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The Lord Julian Mysteries #5
A Gentleman in Search of a Wife
Lord Julian Caldicott accepts a request to search for the missing wife of Mr. John Tait. Evelyn Tait disappeared five years ago, and as Julian attempts to follow a cold trail, he meets with resistance, lies, and suspicion from those who should seek most eagerly to aid him. Matters grow more complicated when the investigation drives a wedge of silence between Julian and his dear friend Hyperia West.
Julian battles his own past, unexpected enemies, and Hyperia’s disapproving brother while searching for the prodigal wife, and just when he’s tempted to give up in disgust, he realizes the lady is in serious danger. She needs not only to be found, but also to be rescued from imminent peril, no matter the cost to Julian or to the dreams he’s dared to begin to cherish.
Julian battles his own past, unexpected enemies, and Hyperia’s disapproving brother while searching for the prodigal wife, and just when he’s tempted to give up in disgust, he realizes the lady is in serious danger. She needs not only to be found, but also to be rescued from imminent peril, no matter the cost to Julian or to the dreams he’s dared to begin to cherish.
258 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2024
303 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
190 books2,914 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 25, 2024
I liked this book and rate it 3.75* (gosh I can really slice and dice those stars). I enjoyed that Lord Julian is starting to move past his time in prison and the dead brother. The mystery.... YOU WAITED 5 YEARS to look for your wife (that was a high hurdle for me to overcome). The resolution I would never have seen that one coming. The first half of the book was a bit slow laying out the plot for the mystery. The second half is where I became more vested in the book. I enjoyed the side story with Hyperia and her brother. The romance moved along slowly. The resolution was good but let me repeat FIVE YEARS....
May 27, 2024
3.5⭐️ Likable for reasons other than the mystery. It felt like a character study more than a whodunnit, but that worked for me. There was also an ample portion of Atticus and a prodigious amount of HyperJules to satisfy my sweet tooth.
The pace was slow, the mystery low key, and the solution easy to solve. I suspect Burrowes deliberately left hints (in this and previous books) so the reader gets ahead of Julian. Kind of like the excitement in knowing the final Jeopardy question before the contestants buzz in.
Quibble:
🔍 Burrowes does not stick to standard mystery rules.
The pace was slow, the mystery low key, and the solution easy to solve. I suspect Burrowes deliberately left hints (in this and previous books) so the reader gets ahead of Julian. Kind of like the excitement in knowing the final Jeopardy question before the contestants buzz in.
Quibble:
🔍 Burrowes does not stick to standard mystery rules.
October 11, 2024
Always so nice to visit with Lord Julian, Hyperia, Lady Ophelia, and friends.
This time Hyperia asks Julian to help her friend and neighbor, John Tait, whose wife Evelyn left him five years ago. After talking with Tait, Julian accepts the job and sets out on an almost impossible task. Evelyn seems to have vanished.
Of course, Julian keeps digging away. But a foolish promise by Julian leads to a rift with Hyperia, who is having problems of her own.
There's a rather dramatic twist to both Hyperia's troubles with her brother, and the Tait mystery, leading to a lovely ending all around.
I.m ready for the next one! A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor and a Christmas story, A Gentleman Under the Mistletoe.
This time Hyperia asks Julian to help her friend and neighbor, John Tait, whose wife Evelyn left him five years ago. After talking with Tait, Julian accepts the job and sets out on an almost impossible task. Evelyn seems to have vanished.
Of course, Julian keeps digging away. But a foolish promise by Julian leads to a rift with Hyperia, who is having problems of her own.
There's a rather dramatic twist to both Hyperia's troubles with her brother, and the Tait mystery, leading to a lovely ending all around.
I.m ready for the next one! A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor and a Christmas story, A Gentleman Under the Mistletoe.
May 27, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
The 5th addition to the Lord Julian mystery series and another to love.
This one finds Julian asked by his lady love to help a friend find his wife (alive or dead) who has been missing for 5 years. Lots of frustrations for him as he deals with a cold trail, unhelpful siblings and a husband who is decidedly not a saint.
My only quibbles here were that the denouement seemed a bit far fetched, and Julian’s lady love could be a bit irritating at times. But neither of these things took away from my overall enjoyment of the book.
