First Impressions

A Novel of Old Books, Unexpected Love, and Jane Austen

By: Charlie Lovett

Narrated by: Jayne Entwistle

A thrilling literary mystery costarring Jane Austen from the New York Times bestselling author of The Bookman’s Tale

Charlie Lovett first delighted readers with his New York Times bestselling debut, The Bookman’s Tale. Now, Lovett weaves another brilliantly imagined mystery, this time featuring one of English literature’s most popular and beloved authors: Jane Austen.

Book lover and Austen enthusiast Sophie Collingwood has recently taken a job at an antiquarian bookshop in London when two different customers request a copy of the same obscure book: the second edition of Little Book of Allegories by Richard Mansfield. Their queries draw Sophie into a mystery that will cast doubt on the true
authorship of Pride and Prejudice—and ultimately threaten Sophie’s life.

In a dual narrative that alternates between Sophie’s quest to uncover the truth—while choosing between two suitors—and a young Jane Austen’s touching friendship with the aging cleric Richard Mansfield, Lovett weaves a romantic, suspenseful, and utterly compelling novel about love in all its forms and the joys of a life lived in books.

A must for Jane Austen devotees

Not only is this an exciting story, but it’s also one that brings life to one of literature’s greatest writers. Of course, the whole thing hinges on Sophie ignoring better instincts, but you are still carried away with the characters, the delicious details, and the action. Having spent time at Cecil Court, I found the references to it delightful! A captivating read all around.

1st half drags, last half soars

I nearly stopped listening to this until I was about four hours in and the plot took off. The last half is very clever and well executed. The narrator was annoying in the way she played the characters. Like an excited chipmunk. If one were reading, that would be eliminated so I do recommend the story.

Rare Books

Don't disregard this one Jane fans and Mr. Lovett bravo to librarians! Impressive nuances life affirming, liked the love language and the history of printers.

Wonderful & captivating!

Perfect narration! Fabulous story line! Mystery, romance, history & Jane Austen!

I think I will need to re-read all Jane Austen's works starting tomorrow!

Loved listening to this story!

I'm in L O V E

Do not hesitate to buy this book and listen to it over and over. It is darling and charming and I sincerely wish it were 20 hours long.