Silent on the Moor (A Lady Julia Grey Mystery)

To be honest, I pretty much skimmed this one. Once I saw that Julia and Brisbane were going to continue their cat and mouse game I was having none of it.

I should also mention that I was entirely turned off when I found out that there was a "keeping it in the family" theme going on with some of the secondary characters. You think I'm kidding but I'm quite serious when I say there was some unashamed brother and sister action going on.

Gross.

On the plus side, we do get to see Julia and Brisbane's relationship finally blossom, the ending section was so gratifying, and we also learn more about Brisbane's history and origins. The mystery was fair despite the blatant incest and happy endings were to be had for most characters.

Who would know! For the second time, recently, the book I downloaded from you ended in my kindle before it was finished; still had 5% of the book still to go and it would not go any further. I think you are foisting cheap editions of books on your clients. I may soon go back to Kobo which never did such things. I am very angry with your service.

In this episode of the Lady Jane Grey mysteries Jane has invited herself to Nicholas Brisbane's new home in the isolated depths of Yorkshire. There she finds a spooky old home, mysterious people, and pieces of Nicholas's past.

Nicholas is his mysterious self. He alternately pulls her in and pushes her away. She is just about ready to give up on him when he is poisoned and almost dies. With the help of a local gypsy healer, Nicholas recovers and Jane realizes that she can't leave him despite the obstructions he throws into her path.

This story had a very Gothic feel. It had an old family holding on to an illustrious past but having dwindled to an old woman and her two daughters left penniless by the death of her disgraced Egyptologist son. It had madness and gypsy curses all set in the wilds of the moors in Yorkshire. It has revenge and betrayal.

Jane learns about Nicholas's childhood in this one and his connections to the area and to the family. All in all it was an excellent entry into an intriguing historical mystery series.

3rd book in the Lady Julia Grey series

This latest tale is a mix of fiction, romance and mystery, which has Lady Julia and Nicholas Brisbane at each other like stray cats while around them there is revenge, death and many skeletons in the family closet.

Lady Julia heads north with two of her siblings to Grimsgrave, to help Brisbane get his newly acquired house in order. It is an estate located in the moors of Yorkshire that has fallen into disrepair and the former blue blood owner, Lady Allenby and her two daughters are still in residence and are relying on Brisbane's hospitality for their survival.

Upon her arrival, it was evident; Brisbane and Julia were not able to cordially work out a plan of attack so Brisbane left in a huff. Julia's curiosity soon had her prying onto the Allenby's family and Grimsgrave history, not realizing this would lead to an eventual nightmare of events. She finds herself caught up in the study of Egyptology and on the wrong side of Gypsy mythology that will place her and others in peril, especially Brisbane...

As in my experience with Ms. Raybourn's previous novels, I found the introduction uneventful and long-winded. The endless bickering between Julia and Brisbane and the friction with Lady Allenby and her daughters soon became an irritant. Keeping my mind on track became a challenge but I was determined to see the outcome, I purchased the novel so I felt obliged to see the end. All that said and done, it was fun trying to guess who tried to rid the world of Brisbane by poisoning him. I may be a bit critical but 3 novels later I have the same complaints: lack of mystery, deprived of stimulating suspense and an atmosphere of romance that is as cold as the castles of the time. The main characters have become boring and one-dimensional to a point where I question if I will continue reading this series.

I love this series! This entry in the series concentrates more on Brisbane's backstory and the relationship between Julia and Brisbane. There is a decidedly "Bronte" feel to it, as it takes place at a decaying estate on a remote moor. The mystery relates to Brisbane's past. I enjoyed this book as much as the first two books in the series. Do read the books in order (this is #3). If you like to read on your kindle, check out the bundles available for purchase. They're a better deal than buying the books individually.

Perusing the shelves at my local bookstore, I had to pinch myself when I stumbled upon Ms. Raybourn's third offering in the Lady Julia Grey series almost a month before the official release! No complaints here! Ms. Raybourn's writing is witty as ever, and the stories just get better and better.

In this tale, Lady Julia Grey travels through the Yorkshire moors to Grimsgrave, an estate newly purchased by private inquiry agent Nicholas Brisbane. After a chilling welcome by the host and residents of the manor, Lady Julia begins to unravel the dark secrets of an ancient family, while Brisbane's gypsy roots appear to be tangled in the mix. But when the Grimswater bell tolls and Brisbane's life is threatened, what other secrets will Lady Julia discover? This third installment in the Lady Julia Grey series packs a powerful punch, with suspense and intrigue, insight into Brisbane's mysterious past, more antics from Grim, the sugared-plum loving raven, and an ending sure to please fans of the series!

Ms. Raybourn's attention to Victorian detail appears flawless and I truly felt whisked away to another world, in another time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it as I eagerly await the fourth installment that Ms. Raybourn assures is in the works!