Another winner from Ms. Burrowes.
My sincere thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of A Gentleman in Search of a Wife for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
The 5th addition to the Lord Julian mystery series and another to love.
This one finds Julian asked by his lady love to help a friend find his wife (alive or dead) who has been missing for 5 years. Lots of frustrations for him as he deals with a cold trail, unhelpful siblings and a husband who is decidedly not a saint.
My only quibbles here were that the denouement seemed a bit far fetched, and Julian’s lady love could be a bit irritating at times. But neither of these things took away from my overall enjoyment of the book.
Another winner from Ms. Burrowes.
My sincere thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of A Gentleman in Search of a Wife for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
October 5, 2024
An enjoyable book for ladies of a certain age who need some light reading - not nearly as good as the St. Cyr series, but based in the same time period, regency England. Grace Burrowes has written a ton of books!
September 12, 2024
Book 1 : 4 stars
" 2.....3 stars
" 3.....3.5 stars
" 4.....4 stars
" 5.....3 stars
Mystery-rom book #5. Gave 3 stars. Julian
gained more stamina and confidence.
The mystery was rather dry.
Julian will be in charge of the duke's business
and households while his brother Arthur & his
beloved Osgood plan to tour the Continent.
Meanwhile Millicent and son are adjusting to
living in the duke's household. Julian's tiger
Atticus is being taught to read and provides
comic relief.
Hyperia's brother Healy as usual acted rude
toward Jules. We learned Healy was illogical,
too quick to anger & "needed to tend his own
garden" first. Jules rescued Hyperia and they
had a heart-felt convo. Jules proposed but she
said the timing was off b/c of her recent bad
news and disillusionment by another.
" 2.....3 stars
" 3.....3.5 stars
" 4.....4 stars
" 5.....3 stars
Mystery-rom book #5. Gave 3 stars. Julian
gained more stamina and confidence.
The mystery was rather dry.
Julian will be in charge of the duke's business
and households while his brother Arthur & his
beloved Osgood plan to tour the Continent.
Meanwhile Millicent and son are adjusting to
living in the duke's household. Julian's tiger
Atticus is being taught to read and provides
comic relief.
Hyperia's brother Healy as usual acted rude
toward Jules. We learned Healy was illogical,
too quick to anger & "needed to tend his own
garden" first. Jules rescued Hyperia and they
had a heart-felt convo. Jules proposed but she
said the timing was off b/c of her recent bad
news and disillusionment by another.
August 6, 2024
And I am done with this series and with this author. The book dragged, the ending was beyond ridiculous, the whole Hyperia will she won't they trope is getting annoying to the point where you don't care any more.
July 11, 2024
Loved it. Once again, someone asked Lord Julian for help - to find his missing wife - and Julian obliged. Of course, he found that misplaced wife. He also discovered why she was missing and who was responsible.
Julian is such a wonderful character: smart, compassionate, and utterly honorable. Besides his investigations, I also enjoy his slowly burning romance with his sweetheart Hyperia. Their relationship unfolds gradually throughout this series. I hope they marry in the end - they are so good to each other.
Other people in this book are not too nice, just the opposite. Envy and greed twist people's psyche, make them mean. Even worse, those two horrible emotions often make people outright evil. Perfidy, backstabbing, treachery - they all have their roots in envy and greed. When Lord Julian uncovers such wickedness, reading his stories becomes a very satisfying experience.
Julian is such a wonderful character: smart, compassionate, and utterly honorable. Besides his investigations, I also enjoy his slowly burning romance with his sweetheart Hyperia. Their relationship unfolds gradually throughout this series. I hope they marry in the end - they are so good to each other.
Other people in this book are not too nice, just the opposite. Envy and greed twist people's psyche, make them mean. Even worse, those two horrible emotions often make people outright evil. Perfidy, backstabbing, treachery - they all have their roots in envy and greed. When Lord Julian uncovers such wickedness, reading his stories becomes a very satisfying experience.
May 26, 2024
I enjoy this series so much, and this one is every bit as good as the 4 that preceded it--maybe even better! I adore Julian and Perry and Julian's family, and especially the relationship between Julian and Perry. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series.
