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The Dark Enquiry (Lady Julia Mystery #5)

by Deanna Raybourn (Goodreads Author)

4.03 of 5 stars 4.03 · rating details · 2,728 ratings · 346 reviews

Partners now in marriage and in trade, Lady Julia and Nicholas Brisbane have finally returned from abroad to set up housekeeping in London. But merging their respective collections of gadgets, pets and servants leaves little room for the harried newlyweds themselves, let alone Brisbane's private enquiry business.

Among the more unlikely clients: Julia's very proper brother,

...more

Paperback, 392 pages

Published June 21st 2011 by Mira

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Historical Fiction 2011

13th out of 115 books — 582 voters

Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

Best Historical Mystery

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Jul 24, 2011 Barb rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: hf-victorian-1837-1901, new-in-2011, read-in-2011, series-trilogy, most-disappointing

I was really disappointed by this installment of the Lady Julia series. I am not easily offended and I appreciate sick humor but there were a few things that I had difficulty with and was surprised that Deanna Raybourn included in this story.

I didn't care for the view of Julia as somewhat flakey and I hate to say it but this story reminded me of Tahsa Alexander's Lady Emily books.

I have always been a huge fan of Deanna Raybourn and I feel like I am being disloyal by posting this unfavorable revi...more

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Jul 02, 2011 Lori rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mystery

Deanna Raybourn, Lady Julia, and her "yummy" husband, Brisbane, just keep getting better. I loved this addition to the series. Raybourn is an expert at creating setting and the way that she reveals her characters to the reader just leaves us wanting to know more (especially about the wonderful, Nicholas Brisbane). The dialogue is witty without being absurd, and the sparks fly between the two main characters. I read these stories for the characters, but the mysteries are nicely plotted and have a...more

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Oct 04, 2012 Allison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-mystery, romantic, cozy-mystery, spies-agents, mature, victorian, 1800s

This was fun, for the most part. The part that started to drag was Julia getting lectured and chastened by both her husband and father. I know it's appropriate to the time period, but still. Yes, she's reckless. No, she never listens to any advice. But why should marrying Brisbane have changed any of that? Isn't it time to come to terms with this and find a suitable compromise? I believe it's driven the plots as far as it can.

Thankfully, the last part of the book moved beyond this tired conflict...more

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May 17, 2011 Jenny Q rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, my-favorite-reads, best-of-2011, historical-fiction-faves

If you haven't read the Lady Julia Grey series, then I must ask you...WHY NOT??? Though I shouldn't scold you. I only picked up the first book this past February. But I fell in love while reading Silent in the Grave, and I went out and got all of the other books in the series and read them back-to-back--they're that good!

I won't delve too much into the plot because I don't want to let any spoilers slip, but I will tell you why I thought this book was another fantastic addition to a fantastic ser...more If you haven't read the Lady Julia Grey series, then I must ask you...WHY NOT??? Though I shouldn't scold you. I only picked up the first book this past February. But I fell in love while reading Silent in the Grave, and I went out and got all of the other books in the series and read them back-to-back--they're that good!

I won't delve too much into the plot because I don't want to let any spoilers slip, but I will tell you why I thought this book was another fantastic addition to a fantastic series! Julia and Brisbane are so much fun to read about. In fact, they made my list of the top ten love stories in literature. With each new novel I feel like I'm picking up with an old friend--a clever, witty, stylish, outrageous friend and her hubba-hubba hot husband!

In this latest installment the Brisbanes are back in London after their exotic (and exciting) honeymoon voyage to Egypt and India. After Brisbane's initial rejection of Julia's involvement and Julia's hilarious attempt at undercover detection, Julia's uptight brother Bellmont becomes their first official case together. And Monty's been a naughty boy, indeed! The Brisbanes are pulled into a sinister tale of blackmail, spiritualism, espionage, and murder. This case is much darker and more dangerous than their previous exploits. With national security threatened and the stakes higher than ever, Julia's life is in danger, and Brisbane's protective instincts are kicked into overdrive.

In the previous book, Dark Road to Darjeeling, the Brisbanes experienced some growing pains as they tried to adjust to married life. It was very realistic, but it was also sad to see two people who loved each other so much have such a hard time of it. I'm happy to say that in The Dark Enquiry, the Brisbanes are able to resolve their differences and work together as a true team. I loved every minute of watching these two together--investigating, collaborating, bantering, and quarrelling...and trying to keep their hands off each other! They even spend some time in the gypsy camp, which turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the story, because I love to see Brisbane embrace that part of his heritage, and I'm hungry for every little truth revealed about that intensely private and mysterious man.

