The Abbey Mystery is a perfect mix of classic Austen style and a Nancy Drew mystery. As a huge fan of both, I was thoroughly charmed from the very first page, laughing to myself at Julia Golding’s earnest girl detective and clever turn of phrase.

It’s 1789 and thirteen year old Jane Austen is the heroine of her very own Gothic tale. As a young girl in the 18th century, Jane is of no earthly use to anyone. She’s isn’t as pretty as her older sister and has none of the rights or privileges of her brothers. Her fierce independence and love of language cause her to rebel against what is expected of her, much to her mother’s frustration, and find adventure wherever she goes.

After an “unfortunate accident”, Jane finds herself in the middle of intrigue and a mystery worthy of any of the novels she will one day go on to write. She is sent to Southmoor Abbey to act as a companion for Lady Cromwell. While she’s there, she witnesses family conflict, a ghost among the ruins and a terrible crime. With her new friends, she does all she can to solve the mystery and reveal the truth. In the process, she proves that she definitely is someone to be reckoned with.

The Abbey Mystery was inspired by Jane Austen’s actual novel, Northanger Abbey. Readers familiar with the story will be delighted by the similarities drawn out through the mystery. Links to the East India Company and a family brought over from India to serve and protect the Cromwell family adds another dimension to the story. It challenges prejudices of the time period and portrays the Indian culture in a powerful light.

Jane Austen was a woman ahead of her time, proving just how much a clever girl can achieve – whether society is ready for it or not! In The Abbey Mystery, Jane is a heroine for the next generation. Her story is the perfect introduction to the world of Jane Austen novels for new readers as well as a deliciously nostalgic journey for those who are already long-time fans. I truly hope that this book is the first of a series of wonderful mysteries.

Thank you to Lion Hudson Ltd for this fantastic book!

Jane Austen grew up to become a famous author, but when she was younger she...solved mysteries!
That at least is the premise of this new middle grade reader. I love that you don't need to know anything about the Jane Austen to get into this one. There's no subtle references to her novels or inside jokes only her readers will understand. For this book, Jane Austen is just a character who happens to have a literary streak, which shows up in her ardent note-taking and her clever letters to her sister. A fun read!
Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to preview a digital version of this book.

I really enjoyed this little book, it’s a fictionalised story of the author Jane Austen and how she becomes a lady’s companion to Lady Cromwell. There she finds some strange things are happening and there is lots of talk of a ghost - the mad monk. We seen Mis Austen meet an array of characters and befriend some too as she tries to solve the mystery of the mad monk and a few others mysteries on the way too.

I really enjoyed this short novel, fictionalising Jane Austen as a deceive of sorts. I loved how you could see how the author had uses much of Austen’s novels to inspire characters but also the language used, as well as using the history of Jane Austen too and including snippets of letters between her and her sister Cassandra. I very much feel this book fits well within Austen’s Northanger Abbey.

I really enjoyed this imagining and was a fun and creative historical fiction ghost story that used knowledge about Austen and her books to create a great mystery. The only things I didn’t like was I found at points the timeline confusing and I would muddle up some of the characters names (but the last part is more on me as I do this anyway) - a character guide would be handy and maybe some added information as an appendix relating to the writing and inspirations/ true Austen information would be a great addition.

Apart from that thoroughly enjoyed reading, thank you NetGalley for my review copy!

My first advance copy and I love it!

The book has everything, adventure, humor, sibling love, and friendship. Jane Austen Investigates - The Abbey Mistery by Julia Golding tells the story of Jane Austen as a young detective. When an accident in the family forced a change of plans, young Jane, in place of her sister, was sent to Southmoor Abbey as a companion to Lady Cromwell. After being awakened in the middle of the night and seeing mysterious lights going off in the Abbey ruins, and several other strange occurences, Jane couldn't help but went to investigate.

The book is suitable for children ages 9 and above but it sure kept me on the edge of my seat from start to end.

First sentence: It had to be acknowledged that the life of a clergyman’s daughter in deepest rural Hampshire was disappointingly full of duties.

Premise/plot: Jane Austen, our heroine, is thirteen and spunky. In this, her first adventure, she goes to be a lady's companion to Lady Cromwell for a few weeks--as birthday celebrations are in high gear--and stumbles into her first (but presumably not last) mystery. Southmoor Abbey is rumored to be haunted; she first hears from her older brother who almost dares her to search out the ghost for herself. But it isn't a ghost--mad or not--that brings danger and excitement into her life: it is the master and mistress of the estate....

There are multiple mysteries to solve and lives do hang in the balance...though this is NOT a murder mystery.

