I had the pleasure of reading ๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐๐ฎ๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐ฎ by ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ถ๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป. Itโs the last book in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. I havenโt read the previous books but I didnโt feel lost in the book or that I was missing anything. This Jane Austen inspired historical mystery was a pleasure to read. The comfort of reading Austen- like writing was like cuddling with a warm blanket in front of a fire.
The book is set in March 1817, a short time before Janeโs death. Her poor health is slowing down progress on her latest book, which will later be titled Sanditon. Her nephew Edward visits and tells her of the death of a former schoolmate. Even worse, the young son of a dear friend, Elizabeth Heathcote, is accused of the murder. Jane and Edward go to visit Elizabeth to investigate the case in an effort solve the mystery.
Reading this book was effortless. It felt very much like an Austen novel. It was like reading a long letter from Jane describing her actions. The mystery was interesting, with twists and turns to keep the reading guessing. I also liked how the author provided footnotes to explain certain authentic points in the story. Being from the US, I donโt have a clear understanding of how the British education system works. It was fascinating learning about the inner workings of boarding schools and just how rough it was for young boys.
The author provides an Afterward that details Janeโs last medical treatments and death. She also provides information about how Janeโs last novels were published and details about members of her family. If youโre a Jane Austen fan, this book and series is a must read.
Thank you to Stephanie Barron, Soho Press, and Austenprose for the complimentary e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
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