With two main characters who are so likeable, and never a dull moment, this book balances dark themes with a wry humour in a Regency setting. What a pleasure to revisit the beautiful, resourceful feisty actress turned sleuth Dora Fitz-Pennington and her now business partner, the smitten, loyal ex-army surgeon Dr. Jacob Sandys. Whilst taking a well-earned holiday in The Lakes the pair are approached to solve the brutal murder of a popular local magistrate. The Wordsworth Key is Julia Golding's excellent sequel to the Persephone Code and The Elgin Conspiracy. There is intrigue, poets, romantic rivalry and murders that place Dora in peril amidst the idyllic Cumbrian landscape. A delicious and satisfying read.

The Wordsworth Key offered another fun adventure for Dora and Jacob. This perhaps wasn't my favourite in the series so far, but it was still enjoyable, the plot entertaining, the action also advancing the relationship between the main characters and some of their family members. Everything moved at a good pace, which encouraged me to keep turning the pages, and it ended in a satisfying manner. I can't dwell too much on the plot to avoid spoilers, but a good few historical literary figures make an appearance. I am giving it 4 stars, and I hope we will have another mystery for the duo to solve soon.

I’m really enjoying this series. Dora and Jacob are so perfect together - I love seeing their relationship grow. The mystery was red-herring filled and bounced all over - definitely kept me guessing. And a bombshell was dropped at the end, which I can only imagine will lead to awkward family dinners in the future. Can’t wait! Thanks to One More Chapter for the ARC.

"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..."

Isn't it annoying when you just want a nice vacation and then there's death? I mean, Poirot probably likes that, but I can't really think of anyone else who would.

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 forget. 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.

Thanks to the publisher for early access. The opinions in this review is my own.

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!

A great story in the third instalment of this series. Dora is a force to be reckoned with supported by always by her charming husband Jacob. The two have to work together to solve another Regency mystery. Set in a world of intrigue and fancy, this book is a great read.

If you fancy a tale that will transport you back in time with a good ol' mystery along the way, then this a book for you. I read as a standalone and didn't have as much buy in with the characters as I'd hoped. Perhaps needed to read the back issues first.

The Wordsworth Key by Julia Golding is an absolutely delightful read! The story is a wonderful mix of mystery, adventure, and literary intrigue. Golding’s writing draws you in immediately with its clever plot and engaging characters. I loved how the book weaves in historical elements while keeping the pacing exciting and fresh. The adventure is full of twists, and the connection to Wordsworth adds a fascinating layer to the story. If you're a fan of books that blend mystery with a bit of history and plenty of heart, The Wordsworth Key is a must-read!

*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

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!

Witty, unexpected and mysterious: you can't go wrong with the third book following Dora and Jacob's story!

A holiday in the country sounds like a nice respite after their previous adventures, but it seems like deranged killings have a way of finding them.

Really nicely written, the characters are gaining more depth as you read along and the banter I love is always just a line away.

I have received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.

The Wordsworth Key by Julia Golding is such a good book. The storyline was so well created and the characters are fantasticly well created as well. I totally recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can.