My thoughts: I really loved this one. The novel opens in 1789 and stars the Austen family. If I use the word though, I don't mean it in a derogatory or condescending way... THOUGH it is a middle grade title and certainly appropriate for readers 9+ I think it holds appeal for readers of all ages. I enjoyed it as an adult. I could easily see myself enjoying it as preteen and teen. (Granted I loved HISTORICAL FICTION and reading in general.) Austen makes for a lively, spunky-quirky heroine. And THERE'S A DOG who plays a significant role in the story. In fact, would Austen have solved the mysteries WITHOUT the dog????? I'm not sure!

I think adults who have read all of Austen might enjoy this one especially.

Quotes:
“And if I see a ghost, Henry, I’ll tell it to get on to heaven–or the other place.” “I do believe you would. Prove there’s no such thing as a ghost at the Abbey and I’ll give you half a crown.” He patted his purse. Jane thought of the writing paper she could buy with such riches. “You have a deal.”

“I think Henry [XIII] guilty of crimes and cruelties too many to mention,” agreed Jane–she had strong opinions about the monarchs of the land. “I believe he was a man of no religion and little can be said in his defence.” “Oh, bravo, Miss Austen. I wish you had the task of writing the history books. I admire plain speaking.” Jane decided that Annette was all right–like Fitzwilliam, Deepti, and Luke, rather than the Cromwells.

Loved this delightful mystery featuring spunky young Jane Austen as a detective and her beloved dog Grandison as sidekick. Dispatched to serve Lady Cromwell as a companion, Jane soon finds herself intrigued by the mystery of the ghostly monk at Southmoor Abbey. That’s when the fun begins! Geared to middle grade readers, JANE AUSTEN INVESTIGATES still kept this adult racing through the pages. Series, please!

5 of 5 Stars

Pub Date 23 Apr 2021
#JaneAustenInvestigates #NetGalley

Thanks to the author, Lion Hudson Ltd, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.

This is charming book for youngsters. As a young girl, 55 years ago and counting, I would have really enjoyed it, and I think it is a good introduction to the era of the Jane Austin stories. The setting and the customs are well explained and offer an insight to the times. However I think that today’s young readers may expect something a little more sophisticated and current, so I’m not sure how well the book will be received. Although the story kept a good pace the ending was too abrupt and did not do the rest of the book justice, far too rushed. I do hope young readers enjoy it.
Thank you NetGalley.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest revie.

I loved it so much. This is my second book from Julia Golding and I'm becoming a fan of her writing style. This story is about a 13 years old Jane Austen who due to an accident she finds herself being sent instead of her sister Cassandra to be the companion of Lady Cromwell. During her visit, Jane made new friends and is involved in a mysterious adventure, then an investigation that she is the only one that could solve.

If you like Enola Holmes, Sally Lockhart or you just love Jane Austen, you will love this wonderful imaginative story. I had such a good time while reading it. I recommend it for everyone. This book is about frienship beyond classes and races but also we are witnesses to the injustice that reigned during that period of time. I have to say that I hated Sir Charles and his wife.
Also, some names of the characters are actually inspired by characters of Jane Austen's real books.

I really enjoyed this book by Julia Golding that made me wish to be able to discover her other books.

"The Abbey Mystery" is a delightful mystery set in 1789 in England with a 13-year-old Jane Austen as the amateur detective. I would've loved her as a kid, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story as an adult, too. The historical details about manners and customs were deftly woven into the story and did not slow down the pacing but did explain why certain things happened the way they did. Jane used modern wording and was a realistic 13-year-old girl, so younger readers will feel at home with her. She's spunky, determined, loyal, and has a sense of humor.

The mystery was clue-based, and whodunit was guessable from the clues. Jane had good ideas about where to look and what questions to ask. She made good friends that helped her to accomplish her goal of proving that a more powerful (than her) person was at fault rather than the young man who was blamed. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable historical mystery.

An enjoyable middle grade mystery. There were definitely some anachronisms, and I'm also not sure the intended audience will fully appreciate the Jane Austen allusions, since most will not have been introduced to her books yet. Still, it is a fun read for young mystery lovers.

A delightful middle-grade mistery where a very young Jane Austen (she has just begun writing the Juvenilia) is sent to be a companion for Lady Cromwell, the wife of Sir Charles Cromwell, whose estate includes an old Abbey that many believe to be haunted by a ghost. Jane takes the place of Cassandra who has a broken arm due to an accident with a cart. Jane takes with her her "lapdog" - that is, actually, a "disgraceful encounter between one of the squire's beagles and what might have been a passing Dalmatian", as her brother Henry claims; and makes friend with Luke - the stable boy who assembles steam engines - with young Mr. Fitzwilliam - an ambitious but fair law student - and Deepti, the astonishing and skillful daughter of the Indian chef of Sir Charles.
Jane will try to solve some mysteries such as an arson, a horse theft, a disputed legacy and the mysterious presence of the ghost of the Mad Monk amidst the ruins of the old Abbey.
In her room, Jane writes to Cassandra or plays with words, training herself as any budding writer, with some enjoyable efforts that recall to mind the Juvenilia.
I believe this series in which Jane Austen Investigates will be a great success, and I can't wait to read the next volumes.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Lion Fiction for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

