This is the 9th book in Deanna Raybourn's "Veronica Speedwell" series, which reads very much like Elizabeth Peters' "Amelia Peabody" series, i.e., lots of sexual innuendo, a dauntless female protagonist, sexy male partner who is clearly a feminist, etc. etc. Set in the late 1800's, the book well captures the atmospheric London. This installment certainly has an interesting premise. Their landlord Lord Rosemorran is an avid collector of almost everything and he brings Stoker (who is an expert taxidermist and mechanical wizard) an apparent waxwork of a reclining lady. He asks Stoker to insert a mechanism to mimic breathing, like the figures at Madam Tussaud's. When Stoker cuts into the figure, however, what he finds is shocking--a perfectly preserved real human body. They are determined to find her origins and, if she is the victim of foul play, to get some measure of justice for her.
Booklist praises in their review: "As with the previous Speedwell mysteries, this is a humorous, lively romp through the mansions and alleys of Victorian London, led by the dynamic couple and narrated with Veronica's signature wit. As Veronica and Stoker interrogate suspects and set traps, readers will be fascinated to learn more about Anatomical Venuses (wax figures once used to teach anatomy) and Frankenstein-esque embalming and electrophysiology theories. Another gem in what's always been an excellent and particularly un-put-downable mystery series." Similarly, Library Journal recommends with this: "It's possibly the best in the series, with Raybourn's trademark banter, innuendo, and outstanding lead characters, along with a fascinating plot and supporting cast."
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