An Impossible Impostor

Name: An Impossible Impostor
Author: Deanna Raybourn

While investigating a man claiming to be the long-lost heir to a noble family, Veronica Speedwell gets the surprise of her life in this paperback reprint from New York Times bestselling and Edgar® Award–nominated author Deanna Raybourn.

London, 1889. Veronica Speedwell and her natural historian beau, Stoker, are summoned by Sir Hugo Montgomerie, head of Special Branch. He has a personal request on behalf of his goddaughter, Euphemia Hathaway. After years of traveling the world, Euphemia's eldest brother, Jonathan, heir to Hathaway Hall, was believed to have been killed in the catastrophic eruption of Krakatoa a few years before.

But now a man matching Jonathan’s description and carrying his possessions has arrived at Hathaway Hall with no memory of his identity or where he has been. Could this man truly be Jonathan, back from the dead? Or is he a devious impostor, determined to gain ownership over the family's most valuable possession—a legendary parure of priceless Rajasthani jewels? It's a delicate situation, and Veronica is Sir Hugo's only hope.

Veronica and Stoker agree to go to Hathaway Hall to covertly investigate the mysterious amnesiac. Veronica is soon shocked to find herself face-to-face with a ghost from her past. To help Sir Hugo discover the truth, she must open doors to her own history that she long believed to be shut for good.

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Published: January 3, 2023

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Veronica Speedwell Mysteries

The series

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Step into a world of intrigue, wit, and complex mysteries with The Veronica Speedwell Mysteries. Set in the late 19th century, this series follows the adventurous and fiercely independent Veronica Speedwell, a woman with a knack for solving puzzles and a penchant for uncovering the secrets of the past. In each book, Veronica dives into a new mystery, often alongside her reluctant partner, the brooding, enigmatic Stoker, a former soldier with a mysterious past of his own.

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Veronica is no ordinary Victorian woman—she’s a daring, forward-thinking lepidopterist (a butterfly expert) who refuses to be confined by society’s expectations of women. Her fierce independence and sharp intellect make her a captivating protagonist, unafraid to follow her instincts even when danger looms at every corner. The dynamic between Veronica and Stoker crackles with chemistry, filled with sharp banter, tension, and a slow-burning mutual respect that adds depth to their partnership.

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Victorian England, the series weaves together vibrant historical details with clever, suspenseful plots. Each novel is meticulously crafted to transport readers into a world where no one is entirely trustworthy, and where every twist and turn is part of a larger, more dangerous puzzle. From royal intrigue to dark family secrets, the mysteries that Veronica and Stoker encounter are as layered and unpredictable as the characters themselves.

Filled with rich historical context, engaging character arcs, and a healthy dose of romance and humor, The Veronica Speedwell Mysteries offer more than just whodunits—they’re a thrilling journey into a world of hidden motives, complex relationships, and unforgettable adventures. With its lush writing, sharp dialogue, and irresistible protagonists, this series is a must for readers who crave a mix of historical intrigue, heart-pounding mystery, and characters that linger long after the final page.