My Goodreads review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3770937693

What if a young Jane Austen was a smart young lady who.liked to investigate mysteries? That is the premise for this book and it works so well. Jane has to visit Southmoor Abbey as a companion to Lady Cromwell and while there her brother challenges her to investigate the legend 0f the ghostly monk. What follows is a well written, enjoyable tale of her adventures at the abbey as she makes new friends and investigates several mysteries.
You don't have to know anything about Jane Austen or have read her books to enjoy this story but it may inspire young readers to investigate her works,.
This is exactly the sort of book I loved as a young adult and would recommend it to young readers today.
Many thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the advance read copy

For fans of Enola Holmes or The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie comes this literary-inspired mystery starring none other than a young Jane Austen. I have mixed feelings about Jane as a young detective, but some of her budding wit and powers of observation as a writer are portrayed in the story. The mystery was interesting and the hint of scandal was delicious. Interesting character development for several of the young heros and heroines in this story. A solid read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. .

Sometimes I just need a change of pace from my usual thrillers and serious reads, and this book was perfect. Jane Austen Investigates - The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding is such a fun read!
🧡
This novel features a young Jane Austen as she investigates a mystery while visiting Southmoor Abbey. Our little protagonist is exactly what you would imagine a young Jane Austen to be like! I love her!
💚
There are so many Austen quotes that I adore in this:
∆ "Jane was hoping for "famous" but infamy sounded exciting."
∆ "No, I'm just an Austen - which means I'm much more outrageous than you can possibly imagine."
∆ "She might be just a rector's daughter, but she could outwit the spoiled son of the house and his ruffian."
❤️
Ok, I'm done. I really hope this turns into a series because I want to read all of them. Thank you @ for this Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.

What a simply fabulous take on Jane Austen!

It is wonderful seeing the esteemed author become a strong protagonist in her own right. In this caper, she is sent off to be a lady’s maid and she manages to uncover a bit of a mystery, involving a ghost. She doesn’t believe in said ghost but, under orders from her brother, sees fit to investigate. While she does, she under covers some dark secrets.

Hilarious at points but simply wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that Ms Austen will be back to investigate again in the future.

This Middle Grade book begins with a fictional editor’s note stating that it is based on recently discovered notebooks written by a teenage Jane Austen detailing investigations she was involved in. In what I assume is the first of a series, thirteen-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell at Southmoor Abbey for a week leading up to a big party the Cromwells are hosting for their son’s coming-of-age. Unlike Catherine Morland, Austen’s character in "Northanger Abbey", young Jane does not believe in ghosts, so she is eager to learn the truth behind the rumours that a ghostly monk can sometimes be seen roaming the ruins of the chapel once attached to the Abbey. Jane is already investigating when a fire is started in the library and horses are stolen make her even more determined to find the culprit.

Golding captures something of the cynicism towards traditions and the social order that characterizes the writing of Jane Austen in the observations of her young protagonist. Jane is adventurous and incorrigibly curious, but she does bow down to the rules of the period in public while mentally criticizing the limitations put on her as a young woman, and one for lower standing at that. As a character, Jane reminded me strongly of Alan Bradley’s Flavia de Luce, except that Jane is obsessed with writing rather than with poisons.

The mystery, which is really three intertwined mysteries, is suitably complex and the stakes are high: people are being wrongfully accused and in danger of losing their livelihoods, perhaps even their lives. The reveal is dramatic and surprising, and the pace of the book is pleasantly swift. In short, it is delightful, and entirely satisfying even for an adult mystery reader. It may also be a nice way to get younger readers interested in reading Austen’s books by introducing them to the period and the types of characters she wrote about.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A book for all jane austen fans. It's funny in an inescapable austen way, the characters are likeable and funny and there's a punny tone everywhere in the novel well worth reading it for.

The Jane Austen Investigates
The Abbey Mystery
by Julia Golding
Lion Hudson Ltd
Lion Fiction
Children's Fiction | Middle Grade | Teens & YA
Pub Date 23 Apr 2021


I am reviewing a copy of The Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery through Lion Fiction and Netgalley:



In 1789 a young Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. After a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming of age party. While she is there Jane makes a vow that she is going to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds because she does not believe in such stories!



The mystery of the ghostly monk on the Abbey grounds is not the only occurrence for adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are also spooky night time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations.



Will Jane overcome the obstacles to finding the truth, with notebook in hand and faithful dog Grandison by her side.



This book would be a great adventure to read for those nine and over, especially if they love historical mysteries.