Julia's eccentric family is all present and accounted for, with Plum playing his part as Brisbane's new employee. Julia also gains an intriguing new family member who has an important part in the story and lends even more insight into Brisbane's past. The mystery culminates in a heartpounding climactic scene in which I did not figure out "whodunit" before it was revealed, and in which, in a tragic twist, Julia experiences a devastating loss that tore my heart out. Fans of this delightfully entertaining and beautifully written series will not be disappointed, and this fan is already counting the days to book number six!(less)

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Jun 23, 2011 Allison (The Allure of Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, series_lady-julia, 2011, own-it, romantic-suspense

The Dark Enquiry by Deanna Raybourn is the fifth book in the truly spectacular Lady Julia series. Y'all, I can't even explain to you how much I love these books. Julia and Brisbane are definitely among my most beloved characters of all time. Both Gothic and mystical flairs give this series an atmosphere unlike any other. If you haven't checked these books out yet, what are you waiting for?

Like I've mentioned in past reviews, the first book of the series begins like so:

"To say that I met Nicholas...more The Dark Enquiry by Deanna Raybourn is the fifth book in the truly spectacular Lady Julia series. Y'all, I can't even explain to you how much I love these books. Julia and Brisbane are definitely among my most beloved characters of all time. Both Gothic and mystical flairs give this series an atmosphere unlike any other. If you haven't checked these books out yet, what are you waiting for?

Like I've mentioned in past reviews, the first book of the series begins like so:

"To say that I met Nicholas Brisbane over my husband's dead body is not entirely accurate. Edward, it should be noted, was still twitching upon the floor."

Now, if you can read that line and resist from plunging straight into the book - you're stronger than I am. I read that opener...fell hook, line and sinker for these books and haven't looked back.

Anyway....as to this book specifically (I'll try to avoid spoilers, but if you aren't familiar with the other books you might want to steer clear). Another truly awesome addition. Once again, none of the tension and spark is missing from the interactions within the Brisbane household. They are still constantly working to try and find a balance between Julia's safety and her happiness (by that, I mean her wanting to be Brisbane's work partner and him wanting to lock her up to keep her out of danger).

This case actually falls a little too close to home for Julia - her stuffy brother Bellmont, who has in the past had no use for Brisbane, enlists him for help. They then end up in the middle of a mystery involving a dead medium. I couldn't think of a better plot for these characters if I tried - like I mentioned above, the series is already Gothic and mystical in tone due to the mysterious (and delicious) Brisbane...so adding in an actual mystic is just icing on the cake.

So, when Julie ferrets out that Bellmont actually stooped to asking Brisbane for help - she remains hard on his heels, determined to help him whether he wants it or not. Turns out that the case ends up more personal than any of them realized - involving not only more of Julia's family history...but Brisbane's as well. Learning more about his murky background was ridiculously exciting, y'all.

I just cannot get enough of this series. All the books are so dark and sophisticated - the dialogue and characterization very deep and masterfully written. I couldn't dig up a complaint if I tried. I seriously can't recommend reading this series enough. (Oh yeah - plus: can you beat the gorgeous covers? Love them.)(less)

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Nov 19, 2012 Matt Schiariti rated it 4 of 5 stars

Lady Julia certainly has a nose for trouble. This time, in her ever increasing obsession with being a useful partner in Brisbane's detective efforts, Lady Julia wanders into a rather broad scoping mystery at the heart of which she finds her brother Bellmont.

Par for the course for Lady Julia? Without a doubt. But that's why we read the series!

As usual there are plenty of twists and turns in the plot all of which is populated by colorful characters, both old and new. The book is well written, well...more Lady Julia certainly has a nose for trouble. This time, in her ever increasing obsession with being a useful partner in Brisbane's detective efforts, Lady Julia wanders into a rather broad scoping mystery at the heart of which she finds her brother Bellmont.

Par for the course for Lady Julia? Without a doubt. But that's why we read the series!

As usual there are plenty of twists and turns in the plot all of which is populated by colorful characters, both old and new. The book is well written, well paced and throws a couple of curveballs in there that you may not see coming. It really ends up in a different place from where it starts off at but it's all handled very well. No shock value, no scratching head moments. Also, Brisbane's heritage as being brought up a gypsy is fleshed out some which helps to flesh out this rather enigmatic character.

I would have rated this a little higher perhaps if I didn't get annoyed with the main characters at times. Sometimes Julia, who at heart is very good natured, comes off a little too snobbish. In addition, for a woman of her time who is extraordinarily independent and free thinking, she does take a good deal of guff from the oftentimes mysterious and gruff Brisbane.

Speaking of Brisbane. Sometimes his gruff moods and treatment of Lady Julia gets tiresome as well. Their constant butting heads leads to familiar passages of the usual. He dressing her up and down for being 'an impossible woman', calling her intelligence into question when she's not the 'good little wife', and doesn't act as he would like her to, etc. She calling him an impossible man, putting up with his sometimes surly treatment of her. Most of this is explained in due course but at the time it just seems as if we've 'been there done that'. It doesn't make it a bad book per say, it just makes one wonder how two seemingly complete opposites manage not to strangle one another =)

All in all though a solid addition to the series that holds true to the elements that have kept all of us fans reading so far. (less)

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Aug 20, 2012 Jen McConnel rated it 4 of 5 stars

I am proof that the ads on Goodreads = book purchases. I think that's how I stumbled upon this fun mystery by Deanna Raybourn.

