Silent in the Grave

By: Deanna Raybourn

Narrated by: Ellen Archer

Length: 12 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

Let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave.

These ominous words, slashed from the pages of a book of Psalms, are the last threat that the darling of London society, Sir Edward Grey, receives from his killer. Before he can show them to Nicholas Brisbane, the private inquiry agent he has retained for his protection, Sir Edward collapses and dies at his London home, in the presence of his wife, Julia, and a roomful of dinner guests.

Prepared to accept that Edward's death was due to a long-standing physical infirmity, Julia is outraged when Brisbane visits and suggests that Sir Edward has been murdered. It is a reaction she comes to regret when she discovers the damning paper for herself, and realizes the truth.

Determined to bring her husband's murderer to justice, Julia engages the enigmatic Brisbane to help her investigate Edward's demise. Dismissing his warnings that the investigation will be difficult, if not impossible, Julia presses forward, following a trail of clues that lead her to even more unpleasant truths, and ever closer to a killer who waits expectantly for her arrival.

©2007 Deanna Raybourn (P)2007 Audible, Inc.
All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. This edition is published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A. All characters in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Critic reviews

"Riveting." (Bookreporter.com)
"Fans of British historical thrillers will welcome Raybourn's perfectly executed debut." (Publishers Weekly)

Fun Victorian mystery

This was a lot of fun! I got this as part of the Romance Package. I had read the Veronica Speedwell series so I knew I liked the author. This book had the same cheeky sense of humor, well-developed mystery, and enjoyable historical fiction setting. Although maybe a little more serious than the Veronica books. If you're wondering how much of a romance novel this is, there is a sexy simmer between the two main characters but the focus is absolutely on the mystery and the development of Julia Grey's character and story. I'm definitely going to read more of the series and I'm so glad the series is included in the romance package.
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Mystery, Rather than Romance

Character development was excellent, and not just the leads. After starting with bang, all the players were gradually, and thoroughly, brought in and “grown.” This book was well-written (including the avoidance of anachronistic speech or behavior that was not in keeping with the characters or the times). Yes, the hero is over-the-top with talent, but I like my characters to be larger than life, and he plays well opposite the realistic Lady Julia. I thought the narrator did an excellent job portraying the characters. I enjoyed the mystery, though this book is just a tease as far as the romance goes (you’ll get no spoilers from me). The ending was as well-paced as the story, immensely satisfying, while offering just enough to lead me to the next book—not that I needed it. This author has just risen to my Favorites. Would never have guessed this is a Harlequin. I do find first-person somewhat more palatable in audio.

surprisingly good!

I didn't think I'd like this Victorian romance mystery, but it was excellent. No bodice ripping or sex scene fillers. Interesting characters and storyline. I can't wait for the next book. Narration was great!

Very good book

This book kept my attention the whole way through. I was surprised by the ending. The narrator was perfect too.

Good tale

A good tale well told. Characters sympathetic and developed. A joy to read something written by a real writer as opposed to so much poorly derived drivel trying to pass as historical fiction . Also nice to read something edited by someone who knows grammar.

Wow

This was such a great story with mystery, murders and so many secrets!

I cannot wait to got to the next book! Narration perfect!

Caught me up - will probably finish the series

I liked the book quite a bit - but I find Archer's reading off-putting. Her accent wanders all over the place and her pacing is uneven. Still, I do like Lady Julia Grey, and Nicolas Brisbane is an intriguing character. Lady Julia reminds me of Elizabeth Peter's Amelia Peabody, who is one of my favorite fictional females. I'll try another title, but I might have to read these in print if Archer doesn't get better.

New favourite!!!!

This is my first book by this author. There was more description than there was action, but that was ok. I loved listening to the narrator. Her voice was quite beautiful. The story line is not for everyone, but it did not bother me. Cannot wait to read the next book.

Get lost in the story and characters

Started off slow but before I knew it I was lost in the story and the characters. The book has great twists and turns and I was hoping the main characters would hook up through out the book.

Wonderful and well done!

This is a very interesting read. The end will have you on the edge of your seat. I loved it! There is such a sweetness in this book and a wonderful plot! The Heroine has a major development and grows and you grow with her as she goes through the book. I Loved it!

The Narration is brilliant!

Very highly recommended!