I give The Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

A fuller review of this will appear soon at Film Stories. It's obviously a delicious concept, and for the most part Golding delivers: neat characterisation, thoughtful inclusivity (the main characters include an Indian girl), plenty of grown-up Austen Easter eggs for adult readers. It does take a good while to get going for MG; it's 50 pages before there's any sort of mystery, and 100 before it's a really substantial one. Still, Jane's witty letters home are a lovely touch, and overall it's a nice set up for a longer series.

When I read the title of this book I knew I had to read it! I'm a big fan of mystery as a genre and I also found quite curious the use of the figure of Jane Austen. As a writer who is part of the canon in the occidental literature, this take on her early years is very interesting. Of couse we have some historical facts of her life as background, her sister Cassandra por example. And her brother Henry. But we move from the Austen's house to a new location where a lot of action awaits for our heroine.

Due to an infortunate incident, Jane is sent as companion to Lady Cromwell, instead of Cassandra. Before her departure, she is warned by her brother Henry about some ghost in Southmoor Abbey. Naturally, Jane insists that the supernatural doesn't exist. She believes in evidence. So her brother dares her to face this ghost. In an old fashioned game of ghost hunting, Jane agrees. This set one of the misteries in this novel. The second one revolves around the Cromwell family.
During her stay in Southmoor Abbey, Jane meets Luke, a boy who works at the stables and also is quite creative when it comes to machines. There's also Fitzwilliam, a law student, and Arjun and Deepti (both father and daughter, from India).

Golding's writing expose some important points about a social system that puts the hard working people under the constrictions of the upper class. This kind of social commentary really ads to the book. And I'd say it must be an adventure to take this lecture on a middle grade level. There's also these really fun letters that Jane writes where she uses the estructure of an acrostic, or just using words that with the same initial. I adored this and totally could picture kids reading this passages.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I hope there is more of Jane Austen Investigates, would be awesome if this becomes a series.

(Thank you to Lion Hudson Publishers and NetGalley.)

When I started this book, I wasn't sure what I was going to think. Right off I loved it! It probably helps that I am a huge Jane Austen fan. It was a fun read. The story moves along quickly with a cheerful ending

Thank you so much to netgalley Julia Golding and the publisher for approving me to read this book for a honest review. I am a big Jane Austen fan so when I saw this book on netgalley I had to read it. It didn't disappoint. The book follows Jane who replaces her sister to keep the lady of the house company as jane sister broke her arm. Everyone treats Jane like she is invisible and think she is very plain but she is far from plain when she is embroiled in a mystery concerning horses in wich jane takes upon herself to investigate along the way with her dog she goes on a adventure and makes new friends along the way. I loved the premise of this book the plot was easy to follow. This is a great book for any fan of jane Austen and I will deffo be getting a physical copy for my Jane Austen shelf. I need a second book and a film. It had cozy mystery vibes. I will be recommending this book to any fan of cozy mystery or Jane Austen. I will defiantly be going on a reading binge of Julia Goldings Work. Also perfect book to read during lockdown
5 stars from me..

This book is a sweet, fun and super charming middle years read. Thank you #NetGalley and author Julia Golding for the fun opportunity to read Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery! I will always be a Nancy Drew fan so when I saw Jane Austen investigates I leaped at the chance to check out a fun children’s mystery this book.

Jane is the youngest in a big family and has earned the reputation as bit of a troublemaker with her sharp-witted tongue and tendency to get into trouble! Jane is a quirky lovable heroin and the witty banter between Jane and her sister Cassandra hooked me instantly. I found myself chucking at her funny commentary and banter and it’s easy to imagine she grew up to be a famous writer (ps I love Jane Austen!).

Jane’s letters to her sister were the highlight of the book for me and I’m super impressed Jane was able to write a letter to her family almost entirely only using words that start with the letter S. The plot was succinct and well-written and had many mini mysteries within the overarching mystery making it a fun and enjoyable story! Would definitely recommend it for fans middle grade mysteries looking for a fun read starring a silly and loveable heroin. ☺️💖

Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery, is a wonderful middle grade book. A great introduction for many to the classic Jane Austen style and reminiscent of Nancy Drew mysteries.

Due to Jane Austen’s sister, Cassandra, being hurt in an unfortunate accident, Jane is sent by their mother to Southmoor Abbey as a replacement companion for Lady Cromwell. Jane has grown up feeling inferior to her siblings and has struggled to find her place in the family, experiencing a distinct lack of affection towards her from their mother. Accompanied by her dog, Grandison, Jane is immediately intrigued by her surroundings and those she meets at Southmoor Abbey.

Jane makes new friends, and with them, seeks to solve a mystery and uncover the truth. She is a feisty character, quick-witted and provides humour to the story. Her friends are also likeable characters, and all add to making Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery, a really enjoyable read.

The book encompasses themes of sibling relationships, friendship and challenges prejudices indicative of the time.

I highly recommend Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery, and hope that this is the first of a series.