Lady Julia Grey should be content to settle into married life with her dashing half-gypsy husband, Brisbane, but she can't settle down. Everything is a puzzle to be solved, and when her husband lies to her about a visit from her brother, he sets in motion a chain of events that endanger many lives, not to mention their marriage.

Julia is a detective who would annoy Hercul...more

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Jan 29, 2012 Babs rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: mystery, mystery-romance, mystery-historical

I loved this series since I stumbled upon it as a Kindle freebie for Silent in the Grave. I bought the Kindle trilogy after reading Silent in the Grave, so I could continue reading the series. I will say I was a bit disappointed with the 4th in the series, Dark Road to Darjeeling. The dark, brooding, handsome hero, Nicholas Brisbane was absent for part of that book and I think that was a big problem for me. Part of the reason I love this series is Brisbane’s and Julia’s relationship and budding...more I loved this series since I stumbled upon it as a Kindle freebie for Silent in the Grave. I bought the Kindle trilogy after reading Silent in the Grave, so I could continue reading the series. I will say I was a bit disappointed with the 4th in the series, Dark Road to Darjeeling. The dark, brooding, handsome hero, Nicholas Brisbane was absent for part of that book and I think that was a big problem for me. Part of the reason I love this series is Brisbane’s and Julia’s relationship and budding partnership.

In this book they are back in London and their new marriage is sorely tested by Julia’s insistence on being Brisbane’s partner in his enquiry business and Brisbane’s insistence on protecting and keeping Julia safe. The characters are set in Victorian times, so Brisbane’s tendency to treat his wife as a delicate flower to be protected and safe-guarded are understandable. As a “modern” woman, I also sympathize and understand Lady Julia’s ambitions and desires to be more than just Brisbane’s wife. While a bit distressing at times, their arguments and misunderstandings as they find their way and agree upon their roles in their marriage is a big part of the allure of the series.

The marital discord was a bit tedious at times. While I think I understand each protagonist perspective, I did want them to stop, listen, understand each other, grow-up and get beyond it. Also, Julia seemed uncharacteristically a “flake” in this book. While she can be impulsive and reckless at times, she is an intelligent woman (or has at least been portrayed as an intelligent woman until now). However early in this book she seems to be shallow and a bit clueless and reacts in a childish manner to her husband’s attempts to keep her safe from the unsavory and dangerous side of his business, which she seems willfully and childishly trying to ignore or understand. She deliberately seems to find ways to circumvent her husband, though her motives were well –intentioned.

Once you get past this part of the book, the read is very intriguing, enjoyable and ultimately enjoyable. Brisbane and Julia may be a fairy tale couple, in a sense; but are still believable enough to want, desire and aspire to in real life. (I would love a Brisbane of my own; but frankly, don’t think I could handle him.)
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Jan 01, 2012 Chanpreet rated it 5 of 5 stars

Lady Julia Brisbane and her husband Nicholas Brisbane are at it again! Brisbane is working on a new case and it involves the oldest March sibling, Lord Bellmont. He's gotten himself into some trouble and has come to Brisbane to demand his help. Julia is unaware until she spots them together and Brisbane tries to pack her off to the country. She disguises herself as a man and follows him to the Spiritual Club where she watches the medium at the seance die. Blackmail, more murder, and espionage ar...more

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Dec 04, 2011 Marlene rated it 3 of 5 stars

The Dark Enquiry is the latest entry in Deanna Raybourn's Lady Julia Grey series. In this installment, Lady Julia and her husband, Nicholas Brisbane, have recently returned to London from both their honeymoon in the Mediterranean and an extended trip to India to solve a murder.

Solving murders together is nothing new for Brisbane and Lady Julia;they met when she hired him to solve the murder of her first husband. In fact, their entire courtship was conducted over a series of the recently and felo...more The Dark Enquiry is the latest entry in Deanna Raybourn's Lady Julia Grey series. In this installment, Lady Julia and her husband, Nicholas Brisbane, have recently returned to London from both their honeymoon in the Mediterranean and an extended trip to India to solve a murder.

Solving murders together is nothing new for Brisbane and Lady Julia;they met when she hired him to solve the murder of her first husband. In fact, their entire courtship was conducted over a series of the recently and feloniously deceased.

But marriage, for better or for worse, is different than courtship. Upon returning to London, Brisbane returns to his business as a private enquiry agent. Lady Julia intends to be a full partner in his business. Brisbane, despite all previous evidence to the contrary, considering that Lady Julia has participated fully in every case he has been involved in since they met, keeps trying to find ways to "protect" her. His methods of protection unfortunately include lying to her for her purported own good. Lady Julia, who resents being coddled, starts leaving important details out of her accounts to her husband, in order to follow him around and determine what is being kept from her, especially as the case that Brisbane has taken on concerns her oldest brother.