A side note: This is not at all a bodice-ripping romance, but truly an excellent Victorian mystery. Personally, I prefer the original book covers for Silent in the Grave and Silent in the Sanctuary because they were more... what's the word? ... mysterious.

The final novel in Deanna Raybourn's trilogy continues Lady Julia Grey's penchant for snooping. The second book, SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY, painted her as an able pseudo-detective, solving her husband's murder at the side of private inquiry agent Nicholas Brisbane. Fascinated by the dark, handsome man, she's devastated when he leaves her family's English country estate after solving the crime. Now, Julia plans a visit to Brisbane's new home, his reward from the government for a job well done. She must learn if he shares her strong emotional feelings. Brisbane has invited her sister, Portia, to put his household in order. To her elder brother's chagrin, Julia packs for the trek to the northern England moor country. To save family face, younger brother Valerius will accompany them.

Their journey via train, wagon and farmer's cart lands the party at Grimsgrave, a dilapidated country manor home located beyond the tiny hamlet of Lesser Howlett. In disrepair, Brisbane's house is a dark, solemn testament to harsh conditions on the moors. Julia's first confrontation with Brisbane is an unpleasant one, and he clearly wishes her to depart. To complicate the unconventional reception, Lady Ailith Allenby, her sister and their mother complete the icy welcome. The Allenby family has owned Grimsgrave since Saxon times but has been forced to sell when their fortunes disappeared. Sir Redwall Allenby, Ailith's brother, died unexpectedly, leaving the women without financial security.

Ailith's regal beauty lends to her psychological mystique. In friendship, she offers Julia a tour of the run-down estate, walking in the gardens and onto the moors. There, they go to the nearby cottage home of Rosalie Smith, a gypsy woman who conjures herbal preparations for multiple ailments and has prepared a medicinal for Ailith's mother's rheumatism. Julia warms to the Gypsy, feeling a connection between her and Brisbane.

The format of SILENT ON THE MOOR follows the pattern of earlier Lady Julia Grey novels. Each chapter is headed with intricate floral design followed by a quote from William Shakespeare's works that pertains to the action appropriate to that particular section. To the reader, anticipating the coming events is like solving a puzzle.

Raybourn presents numerous characters who each embellish the plot but do not distract. From the innkeeper's family to Allenby cousin Godwin, each secondary figure enhances the importance of the primary characters.

Brisbane leaves for business in Scotland, hoping Julia will become bored and return to London. But he underestimates her tenacity. She takes on the task of cataloging the deceased Lord Allenby's vast collection of Egyptian relics, which is gathering dust; money from their sale will furnish a new home for the Allenby women. While doing this, she discovers something that will unearth Allenby family secrets. In a secret Priest's Hole in the wall, she opens a tiny Egyptian burial cask containing mummified remains. Mystified, she carefully replaces it in the wall.

Upon his return, Brisbane suffers a debilitating illness and lingers near death. With no certain cure available, Julia seeks Rosalie's help, hoping the gypsy woman has a potion to cure him. When a weakened Brisbane makes a slow recovery, Julia shares her discovery in the Egyptian artifacts with him. Together, they solve a mystery that will shatter the Allenby family tree. Julia's quest is to conquer Brisbane's childhood demons. His ties to Grimsgrave wind backwards through both families' histories, blending their stories into a complicated maze. The Allenby family tree was rooted in purity, while Brisbane's trailed from gypsy beginnings.

True to the English "whodunit" style, Raybourn plants suspicion in numerous places. Details congeal them into final solutions by the book's conclusion. Setting plays an integral part in the story. Windswept, boggy moors provide natural terrains that enhance the plot line, and the bleak, foggy landscape rises in sharp contrast to Julia's bright personality. Undaunted by obstacles thrown at her, she seeks new ways to make Brisbane open to her affection. Although their romantic relationship remains a basic element in SILENT ON THE MOOR, Raybourn binds Julia and Brisbane in a professional one. The two partner as detectives to untangle the web that threatens their personal union.

The question will remain open as to whether or not Raybourn will write Lady Julia Grey into future series adventures. A likable heroine, she's a character with the nuances of a modern woman. She knows what she wants and streaks forward to get it.

Although I loved the first two books of this series, this one did not live up my expectations of the characters. The setting and the writing were excellent, but the characters and the relationships left us wanting. Although the plot was well-formulated, it didn't really captivate me.

First, the ROMANCE: In this book, Lady Julia travels to Yorkshire to confront Brisbane about their relationship, but spends most of the novel dithering away her time wandering the moors visiting a gypsy and rummaging around a collection of Egyptian artifacts. Brisbane spends his time avoiding Julia and keeping important secrets from her. This is not exactly the recipe for a happy relationship. When push comes to shove at the end of the book, Brisbane lets his pride rule over his heart and allows Julia to walk out of his life because she has more money than he does--a vain, unforgivable character flaw for the romantic male lead of a book. It is only when a HIGHLY unbelievable windfall occurs for him that he allows himself to overlook Julia's money and marry her. If I were Julia I would not have put up with him. I actually found myself hoping they would end their torturous relationship, rather than rooting for the romance to work out. Even at the end, I was disappointed Lady Julia couldn't find a man who would love her despite her money or station. She deserves as much.