Thank you to Lion Hudson Ltd and NetGalley for the Advanced Copy of Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery, by Julia Golding.

A fun children's story. I enjoyed how the author used real people as their characters, adding fictional elements to their story.

My daughter choose this book for herself to read. She liked the description of the book due to her being interested in mystery book and the cover really appealed to her.
Jane Austen Investigates, The Abbey Mystery, is a lovely book for young girls to read .
Jane sister gets hurt in accident and her dog joins her on the journey Southmoor Abbey.
Jane is a really lovely character that you warm to straight the way.
The themes of the book sibling relationships-and friendship.

The Abbey Mystery was just a delight to read. It felt like a mash-up of Northanger Abbey and a Lady Hardcastle mystery in middle grade form. An adolescent Jane Austen turns witty heroine as she investigates a library fire and the disappearance of two prize horses. As you would expect, even in juvenile form, Jane poses a threat to convention with her confidence, smarts and canine companion. I hope this becomes a series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a breath of fresh air to read a new book that really felt like it was an old book.
As a lover of Recency fiction and of Austen in particular I was immediately hooked on the idea of following a young Jane on her adventures.
Julia Golding captures the plucky spirit of young Jane perfectly with her witty observations, casual asides and dry humour.
Jane is sent to be a stand in companion for Lady Cromwell at Southmoor Abbey where she soon becomes entangled in more mysteries than either she or her siblings at home could ever dream of. As her hosts prepare a magnificent party for the coming of age of their son, Jane begins to unravel the tale of the Ghostly Monk - for she believes in no such nonsense.
A tale of friendships made and trust and status tested The Abbey Mystery kept me reading on and on. There are plenty of twists and reveals to keep mystery enthusiasts entertained and historical facts and details galore for lovers of history.
This book would work brilliantly in UKS2 in a study of Edwardians/Victorians or looking at the perceptions of girls in history. I hope there will be more Jane Austen Investigates books - I can't wait to read more.

I received an advanced reader's copy from Net Galley but all thoughts are my own.

Golding's The Jane Austen Investigates is a charming tale that breathes personality to a child Jane Austen. The novel was engaging and the mystery made this a fun read. It reminded me of the Enola Holmes series so I have high hopes for this author.

I've taught both middle and high school and this is perfect for middle school readers. The book is short enough that students won't be intimitated and the mystery is engaging so students won't be bored. It also serves as a great introduction to Austen and might get some students interested in her works. I can easily see myself doing a unit using this book to teach plot since it has such a structured plot structure that students can confidently cite evidence.

Overall the book was a nice quick read that can easily be incorporated into a middle school classroom.

Jane Austen's reimagined life for pre teens

Is a Historical mystery for middle graders. I am a fan of Jane Austen’s work and could not Resist the cover, I was immediately intrigued, no matter my age. I am happy to get to know what is being done for kids, as soon I will be buying some books for my growing children. And this is a trully wonderful novel I would’ve loved when I was 11 years old.

The story follows a fictional Jane Austen that finds herself the companion of a lady in what might be a haunted Abby. The family is not very nice but they have some very interesting servents that make for compelling your friends.

The author used a lot of historical facts about the Austen family, their personalities, and their way of life. And for the older audience there is actually a lot of references to some of Austen’s work, her known letters to her sister, and her love for writing. In fact young people can learn a lot about the time period. The book is full of very educational bits and pieces about what people did and how their social class dictated what they were able or not able to do. The beginning of the book was a bit less natural in tone because of all the information. It wasn’t done in a heavy way, but it broke the flow a little with less natural storytelling. This actually feels like a first novel, as the tone of the book really improves around the middle mark. It feels like the author really got comfortable with her style and didn’t have to highlight those points which are real or which we know about the Austen family.

I like that there was talk about scientific progress, and a girl who could ride horses and handle weapons, all thanks to her being an exotic import from India, And therefore free from many of the girl’s constraints of the time. This makes for obviously richer stories. But it is obviously Jane’s wit and intelligence which is the star of the book.

The next volumes promise to be very entertaining too and I hope there will be a big series to follow because I am sure many girls will love it, especially fans of the Enola Holmes mystery series.

A big thanks to the publishers for providing me with Julia Golding’s new childrens mystery through Netgalley – it was such a fun read!

Ahhh just look at that cover! Now whilst I’m not the biggest classics fan, when I saw the words Jane Austen and historical detective, I was all in. Plus, the cover is BEAUTIFUL. ‘The Abbey Mystery’ follows a young Jane Austen sent away to a rich landowners’ estate and has to solve, not a murder as I’d first thought, but a robbery. Whilst you may ask, ‘do I need to know Jane Austen books to read this one?’ My answer is not in the least. To be honest, I thought it was a bit of unrelated detail that she was Jane Austen – the only reference to her growing up to be the great woman herself was that this Jane enjoyed writing. And had the same name. It felt more of a way to grab your attention without having to create an entirely new heroine, but I really enjoyed Jane’s character all the same.