Once the tale got past the marital discord, the real story finally got moving. And move it did. Initially, Brisbane seems to be investigating a fake spiritualist who was blackmailing Lady Julia's oldest brother with some indiscreet letters he once wrote her. Unfortunately, the spiritualist turned out to be much more than a blackmailer. She was also a spy, and a spy in the service of more than one paymaster, at that. The only problem was that she was a dead spy. And between her blackmailing activities and her spying, the number of possible murderers seemed to be multiplying.

The second half of this book kept me riveted. The story flowed, the pace was fast, the plot kept twisting and turning. The setting in the early 1900s is also part of the appeal. Technology was just being adopted, so the telephone and the motorcar were new. Some people were willing to use the new tools, while others thought they were demonic. Being on the telephone, or not on it, made a big difference. Photography was new and exciting; the discoveries and art that could be made with it are fascinating. The spying is an important part of the story. The "Great Game" of European politics was going strong, leading up to World War I--this was a game that was about to be played for the biggest stakes of all.

The first half of the book really dragged for me. There was a need to show the marital adjustment, but it took much too long and was repetitive. Lady Julia and Brisbane didn't just meet over a corpse, they kept meeting over dead bodies. Also, her family were known eccentrics. For him to expect her to be anything remotely like a conventional wife, or vice-versa, would have been out of character. I just wish it hadn't taken half the book for them to give in to that fact.(less)

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Oct 19, 2011 Amanda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mystery, swoon-central

Deanna Raybourn is one of the only authors I auto-buy, with good reason: she is full of awesome. As long as she continues to write about Lady Julia and her private enquiry agent husband Brisbane, I will be there with bells on.

This is the fifth installment in this mystery series featuring a husband and wife team of mystery solvers, though Brisbane is infinitely more adept at it than Julia. There's some gothic elements, some gypsy exoticness, lovely romance, and quirky humor. The Dark Enquiry eve...more

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Sep 27, 2011 Nicole rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

The Dark Enquiry is the fifth book in the Lady Julia Grey series. First of all I’m not sure the title of the fifth book really reflects the content. I would have liked something more impactful. I absolutely LOVED this installment to the series. There is much protectiveness, tenderness and growth between Julia and Brisbane. Their marriage is put front and center, although Brisbane is still hiding many secrets. Julia has taken up a new hobby, or rather Brisbane has channeled Julia's energy into a...more

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Aug 31, 2011 Elena rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Aug 26, 2011 Jaima rated it 3 of 5 stars

I am devoted to this historical mystery series (along with one other, I will get to the second one later). The latest installment of the Lady Julia mysteries doesn't disappoint. The mystery is complex, the conflicts are layered and captivating and the new characters promise further intrigue.
I love the longer narrative that flows from book to book in this series: Brisbane and Lady Julia's romance, the complicated lives of Julia's engaging and exasperating family, and the gradual unveiling of Bri...more

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Aug 03, 2011 Felicia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: vaginal-mystery, mystery

Well I have a HUGE soft spot for this series. The last book was a TAD off for me, but very excited that this one took it back to awesomeville. In fact, it might be my favorite since the first two! I am absolutely in love with Lady Julia and her point of view. The writing is so impeccable, it really sets the Victorian tone, but at the same time we enjoy the POV of a modern, liberated woman. Most people try to shove modern sensibilities into history and make it WHOLLY unbelievable, but with these...more

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Jul 28, 2011 Barbara rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, mystery-thriller-goodies, romance

Lady Julia and her husband Nicholas Brisbane are still settling into their marriage. The long honeymoon was great, but fraught with dangers (see The Dark Road to Darjeeling). They are now settle back in London and trying to figure out how to be partners. At least Julia is trying her best to be a partner and Brisbane is resisting, as usual. In this book we finally get some significant progress on that front. Hooray, as that trope was getting kind of old.

Julia's very staid oldest brother is being...more

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Jun 27, 2011 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, non-erotic, suspense-mystery, paranormal

originally posted at http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

A spunky, irrepressible heroine and a Sherlock Holmes-ian hero make this Victorian mystery delightful.

Julia Grey Brisbane wants nothing more than to be a full partner in her husband’s life and that means full partner in his private enquiry business. To achieve that goal she studies emerging technologies—like flash gun powder and photography—and takes risks that seem very foolish and unnecessary at times. Past experiences have proven t...more originally posted at http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

A spunky, irrepressible heroine and a Sherlock Holmes-ian hero make this Victorian mystery delightful.

Julia Grey Brisbane wants nothing more than to be a full partner in her husband’s life and that means full partner in his private enquiry business. To achieve that goal she studies emerging technologies—like flash gun powder and photography—and takes risks that seem very foolish and unnecessary at times. Past experiences have proven that she is not invincible but have not dimmed her enthusiasm. I am uncertain if she doesn’t realize the extent of the risks she takes or if she relies too heavily on her luck, position in society, and very talented husband to get her out of the scrapes she gets into. There are moments I wanted to shake some sense into her—a sentiment shared by her husband Nicholas Brisbane. Still, she’s quite amusing at times.

