Deanna Raybourn's A Curious Beginning captivates with its engaging Victorian-era mystery and vibrant heroine, Veronica Speedwell. Readers appreciate the witty prose and strong character development. However, some find the pacing uneven and the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it’s a charming start to a promising series, balancing humor and intrigue effectively.

Fans of historical mysteries with a strong, unconventional female lead will adore A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn. Similar to The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie R. King, it offers a clever protagonist and a richly detailed Victorian setting, perfect for readers who enjoy spirited adventures and intricate plots.

A Curious Beginning follows Veronica Speedwell, a lepidopterist, in late 19th century England. After her guardian's funeral, Veronica finds herself entangled in a series of mysterious events starting with an attempted kidnapping. She teams up with the disgraced naturalist Stoker when the Baron Maximilian von Stauffenbach, who knew Veronica’s mother, is murdered. Together, they navigate threats, uncover secrets about Veronica’s heritage, and seek to clear their names while exploring complex relationships and evading danger. The book references ableist and racist rhetoric, violence, and sexism (including disparaging women for their sexual histories).

Mysterious / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Romantic / Humorous

- A Curious Beginning features the character Veronica Speedwell, who marks Deanna Raybourn’s transition from writing historical mysteries set in Victorian London with Lady Julia Grey to a more adventurous and dynamic heroine.
- The book combines elements of detective fiction with historical adventure, offering a unique take on the genre by setting the narrative during the late Victorian era while incorporating Raybourn's signature blend of mystery and humor.
- A Curious Beginning received critical acclaim for its engaging story and was nominated for an Edgar Award, showcasing Raybourn's success in capturing readers with her clever and witty storytelling.

Deanna Raybourn

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Overview

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A Curious Beginning Summary and Study Guide

Background

A Curious Beginning Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

A Curious Beginning Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-8

A Curious Beginning Chapters 4-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-17

A Curious Beginning Chapters 9-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-24

A Curious Beginning Chapters 18-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-29

A Curious Beginning Chapters 25-29 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

A Curious Beginning Character Analysis

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Themes

A Curious Beginning Themes

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A Curious Beginning Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

A Curious Beginning Important Quotes

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A Curious Beginning Essay Topics

A Curious Beginning

Before You Read

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