The Dark Enquiry

Lady Julia Grey #5

by Deanna Raybourn

Alternate cover edition can be found here

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, Lord Bellmont, who swears Brisbane to secrecy about his case. Not about to be left out of anything concerning her beloved—if eccentric—family, spirited Julia soon picks up the trail of the investigation.

It leads to the exclusive Ghost Club, where the alluring Madame Séraphine holds evening séances…and not a few powerful gentlemen in thrall. From this eerie enclave unfolds a lurid tangle of dark deeds, whose tendrils crush reputations and throttle trust.

Shocked to find their investigation spun into salacious newspaper headlines, bristling at the tension it causes between them, the Brisbanes find they must unite or fall. For Bellmont’s sake—and more—they’ll face myriad dangers born of dark secrets, the kind men kill to keep….

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical, Historical Mystery, Romance, Fiction, Historical Romance

393 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 21, 2011

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist Deanna Raybourn is a 6th-generation native Texan. She graduated with a double major in English and history from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Married to her college sweetheart and the mother of one, Raybourn makes her home in Virginia. Her novels have been nominated for numerous awards including two RT Reviewers’ Choice awards, the Agatha, two Dilys Winns, a Last Laugh, three du Mauriers, and most recently the 2019 Edgar Award for Best Novel. She launched a new Victorian mystery series with the 2015 release of A CURIOUS BEGINNING, featuring intrepid butterfly-hunter and amateur sleuth, Veronica Speedwell. Veronica has returned in several more adventures, most recently AN IMPOSSIBLE IMPOSTOR, book seven, which released in early 2022. Deanna's first contemporary novel, KILLERS OF A CERTAIN AGE, about four female assassins on the cusp of retirement publishes in September 2022. (Please note: Deanna is not active on GR.)

Reviews

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 characters I really to buy into it. Love love the subtle humor.

The mystery in this installment is really intriguing, I was offguard a lot of the time following the plot and was immersed in the crime solving throughout. I loved Brisbane in this, I felt like his mysterious affliction is a bit weird but author sold it and I was VERY invested in the relationship now that they're together. The romance was subtle, no R rated scenes, but very well done. I root for them as a couple, for sure, which is rare after you get them together.

The ending twist was sad, I kinda wish that hadn't happened, but oh well, can't wait for the next!!

[Alba Turunen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4'5 Estrellas, pero como me ha dejado muy satisfecha, y me ha recordado a los primeros libros de la serie, me siento generosa y le doy las 5.

En ésta entrega Julia y Brisbane han vuelto a Londres, a una cómoda rutina en la que han conseguido una casa para su nueva vida, mientras que mantienen la casa de soltero de Brisbane como oficina y despacho para los nuevos casos de Brisbane. Una vez en casa, y acomodándose a su nueva vida tras una larga luna de miel ¿Qué más podría pasarles? Un nuevo caso, ésta vez muy cercano a ellos. Bellmont, el hermano mayor de Julia está pasando por serias dificultades que podrían poner en peligro su carrera política y su vida social, y precisa la ayuda de Brisbane para que sus secretos no salgan a la luz.

En éste libro encontraremos un poco de todo con sus dosis justas; un misterio referente a unas cartas perdidas, una medium que es más de lo que parece y de mucha importancia en la trama, y espionaje que puede poner en peligro al Imperio Británico. Todo ello muy bien ambientado, con el estilo único de ésta escritora, y que en cada libro nos recuerda que se ha basado en Sherlock Holmes para crear a Brisbane.

Sin ser tan truculento como otros libros anteriores, en "Tiempos de claroscuro", encontramos una trama más sustanciosa, y más verosímil. Además que se nota el trabajo detectivesco que ha creado Deanna Raybourn, dejando pequeños rastros en cada capítulo hasta que llegas al final para descubrir al probable asesino/espía/chantajista, si es que en realidad lo hay.

En los libros anteriores podría haber tramas, capítulos o historias que no interesaran para la investigación principal, pero ésta novela te mete desde el principio en lo que será el libro, y me ha dejado muy muy satisfecha, pues hasta el final no podías saber realmente qué iba a ocurrir. Si soy sincera en los últimos capítulos descubrí al sospechoso, pero eso es muy personal para cada lector.