Brisbane is what Sherlock Holmes might have been if he’d had a few more social skills and time for women. To quote Winston Churchill out of context, Brisband “is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma...” In a word: fascinating. I’d read this story just to find out more about him. I don’t blame Julia a bit for falling in love with him or for doing everything in her power to weave herself into the fabric of his life. Even if some of the things she does make both the reader and Brisbane shake their heads.

The plot is filled with nice twists and turns, humorous and exciting in turn. Unfortunately, it lags a bit in between plot points. The story could have benefitted from condensing the time frame and eliminating downtime. Still, it was a fun read and the characters are compelling enough that if you haven’t read the previous four Julia Grey Novels you’ll want to. That said: The Dark Enquiry easily stands alone. I was five pages into it before I realized I’d read Ms. Raybourn’s first installment. Now, I’ll be getting the rest of them. Who knew reviewing books would be so expensive?

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Jun 19, 2011 Lynne Perednia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Lady Julia Grey thinks she has settled well into married life with the dashing, enigmatic and brilliant Nicholas Brisbane. She blows out windows in his consulting roms experimenting with explosives while he tries to protect her by not revealing what cases he's working on. She insists on playing a greater role as helpmeet. He plans outings for her in the country to help her brother Plum, Brisbane's latest apprentice, find some missing jewels.

There's a lot of protecting and going behind each other...more Lady Julia Grey thinks she has settled well into married life with the dashing, enigmatic and brilliant Nicholas Brisbane. She blows out windows in his consulting roms experimenting with explosives while he tries to protect her by not revealing what cases he's working on. She insists on playing a greater role as helpmeet. He plans outings for her in the country to help her brother Plum, Brisbane's latest apprentice, find some missing jewels.

There's a lot of protecting and going behind each other's backs in displays of love and competitiveness. It's bound to come to a head.

When Julia's priggish eldest brother, Bellmont, consults Brisband in secret, the ensuing pursuits brought about by the case and the personalities of Julia and Brisbane lead, naturally, to complications. The newlyweds end up at a seance involving hidden passages and they witness a death. The case uncovers betrayals both personal and political. The government may be toppled by the goings on. The balance of power on the continent may shift.

To relate this tale and others in the series, Deanna Raybourn has created an arch, entertaining voice for her narrator, Lady Julia. She brings to mind Amelia Peabody, the creation of legendary Elizabeth Peters, who also married a dashing, enigmatic and brilliant man known by his last name. The continuing tales of both couples include an evergrowing circle of family and friends.

But this series is not a photoimage of the first. For one, there is no save-the-world younger character. Getting to know the various members of the Grey and Brisbane families, and introductions to new members of their circle -- especially two new footmen and the mysterious Sir Morgan Fielding -- promise new twists in their adventures. The new characters also have compelling backstories and old ones have new complications in their lives. And while the Peters series is a mystery one with a hint of romance, Raybourn's series is as much indebted to the tropes of romance as it is to crime fiction.

For in working to solve the case before them and dealing with the problems of working together caused by their feelings, Brisband and Lady Julia also are forced to come to deeper understandings of their own emotions and those of the other. Raybourn is particularly adept at thoroughly marrying character and plot in this regard to make her novels an entertaining mesh of the two genres.

That these characters can survive the events of the last few pages speaks to the strength of their author's care of creating them. That fans will want to continue reading more novels speaks to her fidelity to her characters. She amply rewards the trust that readers give her.
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Jun 14, 2011 Jo (Mixed Book Bag) rated it 4 of 5 stars

In The Dark Enquiry[Image] Deanna Raybourn has once again written a mystery that does not rush in but gives the reader time meet the characters and become immersed in the story. Set at the turn of the century the background is careful crafted, the characters fully developed, and the descriptions true to the times. Like previous books the dialog is often humorous and adds depth to the actions of the characters.

At the beginning of The Dark Enquiry Lady Julia and Nicholas Brisbane are back in Lond...more

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Jun 05, 2011 Linda Baker rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was delighted to get the galley for The Dark Enquiry and meet Deanna Raybourn at the same time as I have been a fan of the series since the first book, Silent in the Grave. Silent in the Grave has one of the best "grabber" openings ever---"To say that I met Nicholas Brisbane over my husband's dead body is not entirely accurate. Edward, it should be noted, was still twitching upon the floor". If that doesn't catch your attention, nothing will! One of the thing I enjoy most about the series is t...more

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May 17, 2011 Angie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: belovedbookshelf

