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Jane Austen Made Me Do It: Original Stories Inspired by Literature's Most Astute Observer of the Human Heart (Being a Jane Austen Mystery) Kindle Edition

by Adriana Trigiani (Author), Jo Beverley (Author), Margaret Sullivan (Author), Format: Kindle Edition

115 ratings

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Stories by: Lauren Willig • Adriana Trigiani • Jo Beverley • Alexandra Potter • Laurie Viera Rigler • Frank Delaney & Diane Meier • Syrie James • Stephanie Barron • Amanda Grange • Pamela Aidan • Elizabeth Aston • Carrie Bebris • Diana Birchall • Monica Fairview • Janet Mullany • Jane Odiwe • Beth Pattillo • Myretta Robens • Jane Rubino and Caitlen Rubino-Bradway • Maya Slater • Margaret C. Sullivan • and Brenna Aubrey, the winner of a story contest hosted by the Republic of Pemberley

“My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.” If you just heaved a contented sigh at Mr. Darcy’s heartfelt words, then you, dear reader, are in good company. Here is a delightful collection of never-before-published stories inspired by Jane Austen—her novels, her life, her wit, her world.

In Lauren Willig’s “A Night at Northanger,” a young woman who doesn’t believe in ghosts meets a familiar specter at the infamous abbey; Jane Odiwe’s “Waiting” captures the exquisite uncertainty of Persuasion’s Wentworth and Anne as they await her family’s approval of their betrothal; Adriana Trigiani’s “Love and Best Wishes, Aunt Jane” imagines a modern-day Austen giving her niece advice upon her engagement; in Diana Birchall’s “Jane Austen’s Cat,” our beloved Jane tells her nieces “cat tales” based on her novels; Laurie Viera Rigler’s “Intolerable Stupidity” finds Mr. Darcy bringing charges against all the writers of Pride and Prejudice sequels, spin-offs, and retellings; in Janet Mullany’s “Jane Austen, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!” a teacher at an all-girls school invokes the Beatles to help her students understand Sense and Sensibility; and in Jo Beverley’s “Jane and the Mistletoe Kiss,” a widow doesn’t believe she’ll have a second chance at love . . . until a Miss Austen suggests otherwise.

Regency or contemporary, romantic or fantastical, each of these marvelous stories reaffirms the incomparable influence of one of history’s most cherished authors.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Jane Austen Made Me Do It is the rare short-story compilation in which each and every one of the twenty-two stories manages to shine. Each contains a new take on Austen, a new concept of what Austen hoped to do with her life and work or even a new take on modern romance from Austen’s viewpoint." --Romance Junkies

"If you love all things Austen, I think you will find this quite diverting and enjoy the fun that the authors had with the wealth of material that Ms.Austen supplied throughout her writing career. I truly enjoyed this little visit into different dimensions of the Jane Austen universe. I gave it 4 stars." --Ex Libris

"This anthology has a little something for every Jane Austen fan." --Rakehell

“The overall quality of the collection is high, and rare will be the reader who fails to find a few favorites to delight an Austen-loving heart.” --Just Janga

"I was impressed with all the clever approaches in which Austen themes can be recreated, intriguing and entertaining me with new characters and their stories. This collection of stories is a must for all fans of Jane Austen, and it is a great tool for introducing the authors of the Austenesque genre as well." --Burton Book Review

"All the stories were enjoyable, but some had that little quirk that really made me think or laugh. Laurel Ann Nattress has created a volume that will have something (more than one something, of that I'm sure) for everyone." --Citivolus Sus

"I tip my hat to Laurel Ann for overseeing this ambitious and very worthwhile project, for this is her first book. I give Jane Austen Made Me Do It five out of five Regency tea cups!" --Jane Austen's World

"Jane Austen Made Me Do It was another Anthology that I loved. . . there is a little bit of everything for everyone." --A Buckeye Girl Reads

