The Austen Intrigue

Regency Secrets #4

by Julia Golding

Up and coming novelist Jane Austen joins forces with London's most esteemed investigative duo – actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys – to solve the brutal murder of a Russian count and his opera singer wife. The killer took his own life immediately after the crime – but who sent him and why?

Packed with political espionage, beautiful nods to Austen's most celebrated works, and bubbling with romantic tension between our hero and heroine, this will be the most rewarding Regency read of the season….

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Romance, Historical Mystery, Cozy

345 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 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

[Vanessa Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Austen Intrigue features a compelling pair of private investigators who team up with Jane Austen to solve a scandalous murder that could destroy the reputation and business of one of Jane’s brothers. Golding’s characters are wittily and vibrantly portrayed, and the depictions of London—from the back alleys of Convent Garden to the drawing rooms of the wealthy—are vivid and authentic. Adding in the great Jane herself to help solve a dastardly crime makes for one of the best historical mysteries of the year. I loved it!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

This was a great cozy mystery featuring Jane Austen, her family and her friends. Although you don't have to be a fan of her books or know anything about her life to read this books, those readers who do will get added enjoyment from the book, seeing these historical figures featured in one of their favorite genres.

[Heather Moll · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed this series and how well real events and people are woven into a compelling mystery with likable characters. I was worried how Jane (yes, we’re on a first name basis) would be depicted and how much liberty would be given to her life events and family, but Janeites need not fear. This is a juicy tidbit of Austen family history and it was entertaining to see Dora and Jacob tackle it. Regency London in the summer of 1812 came alive in a way historical accuracy loving me could appreciate.

The intrigue and investigation moves at a good pace. You could read this as a standalone, but like any historical mystery series with a romance in the background, you care more about the sleuths if you’ve been along for the ride.

I already want Dora and Jacob’s next adventure.

I received an arc from NetGalley

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous book 4 in the author's beloved Regency Series, with author Jane Austen helping two famed investigators look into the murder of a French Comte and his wife. I could scarcely put this down and did so only for meals, all the while ignoring my darling husband so I could race through to the end. A treat, especially for Janeites and Regency histficmysteryrom fans!

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The books in this series are an absolute delight! For any historical mystery fan who loves a heavy romantic subplot, this belongs on your must-read list. The added bonus is that each book includes prominent people from the regency era. In this book, it's the Austen family!

French aristocrats who fled unrest in Paris are murdered and their friendship with Henry Austen's wife has him worried that his bank's reputation will be negatively impacted. Though a servant, dead of a gunshot wound on the scene, is deemed the guilty party, Henry askes Jacob and Dora to investigate. He asks that his sister, Jane, be their primary contact to further insulate him from being associated with the crime.

The scenes in which Dora and Jane work together are delightful! Jane doesn't share that she's the author of Pride & Prejudice at first, but she confides in Dora eventually. There's even a lovely bit where Jane shares her next book with Dora, what we all know as Sense & Sensibility.

Jacob and Dora are still navigating their class mismatch. With Dora's good friend becoming the mistress of Jacob's brother, things are even more difficult. Jacob's point-of-view during the "at home" scenes is especially wonderful. He loves Dora passionately and you can't help but root for them to make things work!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun and enjoyable read.

Pride & Prejudice is my favourite book and I've read many, if not most of the retellings, reimaginings and homages to either Austen's stories and characters or stories - like this one - that put Jane Austen herself into the story. This is one of the better ones.

All the characters here are interesting and likable as well as complicated, which is a feature I like.

The way Jane comes into the investigation was clever, and I enjoyed how Jane proves herself, especially to Dora but also to Jacob, and how they three each use their individual strengths to best advantage to fid the killer.

I should also say this is the only book in this series I've read (Austen's other books aren't for me) and while there are mentions referring to ongoing things with Jacob and Dora, who are obviously the main characters of the series, I didn't feel lost or confused. This was fine to read on its own and enjoy. That said I would read others in this series.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Austen Intrigue is a fun cozy Regency mystery featuring a former actress and her partner, a doctor and second son of a viscount. This is the fourth book in the series, so it took me a bit to get into it as I caught up with references to previous books. I haven’t read them but now I want to! Each book features a historical or literary hook to add interest to the novel. This one features Jane Austen, working on her second novel and contributing to the investigation.

Dora and Jacob are lovers and partners in a detective agency. Although perhaps not entirely in keeping with the Regency era, on the whole I didn’t think the story bent believability. Jacob has issues with his brother, who does not want Jacob to wed Dora because of her former profession, even though the brother keeps mistresses himself. Dora is spirited and independent.

Jacob was saved in the war by Jane Austen’s brother, and her brother Henry hires them to investigate two murders that don’t seem straightforward. The war, the French, Napoleon, and whose loyalties lie where all come into play. Jane is asked to keep abreast of the investigation. Dora thinks Jane is a dull spinster, but soon learns that she is entirely wrong.

I enjoyed the relationship between Dora and Jacob, the historical London setting, and Jane’s intelligent and observant behavior. I hope to track down the previous books to read.

I read an advance reader copy of The Austen Intrigue from Netgalley.

[Nicki Markus · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Austen Intrigue was another delightful installment in the adventures of Dora and Jacob. The inclusion of Jane Austen as a character added some fun to the mix, and the story of the investigation into the murder was generally well paced and enjoyable to follow, with a wonderful collection of side characters, both old and new, aiding or hindering things along the way. As with the other books in the series, there is enough information available on the backstory if you wanted to read it as a standalone, but you would get more from the series in terms of the romantic aspects if you read them in order. I am giving this volume 4 stars.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

1812 Henry Austen employs Dora and Jacob to investigate the murder of associates the D'Antraigues by his valet, and his subsequent suicide. As he is concerned the connection may affect his Bank's financial performance. But he wants his sister Jane to be involved, but events become dangerous as it seems to concern national security.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Up and coming novelist Jane Austen joins forces with London's most esteemed investigative duo – actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys, to solve the brutal murder of a count and his opera singer wife. The killer took his own life immediately after the crime
Another well written cosy mystery with very good characters & a well paced story. I liked how fact & fiction are woven together. I really like Jacob & Dora & how they work together. I also liked how Dora’s opinion of Jane changed as the book progressed. I thoroughly enjoyed it & look forward to more
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Cecelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

For Jane Austen fans as well as historical mystery fans. Enjoyed the addition of Jane Austen in this book along with the two main characters. Regency era mystery during the time of the war dealing with a murder investigation. Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for this ARC.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thanks to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for this eARC; the review is my own.*

I’ve really been enjoying this Regency mystery-romance series, and I expect there will be another book (yes?). I’ll be interested to see which historical figure(s) Golding pulls into her story next time.

Of the four books in this series so far, I think this one was possibly the slowest for me (hence the 3.5 stars). That could have been because I had Christmas, New Year’s, my husband’s birthday, and a buddy read that I was really into and trying to finish before it had to be returned to the library. But it also focused a lot on political matters, which aren’t necessarily the most interesting for me to read. Still, I did like it. Plus it’s always satisfying to read author’s notes regarding the real people and events used in their books—it turns out the murder of the D’Antraigues and the espionage he was involved in were real. And Jane Austen had actually met them.

I continue to dislike Ruby and find her to be a selfish, self-absorbed excuse for a friend. I also rather detest Arthur, who reminds me of Mycroft Holmes in Sherlock (the Benedict Cumberbach series)—he’s controlling and self-righteous (which, for Arthur especially, is unmerited). Although Dora’s continued reluctance to marry Jacob persisted throughout this book, I was happy to finally see her giving it some actual thought, particularly after advice she received from another character she respected.

So although this isn’t my favorite of the series, I still was very glad to read it and look forward to continuing the series—as long as my hope that it will be continued is correct.

How it ends: Arthur, despite keeping Ruby as a mistress, repeatedly tries to persuade Jacob to drop Dora. Ruby lets slip to someone that Jacob intends to marry her, and it gets put in the papers, making Arthur angrier. Ruby is also trying to prevent the marriage because she fears it will make Arthur withdraw his protection of her and put her out on the street.

Henry Austen (banker) requests the help of Dora and Jacob in finding out the reason that the D’Antraigues were killed in a murder-suicide by their servant, Lorenzo. He insists that his sister, Jane, join them. Initially, this rankles them, but they come to know her and value her perspective and insight.

During the investigation, they all are attacked in some way (Jane’s room is searched, and some items are stolen; Jacob is pushed in front of a carriage; Dora and Alex are in another carriage when a firecracker is thrown under it, and then they are pursued). Michel Percy shows up in this book, as well, having been sent to England as a French diplomat.

While attending a performance at Vauxhall Gardens, a gun is fired at the box that Dora, Jacob, Percy, and the Russians are sitting in. It was supposedly hired as part of the performance, but the one of the shots is real rather than a blank. The Russian man (Vorontsov?) is badly wounded but lives, thanks to Jacob.

Dora, Jacob, and Julian (the new comte/son of the D’Antraigues) figure out that the people after them have been searching for a report that his father had made and was auctioning off to the highest bidder. They find it hidden in a transparency of Pompeii; it details his prediction that, since Napoleon will invade Russia, he will lose.

They decide to pretend that the will requires Julian to go forward with the auction. Dora forges a new copy with changes, and Jacob delivers the original to the English. Jane and Dora also discover that the gunner was hired because Miss Catalani suggested him at Miss Petronov’s recommendation.

At the musical party, the diplomats gather for the auction, with each person putting in one bid. Percy adds his at the last moment, a signed document returning all the D’Antraigue’s ancestral lands and properties to them. As the highest bidder, he walks away with the transparency and the forged report. Miss Petronov loses it, and she is revealed as the one behind it all. Sort of. She and Lorenzo had threatened the comte if he released the report too early, fearing it would allow Napoleon to win. But Lorenzo took her threat too seriously too quickly and killed the comte, then ran out and. killed the comets just in case she knew the secrets. Miss Petronov then killed him and made it look like a suicide. She tried to kill Vorontsov because he was growing suspicious of her, and she didn’t want to be punished (ie killed). So Percy has a forgery, and Petronov is arrested.

As they are strolling through the park, Dora tells Jacob that she has given much thought to his proposal. (He worries because he has started to fear that Dora will resent him taking her away from her previous life.) She tells him to ask again, so he does. And she accepts.

Language: Some, including 3 f words
Violence: References to murder, wounds from explosions, attacks
Alcohol & drugs: Maybe some casual drinking
Physical Intimacy: Innuendo, implied sex (off page)
LGBT: One supporting character, a few references to homosexuality

[Emily Pankhurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Netgalley Review

The writing felt authentic and kept me on my toes. There were lots of different things happening that kept my interest. You never knew what was going to happen next, but when it did happen it was exciting and I wanted to know how it was all going to come together. It was a wonderful blend of fact and fiction that all tied up nicely at the end.

The chapters were quite long and sometimes split, which meant that you got a good chunk of the story before moving on. There was quite a bit of information to take in, but it was all interesting and added to the story well.

Each chapter had a title of where you were about to read. A couple of chapters at the beginning also included dates, which altogether meant that you could accurately place the story.

There was an interesting flow between the chapters. You jumped around different places, first being with one character, before being taken somewhere else with another. It was, however, easy to read and all jumps connected well together.

There was a good pace to the book. Whilst you jumped around to different places, you always kept moving forward with the investigation, all the while exploring the different avenues.

The characters were excellent. Whilst there are other books in the series, I didn't feel like I suffered for not having read them. Instead I would like to keep an eye out for the other books and see what else I can learn about the main characters.

I loved the inclusion of Jane Austen and some of her family. As I said above, I have been looking out for Jane Austen inspired books this year in celebration of her 250th birthday.

There were a lot of other characters that all added something to the story. There were a couple of options as to why the crime took place and it was interesting to work through the different lines of inquiry. You did have to keep your wits about you to remember who was who and what was going on in general.

Lastly the settings. Whilst it was a character based story there were some nice little descriptions of places and food which grounded the story well. The settings helped to create that feeling of being in the 19th Century.

Overall an exciting historical fiction mystery that I recommend to any Jane Austen fan looking for something a bit different to read.

[Daphne Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book four in this rather marvellous series that combines a love of nineteenth century authors and private enquiry agents, former actress Dora Fitz- Pennington and war surgeon Dr Jacob Sandys.
Dora and Jacob have both a working relationship and are lovers, rather enthusiastic and ardent lovers, they can barely keep their hands off each other. They freely concentrate upon their own happiness rather than the social expectations of the snobbish ton.
Jacob’s father died recently and his elder brother is the new Viscount. He has made it clear that Dora is only mistress material, she will not be welcomed into the family name. This is rather unfortunate as Jacob has already proposed to Dora, she is considering her answer.
The year is 1812, and the novelist this time is Jane Austen, she has recently published her first novel. Her brother, Henry is a Banker, and friends of his wife, Eliza, have been murdered. The police have closed the case, but there are rumours that are beginning to reflect badly upon Henry and his wife, and they need answers to protect their reputation in society.
Jacob and Dora have been requested to make discreet enquiries into the murders, on condition that Jane helps with the investigation.
This case involves meetings with Russians, death threats to Jacob, a night to remember in Vauxhall Gardens, and the growing realisation that a quiet country mouse like Jane has both a keen eye and valuable insights about human nature.
A lovely blend of fact and fiction. I love the frisson between Dora and Jacob, each knows and respects each other’s contributions to the case in progress.
Already looking forward to see who will be the next chosen wordsmith in this series, I can’t wait to start reading these novels and dread finishing them, they are full of historical detail and so enjoyable.
Already preordered copies for my local book group.

[Gill · Rating 3 out of 5]

It seems a bit unfair of me to review a book that isn't really the kind of genre I like. I'm not a great fan of whodunnits or detective fiction on the whole and don't normally choose to read them. However I've read all the books in this Regency Secrets series. I loved the first one, not so much the second and also very much enjoyed The Wordsworth Key, so as I was hooked into the story of Jacob and Dora, I had to read this one too. I enjoy the authors writing and the dialogue between characters so even though sleuthing and looking for clues isn't for me, I've still found the books have offered plenty to enjoy.

Unfortunately I wasn't too keen on this one mainly because my historical knowledge isn't good. I hold my hands up, I'm not a fan of classical literature and Jane Austen means little to me. Yep, shock, horror, but we read Pride and Prejudice at school, it put me off for life. I know absolutely nothing about the Napoleonic wars so the whole plot left me a little confused at times, scratching my head at where the Russians came into this, which meant I plodded through this one a bit. There were some parts that I found compelling and I did manage to follow what had happened in the end and the why's and the wherefore's but on the whole I was glad to reach the end.

The acknowledgements by the author at the end are really interesting where she tells us how she came to write this book, where the ideas came from and her great enthusiasm shines through for Jane Austen but also the time period and the enjoyment she got from researching some of the detail in the book. We're all different and whilst this book wasn't really my cup of tea, I am sure it will be very much enjoyed by anyone who loves mystery and intrigue, along with a little romance as well as a feature character insertion of Jane Austen.

Will there be a book 5 in this series? It would be nice to see where Jacob and Dora go from here, and would I read it? I think I probably would.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thank NetGalley and One More Chapter for an advance reader copy of The Austen Intrigue. All opinions and comments are my own.

Private investigators Dr. Jacob Sandys and Dora Fitz-Pennington, partners in life as well as in business, find themselves tasked with a problem brought to them by banker Henry Austen. Seems he doesn’t want to be “guilty by association” in the recent double murder case of a French comte and comtesse in London -- it’s not quite the done thing to be linked with anything French while Napoleon Bonaparte is fighting English forces on the European continent. So, to make sure that he (and his bank) is free from any scandal, Henry’s come to ask them to look into the circumstances of the murder. There’s a catch, though -- his sister, a Miss Jane Austen, must come along to assist. This does not make Jacob and Dora happy; after all, what help can a “country mouse” be? Well, quite a lot, as readers of The Austen Intrigue, the fourth book in Julia Golding’s vivid and exciting Regency-based series will find out.

The characters in The Austen Intrigue are vividly drawn, which is good, since there are a lot of ‘em. And quite a lot of them have something to hide, and, as Jacob and Dora discover, there are ties to something far beyond a “simple” case of murder. Can we say “that war in Europe,” dear reader?

All is resolved, of course. And while Miss Austen gets fodder for future books, Jacob and Dora embark on a very big step in their relationship, which has been discussed throughout the book. Author Julia Golding examines the English society of 1812 in The Austen Intrigue, and the lives of Dr. Sandys and Miss-Fitz-Pennnington are, and will continue to be, of great interest.

[Acantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fantastic regency era murder mystery.

Jane Austen and her family felt seamlessly woven into the tale, that they were there because the plot demanded it, rather than any lazy grab to attract readers. Jane came across very well, she didn't overwhelm the story and felt very well written. You certainly don't need to be a fan of her works to understand either her place in the story, her family or the references. That knowledge adds without cutting people out completely.

The case itself was great, a French Comte and Comtesse are murdered, their killer then turning the gun on himself. It seems like an open and shut case, and although there doesn't seem to be a motive, there also doesn't seem to any further need for justice as the killer is dead. This is regency England however, and the 'ton are gossiping, and their words could bring down the bank Jane's brother part owns.

Enter our two main characters Dr Sandys and Dora. I've not read the other books in this series, but despite that, I didn't feel lost or left out. I also really want to read the other ones because this book was so entertaining and engaging. I'm so curious to see how they have reached this point by going backwards and eagerly waiting for the next one to see what happens next. There are enough subplots weaving through the book that I need to know how they are resolved and the next steps in their own adventures.

The case itself takes them to the highs and lows of London, has them rubbing shoulders with Russian nobles, actresses, civil servants, and everything in between. It's a tightly plotted and paced plot, with the adventure divided between the two of them.

All in all, great fun and well worth a read.

~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~

[Veerle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had such a good time with this book! The Austen Intrigue is actually the fourth in the series, but I never felt like I was missing anything – it worked perfectly well as a standalone as the author gives you enough context when it's needed.

The setup instantly grabbed me: Jane Austen herself joins forces with actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys to investigate the brutal murder of a Russian count and his opera-singer wife because her brother wants to save his bank that could go down when false rumours would start spreading. I mean: I could so imagine Jane Austen do this, even though it is highly unlikely.

The supposed killer of de D'Antraigues takes his own life right after the crime, which makes the whole thing even more intriguing – who sent him, and why? The mix of political espionage set in the time of Bonaparte, Regency glamour, and little winks to Austen’s novels made it such a fun read.

Normally, I’m not really into stories that re-imagine Jane Austen’s life. But here it works beautifully, because the author imagines what the missing letters of August 1812 that Cassandra burned were about.

The writing flows really well – it’s easy to read, cosy, and full of atmosphere. And I loved the world of the main characters. You feel Golding did do her research thoroughly. It all comes together into exactly the kind of Regency mystery I enjoy: clever, light, and thoroughly entertaining.

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this wonderful book.

[Anne-Mammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had very much enjoyed "The Wordsworth key", the previous book in this series, so I was looking forward to see how another writer of note would figure in this mystery solving novel. The main characters, Jacob and Dora were of course familiar. I could not help making parallels with Mary Lancaster's heroes Silver and Grey: two people with very unusual different backgrounds, yet realising that they complemented each other. Gradually love flourishes, even if it is very tentative at first.
Enter Miss Austen, whose keen observational qualities soon endear her to Dora. I suppose the link between the Austen family and the main mystery is somewhat tenuous, but what makes this story so satisfying is the role played by the secondary characters : Alex, Kir, Ren, Hugo etc. They all had key roles in previous books and Ms Golding is very skilled in alluding to their past history for the benefit of people who have not read the previous books yet without rehashing the stories and thus boring those who are reading this series back to back.
There is an authentic period feel and the multi-layered espionage plot is clearly explained. you certainly do not have to be an Austen fan or expert to enjoy this book. The unusual premise is a good excuse to set the investigators on thei new case.
I wonder whether there will be another story built around a famous celebrity of the time? Perhaps a painter? Time will tell. I recommend this book , it is well written , true to the period and entertaining.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Regency Secrets series and having read them all I can honestly say this was my favourite. It’s now 1812 and in London former actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys, second son of a viscount, have a new case for their detective agency. Jacob’s father has recently died and his elder brother Arthur is now Vicount Sandys and Arthur has installed Dora’s best friend Ruby in a London apartment as his mistress.

Briefly, following the murder of French émigrés Comte D’Antraigues and his wife, with the killer committing suicide, Dora and Jacob have been asked by Henry Austen, who owns a private bank, to look into the murders. He only has one stipulation and that is that his sister, one Jane Austen, is to help them with the case. Although not happy they agree and soon realise that mousey inoffensive Miss Austen is a lot more help than they expected.

This is a twisted story and I loved all the factual historical content around Napoleon’s reign and the ongoing wars, alongside that of the Austen family, much of which I was already aware as an Austen fan. The smouldering romance between Ruby and Jacob is still going strong but Ruby is still dithering over making their relationship legal. What’s not to like, historical fiction, cosy mystery, romance and factual elements. An entertaining and very enjoyable read.

[Noemi Proietti · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the year we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, there are more book adaptations of her novels than ever and I can’t get enough. However, the reason I picked up The Austen Intrigue by Julia Golding is not because it features my favourite author in the role of an amateur detective, but because, having read the author’s previous novel, The Wordsworth Key, I couldn’t wait to see what new adventures were waiting for Dora and Jacob.

The Austen Intrigue is the fourth book in the fantastic Regency Secrets series featuring former actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys. Partners both in life and work, Dora and Jacob have many challenges to face in this new gripping novel.

On the personal side, Jacob’s aristocratic family is still trying to interfere in his relationship with Dora, but he is determined to marry her, despite even her reluctance. On the professional side, their investigative agency is thrown into the investigation of a double murder which could have diplomatic and international repercussions. Dora and Jacob are hired by Henry Austen and his bank to investigate the murder of a French comte and his wife. They know who the killer is, but they want to know the reason behind the murders and to help them find it, Henry’s favourite sister, Jane, joins them in the investigation.

The Austen Intrigue features engaging characters, witty dialogue, a suspenseful mystery, and political espionage and I loved how the author blended historical facts in the story (the Napoleonic wars are an important part of the plot) as well as themes of class differences and the role of women. I read this novel in two days and I can’t wait for the next one!

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who has long admired Jane Austen’s wit and insight, I was instantly drawn to The Austen Intrigue. Julia Golding offers a fresh and imaginative take on Regency fiction, casting Austen herself as a perceptive and daring heroine caught in a web of espionage and murder.

Set in 1812, the novel introduces a compelling trio—Jane Austen, the charismatic actress Dora Fitz-Pennington, and the thoughtful Dr Jacob Sandys—who find themselves investigating the mysterious deaths of a French count and his wife. What unfolds is a richly layered mystery, full of political intrigue, theatrical glamour, and the quiet courage of women navigating a world that often underestimates them.

Golding’s prose is elegant and evocative, with just the right touch of Austenian charm. I especially appreciated how she captured the social nuances of the period while allowing her characters to challenge its constraints. Dora and Jacob’s romance adds warmth and depth, and the suggestion that their story might inspire Austen’s future novels is a lovely nod to literary legacy.

For readers who love Austen’s sharp observations and crave a twist of mystery, The Austen Intrigue is a captivating read. It’s both a tribute and a reinvention—thoughtful, thrilling, and thoroughly enjoyable.

My thanks to Julia Golding, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the latest Fitz-Pennington and Sandys mystery novel, Dora and Jacob head to London to solve the murder of a French count and his opera singer wife -- particularly difficult when the killer is also dead. Teaming up with the sister of the friends of the murdered couple -- the up-and-coming novelist Jane Austen -- Dora and Jacob must discover the murderer’s reasons without creating a national security incident and keeping the promises they’ve made. As the investigation continues and they explore the underworld, their relationship and detective skills are put to the test in this latest novel. The characters are the stars of the book, and their relationship continues to develop as the narrative progresses. The inclusion of the most famous Austen and one of her brothers adds historical depth to the narrative, and she is written particularly well in this historical mystery novel. The historical details are vibrant and complex which, when added to the well-written storyline, really bring the narrative and Dora and Jacob’s world to life. The setting and larger plot complicate the investigation in some fantastic ways, and readers will be totally engrossed in this latest installment in this fascinating and brilliantly written historical mystery series from Julia Golding.

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

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy mystery based on real historical events!

Private investigators Dora and Sandys are engaged to look into the mysterious murder of a French nobleman and his wife in London. They uncover a web of shifting alliances and intrigue in which all is not as it seems - including the client's spinster sister, Jane.

The murders at the center of the story actually did occur, and Jane actually did know the victims. Of course much of the rest is fictional, and the author goes into more detail in the Acknowledgments section. I enjoyed the historical elements of the story, especially the description of Vauxhall Gardens, where an important scene is set. This novel is the fourth in a series, and while there were a number of references to events earlier in the series, I had no trouble connecting the dots despite having read none of them.

Unfortunately, I probably won't read them in the future either, because I didn't connect with either of the detectives or any of their numerous assistants, and found the characterization in general a bit thin, leading to an abundant cast of nearly-interchangeable characters.

4 stars - worth reading for the history and the mystery.

[I received a complimentary ARC from NetGally and the publisher. Opinions are my own.]

[Pat Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a deliciously different tale of Dora (an actress/investigator) and Jacob( a 2nd brother to an Earl/investigator) who find themselves in a plot of murder and political mayhem. I adored how the author weaved Miss Jane Austen and her family into the story. It was rather refreshing to see the story from an author’s point of view IN the story. With all the political intrigue, it was hard to tell who the real villain is and though I had a correct guess, the reason behind the treachery was very different. I truly enjoyed this story until I got to the f-bombs…WHY??? It was a beautifully written story and then the author has to throw such crass language that, in my opinion, was not necessary to the story and ruined it for me- thus the 4 star rating. All the ins and outs with who shouldn’t marry who and why were very interesting as well as frustrating. Ruby needs to stop thinking of herself so very much! And don’t get me started on Jacob’s brother! I loved the characters and the storyline was well paced. Leave out the f-bombs and it would have gotten a 5 star from me.

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

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this Regency mystery Dora and Jacob are hired to look into the murder of a French count and his wife, they are joined in the investigation by Jane Austin as there is a risk that her brother, who owns a bank, might be adversely affected.
This is the fourth book in the series and, although it can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the others first. I do enjoy books set in the Regency period, especially those with a mystery in them, plus there is the ongoing romance between Dora and Jacob. The story is based around a real murder, which adds to the interest, and Jane Austin had really known the couple so congratulations to the author for doing her homework to add realism to the story. There are plenty of twists and turns which lead up to the conclusion at the end, there is also the will they /won't they romance which is frowned upon at the time due to the difference in their social statuses. Definitely recommended if you enjoy cozy mysteries.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Carol lowkey.bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This cozy historical mystery is book four in the Regency Secrets Series, and I have no idea how I missed this series until now! I enjoyed this installment so much that I immediately want to circle back and read the earlier books.

The main sleuthing duo are actress Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr. Jacob Sandys. They are a well matched couple whose strengths perfectly complement each other. One of the delights of the story is seeing Jane Austen and her brothers appear as supporting characters. Austen even works with Dora on parts of the investigation, which adds a fun literary touch without overshadowing the original characters.

The mystery centers on the murder of a French Comte and his wife, and the plot builds toward a wonderfully classic finale. All the potential culprits gather in one room, tensions rise, and the true villain is dramatically exposed; a grand finale that felt perfectly satisfying.

You can absolutely read this as a standalone, as I did, but fair warning: once you finish, you’ll probably want to dive into the rest of the series right away!

I received a free review copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.

[Pat · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-3.5 out of 5
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
This is the 3rd book in this series I've read, and it was well-written and plotted. Jane Austen is an important but secondary character, and she's portrayed in a charming way.
The Regency setting is also well portrayed and the plot has some twists and turns, including much intrigue and skulduggery.
Jacob (who knows one of the Austen brothers) and Dora are engaged to investigate the scandalous London murder of French expats who could threaten British security and Austen's bank. Their relationship continues to evolve throughout the book, but I remain puzzled that, although they are both drawn as intelligent adults, they continually behave in ways that should 'out' their secret romance (which seems like something out of a YA novel anyway).
Even with the gruesome murder, this book is firmly in the quick-read cozy romance genre for me - I continue to hope that the main characters will develop more depth.
While this could be read as a standalone by Austen fans, readers will benefit from reading one or two of the earlier books.
Recommend to adult fans of Regency mystery/romances due to some violence and sex.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
We have Dora Fitz-Pennington and Dr Jacob Sandys who team up with the Legendary Jane Austen in an investigation of murder and mayhem!
There are several attempts to harm Dora, Alex and Jacob!
Miss Austen room in her brothers home is also searched!
We have some romantic moments shared with Dora and Jacob! There are several pieces of advice given on their relationship which I found wholly hypocritical and downright selfish!
Ruby Dora’s so called friend always looks out for herself no matter what!
There are foreign dignitaries galore and an old friend or nemesis joins this adventure as well!
Dora is very complex to me she performs all acts of a mistress and makes Jacob wait on tenterhooks for an answer to make it legit!???
I don’t understand her logic at all! But if you want to stay up way too late and a book you can’t put down this is the one! You keep your friends close but your enemies closer! Bravo well done!
I received a copy from Netgalley for my unbiased opinion!

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

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

4.5 stars

This might be my fav of the series so far! I was a little wary to see how my favorite author would be incorporated into the plot and murder mystery with Dora and Jacob, but it was fabulous! Golding really does a great job of weaving together real events and characters with our fictional investigators. She also wove a ton of allusions to Austen's novels into the book, which absolutely delighted me.

We don't have a TON of progress on the Jacob and Dora relationship part of the series. But! I'm so happy they are really on the same page by the end, and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
This series has just been such a delight to read; murder mysteries, high stakes, international espionage, romance, and real life characters all converge to make a truly entertaining read. I'll be clamoring for the next book!
Highly recommended!