Oh, how I love this series. I'm sure you all know very well just how much I love this series. I look forward to the new installment in Lady Julia's and Mr. Nicholas Brisbane's adventures all the year long. And by the time I get my hands on the latest book, I feel justified engaging in a little happy dancing as I have exhibited uncommon patience going so long without their inimitable company. And that's essentially what I did when I saw THE DARK ENQUIRY pop up on NetGalley. They came through for...more Oh, how I love this series. I'm sure you all know very well just how much I love this series. I look forward to the new installment in Lady Julia's and Mr. Nicholas Brisbane's adventures all the year long. And by the time I get my hands on the latest book, I feel justified engaging in a little happy dancing as I have exhibited uncommon patience going so long without their inimitable company. And that's essentially what I did when I saw THE DARK ENQUIRY pop up on NetGalley. They came through for me last year with Dark Road to Darjeeling and they came through once again this year. Speaking of titles, I'm liking the new page the series has turned with the inclusion of "dark" in the titles. I liked how the first three "silent" titles reflected what the reader would find in those installments, and I'm enjoying the darker turn the tone of books four and five have taken. Also--the covers. I got a particular kick when I ran across the passage where Julia wears this exact dress in the book. Peacock feathers and all. It gives me a little thrill whenever the cover gods get little things like that right.

A Warning: If you have not read the previous four books, please proceed with the utmost caution. Beyond this point, there be unavoidable spoilers. I highly recommend doing yourself a favor you won't regret and procuring a copy of the first book and applying yourself assiduously to plumbing its marvelous depths. Go on, now. Quick like a bunny!

Lady Julia and Brisbane are finally returned home to London from their harrowing adventure abroad. For awhile their attentions and faculties are occupied setting up house in their new home and puttering about Brisbane's private enquiry office. Julia has taken up a number of new interests and hobbies, including explosives and photography, in the manner only she can. That is to say, with both striking verve and incendiary results. But it isn't long before real life comes back to haunt them both in the form of Julia's oldest (and stuffiest) brother Bellmont. It is only by the merest chance that Julia discovers the scintillating fact that Bellmont has become Brisbane's latest client. And when both Brisbane and Bellmont warn her off in no uncertain terms, she becomes even more determined to ferret out which of Brisbane's various and sundry skills Monty could possibly be in such desperate need of. And so, quite literally following in her husband's footsteps, she goes undercover herself and follows him to the popular (if somewhat questionable) Spirit Club. It is there that she finds a little more than she bargained for in the form of a disturbing séance, a number of powerful and colorful patrons, and--of course--a dead body. Forced to combine their powers of deduction in order to survive, Julia and Brisbane are thrown into an investigation so serpentine it may prove their undoing.

THE DARK ENQUIRY was exactly the book I was hoping it would be. I found myself instantly involved at its inception, wildly satisfied at its conclusion, and utterly absorbed with everything in between. It was surprisingly soothing to be back in London once more, back where it all began, yet with two such changed, yet familiar protagonists. I was fascinated to see how Julia and Brisbane handled their still evolving relationship in the midst of their old turf, their old friends, and especially their old ghosts. The results were both beautiful and painful. My heart felt squeezed on both ends of the spectrum. You see, the nature of this particular mystery was very personal. And not just in that it involved Julia's brother. The reach of its twisty tentacles stretched across several Marches as well as back quite a ways into Brisbane's murky past. More private details come out into the light of day than anyone is comfortable with, and the whole array is so deftly handled that I simply sat back and applauded such consummate storytelling at work. It's an emotional experience following your favorite characters as they are put through such subtle and refining paces. I find myself holding my breath, never quite certain whether or not they will emerge intact. I thoroughly enjoyed Plum's involvement in this case and continue to get enormous enjoyment from his fledgling working relationship with Brisbane in general. It was, as always, a delight to spend any time at all with Lord March. And I can never see too much of Aquinas or Fleur or Portia. But, in the end, it's always about Julia and Brisbane. It was from that first arresting sentence of Silent in the Grave, and it will be for as long as this superb and sophisticated series continues. I ached for them and was proud of them in this book and I will read about them for as long as the talented Deanna Raybourn cares to write about them. Finest kind and an instant entry on my Best of 2011 list.

THE DARK ENQUIRY is due out June 21st.(less)

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May 03, 2011 Jane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mystery, historical

For some reason Raybourn's last book, Dark Road to Darjeeling, stayed in my TBR pile for a long time and it was only recently that I read it. Now I'm happy that I waited that long because the events that take place in that book have an impact in this latest and it was nice to have it all fresh in my mind.

Lady Julia and her husband Nicholas Brisbane have returned from their honeymoon and are settling into married life. Well, perhaps settling isn't the right word because when it comes to this part...more For some reason Raybourn's last book, Dark Road to Darjeeling, stayed in my TBR pile for a long time and it was only recently that I read it. Now I'm happy that I waited that long because the events that take place in that book have an impact in this latest and it was nice to have it all fresh in my mind.