May 26, 2024
Another mystery with repartee and twists
It's just so much fun to climb into a Lord Julian mystery. He narrates the story in a distinctive voice. I occasionally must ask Kindle for the meaning of a dated or British word, but the wit of this courtesy Lord is too fine to miss.
It's just so much fun to climb into a Lord Julian mystery. He narrates the story in a distinctive voice. I occasionally must ask Kindle for the meaning of a dated or British word, but the wit of this courtesy Lord is too fine to miss.
June 30, 2024
Another wonderful episode in the Lord Julian Caldecott mysteries. Julian is asked by Hyperia to try to find out what’s happened to her friend Mr. Tait’s wife. Evelyn Tait’s been missing for five years. Julian agrees somewhat reluctantly. He does wonder about Hyperia and her friend. Mmmm!
Danger for Hyperia comes from a completely different direction. The Evelyn Tait’s whereabouts is complicated, tricky and surrounded by much subterfuge. Is she dead, disappeared into the continent. Where is she?
Danger for Hyperia comes from a completely different direction. The Evelyn Tait’s whereabouts is complicated, tricky and surrounded by much subterfuge. Is she dead, disappeared into the continent. Where is she?
January 15, 2025
A book that never really finds it's footing thanks to a ridiculous premise that has an even sillier reveal. 3/5 stars.
This series is kind of hit or miss for me. I enjoy the characters, but mysteries have been up and down. I've mentioned in some of my previous reviews that this series skews more towards the cozy. Meaning, you're there more for the characters and world than anything else. I saw some other reviewers mention this plot errs on the side of silly, and I felt the same before reading. I can safely say they were right. The beginning was setup well, especially posing the question as to how and why looking for your wife after 5 years is odd. Unfortunately, it went downhill from there. Even if you're able to look beyond that, there's more moments that further irk you. Now it isn't all bad. The writing is the same quality of others, the characters are well drawn, and the world is well described. That just didn't save it from the rest.
To add just a little more than I what I said above about the plot, the reveal is simply one of the silliest I've ever read. While parts of the plot reveals were well done, there is absolutely no way (and I mean no way) any human being would not recognize what was revealed. You'd actually have to be an absolute idiot. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
The writing and characters were good in this. Chapters don't feel too long, and neither does the book, which is perfect. I always enjoy Julian, Ophelia, and Hyperia. I will say that Julian and Hyperia are moving a bit too slowly for me. I understand why, but I feel there's not enough going on there. Also, is Arthur ever going to leave for France? I feel like he's been almost leaving for 2 books!
So, as I enjoyed some of the book, the plot just never worked for me. I couldn't believe in the basic premise, and while there were some well written moments, it had too many problems. If you're into the series, you'll obviously read this book and series. If not, there are some good moments to be found here, but temper your expectations going in.
Quick hits:
+ The writing is so digestible.
+ The characters are always a treat (please give me more Ophelia).
- The plot has a shaky premise that has some good moments but never takes off.
- An absolutely ridiculous reveal at the end that soured me at the end.
This series is kind of hit or miss for me. I enjoy the characters, but mysteries have been up and down. I've mentioned in some of my previous reviews that this series skews more towards the cozy. Meaning, you're there more for the characters and world than anything else. I saw some other reviewers mention this plot errs on the side of silly, and I felt the same before reading. I can safely say they were right. The beginning was setup well, especially posing the question as to how and why looking for your wife after 5 years is odd. Unfortunately, it went downhill from there. Even if you're able to look beyond that, there's more moments that further irk you. Now it isn't all bad. The writing is the same quality of others, the characters are well drawn, and the world is well described. That just didn't save it from the rest.
To add just a little more than I what I said above about the plot, the reveal is simply one of the silliest I've ever read. While parts of the plot reveals were well done, there is absolutely no way (and I mean no way) any human being would not recognize what was revealed. You'd actually have to be an absolute idiot. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
The writing and characters were good in this. Chapters don't feel too long, and neither does the book, which is perfect. I always enjoy Julian, Ophelia, and Hyperia. I will say that Julian and Hyperia are moving a bit too slowly for me. I understand why, but I feel there's not enough going on there. Also, is Arthur ever going to leave for France? I feel like he's been almost leaving for 2 books!