“Words were Jane’s greatest treasure and she spent hers carefully.”

– THE ABBEY MYSTERY

I always love the omniscient narrator trope. The one where the narrator will correct the other characters – like if someone says ‘There will be no drama at the ball’ and the narrator cuts in with, ‘They couldn’t be more wrong’. It was used a few times in this book to create humor or tension – both of which were expertly done. I haven’t read Julia Golding’s other books, but after reading this, I think I’d like to.

Whilst The Abbey Mystery is aimed at children, the vocabulary isn’t childish and it’s well written. I loved this world of petticoats and prized horses – if you enjoyed the setting of Bridgerton, this is the book for you! (I was almost going to say ‘if you enjoyed Bridgerton, this is the book for you’ but would like to clarify that this is definitely not the same market 😂).

Also, I thought that the clues for the actual mystery were concise but consistent enough to keep you guessing. And whilst the actual explanation felt a bit rushed (I had to think about it for a while), it was a short book so I understand why Golding kept it brief.

Finally, Jane is a brilliant character and pretty funny – I actually laughed out loud a few times! There was some really empowering quotes; it was feminist in the way that a lot of historical children’s mysteries are. I’d recommend The Abbey Mystery for fans of the Murder Most Unladylike series by Robin Stevens or the Lady Grace series by Grave Cavendish (which I’d forgotten I used to be obsessed with) – or anyone looking for a fun light read.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher Lion Fiction for access to this arc in exchange for an honest review, all opinions are my own.

The Jane Austen investigates is a charming middle grade mystery perfect for the middle-grader who’s fond of a ghostly tale or the Jane Austen enthusiast of any age.

Follow a plucky young Jane and her faithful sidekick, Grandison the dog, as they discover the secrets of the ghost monk.

A fantastic beginning to a series. I can’t wait to read more

3.5 stars

I enjoyed The Abbey Ghost Mystery, it was a rather good adventure story.
Jane was clever, witty and fun and I could see the students in my school wanting to spend time with her. I could see this appealing to fans of Robin Stevens

I LOVED this book! What an ingenious take on the early life of the famous author Jane Austen. Golding portrays 13-year-old Jane as plain and practical while simultaneously vibrant and sparky. I especially enjoyed the events and scenes in this book that seem to seem to inspire her adult writing - Austen fans will be sure to smile.

The story was supported by a wonderfully conveyed cast of characters....and did I spy some familiar names...?! It was also funny, Jane's actions and comebacks were classic and honoured the witty tone of her own books and letters and made for an enjoyable and convincing portrayal. As a huge fan of both Jane Austen and 9-12 fiction, I felt that this was a fantastic combination and complemented both beautifully.

Fast paced and engaging, I was hooked from page one. A great introduction to Austen for younger readers and a brilliant period detective story.

Really looking forward to more!

I really enjoyed the book. The mystery was well executed. And the Main characters were very good. I liked the Main character, her sassiness and her ability to get in trouble.

The Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding is a YA historical novel. The action follows thirteen year old Jane in the late eighteenth century.
Our heroine is well drawn. She is a delightful mixture of curious, clumsy and clever. It is in her nature to seek out the answers to mysteries. It is this curiosity that has a tendency to land her into trouble.
We witness the power that the landed gentry wield. They put their faith in wealth and power over honesty and poverty. Young Jane sees beyond the wealth, or lack of it, to the heart within.
There are injustices that need to be righted. Jane Austen calls on her powers of amateur sleuthing.
I found The Abbey Mystery totally captivating. Julia Golding had created a perfect young Jane Austen. She actually reminded me very much of Elizabeth Bennett from Pride And Prejudice. As I read the novel I glimpsed names and events that would feature in Jane Austen’s novels.
Julia Golding has very cleverly constructed a novel very much in keeping with Jane Austen’s style of writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole novel and am looking forward to more in the series.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

This is the kind of read to sink into and get lost in until the very last page. And that's exactly what I did.

Jane's entire family is known to be adventurous and a bit unconventional. Despite this, they are well respected, and her older sister is requested to serve as companionship for the Lady of a wealthy family until their son has his coming-of-age party. But when Jane's sister is injured, she has to jump in. Her older brother spruces things up even more, when he makes a bet with her about the existence of a ghost at the Abby. Excited to start that investigation and win the bet, Jane's stay at the home begins. It brings all sorts of unexpected twists, most of which have nothing to do with the ghost in the slightest. But each one leaves her in dangerous situations and discovering secrets she should know nothing about.

