Jane and the Ghosts of Netley by Stephanie BarronMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
One of my favorite books. And my favorite series.
The most important details about this novel are spoilers. I can't even characterize my reaction without spoilers. But here's what I can say: Jane Austen the character is such a pleasure--being intelligent, brave, sensible, loyal, modest, kind, and doggedly persistent in pursuit of answers to mysteries, even when forced to behave outside the norms of her society--that it's impossible not to admire her and wish the best for her and feel protective of her as if she were a real person. (I mean, she was a real person, but you know...) And when someone else, someone with status and power and money and position, sees the value in her that so many other people overlook, and knows to admire her, you can't help but cheer for her and hope the best for them both.
The connection between Jane and the so-called Gentlemen Rogue drives this novel, and it makes it unforgettable. Mrs. Challoner is interesting, too, and I love the grumpy old seaman, Mr. Hawkins, who helps Jane get around on the water, but the whole thing revolves around the mutual admiration and apparent love story going on between the two main characters. And it makes this possibly the best book in the series.
Napoleon is trying to sabotage England's war machine, and spies are everywhere along the coast. Good mystery, good history, good action, and great characters. Highly recommended.
But read all of them.
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