JANE AUSTEN’S FIRST LOVE
Jane Austen falls in love with a charismatic, rebellious teen over one mad, matchmaking summer, gaining a lifetime's worth of experience that will help make her into the literary titan she is destined to become.
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 to Miss Elizabeth Bridges, Jane meets wealthy, devilishly handsome Edward Taylor, heir to the nearby estate of Bifrons -- a fascinating, highly accomplished young man who is truly worthy of Jane's 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 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?
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | INDIEBOUND | BOOKS-A-MILLION | AUDIBLE |Add on Goodreads
PRAISE & AWARDS
• 5 Best of the Year Lists including Austenprose and Austenesque Reviews
• Library Journal Editor’s Pick of the Year
“Truly riveting. A realistic tale that could have been written by the revered author herself. James’s latest will charm Austen fans (and fans of James, too) as well as Austen unfamiliars... Romance fans will root for Jane all the way.”
—Library Journal, Editor’s Pick
“Not only based on James’s extensive research on the enigmatic Edward Taylor, but so many of the personalities are real, and the dates and events astonishingly match, which make this masterwork feel like a real memoir. Highly recommended.”
—Historical Novel Society
“A richly imagined novel about youthful love and matchmaking in Austen’s time. The author’s extensive research is clear in every page. You’ll enjoy this entertaining story about what might have been.”
—Seattle Times
“A quite delightful romance—not only a touching record of a young girl’s first experience of love, but also a funny, eventful and entertaining comedy of Regency manners. James’s ear for dialogue is unfaltering, and her sympathy for her heroine whole-hearted. It all adds up to an unashamedly romantic package, presented with affection and respect.”
—Jane Austen’s Regency World Magazine
“Romantic, genuine, and charming. 5 stars!”
—The Romance Dish
Pages: 400
ISBN13: 978-0425271353