A Curious Beginning (Veronica Speedwell #1) by Deanna Raybourn

London, 1887. After burying her spinster aunt, orphaned Veronica Speedwell is free to resume her world travels in pursuit of scientific inquiry—and the occasional romantic dalliance. As familiar with hunting butterflies as with fending off admirers, Veronica intends to embark upon the journey of a lifetime. But fate has other plans when Veronica thwarts her own attempted abduction with the help of an enigmatic German baron, who offers her sanctuary in the care of his friend Stoker, a reclusive and bad-tempered natural historian. But before the baron can reveal what he knows of the plot against her, he is found murdered—leaving Veronica and Stoker on the run from an elusive assailant as wary partners in search of the villainous truth.*

The main character, Veronica Speedwell, was a hilarious, independent and sassy narrator. It was enjoyable to read and see her get under the skin of all the other characters. Even though this was a mystery there was more emphasis on the banter between the characters and developing who they are. However the mystery was great and more grand in a way that I didn't expect. This book is part of series and I am looking forward to reading the next one to see what happens to the main characters.

Kelsey Fitzgerald
Library Assistant

Available at the Langley Adams Library *A Curious Beginning - Amazon