I love the Veronica Speedwell Mystery series. I was first attracted by their excellent covers, but it only took me about 1/3 into the way of the first book to be hooked. I did receive this from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
Veronica and Stoker start the book in a chilly place. Their relationship had become emotionally intimate to a point where Veronica needed some space to think about what she wanted. Naturally, Stoker is unhappy and refuses to fall into their old patterns. Despite the coolness between them, they end up on an island off Cornwall with Stoker’s brother, an appropriately odd castle, a poison garden, a mysterious disappearance, and an assortment of people with motives.
Stoker’s aristocratic brother is a worthy wedge between the pair. He has his own agenda and rests comfortably somewhere between villain and future ally. He talks Veronica into pretending to be his fiancé. No one is fooled, but it gives a lot of opportunities for Veronica to not care what other people think of her. It was delightful.
Veronica is entirely wonderful on her own. She is smart, capable and self reliant. So much so that she is wary of going beyond friendship with Stoker. The mystery brings Veronica and Stoker back into partnership, but Stoker isn’t entirely willing to ease the strain between them.
I’ve read it,” he said simply. “I trade books with the parlormaid at Bishop’s Folly, and she has a penchant for French romances. You wouldn’t like them,” he added with a malicious smile.
“And why not?”
“Because they always feature couples who trust one another.”
I’ve read a lot of series where the will they or won’t they is drawn out over books. I think Raybourn carries it off better than most. Stoker knows why Veronica is reluctant and knows exactly how to frustrate her. Their verbal combat is a joy to read.
A Dangerous Collaboration is a delight. I highly recommend. This book is out on March 12, so you have time to catch up on the series so far.