The Jane Austen Society

by Natalie Jenner

Book Overview

* INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER *

"This novel delivers sweet, smart escapism." --People

"Fans of The Chilbury Ladies' Choir and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society will adore The Jane Austen Society... A charming and memorable debut, which reminds us of the universal language of literature and the power of books to unite and heal." --Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Girls of Paris

Just after the Second World War, in the small English village of Chawton, an unusual but like-minded group of people band together to attempt something remarkable.

One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England's finest novelists. Now it's home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen's legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen's home and her legacy. These people--a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others--could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, some from the recent war, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society.

A powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life, both large and small, and the universal humanity in us all, Natalie Jenner's The Jane Austen Society is destined to resonate with readers for years to come.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1250248736
• ISBN13: 9781250248732
• Release Date: May 2020
• Publisher: St. Martin's Press
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.1" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Historical Fiction

This is a historical romance fiction. I am sad to say I really did not like this book, but I did not hate it. I just feel it was ok. I was really looking forward to book this, so I was really sad it was not a book I loved. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

3 stars

THE JANE AUSTEN SOCIETY by Natalie Jenner Talk about a slow burn! There wasn’t much going on plot-wise until the society was formed and that was more than halfway through the book. It’s evident the author used plot themes and created characters with similarities to Jane Austen’s novels. From misunderstandings between couples to a lack of communication and things being left unsaid this was a clear homage to Austen’s work. I can see why Austen fans love it. This has been compared to “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” (which I loved!). Unfortunately, I didn’t get the same cozy, small town charm. I liked Evie’s precociousness and spirit. I’m not surprised she’s a main protagonist in the next book. Alas, I don’t think I’ll be keeping up with the society any time soon. Side note: Richard Armitage’s narration was top notch! I very much enjoyed listening to him. Rating: 3/5 ⭐️

for people who love Jane

I wasn't sure about this book going it...started out wondering where the "society" came into play. But as I got to know the characters better it really felt like I was in on come great conversations about some great works. Characters were compelling and the history was enjoyable.

The Jane Austen Society

It was an okay book, nothing to write home about. I did not know what the Great War is, why didn't she just say it was WWI? The characters are frosting, it looks sweet but when you bite into it, it does not fill you up. There was no back story on any of the characters, except the mention of Alexander and Dr. Gray with Lady Frances. But, they did mention a few times when they were children, but not any action and I draw a blank on all the other characters, she doesn't talk about their history. They did reference other books by Jane Austen, which I intend on reading. I guess I'm looking for a little more in a book than just writing and a love story.

loved it

beautiful imagining of how fictional residents of Chawton step up to preserve the Austen legacy, and their emotional trials along the way.