So, as I enjoyed some of the book, the plot just never worked for me. I couldn't believe in the basic premise, and while there were some well written moments, it had too many problems. If you're into the series, you'll obviously read this book and series. If not, there are some good moments to be found here, but temper your expectations going in.
Quick hits:
+ The writing is so digestible.
+ The characters are always a treat (please give me more Ophelia).
- The plot has a shaky premise that has some good moments but never takes off.
- An absolutely ridiculous reveal at the end that soured me at the end.
March 28, 2025
Ridiculous solution
This was on par with the other Julian stories…except for the ridiculous solution to the mystery. Highly unbelievable and a copout.
This was on par with the other Julian stories…except for the ridiculous solution to the mystery. Highly unbelievable and a copout.
March 7, 2025
I’m so hooked on this series. It’s so well written.
As with all great mystery series, the mystery or rather in this case referred to as an investigation, shares equal importance with the recurring characters. Well, sometimes it’s almost equal. You expect the H&h to grow and change, getting closer and stronger in their own lives and with each other. And they do that here.
However, nothing feels typical here to me. I loved these characters from book one. The damaged Hero. The lovely older brother who deserves some happiness in his life, but continues to handle his responsibilities dutifully. The near soulmate of a heroine who is much more than the role of a romantic partner would be (but we’re heading that direction slowly oh so slowly.) Also the resident sharp as a tack opinionated helpful Godmother/Great Aunt. And something Burrowes excels at, the intelligent (out of the mouth of babes) little kid. I yearn for them all to find their happily ever after.
You won’t get this series if you don’t start at the beginning. It took me a while to get into this investigation, I’d made up my mind early on. Well that got turned on its head. I ended up appreciating this mystery quite a bit more than I expected. I’m so glad there’s more books left in the series still.
Nearly all of her series are just as deeply human and heartfelt. I have my favorites. But as with her Lady Violet series and some others, this one is inhabited by more mature individuals and about much more than the 18 year old debutant and yet another earl. All of her stories have characters who have been around the block a few times. Their relationships are affected by their experiences and feel real. The series is highly recommended.
As with all great mystery series, the mystery or rather in this case referred to as an investigation, shares equal importance with the recurring characters. Well, sometimes it’s almost equal. You expect the H&h to grow and change, getting closer and stronger in their own lives and with each other. And they do that here.
However, nothing feels typical here to me. I loved these characters from book one. The damaged Hero. The lovely older brother who deserves some happiness in his life, but continues to handle his responsibilities dutifully. The near soulmate of a heroine who is much more than the role of a romantic partner would be (but we’re heading that direction slowly oh so slowly.) Also the resident sharp as a tack opinionated helpful Godmother/Great Aunt. And something Burrowes excels at, the intelligent (out of the mouth of babes) little kid. I yearn for them all to find their happily ever after.
You won’t get this series if you don’t start at the beginning. It took me a while to get into this investigation, I’d made up my mind early on. Well that got turned on its head. I ended up appreciating this mystery quite a bit more than I expected. I’m so glad there’s more books left in the series still.
Nearly all of her series are just as deeply human and heartfelt. I have my favorites. But as with her Lady Violet series and some others, this one is inhabited by more mature individuals and about much more than the 18 year old debutant and yet another earl. All of her stories have characters who have been around the block a few times. Their relationships are affected by their experiences and feel real. The series is highly recommended.
October 19, 2024
Hyperia has a gentleman friend (not a euphemism, in this case) named John Tait whose estranged wife disappeared 5 years ago. After all this time, he finally has decided he must know her whereabouts and to offer her an annulment or separation if that’s what she wants. Hyperia asks Julian to try to find the wife, Evelyn. Julian agrees to talk to Tait, who in turn makes Julian promise not to tell Hyperia all his misdeeds because he doesn’t want to lose her regard. Julian wonders if Tait and Hyperia are more than merely friends but of course, doesn’t have the nerve to ask her.
Many secrets in this one, but all ends happily for the estranged couple, and a hopeful one for Julian and Hyperia.
