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Book Reviews of Silent In The GraveBook Review: Has Me Hooked Summary: 5 Stars
After working my way through Tasha Alexander's Lady Emily mystery series, I was hungry for more Victorian-era mysteries that feature a strong female character. Enter Deanna Raybourn's Lady Julia series, which begins with "Silent in the Grave". I was unsure whether I would find the new series as good as the one I had come to love, but this initial book has me hooked.
Lady Julia Grey and her husband Edward are hosting a dinner party when Edward collapses and dies. He has always had a weak heart, so while Julia is sad at his passing, it isn't entirely a shock. However, she is introduced to Nicholas Brisbane, a private investigator Edward had hired shortly before his demise. Edward was convinced that someone was going to murder him, and after his death Brisbane tries to convince Julia to continue the investigation.
A year after the event, Julia decides to pursue what her husband had started. It's obvious that Edward was poisoned, but who had the means or motive? Brisbane agrees to let her assist him, but the two constantly clash over what should be done and who should do it. Various clues point toward inside Julia's household, but there are simply too many possibilities: her former-prostitute-turned-maid, a gypsy laundress, a footman with an unsure past, and even Julia's own family. Once she begins looking, Julia is unable to rest until she knows the truth - no matter how unpleasant it seems. And this is something that may get her into more trouble than she realizes.
One reason I love Tasha Alexander's Lady Emily books is that they mix mystery with society and add in a dash of colorful characters. Deanna Raybourn's Lady Julia series is similar in that there is a huge dose of mystery and a small helping of society. The characters, however, are stellar. The book is worth reading simply for the descriptions of Julia's family. And despite "Silent in the Grave"'s long length (the hardback comes in at 509 pages), it has me hooked into the series.
Book Review: I'm completely in awe of Deanna Raybourn!..From author of EXPLOSION IN PARIS... Summary: 5 Stars
I had the pleasure of meeting Deanna on her blog....which was linked to Nora Robert's sight at the time. From the conversation, I immediately checked out her FIRST NOVEL and ordered it. I finished it in two days and was totally captivated. She's one of my new favs! Fantastic writing and story line...WELL WORTH YOUR INVESTMENT!!!! Author of EXPLOSION IN PARIS, Linda Pirrung
Book Review: Interesting but shallow Summary: 3 Stars
Overall it was a good (but not great) book. The plotline kept my attention although it was a bit predictable. The greatest weakness was the characters lacked verisimilitude and the love sub-plot was weak. It didn't feel true to Victorian England. The author should consider writing about something a little closer to home.
Book Review: Interesting story Summary: 4 Stars
I thought this book was well written and the story was intriguing. I am looking forward to reading other books by this author.
Book Review: Intrigue & mystery Summary: 5 Stars
The is a beautifully written book. I love historical novels. This one is no exception, you get lost in the location & time, the language & characters. The mystery of the death of Lady Julia Grey's husband keeps you on your toes through the entire story & leads to a suprising ending. The relationship between Julia & Nicholas is definately an interesting one & the author does a good job of not serving it up on a silver platter. Julia is a wonderful character as well, stronger then most women of her time & willing to take chances & stand up for what she believes in. I look forward to reading the 2nd in the series!
More Silent In The Grave reviews: First Review 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Newest Review
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