Lady Julia and her husband Nicholas Brisbane have returned from their honeymoon and are settling into married life. Well, perhaps settling isn't the right word because when it comes to this partnership nothing will ever be truly settled. An uneasy truce might be the better description - especially as it pertains to Brisbane's work and Julia's attempts to become a part of that work. Because of his concern for her safety, Brisbane has decreed that Julia has to learn the tools of the detecting trade. To that end she is learning about guns and gunpowder (with the occasional inadvertent explosion) and has taken up photography so that she can be of help. When Brisbane attempts to lure Julia out of town with the promise of an investigation of her own, she becomes suspicious. Instead of following his plans for her, Julia follows Brisbane and discovers that he is working on a case involving Julia's brother, Lord Bellmont. Since Bellmont and Brisbane cordially dislike each other, Julia is concerned. What could possibly bring Bellmont to Brisbane for help? Julia's efforts to uncover the problem place her right in the middle of murder and espionage and at loggerheads with Brisbane.

As usual the ongoing development of Julia and Nicholas's relationship is well done. Though they have supposedly achieved their happy-ever-after by falling in love and getting married, Raybourn proves that there is story yet to tell for these two (and probably will be for many books to come, fingers crossed). The mystery is well-constructed and lays out possibilities for future story threads. Well done.

If you're wondering about the 4/5 star rating, I think it came down a bit in my estimation because of the permanent result of the penultimate scene. Trying to avoid spoilers, but I felt like that development was somewhat forced. (less)

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Apr 20, 2011 Holly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, mystery

SPOILER WARNING: I hate to do this but it’s become impossible to talk about this series without mentioning a major spoiler from DARK ROAD TO DARJEELING. If you have any interest in reading this series please go pick up SILENT IN THE GRAVE and the two “Silents” which precede it first. I promise you you won’t be disappointed. ;)

Freshly arrived from a murder investigation in India, Lady Julia is back in a routine at the Brisbane residence in London. Routine meaning her new routine – getting used to...more SPOILER WARNING: I hate to do this but it’s become impossible to talk about this series without mentioning a major spoiler from DARK ROAD TO DARJEELING. If you have any interest in reading this series please go pick up SILENT IN THE GRAVE and the two “Silents” which precede it first. I promise you you won’t be disappointed. ;)

Freshly arrived from a murder investigation in India, Lady Julia is back in a routine at the Brisbane residence in London. Routine meaning her new routine – getting used to everyday married life and honing her detective skills, which include the most shockingly unladylike interests such as working with gunpowder and mastering the use of firearms. Unfortunately – and a fact to which the neighbors, servants, and her family can attest – she is not having much success. Julia’s brother Plum, who remains in the employ of Brisbane is nearly as concerned as her husband himself. In fact Brisbane may be regretting promising Julia equal partnership in his work as he continues to unsuccessfully quell his constant concern for her safety. To allay his fears Brisbane sends her to a quieter investigation in the country; however, his plan backfires when Julia discovers that her oldest brother, parliament member and staunch Tory Lord Bellmont has been secretly meeting with Brisbane. Most perplexing is that it’s no secret the two men have never taken a liking to one another – so why now, and behind Julia’s back? Concerned for both the safety of Brisbane and the public reputation of her brother, Julia unknowingly puts herself at the scene of a murder by following Brisbane to a séance at the popular Spirit Club. When she learns that the victim is connected to her brother, she finds that herself and Brisbane need each other more than ever on an investigation that may very personally affect Julia and the entire March family.

DARK ROAD TO DARJEELING left Julia and Brisbane in such an interesting place personally and professionally, and happily THE DARK ENQUIRY picks up right where they left off while returning to where the series began: in London. After offering her unsolicited help in the three murder investigations leading up to their marriage, Julia desperately wants to continue her partnership in Brisbane’s detective work, pushing to be more intimately involved than ever. However Brisbane, after covering up and saving her from her more amateurish mistakes time and time again remains wary of full involvement in a profession which can be both dirty and unforgiving. As both sides are clearly and equally in the right, all you can hope for is that Julia and Brisbane reach a compromise, how ever far away, that satisfies both parties. The resolution of their understandable concerns was a luring conflict I was dying to see play out.

Besides the nuanced characterization I’ve come to expect, the sense of place in THE DARK ENQUIRY is absorbing. Victorian London is a far cry from India but just as lushly and vividly drawn. Deanna Raybourn knows her setting as inside and out as her time period and it shows in how it envelopes you. I have serious love for the haunting scenes in Highgate cemetery and the gritty exchanges in the back alleys of London. As always the eccentric March family are a hoot and a dynamic character in and of themselves. I enjoyed becoming more acquainted with Bellmont and Plum and smiled during every passage with Julia’s quirky father. While always leaving a little to the imagination, the Brisbane revelation was also very welcome. I’d deal with a never completely solved mystery of man for Brisbane to have a claim on my heart. Most of all I loved stepping into Julia’s obstinate yet charming shoes. Doesn’t every woman have the secret desire to moonlight as a spy and detective? It’s incredibly thrilling and rewarding to see the direction her relationship with Brisbane takes during the unpredictable and surprising investigation. In what is becoming typical Raybourn fashion, the tantalizing last page has left me pining for more of Julia, Brisbane, and their next locale. If I could only have my fix preferably like, now.(less)

