3.5/5

Another Dora and Jacob murder mystery in the books! I only wish she'd marry the man already. This novel is full of vibrant vocabulary and intrigue. The pull of the characters fell a little flat for me, meaning I just feel something was missing to make me care more about the antagonists and murder victims. Dora and Jacob are loveable as a couple, but Dora is kind of annoying me because it feels like she can't admit her own feelings. The twists and turns of the story happen fast and suddenly which is... interesting. And it's very very dialog heavy. If you enjoy reading dialog you'll love this book. I'd recommend this to people who enjoy historical mysteries and romance combined. The cliff hanger definitely got me, so I'll have to read the next. (I just want her to marry him) However, I still haven't read the first book and I feel I don't need to. So this series is definitely one where you can pick it up whereever and probably enjoy it for what it is. Oh, also. There are definitely huge historical discrepancies for the sake of the plot. Like, I'm almost sure that doctor in 1812 were not boiling their instruments before use. I wouldn't take any historical reference in the book as fact and definitely would not say it's a well researched historical fiction novel. But, whatever I guess. I feel like you can definitely tell the author is a Brit, too. Not necessarily bad, but. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Thanks to One More Chapter & NetGalley for an advanced ebook copy of the book. I'm not compensated for this review and I'm just in it for fun. All thoughts and opinion are my own.

Now I am not one for mysteries, so I was unsure about this when I picked it up. The relationship between Dora and Jacob was worth it though and it was good writing.
Thank you to NetGalley reads for the advance copy.

Whew another wild ride with Dora and Jacob! It isn’t necessary to read them in order but it definitely helps! I would not understand the progression in their relationship without the previous books!
Alex and the team in their London base is called to the scene of a murder of a Peer Sir Richard Leyburn found with a shepherd’s crook shoved down his throat and also strangled!
Dora and Jacob are in the country on a holiday after the last four grueling months!
But a family tragedy pulls Jacob away and make the difference in their stations more obvious!
They are introduced to another espionage spy and his circle of. “Friends!”
A series of odd occurrences including murder start to happen around Dora and they are drawn again into a web of deceit as someone tries to emulate Wordsworth poetry! It is a macabre intent masking a dangerous murderer!
Dora has a rival for Jacob’s affections and has decisions to make! Hopefully she chooses correctly as again their lives and one of Jacobs’s own brothers is threatened! It definitely should put things in perspective on how brief this life can be! Bravo well done! I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review!

The historical context plays a big role in this new installment with Jacob and Dora. A knowledge of romantic poetry or the Lake District will help, but isn’t necessary. The author explains a lot. I think the Jacobin radical element could have had more explanation rather than the poetry and scenery. Well-plotted with well-developed secondary characters as always, if a few more suspects than necessary, and a nice blend of real and fiction. I love how Dora and Jacob are both solid investigators, and their relationship isn’t bogged down in a slow burn will they/won’t they. I’m already eager for the next one.

Book three in the Regency Secrets series, and the joy and enthusiasm that the main characters bring to the book is infectious.
Jacob and Dora are poles apart, she is an actress, he is the third son of a titled nobility, but that love manages to cross all societal boundaries, even as Society wonders what will happen next in this romance that reveals some really delightful sauciness and great happiness.
Jacob and Dora are having a well deserved break in the Lake District after their last murder case. They have left Alex Smith in charge of their detective agency in London.
Someone has stolen unpublished manuscripts that contains a poem of William Wordsworth, that is apparently being used as a blueprint for murder. Wordsworth used to be a supporter of the French Revolution, alongside Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Robert Southey, could they possibly be traitors against their country? They are now best known for being the Lakeland Poets, they are members of the Romantic school of poetry , honoured by Royalty, and famous worldwide.
With many suspects to investigate, the body count continues to mount up, Dora and Jacob must fight against conventionally held beliefs to find a killer and a motive.
Dora is kind, intelligent and has the habit of following her instincts, which usually lead her into trouble.
Jacob is distracted in this book, his father has recently died, and he wasn’t invited to the bedside to pay his respects. His elder brother Arthur becomes the next Viscount Sandys, he is arrogant, snobbish and hostile to Dora, sparks fly!
The setting of the Lake District is perfect for this story, and not a mention of daffodils. It is almost a story of last man standing, the red herrings are so skilfully placed, I only knew the killer when Dora and Jacob came to the same conclusion.
A witty and well plotted read, with a satisfying ending. The characters are very loveable, and mostly spare the blushes of the reader!!
There are many twists and turns, but love shines through, like a bright ray of sunshine.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers HarperCollinsUK for my advanced read, freely given in exchange for my honest review.
I have given a five star rating. I will leave copies to Goodreads and Amazon UK.