Second, the CHARACTERS: Although it is revealed that one of the characters had a devious depth to her, most of the characters were undeveloped. The gypsy gave us exactly what we would expect from a gypsy. The handsome, simple farmhand didn't become anything more than a simple farmhand. The unhappy sister, who had potential to be interesting, turned out to be not so interesting. All the characters had potential, but didn't really lead us anywhere.

I am so disappointed in this book, especially the relationship between Julia and Brisbane, I don't have high hopes for the next book.

As this third novel in the LADY JULIA GREY series begins it is a few months after the events of the previous story, SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY, ended. Julia and Brisbane had brought that case to a successful conclusion, an event that held the promise of a particularly gratifying reward for Brisbane. Weeks passed though with no word from him nor any announcements from the palace. When Julia discovered that her sister Portia knew where Brisbane had disappeared to, and was in fact planning on traveling there Julia did not hesitate to invite herself along. When her elder brother discovered what his two younger sisters had in mind he was horrified. Two unmarried women traveling across the country to stay with a bachelor unchaperoned?!! Even for the eccentric March family this simply would not do! So long suffering youngest brother Valerius was added to the group, along with two ladies maids, two lap dogs and a raven in a cage to arrive, at last, unannounced on Brisbane's remote Yorkshire estate. Julia was shocked to see the crumbling ruin of a house, and the oddly assorted household that Brisbane had acquired as a reward for his efforts on behalf of a certain royal personage. Her shock only deepened when she found that Brisbane had asked for the aptly named Grimsgrave estate, turning down other, more desirable properties. In true gothic tradition all was most assuredly not what it seemed. And each person she met seemed to have deep dark secrets hidden away. When the final pages are read will all have been revealed?

This series of novels, set in the Victorian Era feature young widow Lady Julia Grey, the mysterious Nicholas Brisbane, and an ever expanding cast of family and friends. The mysteries are many and clever. There is sure to be a surprise or two for the reader although the real draw here are the subplots involving recurring characters and the romance between Julia and Nicholas.

In many ways this series is reminiscent of Elizabeth Peters AMELIA PEABODY novels, hopefully this series will run as long.

Upon finishing this novel, the phrase that comes to mind is "thoroughly satisfying". I think that it is safe to say that I read this almost six hundred page novel in about three sittings, I just could hardly put it down. It was just that enthralling for me.

Side note: I agree with what has been said about the cover. The original cover for the first two novels was much more mysteries and intriguing to me. This cover presents itself as a romance, and this is so much more than a romance novel.

Easily this novel could stand alone, although you might feel the characters a bit more after having the background of what they have been through. Their stories are introduced well and it does not deter from this story to miss the background, so either way works. The first novel I enjoyed minus one certain part that just bugged me, not the writing, but a plot line. Anyway, the second novel was so much better than the first, so I was excited to read this one. Having already decided that I am a fan of Deanna's writing, I was expecting to enjoy this book. What I was not expecting was to absolutely love it beginning to end.

Of the three Julia Grey novels so far available, this is the best so far. Each book gets better and I cannot wait for more from Deanna Raybourn in the future.

With each twist of the plot and mysterious event to unfold I was shocked and amazed at the pieces that I missed and thrilled with the bits that I figured out myself. Julia Grey brings us through a fabulous journey with not just one big mystery, but bunches of little ones as well that kept the pages turning.

Throughout the novel, I laughed out loud, became infuriatingly angry, teared slightly, and snickered relentlessly. Within the main plot and all the side plots, I definitely feel that the entire story led up to a great overall tale and I was vastly entertained.

It is another one of those books, where I ask, why did it have to end and when can I get more?

Deanna Raybourn's "Silent on the Moor," the third installment in her series featuring Lady Julia Grey, opens in London in 1888. Thirty-year old Julia is about to embark on a journey to visit the mysterious and mercurial inquiry agent, Nicholas Brisbane. The bad-tempered but very attractive Brisbane, who has gypsy blood and a shadowy past, pulls Julia towards him with one hand and drives her away with the other. She has not seen him since he purchased Grimsgrave Hall, a dilapidated house on the Yorkshire moors. He lives there with his servants and the last of the Allenby clan, a proud but down-on-their luck family whose fortunes have taken a steep decline. Brisbane had originally asked Portia, Julia's outspoken sister, to help him organize his household, but he has since rescinded the invitation. Although Julia knows that Brisbane will be greatly displeased, she decides that she must see him again in order to find out if they are destined to be together.

