The Wordsworth Key

Regency Secrets #3

by Julia Golding

A dead body, a missing manuscript, and a villain intent on revenge…

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…

Genres: Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Romance, Regency Romance

353 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2025

About the author

My journey to becoming an author has been a roundabout one, taking in many other careers. I grew up on the edge of Epping Forest and was that dreamy kind of child who was always writing stories. After reading English at Cambridge, I decided to find out as much as I could about the wider world so joined the Foreign Office and served in Poland. My work as a diplomat took me from the high point of town twinning in the Tatra Mountains to the low of inspecting the bottom of a Silesian coal mine.

On leaving Poland, I exchanged diplomacy for academia and took a doctorate in the literature of the English Romantic Period at Oxford. I then joined Oxfam as a lobbyist on conflict issues, campaigning at the UN and with governments to lessen the impact of conflict on civilians living in war zones - a cause about which I still feel very passionate.

Married with three children, I now live in Oxford between two rivers, surrounded by gargoyles, beautiful sandstone buildings and ancient trees.

My first novel, 'The Diamond of Drury Lane', won the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize 2006 and the Nestle Children's Book Prize 2006 (formerly known as the Smarties Prize). I was also chosen by Waterstone's in 2007 as one of their 'Twenty-five authors for the future'. In the US, 'Secret of the Sirens' won the honor book medal of the Green Earth Book Award.

My latest series, which starts with Mel Foster and the Demon Butler, about an intrepid Victorian orphan who lives in a household of monsters, won Bronze in the Primary Teacher awards in 2015. The next part, Mel Foster and the Time Machine, has set the time-dial to arrive in 2016.

Reviews

[eyes.2c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mysterious times at 1812 Lake Windermere!

Dora Fitz-Pennington (actress) and Dr. Jacob Sandys (son of a peer), what a great pair! Their enquiry agency is coming along nicely. Dora and Jacob have taken some time off at Windermere Lake. A place alive with poets, Wordsworth and Coleridge amongst others. Somehow Wordsworth’s opus works has been taken. Dora and Jacob have been asked by his sister, Dorothy Wordsworth, to quietly investigate.
Jacob though is called home belatedly by his brother Arthur to his father’s burial. Things are not sitting well in that quarter. The new Viscount it seems is a stubborn, unforgiving prig, wanting to bend his family to his will. Women have their place and Dora is definitely ‘out of place.’
Meanwhile a body with a shepherd’s crook thrust thru it is found in the Thames River, attached to a rope from the quayside. Alex Smith, associate of Dora and Jacob’s detective agency, takes a look and finds it imperative to let Jacob know what’s happening.
It seems all roads lead to the Lake District and that’s not a good sign.
I loved the exploits and youthful curiosity of two young Coleridge boys btw.
An excellent historical mystery / romance!

A One More Chapter ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fine mystery with sleuths Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys, who decide to take a break from London in 1812 after their recent challenging cases. But even on holiday they find that death seems to follow them, as a dangerous killer is intent on killing the Romantic poets. Will he win or can they stop him? Gripping!

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dora and Jacob have quickly become one of my favorite sleuthing couples. I adore historical mysteries with a romantic subplot, but one of the fun differences with this series is that Dora and Jacob aren’t in a “will they, won’t they” slow-burn relationship. They got together in the first book and have been navigating a major class difference since. Dora’s an illegitimate actress and forger. Jacob is a third son of a viscount and physican who returned from war with an opium habit. They’re playful, but seriously devoted to each other, even though Dora doubts they can last in light of his position in society.

The mysteries in this series always involve real people and this one involves Wordsworth and the creative, passionate young men around him in the country. At first, there’s simply a lost poem, but when finding the poem intersects with a murder back in London, things get messy! Of course more dead bodies enter the picture and the politics of the day are a major factor in the story.

The pace is fast, but this isn’t necessarily a quick and easy read because the mystery is layered and there a large cast. Still, I devoured this in 24 hours.

I was given early access to this by the publisher, but the opinions in this review are my own.