En lo que atañe a Julia y Brisbane, en los primeros capítulos estaba algo cabreada, sobre todo con Julia, que en libros anteriores demostraba menos sensatez que un crío de cinco años, y parecía que en ésta novela sería igual. Que sí, que puedo entender que quiere ser de ayuda a Brisbane, pero mientras él ha tenido treinta años de experiencia para llegar a ser el detective que es, ella no es más que una aficionada. Por si fuera poco, Brisbane sabe lo que hace y por qué, y teniendo la relación que tienen no me cabía en la cabeza que entre ellos hubiera tantos secretos y desconfianza (que es lo que me decepcionó en el libro anterior). Así que agradezco que en éste libro la escritora haya sabido llevar mejor su relación y romance, pues Julia acaba mostrando algo de sensatez y Brisbane sabe que si no quiere ponerla en peligro, tiene que llevarla con él.

A pesar de que la trama acaba bastante cerrada, el final me ha dejado con la impresión de que habrá más, pero no he visto que la escritora haya escrito más libros de ésta pareja, sólo relatos cortos entre medias y alguno después. De ser así, agradecería a la editorial que nos publicaran todos los relatos de la serie en una antología para desvelar algunas cosas que han quedado sin cerrar, o por lo menos un buen epílogo de la serie.

[Wanda Pedersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of my 2020 Social Distancing Read-a-thon

I am a big fan of Deanna Raybourn. Thankfully, I found this installment of the Lady Julia series to be better than the previous one. That one was still good, but I was glad that this adventure was set back in England. Despite an ending which suggests that the author has another book underway, there's no sign of it being published—perhaps the series has run it's course, although I think some fans might argue with that conclusion.

I think the greatest pleasures of this series are the antics of Julia's family and all of their various pets and projects. I confess to being pleased that her ultra-conservative eldest brother gets knocked down a peg or two in the course of this novel.

The spiritualism element in this book made me think of Mary Roach's non-fiction book, Spook. There was a fascinating section in that on Victorian spiritualism. I highly recommend any of Roach's works to other readers.

I would also recommend the Veronica Speedwell series, also authored by Raybourn. I am greatly anticipating the latest installment, A Murderous Relation, when the libraries reopen.

[MLL · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hate not finishing a series. But this series which showed so much promise has gone steadily downhill. In the first 7 pages of this book the heroine has already said and done 6 ridiculous things. She has gone from a competent, intelligent woman at the beginning of book one to nothing but a figure of ridicule. She stumbles around ruining all her detective husband's careful plans. She is always wrong about who is innocent and who is guilty. And now she has blown up portions of his house 4 times. Her only skill is as bait since she always ends up confronting the villain alone (after first suspecting everyone else.) Yet she inexplicably thinks he accepts her as his full, equal partner. I simply can't read anymore.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Dark Enquiry is the fifth book in the Lady Julia Grey series. Brisbane and Lady Julia have returned to London, and Brisbane resumes his private enquiry business. Lady Julia would desperately like to be an equal partner in his business, and she feels she has much to offer in the way of detective skills; Brisbane, on the other hand, views her as a complication, an irresistible but exasperating complication. In trying to prove herself a worthy partner, Lady Julia unexpectedly discovers that her older brother, the proper and disapproving Bellmont, has secretly hired Brisbane's services. She is determined to learn the reason why, and her sleuthing leads her to The Ghost Club and to Madame Seraphine, a mysterious woman whose seances are popular with the powerful, the well-connected, and those with secrets to keep.

It's certain now that I read too many of these too close together. Lady Julia's antics were not charming so much as annoying. I expected her to have learned some skills and subtlety, but she goes traipsing around London in a fake moustache. (That's only when she's not blowing out the windows of the house with her ultra-explosive magic disappearing powder. No joke.) The mystery was really kind of absurd, and I hated the supernatural deus ex machina conclusion. And yet.....despite all my whiiiiining, I'll probably still read the next one in the series. I guess that's a testament to how much I like these characters. Even when they annoy me, I keep coming back for more.

[Usha · Rating 1 out of 5]

Same indefinite dissension between Brisbane and Julia evolved into tedious and absurd. DNF!