When I started reading this, I was a little unsure how it would proceed. It is set in the later 1700's and stays as solid in that time frame as possible. Which means the dialogue and such also slides into this category. The terminology and word choice made me wonder if this one might steer out of the intended middle grade direction. But this fear was completely unnecessary. This book is very well done, the characters are fun to accompany, and the plot made it impossible to set down. Still, I do see this one more geared to the tween audience.

Jane is portrayed as a curious, risk-happy, slightly spunky, and yet, very aware of her duties as a young lady, kind of girl. And she's clever. Add her love for her 'lap-dog', and it's very hard not to like her. She makes mistakes but is quick to admit it and jump right back in. Plus, her moral compass is very well set, where it counts...even if this isn't acceptable to society's rules. She's the kind of girl, one wishes they could run around with and join in on her adventures.

While the historic time frame is very well portrayed and slips in masterfully without boring descriptions, it's the well-woven mystery, which really draws in. There are more than a few characters, but each has a personality of their own. They have their own troubles, and even those which are 'honorable' might not be perfectly so. This makes for a wide selection of 'who-dun-its', and the true instigators are hard to find until the end. But there are also several sub-plots running along the side, which make it hard not to fever for some of the other characters and hope they work out their problems as well. Plus, there are a few life lessons tossed into the mix.

I can highly recommend this one to mystery lovers, who enjoy a well-done jaunt into the past. While Jane Austen fans will enjoy it, by no means is it only for them (I, personally, have never been a Jane Austen fan and enjoyed every page). I really hope this is the beginning to a series because it promises to be a good one.

This book may not be aimed at my age group but it definitely kept me interested and coming back for more! Jane Austen her dog Grandison and a mystery? Yes please, I really hope we get more from this author because this was a great story!

This was such an enjoyable book! I loved Jane’s character, and the mystery was fun to puzzle out with her. I laughed while reading Jane’s letters to her sister, and I enjoyed immersing myself in the time period of the story. If you enjoy Nancy Drew or Enola Holmes books, you will like this one!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I have been a mystery fan for as long as I can remember. My earliest memories are of reading Encyclopedia Brown and The Boxcar Children. In my teens I moved on to young adult mysteries by Phyllis Whitney as well as some Sherlock Holmes. Children often have difficulty finding things to read after graduating from Encyclopedia Brown or The Boxcar Children, but thankfully, Julia Golding is helping to bridge that gap (and also raising interest in the author Jane Austen--double kudos for that!). I was thrilled that I could preview her first title, The Abbey Mystery, in her new series, "Jane Austen Investigates."

I knew I would love the book because:
It is set in England
It features a young Jane Austen
It was written by Julia Golding (check out my review of her book The Tigers in the Tower)
Mysteries are a wonderful tool for helping children begin to make observations and pay attention to detail as they read. Readers become detectives themselves as they seek to read between the lines and notice any irregularities in the story that might hint at the solution. Therefore, mysteries can play a large part in helping sharpen critical thinking skills.

In The Abbey Mystery, a young Jane Austen has been sent as a substitute companion to an aunt (due to her sister's untimely injury). Sitting idly by and pursuing lady-like endeavors is not exactly Jane's cup of tea. Thankfully there are young servants with whom she can befriend while there (very carefully, so as not to get them into trouble with their employer). Being a precocious adolescent, Jane is fueled by her spunk and curiosity to investigate the disappearance of two of her uncle's prized horses. When a man is falsely accused of the theft, Jane feels she has no choice but to discover the criminal on her own (with some help from her new friends).

Readers of middle grade all the way through adult will enjoy the glimpse into what Jane Austen's childhood may have been like (she's not exactly here to contradict). While Jane was definitely more of the "poor relation," I loved that she befriended those who were beneath her. And she did not shrink back from exposing evil even at great risk to herself. Young Jane Austen is a heroine I hope to meet again in future books from Julia Golding!

Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery from NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.

This was a fabulous book! My daughter was hooked from the first chapter. She loved that Jane Austin was a detective with her dog, Grandison as her sidekick. Shes now obsessed with the author and the rest of the books she had. Looking forward to more of this series..

"Jane Austen turns detective in this spooky historical adventure by award-winning author Julia Golding!

It’s 1789 and a young Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. When a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming-of-age party. While there, Jane vows to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds - for she does not believe in such stories!

But this is not the only strange occurrence for the adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are shivery night-time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations.

With notebook in hand and her faithful dog Grandison by her side, will Jane overcome the continuous obstacles and find out the truth?"

It's Jane Austen meets Nancy Drew and I am HERE FOR IT!

This story follows the misadventures of Jane Austen's early years, slowly but surely, becoming the true Jane Austen we all know and love through her later letters and stories. Jane solves an odd mystery at an odd place full of odd characters!

A very fun and easy read. You can definitely see Austen's sass in the words and they're not too old-timey, so they're understandable for middle-grade audiences. The mystery is captivating and fun, the characters were all fun and unique!

