Miss Austen Investigates

A Novel

by Jessica Bull

On Sale: 02/27/2024

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Miss Austen Investigates

A Novel

by Jessica Bull

On Sale: 02/27/2024

Format:

Amazon Indigo

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Book Overview
Author Info

About the Book

A witty, engaging murder mystery featuring Jane Austen as an intrepid amateur sleuth—the first book in a series

Jane Austen—sparkling, spirited and incredibly clever—is suddenly thrust into a mystery when a milliner’s dead body is found locked inside a cupboard during the middle of a ball. When Jane’s brother Georgie is found with some jewellery that belonged to the deceased, the local officials see it as an open-and-shut case, one which is likely to end with Georgie’s death. Jane is certain that her brother is innocent, and that there is much more to the murder than meets the eye.

Jane’s investigations take her on a lively journey through local society as her suspect list keeps growing—and her keen skill for observation will be put to the test in solving this crime and saving her brother.

Critical Praise

“Richly imagined and wonderfully plotted—a great read.” — S.J . Bennett, author of The Windsor Knot

“A cozy mystery cloaked in Jane Austen's sparkling powers of observation and wit, Miss Austen Investigates brings a young Jane to life as she tries to solve a village murder that has struck far too close to home. With evocative detail and stunning historical accuracy, author Jessica Bull places the reader firmly within the Steventon terrain of Austen family lore in this remarkably assured and engaging debut. Blending the boisterous energy of Becoming Jane with the intricate plot puzzles of P.D. James, Miss Austen Investigates gives Austenites a wonderful new way to appreciate their favourite author.” — Natalie Jenner, bestselling author of The Jane Austen Society

“Exceptional—the Austen whodunnit I feel like I've been waiting my whole life for! The historical detail was rich and impeccable with gorgeously drawn characters, all the twists and turns you want from a murder mystery and an incredibly striking Austen voice. I loved it!” — Sophie Irwin, author of A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting

“This book was a joy to read. I felt immersed in Jane Austen's world, and Jessica Bull's witty heroine is so much fun to spend time with! Properly twisty, atmospheric, and delightful all at once. When I turned the last page I already missed Jane and can't wait for more.” — Kristin Perrin, author of How to Solve Your Own Murder

“Jessica Bull’s writing is flawless, with a lyrical, subtle wit. It’s like being swept along on a glorious wave. Can’t wait to see what Jane gets up to next.” — Amita Murray, author of Unladylike Lessons in Love

“Such a clever idea, pulled off with considerable deftness. The result is a sparkling treat of a read.” — Elizabeth Buchan, New York Times bestselling author of Revenge of the Middle-Aged Woman

“Jane brims with life and wit, the story is packed with delicious details to delight every Austen fan, and the puzzle is constructed as neatly as Emma. Bravo, Jessica Bull—you are a genius!” — Alex Hay, author of The House Keepers

"Bull’s Jane is an endearingly clumsy detective, equal parts clever and impulsive, and the investigation contains the kind of high stakes that similar breezy historicals often lack. This series seems destined for a long run." — Publishers Weekly

“Jessica Bull’s first novel, which captures the real Jane’s wit and liveliness, is a charming historical mystery sure to appeal to mystery readers and Austen lovers alike.” — Shelf Awareness

“Accurate Regency details, complex relationships within the extended Austen family, and a social context based on societal expectations regarding birth order, gender, and economic status establish the author’s in-depth research, but more impressive is how quickly these lively and engaging characters become new fictional friends. Janites will be thrilled with the thoughtful depiction of Jane, historical fiction and mystery fans will find plenty to be impressed by, and anyone looking for a mix of strong characters in wellresearched settings similar to those of Anne Perry, Charles Finch, and C. S. Harris will also enjoy Bull's debut.” — Booklist

“Paints a lively picture of Austen-family dynamics.”? — Kirkus Reviews

“Rich with historical details, Georgian atmosphere, and a winning cast of Austens, this was like a trip back in time and a conversation with Jane Austen all in one.” — Electric Literature