[Jenny Q · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Andree]

Got this from the library, started it, and let the e-book lapse. I think I may be done with this series. The thing is, I thought after the last book there might have been some sort of understanding reached between Julia and Brisbane re: her helping him with his case. It became abundantly clear at the start of this that that was not the case.

The problem is, they've been having essentially the same issue every book in this series, and instead of progressing with it, it seems to just keep getting worse, because they keep defaulting back to the most extreme positions possible.

Julia was just SO VERY JULIA and Brisbane was just SO VERY BRISBANE. I needed both of them to just dial it back a notch. It could have been my mood, but mostly I just think I might be done with the pair of them having the same tedious conflict over and over again, where they both take exactly the same position, purport to evolve as their relationship progresses, and then double down on their original positions at the start of each book.

The added complication of Plum as Brisbane's partner just makes the whole thing that much more irritating. I cannot. At least not right now.

[Barb · Rating 1 out of 5]

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 review but I have to be honest, I was really disappointed by this installment. I hope the next one will be better but maybe this series has fizzled out.

[Shaye · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved the development of Brisbane and Julia into married life. I was thrilled with the growing love between them and 10 pages from the end the entire series is ruined for me. I get that Julia likes the excitement of working the cases but it is completely ridiculous to me that she doesn't understand the danger in what she is doing. It amounts to her dismissing what Brisbane does as trivial and so simple even a sheltered lady in waiting can do it. But what really upset me about the conclusion to this book was that she knew or at least suspected her condition and she still went traipsing after a murderer. It made me dislike the character of Julia so much that I will not be reading any more of the series. I truly regret that I pre-ordered the next novella. Horrible ending IMO

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dark Enquiry
4 Stars

Marriage to a private enquiry agent has become a frustrating enterprise for Lady Julia as her husband still strives to protect her from his professional life just as she longs to become a full partner in his endeavors. Julia gets her wish after following Brisbane to a clandestine meeting and witnessing what appears to be the murder of a psychic medium. As Julia and Brisbane investigate the strange death, they must learn to work together or lose everything, for the foe they face is willing to sacrifice anyone and anything for their ultimate goal.

While not quite my favorite installment in the series (that is reserved for Silent on the Moor), The Dark Enquiry is certainly one of the more intense and exciting additions and I am sad that it is also the final full length novel.

The highlight of the story is the development of Brisbane and Julia’s relationship as they finally begin working together both in and outside of the marriage bed. Brisbane comes to accept that he cannot protect Julia from every danger and that the best he can do is provide her with the necessary tools and information for her to deal with the darker and seedier side of his work. Likewise, Julia comes to realize not only the very real risks involved in being Brisbane’s partner, but also the extent of his love for her and the lengths he will got to in order to keep her safe.

They mystery is interesting with several compelling twists and turns and one particularly enigmatic character who could Raybourn could do well to give his own series if she were so inclined. The villain came as a surprise although, in hindsight, there are plenty of clues to the ultimate explanation.

The secondary characters are well written and add depth and nuance to the story. Julia is introduced to additional members of Brisbane’s gypsy family and there are also developments in the lives of her own siblings. Portia is settling into motherhood; Bellmont finds himself in a sticky situation, and Plum may finally have met his match.

All in all, a solid addition to the series although there are one or two developments that were disappointing such as Julia’s miscarriage and inability to conceive another child as well as Plum’s devastating love life. The next few installments are novellas, which I don’t usually read but I might give a try if only to catch up on the Brisbanes and the Marches.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 Gothic feel. (Oh, how I loved Gothic mysteries as a young reader.) In this particular installment, Raybourn peels a few more layers of the mysterious Brisbane and readers are given another glimpse of his gypsy family. In addition, there are more interactions with members of Julia's large family -- her indomitable father, the Earl March; her stuffy older brother Belmont; her recently bereaved sister, Portia; the colorful Plum, and the youngest brother Valerius. These interactions only add to the marvelous complexity of the main characters. This novel made me laugh and cry out loud and that is always a sign to me of time well spent.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do like this series of books, but the heroine is starting to get a little bit stagnant in her immaturity. I also did not like that her bit of heroism at the end of the book results in a miscarriage, making her unable to have children. This happened to the heroine in Tasha Alexander's series as well. I can understand that motherhood might be difficult for a crime-fighting Victorian woman...but these are upper-class women who could conceivably leave their children with the nurse all the time anyway. I'm not quite sure where either author is going with this barren-as-result-of-miscarriage theme, but so far I am not liking it. The high points for me are the descriptions of the hermit and Lady Julia's interactions with the servants. The little tidbits about scientific and historical developments of the time period are interesting as well.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might have been my favorite of the series. I loved the team effort between Julia and Brisbane, the moments with her eccentric family, and even some sadness in the characters’ lives that had me a bit emotional. It’s clear by the ending that Deanna never intended this to be the final book (and yeah, I know, a few novellas remain) but I will continue to hope she’ll one day get back to this series.

