I Was Jane Austen's Best Friend

Cora Harrison's lively novel tells the story of Jane Austen's teenage years, from the perspective of Jane's cousin, shy Jenny Cooper. Aged 15, Jane is already a sharp observer of relationships and all the customs of courtship - so when Jenny falls in love with a handsome naval officer, who better than Jane to advise her?

The people and places in this light, sparkling, feel-good story are based on what is really known of Austen’s adolescence, and Harrison has made good use of Austen’s novels, imagining her characters to based on her own family and friends. Late 18th and 21st-century literary styles are well combined, and lively characterisation provides an engaging story following Jenny’s whirlwind romance. In touching on the plight of George, Jane's brother, Harrison also addresses attitudes of the time towards learning difficulties and physical disability.

Told through Jenny's diary entries, this is a charming, witty and very readable historical romance which will particularly appeal to all young fans of Austen.