Many secrets in this one, but all ends happily for the estranged couple, and a hopeful one for Julian and Hyperia.
May 27, 2024
This is the fifth book in the Lord Julian series. All four of the first books were well written and entertaining reads. This one is exceptional. It will keep you guessing until the very end.
It was interesting to see more of the relationship between Julian and Hyperia. I also loved that a character appeared in this book from one of Ms. Burrowes earlier series and that Lord Julian knew him.
It was interesting to see more of the relationship between Julian and Hyperia. I also loved that a character appeared in this book from one of Ms. Burrowes earlier series and that Lord Julian knew him.
September 20, 2025
4.5 stars
Though there was a lot of back and forthing to interview people for the investigation, that didn't make the story drag as it sometimes can. I adore these characters, enjoyed the settings, and the plot unfolded at a great pace. I'm eager to read the next book in the series!
Though there was a lot of back and forthing to interview people for the investigation, that didn't make the story drag as it sometimes can. I adore these characters, enjoyed the settings, and the plot unfolded at a great pace. I'm eager to read the next book in the series!
May 27, 2024
An excellent book.
Ms. Burrows knows how to write about the Regency period and a good mystery to solve. This was a delightful story that I read in one day, I can't wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book and series.
Ms. Burrows knows how to write about the Regency period and a good mystery to solve. This was a delightful story that I read in one day, I can't wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book and series.
November 15, 2025
Great Series
This series has great characters. The mysteries are center stage love the romance. The romance is a slow simmer. This is a fun series!
This series has great characters. The mysteries are center stage love the romance. The romance is a slow simmer. This is a fun series!
December 19, 2025
Love this series
May 29, 2024
As this series develops, we get to know and appreciate the main characters and the way they think. It is great to see Lord Julian gradually getting over his time in prison in France as well as to watch his relationship with Hyperia blossom and yet never quite coming to a peak. I have to say that Julian's insights as he reads between the lines of the events and people he encounters continue to baffle me at times. When he finally explains what led him to solve the mystery, someone says "you are very observant"! well indeed but we cannot share this quality as we only see what he chooses to share with us readers.
As mysteries go, I did not find this particular one very exciting or even believable- hence only 4 stars- but as I mentioned before, it's the second characters and references to previous mysteries which are interesting. I really like Lady Ophelia, the Godmother, the elder brother the Duke and of course, the little urchin, now promoted to be Julian's tiger: Atticus. Unfortunately, we see very little of him in this book.
The death of Harry, Julian's brother, continues to haunt him, but I can't help but feel that therein lies a strand of the story still to be developed. His body has never been found....
I have pre ordered the next story and look forward to reading about more investigations from Lord Julian Caldicott and his friends and family. Such an interesting and engaging group of people!
As mysteries go, I did not find this particular one very exciting or even believable- hence only 4 stars- but as I mentioned before, it's the second characters and references to previous mysteries which are interesting. I really like Lady Ophelia, the Godmother, the elder brother the Duke and of course, the little urchin, now promoted to be Julian's tiger: Atticus. Unfortunately, we see very little of him in this book.
The death of Harry, Julian's brother, continues to haunt him, but I can't help but feel that therein lies a strand of the story still to be developed. His body has never been found....
I have pre ordered the next story and look forward to reading about more investigations from Lord Julian Caldicott and his friends and family. Such an interesting and engaging group of people!
April 16, 2025
3.5 library copy
April 14, 2025
a typical Lord Julian novel. it has to be noted that the wife in the title is another man's wife. and while Julian certainly wishes to keep his Hyperia their relationship is under quite a strain in this book, maybe unnecessarily... the solution wasn't very credible, but who cares? I don't
December 31, 2024
This series gets better with every book. I really enjoy the mysteries, but my favourite part is actually the character development and psychology. You don't always get this in historical novels or cozy mysteries, but Burrows not only did excellent historical research, she also took the time to flesh out the characters and to make them believeable. I especially admire how she handled the aftermath of the war. Every character is interesting and has realistic flaws and good sides. And the dynamic between Hyperia and Julian is wonderful.
Recommended!
Recommended!
