The Jane Austen Society

A Novel

De: Natalie Jenner

Narrado por: Richard Armitage

"Richard Armitage is an excellent choice of narrator for this celebration of the famed British author's work. His deep, resonant voice meanders through the stories of seven different people in the small English town of Chawton...a great casual listen, especially for those familiar with Austen's work." (AudioFile magazine)

This program includes a bonus conversation between the author and Kathleen A. Flynn, author of The Jane Austen Project.

Just after the Second World War, in the small English village of Chawton, an unusual but like-minded group of people band together to attempt something remarkable.

One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England's finest novelists. Now, it's home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen's legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen's home and her legacy. These people - a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others - could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, some from the recent war, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society.

A powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life, both large and small, and the universal humanity in us all, Natalie Jenner's The Jane Austen Society is destined to resonate with listeners for years to come.

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin's Press

"Fans of The Chilbury Ladies' Choir and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society will adore The Jane Austen Society.... A charming and memorable debut, which reminds us of the universal language of literature and the power of books to unite and heal." (Pam Jenoff, New York Times best-selling author of The Lost Girls of Paris)

"Anyone seeking an antidote to contemporary chaos will find a welcome respite among the members of a group whose outer lives may appear simple, but whose inner lives need the kind of balm Austen knew well." (Washington Post)

"Just like a story written by Austen herself, Jenner's first novel is brimming with charming moments, endearing characters, and nuanced relationships, all largely set within and reflecting the often intrusive atmosphere of a small country community.... The pleasures are many in this clever tribute to the beloved and endlessly influential Austen and the English village tale." (Booklist starred review)

©2020 Natalie Jenner (P)2020 Macmillan Audio

A little cheesy, but very good book!

The narrator was perfect. The book was great and entertaining. Definitely was worth the purchase.

Cute story

I really enjoyed this.... huge Jane Austen fan. I loved how the characters kept referring to the events in the novels. The relationships were very sweet. Truly enjoyable listen.

great story

Great narrator. Good character development. Some good twists. Good plots. Good history lesson . nice nice

Wonderful read and performance

The narrator was perfect for this book. The story was well written and captivating; a must read for the Jane Austen fan, or anyone else for that matter. I especially enjoyed the conversation with the author after the book was finished.

Wonderful

Wonderful and interesting characters that I really cared about pulled me in immediately.
Richard Armitage’s narration is wonderful.

Predictable but warm-hearted

This book follows the trope of a group of misfits coming together for a purpose. In addition, their stories reflect some of Jane Austen's books. Some of that is very obvious, but there is one surprise at the end that I didn't expect. The narration is very good.

A Conversion

I have NEVER read anything by Austen. I saw a film once which turned out to be a big so what for me.
As I listened to this I became entranced by the parts about Austen and her life and books.
Thank you, Audible, because now at the age of 73, I will begin my journey.
The performance, the story, the style, the environment and the characters are in my heart.

For Jane Austen Fans

As a Jane Austen fan, it's gratifying to read about other Jane Austen fans - what are their favorite books, scenes, and quotes. This book has the feel of a Jane Austen book as well... ups and downs, not everything turns out great, but it leaves you feeling a bit more enlightened about human beings and their motivations.

Lovely listen

This is a great gateway to Jane Austen for those who don’t think they will like her books, and a wonderful treat for any Janeite! Highly recommended

It's Richard Armitage, of course It's perfection!

Rereading for Jane Austen Book Club. I absolutely love this book! Jane Austen has touched so many people's lives and this book celebrates this.