This was a fun mystery romance, though I made the mistake of requesting this before realizing it was the third book in a connected series. Although the characters had two previous books, I was still able to follow along in The Wordsworth Key without issue. The author mentioned some previous events in the novels, but explained them so I never felt super lost. All-in-all, this was a fairly enjoyable read, though not my favorite in the cozy-mystery genre.

1812 Dora and Jacob are holidaying in the Lake District near his family home when they are informed that a local magistrate Sir Richard Leyburn was killed in London. His team investigate. Meanwhile they are asked to find a missing manuscript of Wordsworth, while they discover that a government agent is investigating some possible Jacobin plotters.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting and likeable characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

In this the third book in the series Dora and Jacob's holiday near his home is interrupted by a request to find a missing manuscript written by Wordsworth. This opens the door to a mixture of murder, intrigue and unwanted suitors.
I read and loved the first book in the series a while ago, but somehow missed the second one, so was pleased to read this one. It isn't essential to read either of the first two and this can be read as a standalone. I enjoy books set in the Regency period and also murder mysteries, and this is a good blend of the two. Along with the mystery of the missing manuscript there is an apparently unrelated murder plus Jacob's brother unhappy with his relationship with someone considered not to be a suitable partner. Poetry by Wordsworth and others of his ilk was discussed, which I've not really read, and is an integral part of the story but knowledge is not a required requisite - fortunately for me. An ideal read for those who enjoy mysteries set in past times.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

This is probably a fine book, but I could not get into and it did not engage me. This is not a fault in the book at all since it was written very well, but I don't think this genre is for me.

1812 & investigative duo, Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys, have escaped London and headed north to the Lakes, both needing time away from danger after their two most recent cases. Death, unfortunately, hasn’t got the message that it isn’t welcome to join them. Now, as William Wordsworth’s opus goes missing, and disappearances and a murder follow in quick succession, Dora and Jacob are forced to abandon their holiday and use their unique skills to track down a reckless killer intent on destroying the Romantic poets and all they stand for
The third book in this delightful series. I love both Jacob & Dora & thoroughly enjoyed their latest mystery. I’m also enjoying how their relationship is developing. Fast paced, wonderful characters made for an engrossing book. The mystery was also intriguing & I was kept guessing I look forward to many more books in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

A wonderful Regency mystery with twists and turns set in the Lake District. The connections to William Wordsworth are a delight. All the traipsing around on land and water add to the drama. It's full of witty dialogue. And best of all, the author uses foreshadowing with mastery! The novel is a delight!

I really enjoy the dynamic between the two MCs, a medical nobleman and a feisty actress, as they solve murders and mysteries, while falling more and more in love. This one is set in the lake district, which gives us beautiful countryside, but not so much of the city grit the previous books have. I suspect there is more to be gained if you are familiar with the poetry of the time, especially Wordsworth, but it’s still completely enjoyable if you aren’t. I’ll definitely be back for more of this series, though I’m hoping it’ll be back in the city with more of the secondary characters who add to the fun.

Thank you to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed the witty banter between Ruby and Dora; their friendship was both supportive and sweet. Additionally, Jacob and Dora's open communication was a refreshing change, especially within this genre. However, I didn't like all aspects of the book. I found the pacing of the story to be too slow, and I had to push myself to finish it. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars.

The Wordsworth Key
by Julia Golding
Pub Date: May 09 2025

Investigative duo, Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys, have escaped London and headed north to the Lakes, both needing time away from danger after their two most recent cases. Death, unfortunately, hasn’t got the message that it isn’t welcome to join them.

Now, as William Wordsworth’s opus goes missing, and disappearances and a murder follow in quick succession, Dora and Jacob are forced to abandon their holiday and use their unique skills to track down a reckless killer

Another excellent, fun, rollicking adventure with the likeable mystery solving couple, Dora and Jacob, who always seem to end up in situations that require their special sleuthing abilities. This regency couple are an unlikely unconventional duo: she’s an actress and he is a doctor from an elite class (son of a Viscount) that expects certain actions and choices of him. But he resists it all for his love of Dora. Any other woman set before him considered by society to be more suitable marriage material, is of no interest to him at all. He is somewhat of a rebel you might say! Which makes him even more endearing.

This is the third book of the Regency Secrets series based on this adorable chemistry-charged couple. On this occasion they leave the busyness of London behind for some rest and relaxation – to take a holiday from their taxing cases but it seems danger and death do not get the memo! For these two can never escape the world of chaos that always surrounds them.

As with the previous two novels, this is exceptionally written and another riveting read filled with wit, wisdom and wonder. There are lots of twists and turns with red herrings and unsuspecting villains. One thing I love about this couple is how they defy convention and just be who they are. Dora always stands out with her wit, curiosity, courage and strength but also her determination to be herself. And like a good actress, plays appropriate parts when it is required of her to stay alive. (There is one hilarious scene close to the end that had me in stitches!) Jacob, too, cares little about following the practices of the day set out for him. His admiration, respect, protectiveness and love for Dora always shines through.

