The Dark Enquiry

June 15, 2011

Nicholas Brisbane has agreed to instruct his wife, Lady Julia, in the professional aspects of a private inquiry agent. If she can master these skills, Julia may increase her involvement. Unfortunately, Julia is more impulsive than patient and dons menswear to follow Nicholas on a case she believes involves her eldest brother. She follows Nicholas to a Spirit Club where Madame Seraphine leads seances, but before the investigation can begin, Seraphine is murdered. A wager is made on the successful identification of the killer, and Julia is determined to win, but at what cost? This reviewer cannot properly express the exquisitely giddy emotions this fifth Lady Julia Grey novel (after Dark Road to Darjeeling) provokes, from the satisfying glimpse behind the veil of mystery surrounding Nicholas's past, to the subtle expressions of affection in the couple's banter, and even to the foolishly fearless way our heroine jumps into trouble, both feet first. VERDICT Beyond the development of Julia's detailed world, her boisterous family, and dashing husband, this book provides a clever mystery and unique perspective on the Victorian era through the eyes of an unconventional lady.--Stacey Hayman, Rocky River P.L., OH

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