"Each story in this anthology is very unique. I had so many favorites among them that it was really hard to pick just two. If you're a Jane Austen fan, you have to read Jane Austen Made Me Do It!" --Popcorn Reads

"I am all praise for Laurel Ann Nattress who has collected a fine group of writers, and a fine volume of stories showcasing everything from historical to contemporary to young-adult fiction to paranormal." --The Little White Attic

"I enjoyed this collection of short stories more than I anticipated. It had everything, really – continuations; spin-offs; stories about Jane; stories inspired by Jane; even a couple stories where Jane's ghost was involved." --Readin' and Dreamin'

"For fans of "Austenesque" fiction, this collection will be a box of bonbons." --The Seattle Times

About the Author

A life-long acolyte of Jane Austen, Laurel Ann Nattress is the author/editor of Austenprose.com, a blog devoted to the oeuvre of her favorite author and the many books and movies that she has inspired. Nattress is a lifetime member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and a regular contributor to the PBS blog Remotely Connected. Classically trained as a landscape designer at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo, she has also worked in marketing for a Grand Opera company and at present she delights in introducing neophytes to the charms of Miss Austen’s prose as a professional bookseller. An expatriate of southern California, Laurel Ann lives in a country cottage near Seattle, Washington, where it rains a lot.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

JANE AUSTEN'S NIGHTMARE

Syrie James

Chawton, Wednesday 2 August 1815

An extraordinary adventure which I only just experienced proved to be so vivid and distressing-and yet ultimately so illuminating-that I feel I must record it in its entirety.

It was a gloomy, grey, frigid afternoon, and I found myself traversing a strangely quiet and deserted street in Bath. (Bath! It is indeed the most tiresome place in the world, a visit there surely akin to a descent into Hades.) A low fog hung in the air, dampening the pavements and obscuring the heights of the long rows of limestone townhouses on either side of me.

I wondered how I had come to be there, and why I was alone. Should I not be snug at home at Chawton Cottage? Where were all the residents of Bath-a city generally so filled with crowds, noise, and confusion? Where did I get the (very smart) pale blue muslin gown in which I was attired, and the grey wool cloak with its beautiful lace collar, both too handsome to be seen much less worn? As I shivered and wrapped my cloak more tightly about me, I observed a pretty young woman of about seventeen years of age emerge from the fog and venture in my direction. I could not prevent a little start of surprise, for the newcomer looked exactly like Marianne Dashwood-at least the Marianne that I had envisioned while writing Sense and Sensibility.

How wonderful it was, I thought, that a real-life woman and a complete stranger should so closely resemble the character whom I had created entirely in my mind! I was about to politely avert my gaze when, of a sudden, the young woman's eyes widened and she marched determinedly up to me.

"Miss Jane Austen, is it not?" exclaimed she, stopping directly before me.

"Yes," replied I, uncertain how it was possible that this young woman should be acquainted with me.

"Surely you recognise me!" persisted she in an impassioned tone.

"Should I? I am very sorry. I do not believe we have ever met."

"Of course we have! You created me. I am Marianne."

I was at a loss for words. Had I imbibed too much wine at dinner? Was this exchange simply another one of my imaginative flights of fancy? Or could it be that, by some remarkable twist of fate, it was truly occurring? Whatever the cause, I did not wish to appear rude. "Of course," said I, smiling as I extended my hand to her, "I did think you looked familiar. How lovely to make your acquaintance in person at last. How have you been?"

"Not well. Not well at all!" cried she with a vigorous shake of her curls as she ignored my proffered hand. "I have wanted to converse with you for such a long time, I am grateful to at last have the opportunity." Her eyes flashed as she demanded, "What could you have been thinking, Jane-I may call you Jane, may I not?-when you wrote all that about me?"

"When I wrote what?" responded I uncertainly.