[Michelle (Bamamele.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the preview. All opinions are my own.

This is another fantastic addition to the Jacob and Dora mystery series. This time we take a literary turn and venture into Lake Country with Wordsworth and Coleridge.

I just love Jacob and Dora; both their relationship and how good a pair they make in solving crimes. They have such respect for each other and an appreciation for their individual talents. Plus great chemistry and a tender relationship.

As usual, I followed all the red herrings, and didn’t figure out the culprit until our dynamic duo did.
I will say I absolutely hated Jacob’s brother Arthur. There was not a single instant he was on page that I didn’t want to smack him. Dora’s friend Ruby also tried my nerves. I was rather irritated by the ending on their account.

But I will absolutely read more of these! I love these 2 and want them to get an HEA on top of successfully solving their mysteries!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy

The Wordsworth Key by Julia Golding is a third person dual-POV historical mystery continuation of the Regency Secrets series. Dora and Jacob are back and make their way to Jacob’s family’s home for a rest. But when they arrive, they need to help the sister of the poet Wordsworth find his lost poem and deal with Dora and Jacob’s families making things difficult.

This was a real colliding of worlds as we spend a lot of time meeting Jacob’s family and learning more about who they are and where Jacob come from but we also have Dora’s good friend Ruby come in and she’s determined to find herself a wealthy man to take care of her and her unborn child. Even more than that, Lady Alice is a young woman who is quite interested in making Jacob her husband. Dora tries to keep Ruby from Jacob’s family but it doesn't really work so well nor can she fully hide her romantic interests in Jacob (and he has no desire to hide his intentions to marry her). There’s a lot of subtle drama that reads like a Regency version of Meet the Parents.

One thing I really appreciated was how Dora is secure in her relationship with Jacob. Lady Alice expresses her interest in Jacob to Dora as a way for Dora to say what her relationship is (which I also appreciated) and Dora told the truth that they are not engaged so Alice is free to pursue Jacob. But Dora takes it a step further and says that if Jacob chooses Alice, he was never that committed to Dora in the first place and then gets upset with Jacob when he asks if she’s jealous. There’s something very interesting about someone who is so sure about something that has no actual label and even they themselves don’t know exactly how it’s gonna end. It shows her belief in her and Jacob’s relationship, no matter which direction it goes.

I would recommend this to fans of the previous two books and readers who want a Regency mystery with a strong romantic thread

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 3 out of 5]

A clever historical crime book set in days gone by. It dragged a little and the story slowed halfway through. The characters were good tho. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for this eARC; the review is my own.*

I've been enjoying this regency murder mystery series and was quite happy when my request for the third book was approved so I could continue on with Dora and Jacob. Although I feel all three books in the series thus far have been pretty consistent, I felt a slight dip with the second book; however, The Wordsworth Key got things right back on track, and I'm excited to see where the series goes from here.

I really do like the friendship that has developed between Dora and Jacob as they've fallen in love with each other. Even Jacob's older brother Arthur resentfully observed it at one point, contrasting it with his own marriage. Although their relationship isn't quite where I'd like it to be yet, I've hope after this book that it will get there. Both Dora and Jacob are given the extra pushes they need to admit the depth of their feelings, and Jacob lays his cards on the table without Dora expressly rejecting them as she would have in the past.

Two new characters I thoroughly enjoyed were Derwent and Hartley, the young sons of Coleridge, who were mischievous but helpful. They reminded me a bit of Kir from The Elgin Conspiracy. I was not, however, a fan of Ruby, Arthur, or Lady Alice. I could have liked Lady Alice had she not set herself up as a potential match for Jacob, but at least that spurred Dora on a little bit. Arthur irritated me because he inserted himself into Jacob's business and tried to enforce his will (thankfully Jacob wasn't a pushover). And Ruby was just selfish. I know Dora accepted it and allowed it to be one of Ruby's strangely charming traits, but I did not like it or her.

