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.