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Only A Novel: The Double Life of Jane Austen

An intimate portrait of the of the two sides of the inimitable Jane Austen: the extraordinary public life of England's best loved novelist and the more private world of the woman behind the words.

Pulling together the decorous and genteel young woman dedicated to family life and the enigmatic author who shied away from the spotlight, this biography sheds light on the great mind that, with acerbic wit and razor-sharp observation, illuminated women's lives ruled by English manners.

Weaving in historical records and family letters, Aiken Hodge's endearing and affectionate profile of the esteemed author of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Persuasion unites these two worlds and finally answers the question: who, exactly, was Jane Austen?

Agora Books was kind enough to send me a copy of this biography to review, and unfortunately I couldn't get through it. It's not the book though, I just think that it was just catered toward people who already have an understanding or existing knowledge of Austen's life, and/or those who admire her.


Biographies aren't usually what I would read, and I haven't read one in a long time, so I think that may have contributed to why I struggled a little with this book, in particular. I also felt like things dragged on a bit and I just couldn't bring myself to finish. But that's on me. I'm sure any hardcore Austen fan would enjoy this.


Some amazing things about the book was how detailed it was. I mean, the reader was given so much info and made it seem that they almost knew Austen after reading through a couple of chapters. It really did seem like we could read her whole life (which I guess is the point) but it was still really cool to read through some of her life story. It also helped me to visualize her life and how she was while I read through it, which I always like. It helps me make connections and allows me to have an overall better experience while reading.


If you are an Austen fan, DEFINITELY read this. You'd love it. It just wasn't my cup of tea, but I am really glad that I tried it out, as my goal is to always try new things, and step out of my comfort zone.


Again, thank you so much Agora Books. It was a pleasure.


See you all again soon,

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