“A Curious Beginning” by Deanna Raybourn is the first in the Veronica Speedwell mysteries.
Miss Veronica Speedwell is almost abducted on the afternoon of her aunt’s funeral. A mysterious German baron comes to her aid.
This is the start of a rollicking story that bounces from adventure to adventure like Tigger on a pogo stick.
It’s mostly background setup for the series, but the characters are rounded and interesting.
The heroine is not your usual fainting Victorian damsel, but a strong, intelligent, young woman with a zest for life and a passion for lepidoptery. There is a good range of supporting characters including the grumpy and somewhat enigmatic Stoker.
A fun book. Highly recommended.
margysmusings 