Author: Deanna Raybourn
Series: Veronica Speedwell Mysteries (Book 10)
Publication: Berkley (March 3, 2026)
Description: Veronica and Stoker are practically dying for a new adventure, but when their wish is granted, they find themselves up against a secret society and a darkly seductive duo in this landmark historical mystery from beloved New York Times bestselling and Edgar® Award–nominated author Deanna Raybourn.
When the corpse of an entitled young man is found entirely drained of blood in a carriage next to Highgate Cemetery, Veronica’s interest is piqued. And then a second victim is found, his death made to look like a suicide—and Veronica and her intrepid beau Stoker know the hunt is on. The two men share one link: they were both members of a society so secretive that only a singular mention of it can be found anywhere.
Thirsty for more clues, Veronica and Stoker hear that a young Romany boy may know more about their first victim, and the only way to the boy is through an old acquaintance of Stoker’s, Lady Julia Brisbane. Lady Julia and her dashing husband, Nicholas, occasionally track down murderers and are only too happy to help. But as it becomes clear that e secret society is a dangerous sect looking to entice immortality seekers, Veronica and Stoker find themselves ensnared by a decidedly more sinister couple.
The professed leader of the society claims to be a creature of the night; his partner practices witchcraft and they both fancy themselves emissaries of the otherworldly. Just as Veronica and Stoker get closer to learning the true purpose of the society and unraveling this macabre mystery, another body turns up, and they quickly discover they’ve gone from being the hunters to the hunted. . . .
My Thoughts: The tenth Veronica Speedwell historical mystery begins with both Veronica and her significant other Stoker trying to stave off boredom. It has been a while since their last adventure. But when a corpse appears outside Highgate Cemetery and it is drained of blood, Veronica and Stoker are both intrigued.
The young man was of the upper class, and his death is quickly covered up by his family. They certainly don't want any hint of scandal. Veronica throws out the theory that the young man was killed by a vampire which raises Stoker's hackles and a bet ensues.
Then a second young man who happens to the be best friend of the first commits suicide after receiving a note containing dried poisonous plants. Veronica and Stoker soon learn that they were both involved in an exclusive and very secretive club.
Their investigations take them to a Romany camp in the company of one of Stoker's old friends and her private investigator husband as they try to track down a witness. And they attempt to interview a reclusive American millionaire and his private secretary.
As they get closer to the solution, they go from hunters to hunted. Veronica and Stoker have drawn the attention of the leaders of the very secret club.
I enjoyed this historical mystery. I am especially fond of Veronica's unique point of view as she narrates the story. I love the Victorian attitudes and the Victorian setting.
I received this one in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. You can buy your copy here.
I received this one in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. You can buy your copy here.
I like this author and can never get her books!
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