I’m blushing at this lovely review from TeenReads:
“MacColl presents a fascinating and engaging fictionalized account of Jane Austen’s youth….drawing upon her experience writing historical fiction to make Austen’s life come alive to her readers.”
I’m blushing at this lovely review from TeenReads:
“MacColl presents a fascinating and engaging fictionalized account of Jane Austen’s youth….drawing upon her experience writing historical fiction to make Austen’s life come alive to her readers.”
Check out the Fab Book Reviews take on Secrets in the Snow
My favorite line from this review:
“Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a real delight to read! I highly recommend it to fans of Jane Austen, but also those who are not quite familiar with her history because this book allows you to understand a bit more about one of the greatest literary writers ever. MacColl has also included an author’s note (which I really appreciated), about the differences from her book and history & she’s included a bibliography (yay!).”
I am in love with this review of Secrets in the Snow — so rarely does a reviewer get exactly what you were trying to do:
Secrets in the Snow
School Library Journal
October 1, 2016
“A charming historical mystery.”—School Library Journal
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.