Jane Austen's First Love

Product Description

Inspired by actual events

Fifteen-year-old Jane Austen dreams of three things: doing something useful, writing something worthy, and falling madly in love. When she visits her brother in Kent to celebrate his engagement, she meets wealthy, devilishly handsome Edward Taylor - a fascinating young man who is truly worthy of her affections. Jane knows a match between her and Edward is unlikely, but every moment she spends with him makes her heart race - and he seems to return her interest. Much to her displeasure, however, there is another seeking his attention.

Unsure of her budding relationship, Jane seeks distraction by attempting to correct the pairings of three other prospective couples. But when her matchmaking aspirations do not all turn out as anticipated, Jane discovers the danger of relying on first impressions. The human heart cannot be easily deciphered, nor can it be directed or managed. And if others must be left to their own devices in matters of love and matrimony, can Jane even hope to satisfy her own heart?
Praise for the novels of Syrie James:
'A beautiful, fictional What-If . . . A novel within a novel honoring what we love most about Austen: her engaging stories, her rapier wit, and her swoon worth romance . . . pitch perfect, brilliantly crafted.' Austenprose

'. . . richly imagined . . . a page turner . . . A standout addition to the crowded archive of Austen homages.' Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

'A literary feast for Anglophiles . . . [with] an Austen-worthy ending.'
Publishers Weekly

'Ingenious! . . . An absorbing, reflective, and remarkable work of fiction that masterfully captures the essence and style of a Jane Austen novel.' Austenesque Reviews

'James expertly blends Austen archetypes - bumbling suitors, lady friends both silly and sympathetic, bemused fathers - with her own narrative wit . . . A sweet, enjoyable read for any Austen fan.' Shelf Awareness

'A book a Jane Austen lover cannot miss.' The Bookish Dame

'A magical book that readers will definitely store on their keeper shelf and read more than once.' RT Book Reviews

'Offers a deeper understanding of what Austen's life might have been like.' Los Angeles Times

'Suspense builds, and it's a tribute to the world James creates that the readers will anxiously root for Jane to find true love and wealth, even though we know it never happened.' Kirkus Reviews