November 8, 2024
Shaky plot twist
Burrows delivers well assembled layers of clues with a surprise conclusion to the mystery. But seriously -- one vital element of the plot is so far outside reality as to render the whole story laughable. No spoiler here as the book is part of a series and if a reader enjoyed the first books, they will still find much to enjoy in this one.
Burrows delivers well assembled layers of clues with a surprise conclusion to the mystery. But seriously -- one vital element of the plot is so far outside reality as to render the whole story laughable. No spoiler here as the book is part of a series and if a reader enjoyed the first books, they will still find much to enjoy in this one.
June 29, 2024
Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Lord Julian Mysteries #5
Publication Date: 5/24/24
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 258
I always enjoy books by this author and have particularly enjoyed this series because the male lead is a hero in every way, but doubts himself and is insecure about many things because of his experiences during Napoleon’s war. As a result of being held and tortured in a French prison, he came home from the wars with scars both inside and out. His hair is pure snow-white though it had been dark brown (we’ve seen a tad of improvement there). His eyes can’t stand the light and he must wear tinted glasses outdoors. He has lost his manly 'humors', but there is a tiny sign they might return. Now, to add insult to injury, his brother, Arthur, a duke, is leaving for an extended visit to the continent and he is leaving Julian in charge of the Duchy while he is gone.
As Julian has solved one mystery after another, his interest and focus have begun to return. He enjoys untangling a puzzle; to do that, he must be out where people are rather than holed up inside a dark room. Since he is getting a reputation for solving the unsolvable, he is being asked more and more frequently to take on mysteries. This time, it is the love of his life – and his very best friend – Hyperia (Perry) West who is asking. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Well, she is asking him to find the wife of one of her friends, and that friend is a tad flirtatious. Is there – or has there been - a ‘thing’ between Perry and her friend, John Tait? Jealousy rears its ugly head.
John’s wife disappeared five (YES – FIVE) years ago. Theirs was a tumultuous relationship, but they seemed to be in love. What caused her to leave? Where is she now? Is she still among the living? Would she be willing to return? Why would he wait five years to begin to look for her? Hmmm – read the book and all those questions – and others – will be answered.
This is a slow-paced, low-key, investigation – but a good one. The first half of the book was a slower pace, but the last half picked up and was much more interesting. For me, the book was more about changing/growing relationships and character growth than the nicely done mystery accompanying it. We also got some nice tidbits that will set up a storyline or two in the future concerning Perry’s brother. Of course, we also got the part at the end revealing what Julian’s next case would be. That book, A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor, will come out toward the end of September.
If you enjoy a good mystery accompanied by a wonderful group of characters who grow, and relationships that grow and change, then you should enjoy this book and this series. Each book can be read as a standalone as the mystery is concluded within the book. However, in my opinion, to get the most enjoyment and appreciation for the books and the series, you should read all of the books – in order. Happy Reading.
Series: Lord Julian Mysteries #5
Publication Date: 5/24/24
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 258
I always enjoy books by this author and have particularly enjoyed this series because the male lead is a hero in every way, but doubts himself and is insecure about many things because of his experiences during Napoleon’s war. As a result of being held and tortured in a French prison, he came home from the wars with scars both inside and out. His hair is pure snow-white though it had been dark brown (we’ve seen a tad of improvement there). His eyes can’t stand the light and he must wear tinted glasses outdoors. He has lost his manly 'humors', but there is a tiny sign they might return. Now, to add insult to injury, his brother, Arthur, a duke, is leaving for an extended visit to the continent and he is leaving Julian in charge of the Duchy while he is gone.
As Julian has solved one mystery after another, his interest and focus have begun to return. He enjoys untangling a puzzle; to do that, he must be out where people are rather than holed up inside a dark room. Since he is getting a reputation for solving the unsolvable, he is being asked more and more frequently to take on mysteries. This time, it is the love of his life – and his very best friend – Hyperia (Perry) West who is asking. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Well, she is asking him to find the wife of one of her friends, and that friend is a tad flirtatious. Is there – or has there been - a ‘thing’ between Perry and her friend, John Tait? Jealousy rears its ugly head.
