I am so happy i finally got around to finishing this one!! I enjoyed this book focused on the jack the ripper case and loved how the realtionship between the two main characters have made some progress def the type of hate to mroe romcne i enjoy and def really enjoyed the mysyery!! ( )

I am so happy i finally got around to finishing this one!! I enjoyed this book focused on the jack the ripper case and loved how the realtionship between the two main characters have made some progress def the type of hate to mroe romcne i enjoy and def really enjoyed the mysyery!! ( )

A Murderous Relation
4 Stars

In the autumn of 1888, London is in the midst of Jack the Ripper's reign of terror, and Veronica Speedwell reluctantly agrees to retrieve an expensive bauble gifted by Prince Albert Victor to Madame Aurore, a well known courtesan. After infiltrating the woman's exclusive brothel in Whitechapel, events soon spiral out of control and the Veronica and her steadfast partner, Stoker, will have to employ all of their skills to survive.

Series note: The events in this installment rely heavily on details provided in book #1.

An entertaining addition to the series although the blurb is disappointingly misleading as Jack the Ripper is not the focus of the book, and the infamous killer puts in only a cameo appearance.

Raybourn's research into the social, political and cultural mores of the late Victorian era is demonstrated to full effect in this book. Whether it is the details on the dangers of life in Whitechapel or the misdeeds and scandals of the royal family, particularly those surrounding Prince Albert Victor, Raybourn's ability to impart this knowledge within the flow of the narrative is impeccable.

The ongoing development of Veronica and Stoker's relationship is another highlight of the book as they acknowledge and rely on the strength of their bond to overcome all obstacles. That said, readers expecting explicit details on their romance are bound to be disappointed as anyone who has read the Lady Julia series knows that slow burn and not steaminess is Raybourn's forte.

Unfortunately, the suspense plot is the weakest element as it lacks originality and seems to rehash many of the themes and ideas from the first book. Only the identity of one of the villains is new.

Overall, the Veronica Speedwell series is a well-written historical mystery with engaging characters, and now I will have to wait a while for th next installment - *sigh*. ( )

3.5 stars actually. ( )

Jack the Ripper is out there creating terror and havoc, and closer to home it appears someone in the royal family might be caught up. So Veronica and Stoker to the rescue. It's all totally ridiculous, but Raybourn knows how to keep your attention and to make you laugh. I'll say no more. Enjoyable, perfect sort of listen for me. **** ( )