Secrets in the Snow
Jane Austen. Thwarted Love Affair. Murder.
Jane Austen's family is eager to secure her future by marrying her off. But Jane is much more interested in writing her novels, and finds every suitor lacking—until the mysterious Mr. Lefroy arrives. Could he be the one? Before Jane can find out, she must solve a murder, clear her family's name, and face a decision that might cost her true love.
ISBN-13 : 978-1452133584
Reading age : 12 - 18 years
Lexile measure : HL650L
Grade level : 7 - 12
Gr 7–10—Nineteen-year-old Jane Austen—yes, that Jane Austen—finds herself entwined in some serious intrigue when the War Office suggests that her cousin, whose French aristocrat husband lost his head to the guillotine, might be engaged in traitorous activity against England. Jane is determined to get to the bottom of the situation, even if it means veering into unladylike territory. Adding to the drama, a gentleman studying the law has entered Jane's social circle—and all of her family members are eager to encourage a marriage match regardless of his condescending first impression. MacColl's fidelity to Austen's biography and family, with a bit of creative license woven in, results in a charming historical mystery. Her playfulness with Austen's voice is a delight, and she peppers the story with hints at characters and plot points from the author's oeuvre—nothing that distracts from the narrative, but tidbits that serve as inside jokes to readers who have already dived into her works. These elements more than make up for a somewhat rushed conclusion. Readers whose interest in Austen is piqued will enjoy the biographical back matter. VERDICT A solid addition for fans of cozy mysteries and literary reimaginings.—Amy Koester, Skokie Public Library, IL
School Library Journal
Excerpt:
With a shake of the reins, the carriage lurched forward. Jane was off for a rendezvous with adventure. She could not recall looking forward to anything quite so much. But Godmersham was not long behind them when Jacques opened the small window that let the driver communicate with his passengers.
“Mademoiselle Austen, I fear we are being followed.”
Jane scrambled to her knees to peer out the back window. Even though it was still early afternoon, the road was deserted—not a farmer or wagon to be seen for miles, just a solitary horseman charging toward them. He was several hundred feet behind the carriage, but he was gaining.
Jane’s heart skipped a beat; her brothers were always warning her about bandits who preyed on innocent travelers. It would be too aggravating to have to admit that Edward had been right.
— Secrets in the Snow