In the end, I feel like this book helped move the overall story forward a bit, especially as it pertains to Dora and Jacob's relationship (thank you). The next book, The Austen Intrigue, is set to release in November of this year, and I look forward to reading it.

How it ends: While Dora and Jacob are in the countryside, Alex Smith works on the murder case of Sir Leybourne.

Jacob is called to Leven (his family home) when his father passes away and finds that his older brother, Arthur, intentionally did not call for him until after the death because he didn't want Jacob bringing Dora with him.

While Jacob is away, Dora is visited by Dorothy Wordsworth and a man named Mr. Barton, who had been entrusted with notebooks containing William Wordsworth's autobiographic poem. It has been stolen, and the two of them want help tracking it down. Ruby, Dora's theater friend, also shows up and invites herself to stay (and help herself to Dora's clothes, etc.) because she is pregnant and has lost her position at the theater.

Jacob returns, but both of his brothers have accompanied him. Arthur clearly doesn't approve of Dora and had already tried to arrange things between Jacob and Lady Alice Furness. Ruby tries to ingratiate herself to Arthur, hoping to become his mistress.

As Dora and Jacob investigate the missing notebook and the death of Sir Richard Leybourne, Mr. Barton goes missing. Arthur arranges an outing for himself, Jacob, Lady Alice, and her father; Dora and the poet group are allowed to go, too. Lady Alice makes her intentions for Jacob clear, and Dora says she's welcome to try (but she's not giving him up unless he wants that).

Mr. Wright (another member of the group of poet "friends") is bludgeoned with an ice skate and goes into a coma. Alex arrives at one point, too, because he wanted to speak with Dora and Jacob about the case faster than the post would allow him. The three of them continue their investigation.

Arthur calls urgently for Jacob, and Dora makes him take Alex along just in case (with the murders, none of them should be alone). It's a good thing because Arthur & co. had tried to arrange for Jacob and Lady Alice to be alone, which could necessitate an engagement. Arthur tries to push the subject, but he's interrupted by an attempt on Lord Furness's life. Arthur takes the bullet instead, and Jacob is able to remove it and save his life. He makes it clear to Lord Furness that he will not be marrying Lady Alice, and he tells Alice the same. She considers it a challenge.

Jacob and Dora had previously suspected Knott might be behind the theft and murders (btw, the notebook was put back). However, before he leaves to return to the cottage, Jacob figures out that it was Langhorne.

Meanwhile, Dora had gone after Knott when Derwent and Hartley told her they saw him carrying a bundle out to Chapel Holme. They find an unconscious and fevered Mr. Barton, and sends the boys to get help. Knott shows up and insists that he was keeping Mr. Barton safe. Before much else can happen, Langhorne shows up, too and kills Knott. He insists that Knott was the one behind everything, but Dora figures out that it's actually him. She goes along with his plan to return her across the lake, knowing that his intention is actually to dispose of her. He was unhinged--resentful towards those above him, envious of the attention and help Knott received, and bitter that his hopes for Lady Alice were rejected. Dora tries to convince him that she's perfectly willing to disappear, even going as far as to offer her physical service to him if he'll let her go. He falls for it, but she stabs his thigh with a knitting needle before anything can happen. The boat capsizes, and Dora has to resort to trying to swim (she's barely capable).

When Jacob returned to the cottage, he received word from the Coleridge boys and found out that Langhorne had joined the search. He and Alex look for Dora and eventually find her in the middle of the lake. Jacob jumps out of the boat, swims to her, and proposes while he's towing her back to the boat; she says she'll think about it. It appears that Langhorne has drowned.

They return to the cottage, and Jacob insists that Dora rest while he sees to everything that's happened.

In the morning, they find that Ruby is gone and left a note: Arthur is setting her up as his mistress. Dora asks Jacob if he still wants to marry her.

Language: Not much, but quite a few f words in the last few chapters
Violence: Mild descriptions of murders
Drugs & alcohol: Some casual drinking
Physical intimacy: A couple of brief pen-door sex scenes
LGBT: At least one supporting character

[Heather Moll · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

I received an arc from NetGalley

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Daphne Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jenny K (On partial break) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is my first in this series, and I can understand why people like it, but it didn't work for me.

Plot: Dora is an actress and Jacob an upper-class doctor in regency England. They connect and form a detective agency, and this is their newest mystery to solve. One of William Wordsworth's manuscripts has gone missing, and they are hired to find it. At the same time, there have been several murders. Are they all connected?

Positives: The setting is done well, and readers who like a romance/mystery will enjoy this. There are light references to diversity that many people will appreciate.

But this didn't outweigh the negatives for me. Most crucially, I just did not like the main characters or their relationship. I found them all shallow and uninteresting. The story came across as mostly a cozy-style mystery, but it's dotted with a few references to the couple's relationship, so it can't be read as such.

The mystery itself might have been ok, but I read this over a long period of time because I wasn't enjoying it, so I didn't follow everything quite so well. There seem to have been lots of suspects and red herrings. Some of the dialogue went on for longer than I felt necessary. The diversity part felt like an homage to today's values rather than feeling realistic.

There's the requisite info dump at the end from the suspect who would never bother telling it over in real life, nor would he keep the protagonist alive long enough to tell it over.

I am an outlier opinion, so take this for what it is.

Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter, and Julia Golding for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in The Regency Secrets series, this historical novel opens in Billingsgate, London in July 1812 where a Thames river policeman Constable Goole and former army officer Alex Smith are standing over the body of Sir Richard Leyburn. The deceased has a shepherds crook forced down his throat, not an accidental death then! I wasn’t aware when I started reading that it was part of a series, however there are a number references to previous events that made me check, but it still reads well as a standalone.

Briefly, the Lake District August 1812, actress Dora and Dr Jacob Sandys are interrupted when they are swimming by a rider who has come to tell Jacob that his father Viscount Sandys is dead. Whilst at the family one he receives a letter from his employee Alex, who asks if Jacob can speak to Leyburn’s family, who live in Cockermouth, and see if he has any enemies who might have followed him to London. Meanwhile Dora has been visited by William Wordsworth’s sister and a Mr Barton, asking for her help in tracing a missing, believed stolen, manuscript that Wordsworth had lent to Barton. Things soon take a turn for the worse when a man goes missing and that’s only the start of it.

I did like the two main characters Dora and Jacob, both of whom are flaunting convention, Jacob is a member of the aristocracy, whereas former actress Dora has had a very different upbringing. They are perfect together. Their 19th century detective agency, with its diverse mix of employees is a very entertaining concept. The mystery in this cosy crime novel worked well and I didn’t guess the villain too soon. An enjoyable read.

[Rebekah Stewart · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

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.

[Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew the Lake District could be so exciting? Perhaps an unpopular opinion, but I’ve never much liked the Lake District and despite living perhaps 60/70 miles away with easy access straight up the motorway, its a place I’ve only visited a couple of times in my life and was unimpressed both times. However, the majority of this book is set there and I found it very atmospheric to the extent I could be tempted to visit again.

This is the third book in the ‘Regency Secrets’ series by Julia Golding with Dr Jacob Sandys and Dora Fitz-Pennington as the central characters in all three books. It could easily be read as a stand alone book but I think you’d be missing out on some fab adventures if you haven’t read the previous two, not to mention Jacob and Dora’s background and ever developing romance.

For myself, I enjoyed this book the most out of the three and I do think the setting, the plot and the supporting characters combined, made it the most enjoyable. Jacob and Dora are up from London, taking a break from their private investigating work, at a holiday cottage in the Lakes belonging to one of Jacob’s relatives. They’ve not been there but a day when bad news about family is brought to Jacob’s door, as well as the sister of William Wordsworth hoping Jacob and Dora might be able to locate a missing manuscript belonging to William Wordsworth which after lending it to a friend, it disappears, as does the friend.

It’s a fast paced story with many strands running through and as in all three books concludes with a tense and thrilling conclusion. As for the romance? Will Dora ever concede to Jacob’s desire to take things further and make Dora his wife? You’ll have to read it to find out.