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Aug 15, 2011 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: feel-good, historical-fic, lgbt, mystery, suspense, highly-recommend

As this series continues to keep getting better and better, I find myself becoming, unfortunately, rather wary as I pick up each new installment, thinking "It's too good to be true. Something's just going to crash and burn and ruin it." I'm thrilled to report that this hasn't happened yet, and I can happily continue to recommend this series with all my heart.
One of my biggest concerns has been Julia's marriage to Brisbane. I've been worried that their passionate, whirlwind romance and courtship...more

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Jul 11, 2012 Rebeka rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-mystery

Well, the end of this one really took me by surprise, I'll just say that. I think this was my least favorite of the series so far but it did have some great moments. The whole espionage thing was a bit much, but I did enjoy the historical context that it provided. The Earl was delightful as usual, as was Portia (although if I hear Jane referred to as "Portia's beloved Jane" one more time, I'm going to scream because seriously, that is the only way the poor girl is ever described!). Brisbane and...more

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Jul 02, 2011 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: historical mystery fans

Shelves: mystery

I cannot recommend these books enough. They only get better the deeper we get into the series.

This one opens with Julia and Brisbane attempting to settle into a normal married life in London. But as we've learned with this pair there's really no such thing as normal. They still struggle to find a happy medium between Julia's desire to join Brisbane in his investigations and Brisbane's desire to protect Julia at all costs. This makes for some great dialogue (sometimes touching, sometimes funny, s...more

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Jun 13, 2011 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, netgalley, series-better-read-in-order, fade-to-black-smexin, most-anticipated-reads, june-2011, pregnancy-loss, major-illness-or-injury, family-issues, spy, mystery

This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.

**WARNING** The Official Blurb and review for this book both contain spoilers for the previous books in the series.

Expected Release Date: June 28, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: Mira
Author’s Website: deannaraybourn.com
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 5, Lady Julia Grey Series
Series Best Read In Order: Yes.
Steam Level: Warm

I have been a fan of the series since I picked up the first Lady Ju...more

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Oct 27, 2011 Andrea Guy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-reads, netgalley, mystery, romantic-suspense

Lady Julia Grey is one of the fictional characters that I absolutely love to hate. I know this doesn't make sense, but I do. I love the books, but Julia is so infuriating that I always find myself wanting to reach through the pages to throttle her.

Julia is a modern woman living in Victorian times. She is really a woman out of her element and she wants to be part of her husband's work. In the previous books from this series, she got involved in her own way...in this book for some reason this time...more

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Aug 29, 2011 Lori McD rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, victorian, historical-fiction, series, pseudo-mystery, guilty-pleasure, british-lit, kindle-book, 2011_read, favorite-author

Good book - thoroughly enjoyed it. My only quarrel with these stories is how difficult Lady Julia and Brisbane are. BY NOW, I'd think they'd figure out how to establish that Lady Julia wishes to be helpful and useful... and that she has value to offer Brisbane's investigations. And I'd think that Brisbane would realize that, the more he tries to protect her from danger, the more likely she is to get involved. For two people who truly love and adore one another, these two just don't seem to have...more

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Aug 22, 2011 Michele rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fiction, historical-fiction, mystery

I read the Lady Julia Grey mysteries for one reason only: they are such a delightful excursion into the beauty of writing. Raybourn can string a sentence together and write charming dialog better than almost any other writer out there. The plots are lovely, but it's the writing that hooked me.

If you haven't read any of the Lady Julia books, please do start with the first one. Maximum enjoyment comes from reading the series in order and this book is the 5th in the series.

If you've been reading th...more

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About Deanna Raybourn

A sixth-generation native Texan, Deanna Raybourn graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a double major in English and history and an emphasis on Shakespearean studies. She taught high school English for three years in San Antonio before leaving education to pursue a career as a novelist. SILENT ON THE MOOR is the third novel in the award-winning Lady Julia Grey series. Deanna m...more

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Books by Deanna Raybourn

Silent in the Sanctuary (Lady Julia, #2)

Dark Road to Darjeeling (Lady Julia, #4)

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Quotes from The Dark Enquiry

“I am sorry " I murmured.

"I know. I ought not to have threatened to beat you " he returned. He pressed a kiss to my hair.

"I just cannot bear to be kept out of your life " I said into the dark.

He gave a sigh. "Julia you daft woman. When you will you understand You are my life.” — 12 people liked it

“Be calm," she said soothingly, and I realized she was not talking to the bird.
"How am I supposed to be calm? I worry," I retorted.
She gave a snort. "Then you are more stupid than I supposed. Worry, what is that? A pointless thing is Mr. Worry-an intruder. He steals into your house and creeps into your bed and what do you do child? Do you push him away and tell him to be gone and bolt the door fast against him? No, you move over and let him have the good pillow and the best quilt to warm himself." She flapped a hand in disgust. "Worry never did a man a bit of good. All he does is robs one's peace and make lines on the face.” — 7 people liked it

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The Dark Enquiry (Lady Julia Mystery #5)

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