[Alyssa · Rating 1 out of 5]

To say I was disappointed by this book is an understatement. I felt betrayed. I really enjoyed the first four books in the series—reading each in a day or two. I found the characters endearing—if not slightly exasperating at times—and had come to think of them as fictional friends. Julia and Brisbane's romance had enough will-they-won't-they to be entirely satisfying when they finally said we will. The mysteries were twisty-turny enough to keep me engaged and curious.

But this book, the fifth—and seemingly final—robbed me of both the romance and the mystery. Not to mention it turned previously endearing characters into a petulant child (Julia) and an abusive gas-lighter (Brisbane).

What truly outraged me, was the loss that was treated so carelessly in the final pages of the book. I stared at the page horrified for at least 5 minutes before willing myself to read on to see what possible motive Deanna Raybourn could have had for introducing this plot point so late in the book. I was thoroughly underwhelmed by the explanation, and quite honestly, hurt. This book should come with a trigger warning for miscarriage. Not simply because the story contains it, but because of how poorly it was handled in the book.

I would recommend the Lady Julia Grey series to anyone who likes a combination of historical fiction, romance and mystery, but I would suggest pretending the series ends at book four, Dark Road to Darjeeling.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 to the mystery at hand. I did feel that the mystery was only haphazardly explored throughout, but that did leave a surprise or two at the end. I've decided I don't really read this series for a tight, convoluted mystery, though. None of the sequels have been able to match up to the first book on that score, but I enjoy them nonetheless. This is more about Julia and Brisbane's relationship (which we get to see plenty of in this one), the scrapes Julia gets herself into by being impetuous, the rescuing Brisbane has to do, and the other relationships to both of them (Julia's siblings, the gypsies, etc). I love all the characters, including the minor ones and the villains - well, except for when they're being completely exasperating. And of course I love the Victorian setting, which Raybourn brings to life wonderfully. That's what I love to read this series for.

So I'm looking forward to the next one! The last couple of pages made it clear there will be another, and I'll be watching for it.

[Dana Loo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fenomenale questo ultimo episodio della serie...ma è proprio l'ultimo?? Non ci posso credere...sigh!!
Colpi di scena a gogò, dialoghi brillanti, situazioni rocambolesche, una trama saldamente incastonata in una bella e fedele cornice vittoriana: spiritismo, invenzioni, problematiche sociali e storiche. Una coppia di straordinari ed eccentrici protagonisti che sarà difficile eguagliare come anche i personaggi di contorno, insomma una lettura entusiasmante e coinvolgente fino all'ultima pagina!

[Linda Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 the way Ms. Raybourn plays with classic forms in her books, from whodunit to country house murder to gothic thriller.

The Dark Enquiry carries on the quality seen in the previous four books with a solid mystery and a good foundation for a long running series-I hope! The enigmatic half gypsy, half Scots Brisbane is becoming less inscrutable and more willing to show his feelings. Julia is becoming his investigative partner in truth, yet coming to understand why Brisbane is often overbearingly protective of her. So often a series with a romantic partnership comes to a halt after marriage, but I think Ms. Raybourn has jumped that hurdle. Both Julia and Brisbane are so complex that I can foresee enough complications to keep me interested.

Some, but not all of Julia's huge and eccentric family make an appearance and "The Mad Marches" are as entertaining and exasperating as ever. However, I do miss Monk, Brisbane's former mentor and majordomo. Hopefully, we will see more of him in the future.