John’s wife disappeared five (YES – FIVE) years ago. Theirs was a tumultuous relationship, but they seemed to be in love. What caused her to leave? Where is she now? Is she still among the living? Would she be willing to return? Why would he wait five years to begin to look for her? Hmmm – read the book and all those questions – and others – will be answered.
This is a slow-paced, low-key, investigation – but a good one. The first half of the book was a slower pace, but the last half picked up and was much more interesting. For me, the book was more about changing/growing relationships and character growth than the nicely done mystery accompanying it. We also got some nice tidbits that will set up a storyline or two in the future concerning Perry’s brother. Of course, we also got the part at the end revealing what Julian’s next case would be. That book, A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor, will come out toward the end of September.
If you enjoy a good mystery accompanied by a wonderful group of characters who grow, and relationships that grow and change, then you should enjoy this book and this series. Each book can be read as a standalone as the mystery is concluded within the book. However, in my opinion, to get the most enjoyment and appreciation for the books and the series, you should read all of the books – in order. Happy Reading.
May 14, 2024
Another delightful historical mystery from author Grace Burrowes, best known for her gentle historical romances. A GENTLEMAN IN SEARCH OF A WIFE is book 5 in Burrowes’ Lord Julian Mysteries, and I continue to enjoy myself thoroughly with these charming mysteries with a touch of romance to each. Burrowes does a bang-up job setting the series firmly in the Napoleonic era, and the bucolic setting in the English countryside adds to the cozy feel of this read.
Lord Julian Caldicott is the third son of the prior Waltham duke and now second in line for the title. After losing his brother (a fellow spy) to the torture of the French army, Lord Julain is trying to put his own war captivity and torture behind him. His early bewilderment and ostracism is slowly being repaired by the love of his family and the gentle interest of the woman he’d like to marry. Julian is discovering that he can use the skills he polished as a military spy to investigate domestic crimes. The nature of amateur sleuthing makes Julian seems nicely relatable, and he is such an endearing man!
The relationships between Julian and those around him is what continues to brings this series alive to me. Julian's older brother Arthur, the duke, is a gratifying character although we don’t see much of him in this book. Lord Julian's tiger, a grubby urchin that he rescued from service on a prior investigation, is shooting up under the tutelage of Julian and Julian’s family. And I especially admire Julian's love interest, Hyperia West. She’s kind, stalwart, and so supportive of Julian that I love her.
Hyperia has asked Julian to help her friend find his errant wife who has been missing for five years. There are a number of twists in this mystery that I did not see coming! The cozy mystery showcases the honest and upstanding characters that Julian and Hyperia display and slowly advances their possible romance. Mystery and developing relationships intertwine to provide a satisfying read in A GENTLEMAN IN SEARCH OF A WIFE that will warm your heart.
My review has been submitted to FreshFiction.com. I will update this review on Goodreads when the Fresh Fiction review has been posted, to include the link
Lord Julian Caldicott is the third son of the prior Waltham duke and now second in line for the title. After losing his brother (a fellow spy) to the torture of the French army, Lord Julain is trying to put his own war captivity and torture behind him. His early bewilderment and ostracism is slowly being repaired by the love of his family and the gentle interest of the woman he’d like to marry. Julian is discovering that he can use the skills he polished as a military spy to investigate domestic crimes. The nature of amateur sleuthing makes Julian seems nicely relatable, and he is such an endearing man!
The relationships between Julian and those around him is what continues to brings this series alive to me. Julian's older brother Arthur, the duke, is a gratifying character although we don’t see much of him in this book. Lord Julian's tiger, a grubby urchin that he rescued from service on a prior investigation, is shooting up under the tutelage of Julian and Julian’s family. And I especially admire Julian's love interest, Hyperia West. She’s kind, stalwart, and so supportive of Julian that I love her.
Hyperia has asked Julian to help her friend find his errant wife who has been missing for five years. There are a number of twists in this mystery that I did not see coming! The cozy mystery showcases the honest and upstanding characters that Julian and Hyperia display and slowly advances their possible romance. Mystery and developing relationships intertwine to provide a satisfying read in A GENTLEMAN IN SEARCH OF A WIFE that will warm your heart.
