Miss Austen Investigates: A Fortune Most Fatal - by Jessica Bull (Paperback)

About the Book

"1797: A broken-hearted Jane Austen travels to Kent to look after her brother Neddy's children and further her writing. She soon realizes it's imperative she uncovers the true identity of a mysterious young woman claiming to be a shipwrecked foreign princess before the interloper can swindle Neddy's adoptive mother out of her fortune and steal the much-anticipated inheritance all the Austens rely on"--

Book Synopsis

A witty, engaging murder mystery featuring Jane Austen as an intrepid sleuth--the second installment in the Miss Austen Investigates series.

1797: A broken-hearted Jane Austen travels to Kent to look after her brother Neddy's children and further her writing. She soon realizes it's imperative she uncovers the true identity of a mysterious young woman claiming to be a shipwrecked foreign princess before the interloper can swindle Neddy's adoptive mother out of her fortune and steal the much-anticipated inheritance all the Austens rely on.

Review Quotes

PRAISE FOR MISS AUSTEN INVESTIGATES: A FORTUNE MOST FATAL

"It's rare to encounter a book that brings fresh delight with most every page, but such is the case with A Fortune Most Fatal. The reader is immersed in the world of Jane Austen, and what a fascinating world it is. Crisply written, sharply observant, and with a self-deprecating wit, Jessica Bull delivers a twisty and intriguing mystery that is delightfully Austenesque." --Vanessa Kelly, bestselling author of The Emma Knightley Mysteries

PRAISE FOR MISS AUSTEN INVESTIGATES: THE HAPLESS MILLINER

"Bull's Jane is an endearingly clumsy detective, equal parts clever and impulsive, and the investigation contains the kind of high stakes that similar breezy historicals often lack. This series seems destined for a long run." --Publishers Weekly

"Accurate Regency details, complex relationships within the extended Austen family, and a social context based on societal expectations regarding birth order, gender, and economic status establish the author's in-depth research, but more impressive is how quickly these lively and engaging characters become new fictional friends. Janites will be thrilled with the thoughtful depiction of Jane, historical fiction and mystery fans will find plenty to be impressed by, and anyone looking for a mix of strong characters in wellresearched settings similar to those of Anne Perry, Charles Finch, and C. S. Harris will also enjoy Bull's debut."--Booklist

"A cozy mystery cloaked in Jane Austen's sparkling powers of observation and wit, Miss Austen Investigates: The Hapless Milliner, brings a young Jane to life as she tries to solve a village murder that has struck far too close to home. With evocative detail and stunning historical accuracy, author Jessica Bull places the reader firmly within the Steventon terrain of Austen family lore in this remarkably assured and engaging debut. Blending the boisterous energy of Becoming Jane with the intricate plot puzzles of P. D. James, Miss Austen Investigates gives Austenites a wonderful new way to appreciate their favorite author."--Natalie Jenner, bestselling author of The Jane Austen Society

"Jessica Bull's writing is flawless, with a lyrical, subtle wit. It's like being swept along on a glorious wave. Can't wait to see what Jane gets up to next."--Amita Murray, author of Unladylike Lessons in Love

"Exceptional--the Austen whodunnit I feel like I've been waiting my whole life for! The historical detail was rich and impeccable with gorgeously drawn characters, all the twists and turns you want from a murder mystery and an incredibly striking Austen voice. I loved it!"
--Sophie Irwin, author of A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting

"This book was a joy to read. I felt immersed in Jane Austen's world, and Jessica Bull's witty heroine is so much fun to spend time with! Properly twisty, atmospheric, and delightful all at once. When I turned the last page I already missed Jane and can't wait for more."
--Kristin Perrin, author of How to Solve Your Own Murder

"Jane brims with life and wit, the story is packed with delicious details to delight every Austen fan, and the puzzle is constructed as neatly as Emma. Bravo, Jessica Bull--you are a genius!"
--Alex Hay, author of The House Keepers

About the Author

Jessica Bull is a former librarian and communications consultant. She studied English literature at Bristol University and information science at City, University of London. Miss Austen Investigates: The Hapless Milliner was her debut novel. Bull lives in London with her husband and two daughters.