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The Lord Julian Mysteries #10
A Gentleman in Possession of Secrets
Somebody has made off with the loot--and with the lady!An acquaintance from Lord Julian’s military years begs his lordship’s help locating the fellow’s missing fiancée. The young lady’s family has only the flimsiest explanation for her disappearance, and the harder Julian digs for answers, the more complicated the puzzle becomes. He soon realizes that a young woman who was described as a bluestocking of no particular fortune might in fact have absconded with a hoard of gold, or been kidnapped in hopes she’d reveal the location of a literal treasure.
Julian must sort through lies, scandal, family feuds, and conflicting clues, all while battling his own demons, or the course of true love might end in doom.
Julian must sort through lies, scandal, family feuds, and conflicting clues, all while battling his own demons, or the course of true love might end in doom.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2025
243 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
192 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 42 reviews
September 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this Lord Julian Mystery. A Captain James MacNamara, an acquaintance of Julian’s, wounded at Waterloo, asks Julian to help him find the missing woman he loves.
The family prevaricate and claim Hannah Stadler could be in a number of places.
James is certain she’s not. Julian sets off to discover the truth, aided as always by Hyperea, his godmother and his mother, and of course Atticus.
I love it when stories add in men who have served with the officers help.
The family prevaricate and claim Hannah Stadler could be in a number of places.
James is certain she’s not. Julian sets off to discover the truth, aided as always by Hyperea, his godmother and his mother, and of course Atticus.
I love it when stories add in men who have served with the officers help.
December 24, 2025
This series is definitely a comfortable read; almost cozy, a bit fuzzy on the historical details, with wonderful main characters. We know it will end well--the pleasure is in the journey.
In this one a friend asks Julian to track down the young woman the friend wants to marry. It seems she has vanished. Her family says she's visiting friends; the friends haven't seen her. Was she kidnapped? Did she run off with another man? Has some accident befallen her? And why is her family so unconcerned?
There is also the matter of the family's gold treasure. Could it have something to do with the young lady's disappearance?
Lots of lovely twists before the very satisfactory ending.
In this one a friend asks Julian to track down the young woman the friend wants to marry. It seems she has vanished. Her family says she's visiting friends; the friends haven't seen her. Was she kidnapped? Did she run off with another man? Has some accident befallen her? And why is her family so unconcerned?
There is also the matter of the family's gold treasure. Could it have something to do with the young lady's disappearance?
Lots of lovely twists before the very satisfactory ending.
January 12, 2026
Love this series!
Lord Julian, Hyperia, and the whole cast are excellent. While it wasn't difficult to figure out who the baddies were, following the investigation was interesting. I liked the plot and setting as well and I'm eager for the next book!
Lord Julian, Hyperia, and the whole cast are excellent. While it wasn't difficult to figure out who the baddies were, following the investigation was interesting. I liked the plot and setting as well and I'm eager for the next book!
August 22, 2025
I just finished this delightful addition to the Lord Julian cannon. This author's books leave me feeling like I've just received a warm and wanted hug.
I'm excited to see some forward progression toward matrimony between Julian and his ladylove, Hyperia. Both Hyperia and Julian's great aunt place a large part in solving this mystery. Lord Julian also has a number of additional helpers, which is new. It adds a fun dynamic, but I enjoy learning that Julian misses being able to reconnoiter on his own.
As is so often the case, I want to take the malignant and treacherous relatives of the imperiled person in question and drown them in a lake. Ms. Burrowes sure does know how to write despicable villains. I would throw my Kindle at the wall in anger, but I don't want to dent my wall from all the tossing I would be doing!
I'm excited to see some forward progression toward matrimony between Julian and his ladylove, Hyperia. Both Hyperia and Julian's great aunt place a large part in solving this mystery. Lord Julian also has a number of additional helpers, which is new. It adds a fun dynamic, but I enjoy learning that Julian misses being able to reconnoiter on his own.
As is so often the case, I want to take the malignant and treacherous relatives of the imperiled person in question and drown them in a lake. Ms. Burrowes sure does know how to write despicable villains. I would throw my Kindle at the wall in anger, but I don't want to dent my wall from all the tossing I would be doing!
November 1, 2025
Read this in one day. Happy sigh.
August 31, 2025
A nice addition to the series. The mystery was intriguing, and the solution satisfying. Even Julian's health is improving - he finally admits (to himself and to Hyperia) that his ability in the bedroom has returned after its prolonged absence due to his post-war trauma. I hope they would marry soon and live happily ever after. They can solve crimes as a married couple just as well. After ten installments, it is definitely time for them to marry.
September 1, 2025
good mystery and several unlikely villains
The author scores another win with this 10th book in the Lord Julian mystery series.
