First Impressions

Jayne Entwistle narrates with a perfect combination of engaged enthusiasm and subtlety as bibliophile Sophie Collingwood is led into a scandalous mystery: Did her favorite author, Jane Austen, plagiarize PRIDE AND PREJUDICE? The chapters alternate between Sophie's story in the present day and Austen's story in the late 1700s. Entwistle delivers both delightfully with her sublime English accent and ability to completely disappear from the narration. She allows both stories to unfold at a leisurely pace as Lovett's beautiful writing shines through. Even Entwistle's American accent is excellent, just enough for listeners to get the idea without being distracted. There's mystery, danger, and romance as Sophie sets out to prove Austen's innocence. Book lovers, Austen lovers, and cozy mystery lovers will find this an enchanting listen. M.M.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine