The writing is so witty and insightful that the reader almost forgets that it isn’t J.A. herself. She certainly writes in the style of Jane Austen, using the flowery language of the time, that makes the story that much more believable. Whereas you or I might say, “I’m crabby because I didn’t sleep last night;” the author says “one consequence of broken sleep is assuredly diminished civility.” To add to the “feel” of authenticity is the use of lines straight out of some of Austen’s own novels. For instance, in reply to a dashing, mysterious Lord Harold, Jane says “your lack of finer feeling, of scruple and honour – of everything, in truth, that turns a man a gentleman – makes you the very last person I could ever be prevailed upon to marry.” (Pride and Prejudice)

This is a historical mystery novel complete with murder, high treason, political intrigue as Bonaparte threatens England, a beautiful, young heiress, eligible young men and two love interests for Jane. 

I think Jane Austen fans will enjoy the book. Who better than Jane, with her keen understanding of human nature, to solve a mystery! 

This book is the first of nine novels with J.A. as heroine. I’m already a fan.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read. 

Reviewed by Sandra 

Disclosure: I bought this at a second-hand bookstore in Burlington, Vt. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

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