All of the regulars are present. A new concern arises for Atticus, who we really only see in the first part of the book. Certainly that situation will be addressed in a later book in the series.
Doubts linger with regard to Leander‘s adjustment being away from his mother and brought into an entirely new family,. And this too will be something that Julian and Hyperia will undoubtedly deal with at some future date.
The central mystery about McNamara‘s missing sweetheart is “convoluted“ in a positive way… There are so many possibilities, as well as a handful of prospective villains, that it is difficult to make sense of what is going on until we finally reach the end. Harry’s presence makes a surprising appearance, *figuratively* speaking… Proving that it is certainly a small world, especially among the aristocracy.
There were quite a few characters to keep track of… a couple that confused me. I believe that when Julian refers to “the captain,” he is speaking about McNamara. There are several men who are former military, as is Lord Julian, and this fogged the glass just a little bit for me.
However, the characterizations are good and the plot pacing is enjoyable. It’s a book that flies by as one isn’t comfortable putting it down. There is a little headway with the relationship of Julian and Hyperia, it would seem in a positive light.
There is very little “language” in the book. It is a cozy read for all intents and purposes. Though I do feel that the author lets the villain/villains off much too lightly. I would much have preferred at least a couple of punches thrown for the selfishness and unfeeling behavior of several of the characters.
I think most will find this an enjoyable read.
The author scores another win with this 10th book in the Lord Julian mystery series.
All of the regulars are present. A new concern arises for Atticus, who we really only see in the first part of the book. Certainly that situation will be addressed in a later book in the series.
Doubts linger with regard to Leander‘s adjustment being away from his mother and brought into an entirely new family,. And this too will be something that Julian and Hyperia will undoubtedly deal with at some future date.
The central mystery about McNamara‘s missing sweetheart is “convoluted“ in a positive way… There are so many possibilities, as well as a handful of prospective villains, that it is difficult to make sense of what is going on until we finally reach the end. Harry’s presence makes a surprising appearance, *figuratively* speaking… Proving that it is certainly a small world, especially among the aristocracy.
There were quite a few characters to keep track of… a couple that confused me. I believe that when Julian refers to “the captain,” he is speaking about McNamara. There are several men who are former military, as is Lord Julian, and this fogged the glass just a little bit for me.
However, the characterizations are good and the plot pacing is enjoyable. It’s a book that flies by as one isn’t comfortable putting it down. There is a little headway with the relationship of Julian and Hyperia, it would seem in a positive light.
There is very little “language” in the book. It is a cozy read for all intents and purposes. Though I do feel that the author lets the villain/villains off much too lightly. I would much have preferred at least a couple of punches thrown for the selfishness and unfeeling behavior of several of the characters.
I think most will find this an enjoyable read.
January 3, 2026
England 1813, nr the 2 year anniversary of Waterloo. Gave
this mystery/ romance 4 stars. I've read all books in this
series, in order. Finished reading this book on 11/01/25.
Julian, our hero, continues to solve mysteries. He feels better
but has on/off melancholy. His thinking like a criminal,
helps him solve his cases. His fiancée Hyperia "Perry" &
Godmother Lady Ophelia help him brainstorm cases and
evidence. Both perceptive ladies. Lady O. knows Debrett's
backwards/ forwards, & also antidotes about ton families,
families low on funds, past suitors or lovers of missing
persons, etc.
Captain MacGregor was wounded in the war. He served w/
distinction and now has ambulating issues after losing a few
toes & a finger missing on one hand. He can ride a horse but
for short periods only. Mac sought the help of Julian b/c his
sweetheart, bookish dtr. of a viscount, Hannah went missing.
This gave us details about several characters, but I'll refrain
from using 'spoilers.'
The author had Jules seek the whereabouts of Hannah by
riding a horse 3 days straight, 50 miles per day, which
seemed an impossible feat. Jules interviewed a stunning
widow, but both kept to the subject at hand.
Jules and 4 ex-military men sprung a trap on the antagonist.
1 of the 4, Carstairs was the youngest son of a titled man,
and an excellent shot. He is featured in the next story?
this mystery/ romance 4 stars. I've read all books in this
series, in order. Finished reading this book on 11/01/25.
Julian, our hero, continues to solve mysteries. He feels better
but has on/off melancholy. His thinking like a criminal,
helps him solve his cases. His fiancée Hyperia "Perry" &
Godmother Lady Ophelia help him brainstorm cases and
evidence. Both perceptive ladies. Lady O. knows Debrett's
backwards/ forwards, & also antidotes about ton families,
families low on funds, past suitors or lovers of missing
persons, etc.
