Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge: Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor
Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor, by Stephanie Barron Having never read any in this series of books, let me first say I was very excited to learn of a mystery series featuring Jane Austen. Being a Nancy Drew lover, I was psyched to read the entire series. And now after reading the first mystery, I am even more psyched! I couldn't put it down! Jane attends her great friend Isobel, the newly wed Countess of Scargrave, at a ball in honor of her marriage. Being of humble circumstances, you immediately feel Jane's unease at being surrounded by the finery of the ton, but she deals with it well and enjoys herself. This pattern is repeated throughout the book, as well as her self doubt in breaking off an engagement. It is Jane's life, mixed in with the murders at Scargrave that make this book so enjoyable. I think if it had just been the mystery, the book would not have been as well-rounded. Jane's natural wit when put into practice ...