“The pleasure of this novel lies in its quietly satisfying portrait of a woman facing social prejudice and ill health, yet gradually coming to realize her own worth.” New York Times Book Review
A richly imagined novel inspired by the true story of Anne Sharp, a governess who became very close with Jane Austen and her family, by the bestselling author of Miss Austen
On January 21, 1804, Anne Sharpe arrives at Godmersham Park in Kent to take up the position of governess. At thirty-one years old, she has no previous experience of either teaching or fine country houses. Her mother has died, and she has nowhere else to go. Anne is left with no choice. For her new charge—twelve-year-old Fanny Austen—Anne’s arrival is all novelty and excitement.
The governess role is a uniquely awkward one. Anne is neither one of the servants, nor one of the family, and to balance a position between the “upstairs” and “downstairs” members of the household is a diplomatic chess game. One wrong move may result in instant dismissal. Anne knows that she must never let down her guard.
When Mr. Edward Austen’s family comes to stay, Anne forms an immediate attachment to Jane. They write plays together, and enjoy long discussions. However, in the process, Anne reveals herself as not merely pretty, charming, and competent; she is clever too. Even her sleepy, complacent, mistress can hardly fail to notice.
Meanwhile Jane’s brother, Henry, begins to take an unusually strong interest in the lovely young governess. And from now on, Anne’s days at Godmersham Park are numbered.
“The pleasure of this novel lies in its quietly satisfying portrait of a woman facing social prejudice and ill health, yet gradually coming to realize her own worth.” New York Times Book Review
“With Godmersham Park, British writer Gill Hornby makes a second fictional foray into Austen territory. A sprightly story.” Washington Post
“The great writer is brought to life in this clever, well-researched piece of fiction.” The Times (London)
“All of Hornby’s characters are engaging, and the small details of their daily lives build a colorful picture of this time and place…[and] the Author’s Note is chock-full of fabulous true tidbits.” Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“It becomes impossible not to feel as if you’re listening to the confidences of a dear friend…All of Hornby’s characters are engaging, and the small details of their daily lives build a colorful picture of this time and place.” Booklist (starred review)
Language | English |
---|---|
Release Day | Oct 31, 2022 |
Release Date | November 1, 2022 |
Release Date Machine | 1667260800 |
Imprint | Blackstone Publishing |
Provider | Blackstone Publishing |
Categories | Literature & Fiction, Genre Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Biographical Fiction, Fiction - All, Fiction - Adult |
Overview
A richly imagined novel inspired by the true story of Anne Sharp, a governess who became very close with Jane Austen and her family, by the bestselling author of Miss Austen
On January 21, 1804, Anne Sharpe arrives at Godmersham Park in Kent to take up the position of governess. At thirty-one years old, she has no previous experience of either teaching or fine country houses. Her mother has died, and she has nowhere else to go. Anne is left with no choice. For her new charge—twelve-year-old Fanny Austen—Anne’s arrival is all novelty and excitement.
The governess role is a uniquely awkward one. Anne is neither one of the servants, nor one of the family, and to balance a position between the “upstairs” and “downstairs” members of the household is a diplomatic chess game. One wrong move may result in instant dismissal. Anne knows that she must never let down her guard.
When Mr. Edward Austen’s family comes to stay, Anne forms an immediate attachment to Jane. They write plays together, and enjoy long discussions. However, in the process, Anne reveals herself as not merely pretty, charming, and competent; she is clever too. Even her sleepy, complacent, mistress can hardly fail to notice.
Meanwhile Jane’s brother, Henry, begins to take an unusually strong interest in the lovely young governess. And from now on, Anne’s days at Godmersham Park are numbered.