What follows is a Gothic tale of long buried secrets, forbidden passion, and murder. After she settles in at Grimsgrave, Julia, as is her wont, sticks her nose in where it does not belong. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the strange behavior of Hilda Allenby, her beautiful sister, Ailith, and their infirm and sanctimonious mother. In addition, Julia decides to investigate the affairs of the late Egyptologist, Redwall Allenby, Hilda's and Ailith's brother, who was reputed to be cruel, selfish, and deceitful.

Readers are strongly advised to finish Raybourn's first two books, "Silent in the Grave" and "Silent in the Sanctuary," before they pick up "Silent on the Moor." This will provide a clearer picture of Lady Julia's evolution from a cosseted wife "wrapped in cotton wool" to the audacious, forthright, and daring woman she has become. Raybourn has written an entertaining and intelligent novel that seamlessly and elegantly combines humor, mystery, and romance. "Silent on the Moor" is distinguished by its witty dialogue, intriguing and well-developed characters, impeccable sense of time and place, and immensely absorbing plot. Those who are already hooked on Deanna Raybourn's fiction will be eager to spend more time with the unique and captivating Lady Julia Grey.

It can be hard for an author to successfully continue a series of books about a single topic once she reaches the third installment. In some ways, the formula must be changed to ensure continued success. Therefore, it's understandable that Deanna Raybourn has changed up the plot of her third Lady Julia Grey novel, "Silent on the Moor."

This one begins about three months after the conclusion of "Silent in the Sanctuary", the second book of the series. Julia Grey has decided to follow her sister Portia north to Yorkshire to assist private investigator Nicholas Brisbane in setting up his new home, Grimsgrave Hall. Unbeknownst to the two ladies, Brisbane doesn't want either of them near Yorkshire. Upon arrival, Julia and Portia find the "hall" in ruins, a strange family, the Allenbys, in residence, and Brisbane angry they have come. Something seems off in the dynamics of the household, so Julia is determined to stay and figure out why Brisbane gave up a royal title in favor of an estate that is falling apart.

Within days of Julia's arrival, strange things start happening. Brisbane is poisoned, and it looks like the elderly, arthritic Lady Allenby is at fault. A strange room full of Egyptian treasures beckons, and during her cataloguing of the pieces Julia finds a coffin with two mummified infant corpses. Unlike Egyptians, these twins have blond hair - and have been dead no more than two years. Whose children are they? The strange shepherd who is off looking for sheep that no one seems to see? A young woman in the village who bears a resemblance to the family in the manor? Or do they belong to one of the Allenby sisters still living at the hall?

Unlike the two previous novels, Julia is forced to investigate this on her own, as Brisbane is too closely related to what is going on. This one also doesn't center around a recent murder. Most of the story focuses on the mysteries at Grimsgrave Hall, and no one actually dies until the end of the story. Those of you who are looking for another juicy murder mystery will be disappointed.

So does the change in formula work? Slightly. I would have been satisfied with another murder mystery, and was actually waiting for a body to show up throughout the first half of the book. I prefer seeing more of Brisbane and definitely missed more interaction between Julia and her crazy family. After their large role in the first two books, they barely featured in this one. Still, the book was an intriguing read. And when the next Julia Grey mystery appears, I'll read that one as well.

Julia Grey is back again in Deanna Raybourn's third installment in the Lady Julia Grey mysteries titled Silent on the Moor.

Julia and her sister, Portia are traveling to Yorkshire to pay a visit to Brisbane. When Julia arrives at the manor of Grimsgrave, she is dismayed by Brisbane's appearance. He looks like a man haunted by demons. Also Brisbane is not alone. Under his care are Lady Allenby and her two daughters. They have lost their fortune and now have nothing. Lady Allenby used to be Brisbane's first love till Julia.

Brisbane takes a turn for the worse. To Julia's great surprise she learns that her love has been poisoned. Now Julia is out to seek the truth. What she discovers is disdain, gypsies, revenge and a long, lost legend that could change Julia's feelings for Brisbane forever.

I love Julia. She is full of grace and determination. She is no weak flower. She and Brisbane were meant for each other. She seems to be the only one that can turn Brisbane from a grizzly bear into a teddy bear. Brisbane at first appearances may seem cold but once you get to know him, he is a very caring and good detective. If you don't mind the full details behind what transpired with Julia and Brisbane then you would be fine to read this book without having read the others. I say this because I myself only read the first and third book and not the second. I didn't feel like I missed much by not reading the second book but I still want to go back and read it. Silent on the Moor makes reference to some things that happened in the first novel. I devoured this book. It was that good. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

Silent on the Moor picks up just where Sanctuary left off - private inquiry agent Nicholas Brisbane has purchased a new estate, Grimsgrave Hall. He enlists the help of the sister of his sometimes partner, Lady Julia Grey, to fix up the home, which is in a serious state of disrepair. Although she is uninvited, Julia decides to come along to finally settle matters with Brisbane. Portia and Julia ( and their brother/chaperone Valerius) are unexpectedly welcomed by the Allenby family, the pitiable descendants of the home's former owners. Slowly, Julia begins to discover that all is not well at Grimsgrave Hall, and when an attempt is made on Brisbane's life, she must quickly unravel the mystery and horrible secrets of the Allenby women before it is too late.

