The fifth instalment of the Veronica Speedwell Mysteries series was released last week and I, naturally, pre-ordered it and devoured it. The gothic red and black cover references the slums of London’s poor east end, hinting at the novel’s interior.
Although a super exciting adventure, I was a bit disappointed that Murderous Relation was set up to make it look like Veronica and Stoker would be hunting Jack the Ripper. Instead, their adventure runs parallel to the Ripper murders and readers get to meet one of the Ripper’s actual victims.
I reviewed The Five by Hallie Rubenhold last year and it was one of my absolute favorite books of the year. Veronica Speedwell author Deanna Raybourn has not only confirmed that there are several nods to The Five within Murderous Relation, but heaps praise onto Rubenhold’s book in the author’s note as well. Both of these inclusions made my heart soar since I loved that book, and adore the Veronica Speedwell series.
A Murderous Relation sends Veronica and Stoker on a hunt for a priceless jewel, sending them to the most dangerous part of London in 1888: Whitechapel. Galavanting with members of the royal family, steamy chemistry, and plenty of witty banter ensue. Hard to put down, this is such a fun book that does a great job of paying respect to the women who lost their lives in the most tragic way possible.
Star Rating: 4.5/5
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