It is 1812 and this investigative couple are faced with a new mystery based on the Romantic poet William Wordsworth. He and Coleridge together with their Lyrical Ballads helped launch the Romantic Age in English Literature. In this novel, Wordsworth’s magnus opus goes missing (a semi-autobiographical poem that is extremely personal about his early years and addressed to Coleridge). Of course, this scenario sets up an intriguing mystery that includes a disappearing person and a murder to solve surrounding this case. It is well executed and leads us as readers (and the investigative couple) on a remarkable danger-filled journey to solve the puzzle. Lots of tension, trembling and seat tottering! I loved it all and enjoyed its literary references, too, since the Romantic Era is my favourite poetry realm.

I highly recommend The Wordsworth Key as once again Julia Golding delivers a first class, intelligent, layered, unforgettable regency mystery that sparkles with originality. The plot is entertaining and the style invigorating plus it inspires the senses and imagination. Being a poet myself, I loved these couple of lines by Dora and Jacob about Wordsworth’s biographical poem and also poetry in general:

“That poem - it’s dangerous, isn’t it? Full of mysteries when it seems so innocent.”

“All the best poetry is. If you understand a poem at one reading, then it’s not great, merely entertaining.”

I encourage everyone to get the first two in the series to read as well. Julia’s stories and characters are more-ish, fun, delightful, full of political and societal dramas of the day and totally captivating. The Wordsworth Key is a worthy, regency 5 star mystery that must be read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.

Duo, Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys are on their way to the lake for a much needed break. Unfortunately for them, William Wordsworth goes missing along side manuscripts and a murder. Now the two must pivot and investigate.

Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I absolutely adored this historical romance/ murder mystery. It had my attention the whole time! The writing was fantastic. The plot was great and followed through to the end.

I loved both Dora and Jacob. It’s been so long since a MMC has been able to make me swoon, but Jacob’s love for Dora had me so happy! Dora was intelligent and such a strong FMC! She is probably one of my favorite characters.

I recommend reading The Wordsworth Key if you like murder mystery, historical romance, and romance as a sub plot.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

As a sucker for historical fiction this book far from disappointed! It was great from the get go, the 2 main characters were so enjoyable to read about and the twists and turns kept me at the end of my seat throughout this entire read. If Regency thrill is your jam then this will be right up your alley!

This is a new author for me and I was interested in reading this story based on the reviews I had read. It was a good mystery tale with Dora and Jacob vacationing in a small hamlet when caught in what seemed to be a quick recovery mission turning in to murder, mayhem and mystery. The villain was well hidden and the characters were well developed. I have to say if Arthur had been my brother, there would have been WORDS! I found the plot to plod along and was disgusted by the f-bomb being used liberally towards the end of the book. (I feel that an author can do better than relying on that word to convey anger- thus the lower rating.) Not the most exciting mystery I have read, but it was good. I did adore the boys-they were adorable. I gave this 4 stars because 3.5 wasn’t an option.


I received this story for free and these are my own views.

This is the third book in Julia Golding's Regency Secrets series. It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the first two books first to gain a better understanding of the relationship between the main characters.

In the previous book, Dora and Jacob had just launched their own detective agency and were investigating their first case. In this one, the agency is well established, and they are investigating several cases alongside their employees, one of which is the disappearance of William Wordsworth’s opus.

Most of the book is set in the Lakes and involves real people of the time, such as Wordsworth and Coleridge. The characters are compelling and there were enough twists to keep me happily entertained.

A recommended read for fans of Regency detective stories like Claudia Gary's Mr Darcy and Miss Tilney series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Wordsworth Key, is the third installment in Julia Golding’s Regency Secrets series, this novel masterfully blends historical intrigue, literary homage, and a touch of romance. Set in 1812, the narrative follows actress-turned-sleuth Dora Fitz-Pennington and her partner, Dr. Jacob Sandys, as they retreat to the Lake District. Their respite is short-lived when they become entangled in a mystery involving the disappearance of William Wordsworth’s notebook of unpublished poems and a gruesome murder in London, where a body is found with a shepherd’s crook wedged in its mouth. ​The portrayal of Dora and Jacob is both endearing and dynamic. Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and playful banter, adds depth to the story. Dora’s resourcefulness and Jacob’s steadfastness make them a compelling duo, navigating societal expectations and personal demons. ​The strength lies in its intricate plot and rich historical context. Golding weaves real historical figures, such as Wordsworth and Coleridge, into the story, adding authenticity and depth. The mystery unfolds with well-paced suspense, keeping readers engaged through unexpected twists and turns. ​The Wordsworth Key has engaging storytelling and vivid characterizations.