As usual with Raybourn's novels, the action builds slowly, very slowly. But once it picks up, it's impossible to put down. The Yorkshire moors provided a wonderful setting, the mystery was well-developed and the romance was light and perfect. This book is especially satisfying for readers of the entire series, as we finally - after 1000+ pages of stolen glances, passionate kisses and tearful goodbyes - get to see what happens between Julia and Brisbane. Also, after several references to his mysterious qualities, we discover a substantial part of Brisbane's history. For me, this was much more of a romance than a mystery and I was happy with that. The last chapters were especially delightful, and I had a huge smile on my face at the end. It was truly one of the most gratifying, happy endings that I've read in a long while!! I cannot wait to see what is next for Julia, Brisbane, Portia and the entire March clan!

Despite brother Bellmont's harangue, Lady Julia, fresh from her hair-raising adventures at her family home, journeys to the decaying Yorkshire Moors estate, Grimgrave Hall, where darkly charismatic Nicholas Brisbane is now master. She is determined to find out once and for all what Brisbane feels for her. Siblings Portia and Valerius accompany her, and soon all three become embroiled in the murkily sinister machinations of the last members of the Allenby family, descended from kings of old, and the necromantic gypsy woman who has occupied a cottage on the land for decades. Egyptology and mummies, family intrigues and bad blood, folk remedies and poisons, and mining rights all play into the seethingly repressed tensions at Grimgrave. Brisbane, as in both previous Lady Julia novels (SILENT and SILENT) repeatedly does his utmost to drive off Julia, but then, as she notes, "when we are brought together, he behaves as though I were the very air he breathes. Most infuriating."

Silent On The Moor doesn't quite measure up to the virtual perfection of Silent In The Sanctuary (Lady Julia Grey). Somehow, the second book captured all the ingredients of a first rate Victorian mystery/romance. MOOR is an entertaining read also, but its level of suspense is more subdued and the Allenbys prove less arresting foils for Lady Julia and Brisbane. At times various characters in MOOR echo Catherine and Heathcliff of Wuthering Heights (Penguin Popular Classics), but the echo reverberates self-consciously and feels somewhat forced as it explores familiar territory of class clashes and blood line "purity" abominations.

Still, Deanna Raybourn keeps the reader absorbed. The subplot of Portia's personal upheaval is most poignant. While it plays out mostly off the page, one keeps wondering whether her circumstances will change again before the novel concludes. And, of course, the plights of our intrepid hero and heroine command attention. Anyone who loved the first two SILENTS (Silent In The Grave and SANCTUARY) will not want to miss this, the relentless quickening toward the hour of decision for tempestuous Nicholas and Julia.

What about further adventures? Let's hold out hope this fine trilogy transforms into a quartet in the near future....

It's difficult for me to describe exactly how excited I was for this book to come out. SILENT ON THE MOOR was easily at the top of my most anxiously awaited books of 2009. I discovered Deanna Raybourn last year and, after blowing through the first two Julia Grey novels, have spent the last six months in that special agony reserved for the lovers of sequels. Fortunately a copy popped up at a local (ish) bookstore and I was saved from suffering through the last two weeks til its March 1st publication date.

The third installment opens with Julia's big brother Bellmont trying to talk her out of haring off to Yorkshire after Brisbane when he has made it clear, in no uncertain terms, that he does not want her anywhere near the place. Julia, of course, doesn't care a fig for Monty's scandalized pride and makes her way with all haste (and several good intentions) to the moors. Unfortunately, Brisbane's new home, Grimsgrave, is even creepier and more decrepit than he led Portia to believe in his letter. The whole place reeks of Miss Havisham's manor and, after meeting the current occupants, Julia soon realizes something is seriously amiss in this house where madness and murder walk hand in hand. Not only does she face the task of convincing Brisbane of a few increasingly important things, but Julia also finds herself uncovering hidden corpses, accepting charms from Gypsy witches, and thwarting a particularly vicious murder attempt.

Reading SILENT ON THE MOOR was an exercise in conflicting emotions. I wanted to blow right through it to the end in one sitting and I simultaneously wanted each page to last longer than it possibly could so that I could savor being back with these two characters I have come to love. I had some pretty high hopes for this one. The third book in a series such as this comes with a rather hefty share of promise resting squarely on its shoulders and can really make or a break the series as a whole, in my opinion. This one truly made it. Every hope I had was fulfilled and I found myself turning back to reread favorite passages before I was even a third of the way through the book. This practice was repeated at regular intervals for the duration--truly the mark of an excellent read around these parts. If you like literary mysteries and haven't come across this series before, for the love of all that is holy, go get them now. I am immoderately fond of them.