Captain MacGregor was wounded in the war. He served w/
distinction and now has ambulating issues after losing a few
toes & a finger missing on one hand. He can ride a horse but
for short periods only. Mac sought the help of Julian b/c his
sweetheart, bookish dtr. of a viscount, Hannah went missing.
This gave us details about several characters, but I'll refrain
from using 'spoilers.'
The author had Jules seek the whereabouts of Hannah by
riding a horse 3 days straight, 50 miles per day, which
seemed an impossible feat. Jules interviewed a stunning
widow, but both kept to the subject at hand.
Jules and 4 ex-military men sprung a trap on the antagonist.
1 of the 4, Carstairs was the youngest son of a titled man,
and an excellent shot. He is featured in the next story?
August 21, 2025
A lady is kidnapped by miscreants in search of her family's gold-hoard (which may or may not be extant -- I was ultimately a little unclear on that point), and when she is rescued after two weeks in her captors' hands (not a spoiler because come ON), her response is basically "Well, that was a trying experience. Anyway..." Meanwhile, Atticus makes a surprising revelation and as for Hyperia, well, I'm sorry, SO sorry to have to say this, but I'm starting to get the impression that she's just not all that into Julian. Certainly their priorities are fundamentally different: Julian really wants (and the family title requires) children, while sweet Perry decidedly does NOT, or at least she wants to avoid the dangers of pregnancy, and while I certainly don't blame her for that, it's hardly a secret that Lord Julian very obviously needs an heir of his body in order to keep the title going (the actual Duke having removed himself from that particular field, and good for him). On the other hand, of course, I've decided that if Big Brother Harry is actually dead I'll eat my hat on Broad Street. We shall see.
I will say that I'm interested in where the Atticus story is going. The kid's grown on me.
I will say that I'm interested in where the Atticus story is going. The kid's grown on me.
December 28, 2025
Is that is meant to be the gold of the family hoard on the cover???
Julian has an old war friend who cannot get a straight answer out of his friend’s family as to her whereabouts. He assumes it is because they do not want him to marry her, but Julian suspects something far more nefarious… either way, the lady needs to be found, and quickly.
Sharpe’s rifles make an appearance.
4 stars
So far this year, my library saved me A$3,132.55
Julian has an old war friend who cannot get a straight answer out of his friend’s family as to her whereabouts. He assumes it is because they do not want him to marry her, but Julian suspects something far more nefarious… either way, the lady needs to be found, and quickly.
Sharpe’s rifles make an appearance.
4 stars
So far this year, my library saved me A$3,132.55
December 30, 2025
Pure Julian. Puzzling mystery, great characters, and relationship development. HEA
A hallmark of this superb series is the excellence and smooth interweaving of the two aspects of the story—the personal development of the characters and the solving of the mystery. A++ again.
All the main characters and their interactions are wonderfully portrayed—Julian, Hyperia, Leander, Atticus, the missing Hannah, Captain James MacNamara, his employees (former soldiers), Godmama Lady Ophelia, her grace-Julian's mother, the widow, the bitter Vicontess, and her selfish son.
The gathering of clues is a long, tedious process. Each clue requires the reevaluation and possible readjustment of current theories, besides new theories to account for new clues that don't fit the current theories.
Meanwhile, we're getting to know the characters better and watching some of them evolve.
The conclusion of this story is highly satisfying, a fitting end for this adventure with Julian.
A hallmark of this superb series is the excellence and smooth interweaving of the two aspects of the story—the personal development of the characters and the solving of the mystery. A++ again.
All the main characters and their interactions are wonderfully portrayed—Julian, Hyperia, Leander, Atticus, the missing Hannah, Captain James MacNamara, his employees (former soldiers), Godmama Lady Ophelia, her grace-Julian's mother, the widow, the bitter Vicontess, and her selfish son.
The gathering of clues is a long, tedious process. Each clue requires the reevaluation and possible readjustment of current theories, besides new theories to account for new clues that don't fit the current theories.
Meanwhile, we're getting to know the characters better and watching some of them evolve.
The conclusion of this story is highly satisfying, a fitting end for this adventure with Julian.
October 27, 2025
So much tea and eating in the whole series! Some things pop up as side stories and then disappear. Julian almost gets sidetracked to look for Atticus’ brother and then that side story is dropped. Atticus himself is not really a part of this story. Julian’s nephew gets tired of being ignored and that is kind of handled and then no more word about him. The pace seemed to be faster than others in the series and it grabbed me more.
September 1, 2025
Lord Julian never ceases to amaze.
I very much appreciate the character development that the author brings forth. Also, the writing style is very enjoyable. I copied this from a spot near the end of the book and I just thought it was hilarious. “Never had a pretty little pattern of roses and greenery fascinated so many people so thoroughly.”