Thanks to NetGalley for supplying this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Jane Austen is a spirited young girl, she’s sent to the Cromwell household to keep company to Lady Cromwell for a week until her son’s birthday party and ball. She is pretty bored from her obligation but soon she finds out a legend about a vengeful ghost that haunts the Abbey next the house so she decides to invastigate. Will Jane be able to stay out of troubles as was recommended from her mother? Or will she give in to her curiosity?

A little slow at the start, but then the pace accelerates, bringing out the pathos of the mystery and the consequent investigation, making the story so engaging it is hard to put it down.

I liked this young version of Jane Austen, who definitely already has her artistic and imaginative talent but here she shows especially her witti mind and her tremendous curiosity.

I’ve really enjoyed to follow her in this adventure and I hope to see her again in the future.

Thirteen year old Jane Austen is the feisty young detective at the centre of this story featuring mystery and ghostly goings-on at Southmoor Abbey.

Sent away to act as companion to Lady Cromwell, Jane soon finds herself bored and wandering the grounds of Southmoor Abbey. Here she meets a diverse cast of characters and starts to uncover the secrets carefully hidden beneath the surface.

Whilst there are clearly references to Austen’s novels there’s no need to be familiar with her work to enjoy this story.

With a great opening line and fast-moving plot Jane Austen Investigates is perfect for readers 9+ who enjoy historical mysteries.

I find this to be such a cool concept. I absolutely would have loved to read this when I was younger before I was ready to take on Jane Austen’s books. My grandmother was a big Jane Austen fan so my interest started well before I read any of her books and I imagine other young readers would receive similar delight from this tale. I also really enjoyed the Nancy Drew vibes I got from the mystery, it was so fun and well done.

The characters were great and really brought the class system of the time to light. It was fascinating how Jane’s kind of in-between status not really being as elevated as her hosts but still a guest gave her some freedoms as well as limitations. I also thought the book did a solid job including some of the complicated history of India and England’s relationship into the book. It felt both age and time period appropriate and hopefully will spark young readers to want to learn more.

Aimed at children/middle grade readers, this book (and hopefully series) is quick paced and fun! We all know Jane Austen as an author par excellence, who has given us readers some of the best and memorable classics full of wit and astute observations about people and society of her time. In this book we find a 13 year old Jane Austen, a lively young girl who is already showing signs of her famous wit and observational skills and who is up for solving mysteries as well! A cute, fun read with characters & setting that hint towards the more famous ones found in her popular novels and a good way to encourage young readers to learn more about Jane Austen and the times she lived in.

My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Lion Hudson Ltd/Lion Fiction and the author Julia Golding for the e-Arc of the book.

The publication date for the book is 23rd April 2021.

Wow, this was a total blast! It's a breeze to read and so much fun! Before Jane Austen was famous writer she was a teenage detective! This story follows her as she investigates a strange occurrence. She gets into all type of adventures and situations. I seriously loved this story! It was well written and such a unique twist on Jane Austen!

Jane Austen Investigates is about a clever young Jane Austen who is sent to be the companion for Lady Cromwell. Before she goes she learns about there being a ghost at the abbey from her brother and he challenges her to find the ghost and prove it exists.

Jane brings along her lapdog, which isn’t really a small dog, and that doesn’t win her any marks with the Cromwell’s and it has to stay outside in the stables, where she meets a young man named Luke. Jane does see some strange things going on with a light at night and learns about the old abbey that is off limits because it’s dangerous but of course that doesn’t stop Jane from checking it out.

While sitting with Lady Cromwell one day she learns about a secret that could ruin the Cromwell’s when lady Cromwell has a young man that works for them look into their history. She is sworn to secrecy and that is just one of the things that happens while she is there. When some other things happen and one of the low class is accused of theft and arson she must investigate to help him because she knows the real reason he is being accused.

I really liked Jane she was an inquisitive young lady who was always writing in her notebook. She was mostly writing about things that happened as if she was writing her sister and so that she wouldn’t forget anything that happened. She was very proud of the fact that she could find herself in various situations because that is just what Austen’s do! I also really liked Luke he followed her when she asked him to even if he knew it was going to get him into trouble and also knew that she would probably be able to help his friend who was being accused. Though we didn’t get a lot of Deepti I liked her she was an servant from India who was there with her father. There was just a great cast of characters from ones to love to ones to hate.

I thought the mystery was actually a pretty good one and we are given a few suspects and I think any young reader who loves mysteries could probably figure it out but it wasn’t super easy. I think it would easy be a great mystery for adults to enjoy. I am not for sure if it’s a series but I think it might be and if it is I will be checking out the next one.

What an absolute delight! The author captured the voice of Jane Austen perfectly, while still infusing it with so much youth and playfulness. I hope this title introduces many young readers to the joy of Jane (and of a good mystery).