Another fairly typical Lady Julia novel. Quite enjoyable. Julia goes up to Brisbane's new, rundown, isolates property on the Yorkshire moors. There are a bunch of small, interrelated mysteries to be solved, including the problem of how Brisbane and Lady Grey can resolve their own relationship. While I enjoyed this volume, I felt that there was not the same degree of suspense or tension as the earlier novels. The problems between Brisbane and Lady Grey were created by their own stubbornness rather than genuine barriers, so I guess I wanted to shake them both rather than admire them. Similarly, several of the mysteries were resolved by luck rather than cleverness (which applies to the last novel too, I now realise). As a result of these factors, I didn't enjoy the book as much as the previous Lady Grey novels, so I give it 3.5 stars. Nonetheless, I can still recommend it, in particular because Julia and Nicholas do take some significant strides in progressing their relationship.

Like the second book, SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY, this one picks up - and transforms - a Victorian cliche: the setting is a dark, ominous, half-ruined estate in the northern moors of Yorkshire, capped by a rotting manor house, where dark family secrets fester. It's full of bleak landscapes, profound isolation, and country superstition. Nicholas Brisbane has acquired the estate, and his letters back to London indicate that something is very wrong - although he won't say exactly what.

Julia makes the journey north to investigate her relationship with Brisbane, and provide what help she can. She's soon caught up in a proper mystery, featuring a family of aristocrats gifted with great beauty and ruined by pride. Like in SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY, Julia eventually uncovers a nest of crimes, all wound together like a pile of snakes. Perhaps most shocking of all, this desolate location is the site of a critical turning point in Brisbane's past.

I found the trilogy satisfying at the end, but I admit that through most of SILENT ON THE MOOR I had little patience for Brisbane. There were times when I really wished the Julia would just give up and go home - at one point, she starts packing her bags and I was relieved. I am usually a big fan of brusque, domineering heroes and kept turning pages through the whole series, anticipating the next time Brisbane would appear. Yet, at the end of the day, I wished he could have been a little warmer.

In 1888 London Lady Julia Grey's brother Bellmont admonishes her for chasing after a fool who rejects her; he also lectures her older sister Portia for abetting her in this doltish escapade. Widow Julia agrees with everything Bellmont says, but leaves with Portia for Yorkshire anyway where the inquiry agent Nicholas Brisbane, whom she met when her spouse was murdered (see SILENT IN THE GRAVE) bought Grimsgrave Hall on the moors.

Upon arrival Julia is taken aback as to the dilapidated condition of Brisbane's new home and even more so by the arrogance yet defeated auras of the aristocratic former owners Lady Allenby and her daughters. Julia receives a mixed welcome from her host; he obviously wants her, but also wants her far away from him as he refuses to bridge the gap in social classes between them and fears his work will harm her. When poison enters the mix, social class no longer matters as Julia investigates the past to determine who wants to send the tenants especially the new owner of Grimsgrave to their graves.

The third Lady Grey "Silent" late Victorian mystery (see SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY) is a suburb whodunit that provides readers with a deep sense of time and place when the aristocracy is in free fall. The story line is action-packed, but driven by the strong cast. Lady Julia is at the top of her game as she has some experience in inquiry and with Brisbane as a target, she and readers learn of his past. Fans will relish this exciting historical whodunit.

Harriet Klausner

I have devoured the first 3 Lady Julia Grey books and have enjoyed the character development, the time period, the mystery, and the growing romantic tension between Lady Julia Grey and Brisbane. However, I have seen Deanna Raybourn described as a romantic novelist and her book covers would suggest so. I was anxious to get to the ending of this book to see the relationship between Julia and Brisbane come to fruition only to find their interactions glossed over as "interludes". All this build up for 3 books and all we get is a couple paragraphs describing their romance as an "interlude"? Where is the romance? I was thoroughly disappointed.

But the story is a good one and allows you a more complete picture of Brisbane as a man. The mystery is entertaining and worth the read. But if you expect to find satisfaction in the love story, you won't find it here.

Except for the cover (who comes up with these things? no scene like this, no dress like this, no connection whatsoever to the book), I love every page of this, the third in the Lady Julia Gray series. The writing is impeccable...you disappear into the book. I especially love her handling of the relationship between Julia and Brisbane. Their connection advances without either of them forfeiting an iota of their strong characters. Julia is still volatile, determined and impetuous. Brisbane still sardonic, volcanic and honorable. The last chapter - an epilogue as far as the mystery goes - is my favorite. Raybourn manages to create a sense of intimacy and passion without any of the voyeuristic techniques common in other historical romances. Brava! I look forward to the next one.

Another fantastic book by Deanna Raybourn. This is the first book that I have read in this series, it will definitely not be the last. I loved the characters, setting, and plot. A great mystery set in the moors of Yorkshire. A creepy old family and a Gothic, crumbling house. A house and town full of fantastic characters. I loved Julia and Brisbane. They are a fantastic duo.

I love this series! These historical/mystery romance novels are so well written, with complex characters, that I hate when the story ends. For me the romance between Brisbon and Lady Julia is hotter than some of the more explicitly sexual romances I have read. It took a while for them to decide, one way or the other, to be together. But the wait was worth it. The mystery of what was really going on in Grimsgrave Hall was also executed well and kept me guessing. If you haven't read the first two books in this series, "Silent In The Grave" and "Silent In The Sanctuary", I recommend reading these books first to truly appreciate this series.

I stumbled upon these books by sheer accident. The cover is definately no indication of the quality of story Deanna Raybourn tells. I read all three books over the last week and am already considering reading them again. I find myself going back to re-read passages all the time. The characters are fantastic and you can easily relate them to people in your own life.

I am not sure why the cover art leads one to believe that this is a bodice ripping romance becasue it is not. Even calling it a romance novel is a stretch. It is simply a well written, well developed murder mystery.

The entire series is fabulous.

Tres Gothic. House in Yorkshire on the moor with mummy babies and evil mummies, even a resident Rom seer.. Back to Brisbane roots and youth go Ladies Julia and Portia, uninvited but tolerated as drop in guest aristocrats. Good characters, good story, with historic roots make for a worthwhile addition to this series

This third in Deanna Raybourne's (to-date) trilogy of mystery and romance in Victorian England brings an elegant resolution to the on-again, off-again relationship between Lady Julia Grey, a wealthy, unconventional, and irrepressible young widow, and Nicolas Brisbane, the tall, dark and handsome professional detective agent who is her ostensible suitor. Raybourne's light and lively writing style is rife with her own special brand of bodice-ripping romance and high humor. A deliciously self-indulgent pleasure which one can read and reread for the pure pleasure of the writing.

As the third part in a wonderful Victorian mystery series, Lady Julia Grey has decided to invite herself to Grimsgrave in the Yorkshire moors. Grimsgrave is an estate belonging to the mysterious private detective Nicholas Brisbane, who has requested that Julia not come to visit him, since their connection to one another is so strong and makes him feel uncomfortable. Not to be deterred, Julia arrives, and immediately begins to delve into Brisbane's complicated family history. However, these lead to dark and dangerous places, and when Brisbane's life is threatened, Julia springs into action!

Tightly written, with engaging prose, I recommend this to lovers of mysteries, romance, historical fiction, and above all, good literature with sweet love stories.

Tres Gothic. House in Yorkshire on the moor with mummy babies and evil mummies, even a resident Rom seer.. Back to Brisbane roots and youth go Ladies Julia and Portia, uninvited but tolerated as drop in guest aristocrats. Good characters, good story, with historic roots make for a worthwhile addition to this series

This third in Deanna Raybourne's (to-date) trilogy of mystery and romance in Victorian England brings an elegant resolution to the on-again, off-again relationship between Lady Julia Grey, a wealthy, unconventional, and irrepressible young widow, and Nicolas Brisbane, the tall, dark and handsome professional detective agent who is her ostensible suitor. Raybourne's light and lively writing style is rife with her own special brand of bodice-ripping romance and high humor. A deliciously self-indulgent pleasure which one can read and reread for the pure pleasure of the writing.

As the third part in a wonderful Victorian mystery series, Lady Julia Grey has decided to invite herself to Grimsgrave in the Yorkshire moors. Grimsgrave is an estate belonging to the mysterious private detective Nicholas Brisbane, who has requested that Julia not come to visit him, since their connection to one another is so strong and makes him feel uncomfortable. Not to be deterred, Julia arrives, and immediately begins to delve into Brisbane's complicated family history. However, these lead to dark and dangerous places, and when Brisbane's life is threatened, Julia springs into action!

Tightly written, with engaging prose, I recommend this to lovers of mysteries, romance, historical fiction, and above all, good literature with sweet love stories.

Deanna Raybourn hits out-of-the-park homers with the latest story of Lady Julia Grey and Nicholas Brisbane. First, she manages to elevate the tension between Julia & Brisbane to an almost unbearable level for the reader (superbly done, I may add). Second, the mystery itself is complicated, the plot twists, turns and takes a few unexpected paths, she leaves no stone unturned including the one Julia kicks, which turns you upside down yet again. Third, the background story is equally smashing, not only about Brisbane but weaving that tightly into other characters as well. It takes someone with a love of the era to produce a timeless piece, one that can be read and re-read many times over, and yet still retain the undeniable fresh perspective.
I'm a huge fan, in large part because without the Raybourns of the world, exposure to other places and times will diminish, and these are times to be remembered. But don't stop at buying this one, if you have not read the other two, perpare for an emotionally charged visit Victorian England.