[Lady Wesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book when I read it but enjoyed it even more listening to the audiobook. Ellen Archer does an excellent job portraying all of the characters; she has a wide variety of voices for both gentlemen and ladies.

I think that this book is perhaps the most romantic of the series, as we see Julia and Brisbane attempting to settle into domestic routine. Except, they really aren't very "settled," and their lives are anything but "routine." Julia is still headstrong, but less annoying to me, and Brisbane reveals emotions that he had long kept hidden.

As I understand it, Deanna Raybourn has changed publishers, and consequently the Lady Julia series is finished (except for a series of novellas, the last of which will be released on 3 November 2014). Sigh. I will miss them. Especially the delicious Scots-Gypsy Brisbane.

[Noelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tiempos de claroscuro

De nuevo en Londres y con el toque cómico de encajar a todos los sirventes de los dos en el mismo hogar, y con Brisbane por fin aceptando, con la boca pequeña, a Julia como a una social igual. Una investigación que parece poca cosa se convierte en algo muy complicado, como es habitual en esta serie. La autora sigue manteniendo su elegante prosa y sus elaborados casos como centro de la historia sin perder su brillante sentido del hunor, y la endulza con la historia de Julia y Brisbane como telón de fondo.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad the tedious push and shove are done with. This series is settling in quite nicely and this addition is her best. Lots of here and there to distract, many thrills and chills, and quite the surprise whodunnit. Parts left unfinished or fully explored, but they were lateral to the gist, so not as bothersome.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this one. Yet again, the author has managed to hit my "funny bone", with witty, clear writing, correct grammar and spelling (pedantic, I know, but if you can why not write fluently?), great character and plot development and the continuing charming and oh-so-real relationship between Julia and Nicholas.

This is the 5th of the series, and it's astonishing to me how engaged I still am in it. Especially when I consider I read them all back-to-back, and I'm trying to put my finger on why I like them so much. Well, as I mentioned, the writing is just perfect for a nice relaxing read. It's written clearly, even if some of the plot twists are pretty convulsive, and the language is varied and engaging. I also love how the author has managed to sustain the character-building over the series. We learn more of Nicholas, in particular, and his background, but also more about Julia, whose point-of-view we read, and how her perceptions subtly change in each book. The evolution of Julia and Nicholas and their relationship is beautifully done - no sudden unrealistic character shifts here.

Their marriage is also lovingly described. They love each other very much, but they retain that frisson of irritation and frustration that lingers in a close partnership between two people. You know what I mean, that little voice in your head that asks why, oh why, your dear husband of twenty years still hasn't learned to put the toilet seat down, and how on earth your dear wife can possibly forget to put her underwear in the laundry basket every night, but has to leave it on the floor? Well, these books have these charming little moments in them, and to a certain extent they also drive the plots.

I also love how the author manages to make Nicholas a complete Neanderthal at some moments, and also angry, almost beyond the point of words at her at others, when she does something completely daft, but which seen in the first person point-of-view, they don't seem so very daft after all. I found myself almost horrified at how angry he was sometimes at Julia. And yet, when the author works it through, I find myself irritated at them both, but also incredibly sympathetic to them. How often can an author manage that?

One thing I really enjoy is how secondary characters are used with great care, used as needed, with their own foibles and character flaws, but still essential to the plot, but not dominating.

One thing with this book that I wasn't so sure of was the interlude at the gypsy camp. I'll be honest, the gypsy thing in romances doesn't personally do much for me. I never manage to really empathize with them, and their lifestyle, hardships and pleasures. Maybe, I need an author to really describe it all in granular detail for me to appreciate it? Anyway, I have a feeling it's a personal issue I have, but apart from that I found the whole visit-a-gypsy-camp-feed-the-outsider-hedgehog-and-have-music-and-dancing thing a bit lame.

So, 5 stars. Loved it. Can't wait for the next one to come out, whenever that will be. For clarification purposes, I received this from Netgalley, although I would highly recommend that anyone read the others first.

[Marlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lady Julia and Nicholas Brisbane are adjusting to married life in Town. It is still difficult for these strong willed individuals to come together. To add to the tension, Brisbane has hired Julia's brother Plum to help out on small cases. Julia is learning all she can so that Brisbane will allow her to investigate with him as well. She also has a new hobby suited to her curious nature. Then Julia discovers that her eldest brother Lord Bellmont (Monty) consulted with Brisbane and Brisbane kept the meeting a secret. Julia is worried that Brisbane is in trouble, so while Plum is off investigating the mysterious disappearance of Lord Mortlake's emeralds, Julia dresses in gentleman's clothing and trails Brisbane to the Spirit Club. Brisbane is nowhere to be seen but Julia attends Madame Seraphine's seance anyway. She's intrigued but intellectually knows the lady is a fake. Julia finally finds Brisbane and the pair witness the tragic, untimely death of Madame Seraphine. Brisbane reveals the reason for Bellmont's visit and the intrigue is tied to Madame Seraphine. Julia and Brisbane have to find something important before the family name and the British government are ruined forever. Julia heads off in her reckless fashion while Brisbane grudgingly admires her for discovering information he did not know. The investigation will reveal an espionage plot and show Julia that she isn't prepared for the frightening reality of private inquiry.

Most of this book is relationship-driven which I like best about the series. I really enjoyed the first half of the book. There were many light-heated moments that made me laugh out loud. It also finally seemed that Julia and Brisbane talked about their issues and came to an understanding. That really pleased me. Halfway through the mystery picks up and we're back in familiar territory with Julia not having learned anything at all. I was ready to kill Julia myself towards the end for being reckless. By the end of the book Brisbane reveals his true nature and some secrets he's been keeping. He is very much like Heathcliff and Julia admits she was always rather fond of Heathcliff.

The mystery is very slow and the big reveal is very random and didn't seem to fit with the rest of the book. I was wrong about the murderer but I did know that a certain person was the key to the story. I think Brisbane, as an experienced inquiry agent would have though of that and known everything already. The mystery's conclusion was heart-stopping and very somber which I did not like. I was not so thrilled with the dark tone of the plot took made me less enthused about this novel than I was at the beginning. Silent on the Moor remains my favorite.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.)

[Kusanagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dernier tome format roman des aventures de Lady Julia et Nicholas Brisbane...

Un tome où l'on en apprends plus sur le passé de Brisbane, sur certains des aspects de son travail....

Un tome qui met aussi en avant les relations (et les conflits) à l'intérieur de la famille March.

Un tome qui se faufile dans une histoire d'espionnage, lorgnant à la fois sur certaines des aventures de Sherlock Holmes, mais aussi sur le couple crée par Agatha Christie de Tuppence et Tommy Beredford (j'ai envie de les relire maintenant c'est malin)

Un tome qui va voir aussi évoluer la relation à la fois dans le couple et dans le travail de Nicholas et Julia.... parce que même si Nicholas laisse Julia s’immiscer dans ses enquêtes, les dangers encourus dans ce travail le stresse beaucoup. Et comme Julia est plutôt du genre à foncer tête baisser dès qu'elle a une idée... j'aime beaucoup comment cet aspect là de leur relation est traité, avec un Nicholas qu'on sent hyper-protecteur mais qui lâche du lest (sauf que le stress c'est mauvais pour lui à un autre niveau...)et Julia qui comprend fort bien ce désir de protection chez lui mais qui décide quand même qu'elle est partenaire autant qu'épouse...

Un tome qui conclue fort bien un cycle d'aventure mais qui peut aussi en annoncer un nouveau....

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't know if I'm starting to dislike Lady Julia or Deanna Raybourn. Julia has become a comical screw-up. She seems to be unable to distinguish when people are lying or telling the truth and so she is fooled very easily.
It is pure vanity or stupidity that she thinks herself an equal to Brisbane, when her actions do nothing but ruin his well laid plans. It seems that her beauty and upbringing (she is educated and bilingual) are all she has going for her. If she were a bit more loving toward Brisbane it would make her more likable.
I disliked when the story turned political (yawn) and I was disappointed with Julia at the end of the story. She has a giant heart for a dormouse and yet a heart of stone when it should break.
I enjoyed reading the story but less so as it went political, thus a 3 star rating.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as satisfied with this book as previous installments in the series. Julia appears to be getting stupider instead of more worldly and skilled.