Recent Reads - A Murderous Relation

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A Murderous Relation by Deanna Raybourn - Veronica and Stoker have all but decided they need to take a break from their dangerous sleuthing adventures and perhaps explore a relationship when they are prevailed upon - once again - to lend their aid. The Princess of Wales appeals to Veronica to help recover a valuable jewel given by her son to a notorious woman as a gift. She worries about a possible scandal that will taint the royal family. Veronica staunchly refuses to be drawn into the royal family's drama, until she and Stoker find out that Lady Wellington might have been trying to prevent a scandal as well - because the Ripper murders are the terror of London, and the possibility that the prince's indiscretion might be discovered, or worse, that he might become a suspect.

Their beloved Lady Wellington having suffered a stroke, Veronica and Stoker decide they will see what they can do about recovering the jewel and protecting the honor of the royal family. With some help from Stoker's brother Tiberius, they infiltrate the infamous madam's house and start exploring. During the evening, their various interactions include several of the other party-goers and Madame Aurore herself. Unfortunately, just as they obtain the jewel, Madame Aurore is found - murdered! - and they must flee the scene and take the luckless Prince Edward with them before anyone recognizes him. 

The three are abducted and held prisoner in a warehouse, and one of their captors is none other than Veronica's uncle, who wants to put her on the throne. Another daring escape must be effected, and the odds are stacked against them, but Veronica's steely determination and Stoker's valiant heroics prevail. 

This was another delightful and unexpected trip through Victorian London with the intrepid Veronica and the bold and reluctant hero Stoker. Their unconventional personalities and the wry pragmatism of Veronica's narration of their adventures endear them both to me and keep me hoping for more and more.

By the same author: A Dangerous Collaboration, A Treacherous Curse, A Perilous Undertaking, A Curious Beginning, Night of a Thousand Stars, Bonfire Night, Twelfth Night, City of Jasmine, Whisper of Jasmine, Midsummer Night; A Spear of Summer Grass, Silent in the Grave, Silent in the Sanctuary, Silent on the Moor, Dark Road to Darjeeling, The Dark Enquiry, Silent Night, The Dead Travel Fast

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