Neither the second nor the third book are as good as the first but, like Elizabeth Peters' Peabody series, the characters draw you in for each successive novel (for those of you who like the Grey series, I can not recommend the Peabody books too highly)

BTW: If you own a Kindle, the first three in this series are bundled as a single entry as the "Lady Julia Grey Bundle"

The covers of the previous books in the Julia Grey series were very classy and elegant. This cover is, um, well it looks like the main character in a prom dress. Don't let the cover fool you into thinking this book is the usual mass produced, mass market, same ole, same ole romance novel. Like the other books in the series, Silent on the Moor is a great mystery full of sexual tension, surprises, and twist and turns. I do wish the book included a bit more of Julia's crazy family because they're always a lot of fun. Also, Julia has a bit more patience with Brisbane than I would have, but anyway... All in all, a real pleasure.

Loved it! Deanna Raybourn has become my favorite author. I enjoyed the first two books in the series, though the first one better than the second. For me, this third installment outranks the second book! I found it interesting that someone else commented on the cover... I too found it a bit distracting, as it has absolutely nothing to do with the story! It gives the sense of a typical cheesy romance novel, and the Julia Grey series is far from that! Don't get me wrong--I think the cover is beautiful--just inappropriate for this story. In this case, the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover" is most accurate! I really enjoyed the depth of this story and character development. It's true that I would have enjoyed more Brisbane--but sometimes, it's nice when he's actually NOT in the limelight, as he's always SO moody! That said, I simply can not wait for the next installment in this series!

I listened to all three of the series on audiobook, and while I had my issues with the first book, less so with the second, I was amazed and delighted with the third -- a true gothic treat to rival Whuthering Heights! I can't wait to see what book 4 brings! I hope Ms. Raybourn continues to be inspired by her characters, and expand on the gothic theme. Great fun!

I loved this latest chapter in the Lady Julia Grey series. I hope it's not her last. The characters are true individuals with some complex problems. The setting on the moor was perfect. I really felt like I was there. It did, as other readers have said, remind me of Wuthering Heights.

I mostly enjoyed it, although I found Lady Julia beginning to be rather tiresome at some point, and I still don't know why she stuck with Brisbane after his repeatedly telling her to go away and not treating her very well on the whole. But I guess that's what novels are all about---fiction.

Julia sets off to the enigmatic Grimsgrave to claim her man, in this third book of the Lady Julia series. But as secrets are revealed about the Allenby family living at the estate, danger lurks closer.

This book was slow for me. Good but slow.

I adore the Julia Grey mystery series and this one is the best yet! I am a little frustrated about the reviews giving the book one star because of the cover. I was put off by the cover also but it doesn't reflect on the book itself. The novel is brilliant and witty and I can't wait for the next one.

An enjoyable light romance novel that happens to be couched within a half-hearted mystery. I read the first two novels in the series -- the first novel is the best of the three. The third has a flat, disappointing ending that betrays the romantic tension built throughout the novels.

Loved it! Deanna Raybourn has become my favorite author. I enjoyed the first two books in the series, though the first one better than the second. For me, this third installment outranks the second book! I found it interesting that someone else commented on the cover... I too found it a bit distracting, as it has absolutely nothing to do with the story! It gives the sense of a typical cheesy romance novel, and the Julia Grey series is far from that! Don't get me wrong--I think the cover is beautiful--just inappropriate for this story. In this case, the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover" is most accurate! I really enjoyed the depth of this story and character development. It's true that I would have enjoyed more Brisbane--but sometimes, it's nice when he's actually NOT in the limelight, as he's always SO moody! That said, I simply can not wait for the next installment in this series!

I discovered Lady Julia and squandered all three of her books in a particularly stressful 10 day period. The human inclination to hoard is a survival mechanism, and so here I sit -- Lady Julia-less -- wandering through the book stacks of the store looking for something comparable to give me my fix.

If Ms. Raybourne could be coerced into producing more of her excellent work, I would advocate locking her up with bread and water. Alas, that is not an option.

The Lady Julia books are fun, fast, well constructed reads. This isn't Great Literature, but these books are Great Fun, and most days that is far more meaningful.

So write Ms. Raybourne. Quickly. Before I get hopelessly lost in the store's stacks.

I was disappointed in this sequel. I had so enjoyed the previous books. This was flat. The romantic suspense found in the previous books was not found. The mystery was flat, and I found that I really didn't care anymore about the main characters. I was more interested in Portia and her problem than Lady Jane.

The sequel to Silent in the Sanctuary, this has an uninvited Lady Julia heading off to Nicholas Brisbane's new home. There's a rather slow start to the book, but of course, there is a murder. And of course, Lady Julia and Brisbane will solve it. Along the way we find out more about Brisbane's mysterious past.

I liked the story and the romantic tension, but if you want your mysteries to start with a bang, then this book may not be for you. If you want to continue the series, then you will need to read this one as I think it is pretty pivotal.