This is one of my favorite historical fiction mystery series and I do love the main characters whom I've followed from the beginning. Veronica Speedwell, intrepid lepidopterist, and her lover colleague, the natural historian, Revelstoke (Stoker) Templeton-Vane, are always situated to be involved in the affairs of the day, helping out where needed, solving crimes, and involving themselves in serious matters. In this particular book, the pair are swept away by the desire to investigate the death of a pioneering mountain climber Alice Baker-Greene. Despite the deterrence offered by the small country of Alpenwald and its figurehead, Princess Gisela, they are determined to prove that Alice's death was not an accident. Not long into their attempts, however, Princess Gisela disappears and Veronica is pressed into service impersonating the Princess for sake of an important peace treaty. NO SPOILERS.
I love the historical details of time, 1889, and place with all the lush descriptions of food, customs, clothing and ceremony. The interaction between Veronica and Stoker is often humorous and I enjoy their relationship. The narrative moves at a fast pace and the plot is always interesting as Veronica is definitely a liberated woman and often on the outs with those who simply don't understand her spirit of adventure and her sense of self. I'm always eager to begin the next installment, and look forward to further development in the lives and times of Veronica and Stoker.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend. Be sure to start with the first book!
This is the 6th in a series that should be read, in order, from the beginning.
Genre - historical fiction, mystery
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