I very much appreciate the character development that the author brings forth. Also, the writing style is very enjoyable. I copied this from a spot near the end of the book and I just thought it was hilarious. “Never had a pretty little pattern of roses and greenery fascinated so many people so thoroughly.”
September 25, 2025
James fiancee is missing, he asks Julian to find her. Julian has Hyperia, his godmother and Atticus to help him. It takes a while to figure it out, the bad guys are banished. It turns out Atticus has a twin brother, I hope they are able to find him. I enjoyed it. Always looking forward to the next book by Grace Burrowes.
November 9, 2025
Best one in a while. Did not once check out or get bored. Mystery was good & didn't drag at all, bit players were interesting, and I was invested in the new characters, finding Hannah and seeing a happy ending for the Captain & his kidnapped lady. I am a little impatient for Julien & Hyperia to set a date tho.
November 21, 2025
Another great investigation!
Lord Julian's deductions are insightful and thorough, as usual. His growing relationships with Atticus & Leander are explored; his doubts and affection warring with each other. Lastly comes his love for Hysteria, deep and unwavering. All this comes together to forge a delightful story.
Lord Julian's deductions are insightful and thorough, as usual. His growing relationships with Atticus & Leander are explored; his doubts and affection warring with each other. Lastly comes his love for Hysteria, deep and unwavering. All this comes together to forge a delightful story.
August 30, 2025
wonderfully written and cleverly executed
As always her heroes (heroines) do not disappoint. They ring true. The mysteries are interesting and properly baffling for most of the book but do not cheat
As always her heroes (heroines) do not disappoint. They ring true. The mysteries are interesting and properly baffling for most of the book but do not cheat
August 31, 2025
I LOVE LORD JULIAN
Actually I love Grace Burrowes who is the creator of the puzzles LJ sets out to solve. Her characters are believable, they develop and grow in realistic ways and the solutions and conclusions are satisfying.
Actually I love Grace Burrowes who is the creator of the puzzles LJ sets out to solve. Her characters are believable, they develop and grow in realistic ways and the solutions and conclusions are satisfying.
August 31, 2025
Joy in Grace
I simply have to glance at Grace Burrowes’ name on a book, and I know that I shall have hours of pleasure awaiting me. “A Gentleman in Possession of Secrets,” 10th in the Lord Julian’s series was just such a delight!
I simply have to glance at Grace Burrowes’ name on a book, and I know that I shall have hours of pleasure awaiting me. “A Gentleman in Possession of Secrets,” 10th in the Lord Julian’s series was just such a delight!
September 1, 2025
The story continues
Sincerly love this series. I'm delighted that Julian and Hyperia are finding their way forward in life. Enchanting and well-written. Very entertaining. Can't wait to see what happens next!!
Sincerly love this series. I'm delighted that Julian and Hyperia are finding their way forward in life. Enchanting and well-written. Very entertaining. Can't wait to see what happens next!!
September 2, 2025
After the last book in the series put me to sleep, it was delightful to enjoy this book’s return to form. Thank goodness! It got a little convoluted at points, but not enough to keep me from turning the pages. Looking forward to the next!
September 16, 2025
Another 5 star book
I have loved all the books in this series heck, I have loved every book that Grace Burrowes has published. I can hardly wait till the next book in this series comes out. This book is a wonderful read!
I have loved all the books in this series heck, I have loved every book that Grace Burrowes has published. I can hardly wait till the next book in this series comes out. This book is a wonderful read!
September 25, 2025
another great story
Thank you Mrs Burrowes for Lord Julian!! I love his stories!! They definitely do not turn out how I expected!!! Can’t wait to see what’s in store for him and Hyperia!!
Thank you Mrs Burrowes for Lord Julian!! I love his stories!! They definitely do not turn out how I expected!!! Can’t wait to see what’s in store for him and Hyperia!!
October 2, 2025
Lord Julian has become an admired friend and I am happy to see his physical/mental improvement in each new book. These books are pure, lighthearted fun, the ladies are smart and the villains despicable! 4-1/2 stars
November 29, 2025
Not my favorite, since Julian is in the doldrums. A fellow soldier's sweetheart has disappeared without a trace. Only an elderly relative saw her walk off with two gentlemen.(We also find out Atticus has/had? a twin)
September 1, 2025
3.5 stars
September 3, 2025
This one was better than #10. Happy to know there will be an eleven.
September 4, 2025
still good
A lovely story but still irritating for the delayed matrimony of the protagonists. I am getting seriously annoyed Soon I will abandon the series
A lovely story but still irritating for the delayed matrimony of the protagonists. I am getting seriously annoyed Soon I will abandon the series
September 14, 2025
Great story. But how long will this courtship go? Getting bit tedious.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews