
This was chosen by my book club, as we explore possible fun series to read next. This universally got shrugs from everyone. It’s fun, prose are serviceable, and leans into the Not Like Other Girls trope pretty heavily. Everyone thought it was pretty cute and forgettable, and we decided we wouldn’t continue on with it.