I hope there’s a further book to come in this series, I missed their adventures when I reached the end of this book and would love to know what happens next in the Dora/Jacob saga.

[Danielle - drops.everything.and.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page, I was HOOKED and I barely put the book down while I read it.

The third in a series, I've really enjoyed that each book has taken us, the readers, to very different locations in England. It allows us to see the MCs, Dora and Jacob, in different environments, interacting with different people, leveraging their strengths, and keeps things interesting.
I also enjoy how the book fuses together a fictional mystery with people who did exist; in this case, William Wordsworth.

The mystery for this one was intriguing as it started off with a few different things happening, in different parts of England, and slowly, over the investigation, it all came together to a clear, satisfying conclusion. At the same time, Dora and Jacob had to deal with Jacob's older brother, the new Viscount, coming for a visit and his attempts to break up the couple and matchmake Jacob to, in the Viscount's eyes, a more suitable partner.

The side characters in the book were a delight, especially the two young boys who provided valuable information in the course of the investigation and had key roles in the conclusion. It was also fun to read about the influence (even if fictional) of Wordsworth and other romantic poets on society, how it influenced young writers, men, etc.

This series has become one of my favourites and I look forward to the next instalment!

Thanks to Harper Collins UK/One More Chapter for the eARC; all opinions are my own.

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although involving theft, disappearances, and murder, Julia Golding’s The Wordsworth Key is a light women’s fiction mystery read, the third book in the author’s Regency Secrets series.

Actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys, an unlikely pair, are vacationing in the Lake District when caught up in the mystery of William Wordsworth’s missing manuscript, but Dora, Jacob, and readers soon discover that what appears to be a simple theft is not so simple at all. In fact, it ties to a murder in London. While someone has it in for the Romantic poets, even fellow Lake District poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s boys, Derwent and Hartley, play a role in the story with their childhood antics.

I suppose I spent too much time years ago studying Wordsworth and Coleridge to fully enjoy a Regency romance in which the poets play lesser roles that the mismatched couple whose relationship blossoms on the pages. Although I found myself craving more historical novel elements, I can see that most readers have thoroughly enjoyed this book and the other books in the series, two of which I have not read. I may not be the most appreciative reader, but each book has its target audience and finds its place in their hearts.

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK/One More Chapter for an advance reader egalley.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Julia Golding’s third Regency Secrets novel, readers reunite with detective duo actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Doctor Jacob Sandys after they have escaped London and are en route to the Lake District for a break from danger. However, when poet William Wordsworth’s opus disappears and the disappearance is quickly followed by other disappearances and a murder, Dora and Jacob must put their holiday on pause to solve the case that threatens to destroy the Romantic poets and what they stand for. As the mystery unfolds and the plot thickens, Dora, Jacob, and the readers are on the clock for this charming and exciting new historical mystery. Entertaining and packed with great characters, readers will love seeing Dora and Jacob and their relationship continue to evolve in the latest book in this fun and enjoyable historical mystery series. The mystery itself is really interesting and will pull readers into the story, but the characters are definitely the scene-stealers in this story. The historical details really bring the Lake District and the Romantic movement to life and add a lot of complexity and entertainment value to this particularly enjoyable series. Well-written, action-packed, and entertaining, readers will love this new historical mystery novel from Julia Golding.

Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the advance copy.

[Ayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wordsworth Key by Julia Golding

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Dr Jacob Sandys and Dora Fitz-Pennington find themselves drawn into the scandals of the British elite when William Wordsworth’s notebook of unpublished poems goes missing. Then, when news arrives of a murder in London, Dora and Jacob decide to investigate what’s going on and to try to determine whether everything is as it seems.

This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. Dora is an actress and Jacob is the son of a viscount. They are a couple (despite his family’s disapproval) and work together as detectives. While on vacation, they are asked to investigate the disappearance of a new manuscript - and then the friend who borrowed the manuscript also goes missing. Following the news of a murder in London and with plenty of other drama arising too, Jacob and Dora have to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible.

