Title: The Jane Austen Society
Author: Natalie Jenner
First published May 26, 2020
320 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781250248732 (ISBN10: 1250248736)
Rating: 3.74
Overview
Natalie Jenner’s debut novel, The Jane Austen Society, takes you on a journey to the quaint village of Chawton just after the Second World War. The novel follows a group of Austen lovers who come together to preserve the legacy of the renowned author.
With the threat of Austen’s final home being lost forever, the group of unlikely friends, including a laborer, a doctor, a young widow, and a Hollywood star, band together to create the Jane Austen Society. Despite their differences, they are united by their love for Austen’s works and their own personal struggles with loss and trauma.
This heartwarming tale highlights the power of community and the enduring influence of Jane Austen’s words. The Jane Austen Society is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and Austen enthusiasts alike.
Editoral Review
The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner is a delightful homage to the beloved author Jane Austen that will transport readers to the idyllic English countryside and leave them yearning to join the ranks of the Jane Austen Society themselves. Jenner, a debut author with a Master’s degree in Creative Writing, has crafted a charming novel that is sure to please Austen enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
Set in the post-World War II period, the novel follows a group of five individuals who are brought together by their shared love of Austen’s works and their desire to preserve her legacy. The novel’s plot centers around their efforts to turn Austen’s former home into a museum, and the challenges they face along the way.
The story is infused with Austen’s wit and wisdom, and Jenner does an admirable job of capturing the essence of her writing style. The characters are all uniquely charming and endearing, with distinct personalities and backgrounds that add depth to the story.
One of the strengths of the novel is its sharp attention to historical detail. Jenner clearly did her research, and the book is filled with references to the cultural and social mores of the era.
This lends the book an authenticity that is often lacking in historical fiction, and makes it all the more satisfying for readers who are looking for an immersive reading experience. The novel is not without its flaws, however.
At times, the pacing can be slow, particularly in the middle section of the book. Additionally, some of the conflicts feel a bit contrived, and the resolution can be somewhat predictable.
Nevertheless, the novel’s overall strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and it makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read. In terms of its themes, The Jane Austen Society grapples with issues of love, loss, family, and identity, all of which are central to Austen’s works.
Moreover, the novel also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Austen’s writing and its impact on contemporary culture. In this sense, the book feels particularly timely, as it encourages readers to reflect on what it means to preserve and celebrate the legacies of our literary heroes.
Overall, The Jane Austen Society is a charming and well-crafted novel that will appeal to anyone who appreciates Austen’s writing. It is a testament to the enduring power of her stories, and a tribute to the readers who love them.
As such, it comes highly recommended.
