“More than a mystery or a romance, this debut novel-within-a-novel is a delightful combination of the two, as well as a reminder to see beyond a person’s circumstance to his heart. Witty, heartfelt and elegantly penned, the story captivates readers from the first page to the last. A vivid cast of characters…and a house full of secrets add a Bronte-esque flair to the overall atmosphere.” RT Book Reviews (4½ stars, Top Pick!)
Description
When Aurelie Harcourt’s father dies in debtor’s prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company.
When Aurelie decides to complete her father’s unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother’s disappearance—and perhaps even her father’s death.
Author Joanna Davidson Politano’s stunning debut set in Victorian England will delight listeners with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance.
Praise
“More than a mystery or a romance, this debut novel-within-a-novel is a delightful combination of the two, as well as a reminder to see beyond a person’s circumstance to his heart. Witty, heartfelt and elegantly penned, the story captivates readers from the first page to the last. A vivid cast of characters…and a house full of secrets add a Bronte-esque flair to the overall atmosphere.” RT Book Reviews (4½ stars, Top Pick!)
“Aurelie soon learns that in society, deception is the norm, and begins to doubt she can ever find peace in this new environment without sacrificing all she holds dear…Still, as Aurelie’s refreshingly witty and inspiring narrative reveals, hope, faith, and love eventually do shine out of the darkness…Fans of the Brontë sisters, Charles Dickens, and Victorian gothic fiction will enjoy Politano’s well-crafted debut.” Library Journal (starred review)
“In this delightful debut, a sweet romance, Politano pens a clever story-within-a-story full of Victorian intrigue and ghosts.” Booklist
"[An] artful tale of faith, class, and surprising tenderness.” Publishers Weekly
“Narrator Justine Eyre is engaging in her portrayal of lovely Aurelie Harcourt…Eyre’s portrayals are flawless. She expertly engages the listener, hitting every note with the perfect accent and interpretation.” AudioFile
Details
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| Release Day | Oct 2, 2017 |
| Release Date | October 3, 2017 |
| Release Date Machine | 1506988800 |
| Imprint | Blackstone Publishing |
| Provider | Blackstone Publishing |
| Categories | Literature & Fiction, Genre Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical, Fiction - All, Fiction - Adult |
Author Bio
Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her debut novel, Lady Jayne Disappears, won the Inspy Award and the Maggie Award and as a finalist for the 2016 Genesis Award from the American Christian Fiction Writers. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets.
Narrator Bio
Justine Eyre is a classically trained actress who has narrated many audiobooks, earning the prestigious Audie Award for best narration and numerous Earphones Awards. She is multilingual and known for her great facility with accents. She has appeared on stage, with leading roles in King Lear and The Crucible, and has had starring roles in four films on the indie circuit. Her television credits include Two and a Half Men and Mad Men.
Overview
When Aurelie Harcourt’s father dies in debtor’s prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company.
When Aurelie decides to complete her father’s unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother’s disappearance—and perhaps even her father’s death.
Author Joanna Davidson Politano’s stunning debut set in Victorian England will delight listeners with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance.
Reviews
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