Overall, this was a fast paced historical fiction mystery with plenty of action, adventure, and red herrings. Certainly a delightful read that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat!

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Shelagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julia Golding has crafted a and page-turning read in The Wordsworth Key, which is set mostly in England’s Lakes District in the early nineteenth century. Although the book is third in her Regency Secrets series, you won’t need to have read the first two books to immerse yourself in this one.
The story starts with a murder which sees former actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and her lover, Dr Jacob Sandysinterrupting their holiday at his remote Cumbrian cottage to investigate. Central to the story is an unpublished manuscript purportedly by English poet William Wordsworth. The manuscript disappears as more murders pile up and a number of possible suspects make their presence felt.
With Dora and Jacob facing the disapproval of his older brother and societal expectations for him to marry well impacting on their investigations, this pair has their hands full. The story is filled with red herrings and plot twists as well as a wonderful cast of secondary characters, most notably the two sons of English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who spend the entire story camping and running wild in the Cumbrian countryside. While there is murder and attempted murder aplenty, this story is light and entertaining throughout. I’m looking forward to another one in this series.

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 out of 5
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
I'm fond of this series as it's trying to be more than just a typical Regency romance. The main characters, a former army doctor, and a former actress, are investigative colleagues and also lovers (which they seem only partially successful at concealing from society).
They are taking a break from London in the Lake District when the London murder of a local man kind of lands on their rented cottage doorstep, along with Dora's former best friend, a now-pregnant ex-actress.
The author does add a lot of historical details, for instance, a Wordsworth manuscript and some of his relatives, get involved in the plot, so don't expect a typical Regency romance read.
I did find this slowed down a bit, as the protagonists hunt down absolutely every possible lead and get sidetracked by Jacob's family. I will definitely read the next instalment to see what happens with this mis-matched pair.
TW: The murder and other incidents are pretty gory.
Recommend for fans of Deanna Raybourn and romantic Regency mysteries.

[A Bookworm Crafts · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Emily Doughty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.

Despite this being the third book in the series, it continued to hang on strong. I continue to love the main characters, and enjoyed diving into their friends and families more. The side characters were a lot, but once I could straighten out who was who, I deeply enjoyed the different personalities brought in, especially by the young characters and Dora's friend. One thing that I felt was missing was Kir and Alex's involvement, as I felt there could have been more.

The plot was interesting, and the way the two mysteries were woven together was well done. I personally have not read a ton of Wordsworth, but that didn't hinder my ability to read the story. However, I may have found it to be more clever if I knew what was referenced. The ending did a great job at having a nice twist and I found myself holding my breath for the characters.

[Kate Hardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third in the series - I haven't read the other two, but the author catches you up without spoilers. Dora's an illegitimate actress and Jacob's the third son of a viscount; they work together as detectives and are also a couple (though his family disapproves).

They're on holiday in the Lake District when Dorothy Wordsworth asks them to investigate the disappearance of her brother's new manuscript - and then the friend who borrowed the manuscript also goes missing. Plus there's a connection to a shocking murder in London, and are Wordworth's friends who they seem?

Add one of Dora's friends coming to them for help when her life gets complicated, Jacob's family issues, and the utterly lovely characters of the Coleridge boys, and we have a fast-paced mystery with a big cast.

Thank you to the publisher, the author and Netgalley for the ARC.

[Pat Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Emm · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Anne-Mammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julia Golding is a new author for me and in many ways I regret not to have started with the first book in the series The Persephone code and then The Elgin conspiracy , but I very much liked the references to the previous books so that we new readers could understand what had happened before, particularly as regarded the relationship between the 2 main characters Jacob and Dora. There is much to like in this book, the heroes, the siblings conflicts, the 2 lovely Coleridge boys, the literary background and the area of the Lake District.
So why not 5 stars then? Well, what I did not like was the storyline and the motivation behind the murders. It did not really ring true and I could not find much interest in it. i will however, read the next one which promises to be focused on Austen, another great literary figure.