My review has been submitted to FreshFiction.com. I will update this review on Goodreads when the Fresh Fiction review has been posted, to include the link
June 1, 2025
Has this book since it was published but only just got round to reading it. Why? Because I wanted to have time to read it properly, and it is a great I've been waiting to read.
So I started with a little trepidation if you look forward to something too much, it can be a disappointment. Not in this case.
Lord Julian has been asked by Hyperia - Perry to help a friend find out what happened to his wife when she disappeared five years ago. But could Julian not involve Perry in the investigation, which makes Julian worry how close his client John and Perry were. The Book follows Julian's investigation and frustration with the missing wife's family.
But whilst the investigation (which is solved) is the main reason for the book, my interest is held by Julian's continuing improvement in health and family relations. At last he's moving on from his captivity although not the loss of Harry his brother. His relationships with his nephew and older brother Arthur continue to flourish and strengthen. His relationship with Atticus is growing and we're seeing Julian as a leader and mentor.
Julian knows something is wrong between Perry and her brother, after her brother demands she returns home and doesn't want her seeing Julian. But his problems are soon unearthed and Julian takes Perry back to his godmother, and finally allows her into the investigation. Finally Julian and Perry are growing closer again, as she realises he will always stand up for her.
So I started with a little trepidation if you look forward to something too much, it can be a disappointment. Not in this case.
Lord Julian has been asked by Hyperia - Perry to help a friend find out what happened to his wife when she disappeared five years ago. But could Julian not involve Perry in the investigation, which makes Julian worry how close his client John and Perry were. The Book follows Julian's investigation and frustration with the missing wife's family.
But whilst the investigation (which is solved) is the main reason for the book, my interest is held by Julian's continuing improvement in health and family relations. At last he's moving on from his captivity although not the loss of Harry his brother. His relationships with his nephew and older brother Arthur continue to flourish and strengthen. His relationship with Atticus is growing and we're seeing Julian as a leader and mentor.
Julian knows something is wrong between Perry and her brother, after her brother demands she returns home and doesn't want her seeing Julian. But his problems are soon unearthed and Julian takes Perry back to his godmother, and finally allows her into the investigation. Finally Julian and Perry are growing closer again, as she realises he will always stand up for her.
May 21, 2024
Mr. John Tait asks Lord Julian Caldicott to locate his wife, Evelyn, who has been missing for over five years. With a trail gone so cold, it requires all of Julian’s considerable reconnaissance skills and any assistance he can get. Julian is handicapped by having to keep his dear friend, Hyperia West, ignorant of the search at Mr. Tait’s request. When Evelyn’s family, who ought to be most interested in her location and safety, instead lie and obfuscate, Julian is nearly about to quit the field. In a side story, Hyperia is exposed to danger at the hands of her dim witted brother. But all the storylines are resolved beautifully with a satisfying HEA. The Lord Julian Mysteries are so skillfully constructed that the reader is kept fully engaged from the first page to the last. While part of a series, the Lord Julian Mysteries can each be read individually, though I highly recommend the entire series. This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.
July 24, 2024
I continue to enjoy this light mystery series and gentle exploration of individual and societal effects of war. Burrowes has a steady and not overly heavy hand in her commentary on the many roles and limitations of women of this era and culture.
It was a bit jarring (but maybe also fun?) for there to be a connection to her other mystery series. They obviously take place at the same time, so there's no issue there, it just felt a bit sudden, with no foreshadowing.
The mystery itself was a bit weird, mostly in that the husband in question waited so long to find his wife. I did find the various sibling dynamics realistic, which helped an otherwise weak plot thread (as usual with these types of series, the background story is beginning to eclipse the episodic one).
I'm already looking forward to A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor!
It was a bit jarring (but maybe also fun?) for there to be a connection to her other mystery series. They obviously take place at the same time, so there's no issue there, it just felt a bit sudden, with no foreshadowing.
The mystery itself was a bit weird, mostly in that the husband in question waited so long to find his wife. I did find the various sibling dynamics realistic, which helped an otherwise weak plot thread (as usual with these types of series, the background story is beginning to eclipse the episodic one).
I'm already looking forward to A Gentleman of Unreliable Honor!
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