"In every scene throughout that entire, horrid novel," answered Marianne, "you presented me as the most selfish and self-involved creature on the face of the earth. I was always waxing rhapsodic about poetry or dead leaves, harshly critiquing somebody or something, or crying my eyes out in the depths of despair! Could not you have given me even one scene where I might have behaved with equanimity?"

This verbal assault, so entirely unexpected and delivered with such depth of emotion, took me utterly aback. "I-I was simply attempting to make you different from your sister," explained I, my voice faltering, "to portray two opposite temperaments."

"By my example then, do you mean to imply that having passionate feelings is a great evil?" cried Marianne.

"No-not at all. My aim was to illustrate the injurious nature of wallowing in excessive emotion and the importance of self-restraint."

"If that is so, was it truly necessary to enforce such suffering upon me to get across your point? You made me look ridiculous and pathetic! You humiliated me at a party! You nearly had me die-literally die! And the most cruel offence of all, Jane: you broke my heart. You had me fall madly, passionately in love with a man who was akin to my second self, and then you deliberately and remorselessly snatched him away!" Marianne choked back a sob as she dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief from her reticule. "All the other heroines in every one of your novels end up with the man they love, except me. You married me off to a man nearly twice my age! How could you do it?"

A paroxysm of guilt pierced through me with the speed of an arrow. Every word she spoke was true. Had I indeed sacrificed Marianne's happiness to convey a lesson? But no-no.

"I am sorry, Marianne," murmured I with sincere compassion. "I did indeed put you through a great many trials in my novel-but in the end, everything turns out well. I hope you and Colonel Brandon are very happy?"

"Colonel Brandon is the most loyal, amiable, and good-hearted of gentlemen," retorted Marianne testily. "He loves me, of that I am well aware, and I suppose I love him back. Every day I try to remind myself how fortunate I am to be his wife. But every day is just as quiet, spiritless, and dull as the last! We read. We take walks. We ride horses. We dine. He cleans his rifle and hunts. I do needle-work and play the pianoforte. Oh! Were it not for my mother's and sisters' visits, I think I should go mad! Where is the heart-pounding excitement I felt in every encounter with Willoughby? Am I never to feel that way again?"

"Marianne," answered I solemnly, "the excitement you describe might be thrilling for a moment, but it is not the preferred way to live. A marriage based on affection, respect, and companionship is a more desirable union, and will make you far happier."

"Happier? What do you know of happiness, Jane? Upon what do you base these assumptions? You, who have never married!"

Her brutal and tactless remarks made me gasp-yet I reminded myself that I had created her-I had made her what she was. "I base them upon my observations of other married couples. I could not in good conscience allow you to marry Willoughby. He was greedy, selfish, and fickle, and would have made you miserable. I thought you understood that at the end."

"You put words in my mouth to show what I had learned-but they were your words, Jane, not mine. I know the truth. I know why you stole my Willoughby away: it was because you could not have Mr. Ashford. You suffered, so you made certain that I suffered, as well!"

At the mention of Mr. Ashford's name, my heart seized and I let out a little gasp. Not a day passed that I did not think of Mr. Ashford. He was the one, true love of my life, but for good reason, I had told no one about our relationship-no one except Henry and my sister. How could Marianne know about him?

"It was most unfair of you, Jane! Most unfair!" Tears streamed down Marianne's cheeks now and she took a quivering breath. "Could not you have given me and Willoughby a second chance? You might have redeemed him at any time had you chosen to, but you did not. I declare, I will never forgive you!" With this last, heated remark, she turned and darted away.

"Marianne, come back!" cried I, running after her. "Have you forgotten Eliza, whom Willoughby seduced, disgraced, and abandoned? I saved you from Willoughby! He was one of the worst offenders I ever created! Colonel Brandon is worth a hundred Willoughbys! He is the true hero of the novel!"

But the fog enveloped Marianne's retreating form and she disappeared from my view.

I stopped, catching my breath, remorse and confusion coursing through me. If only she had given me more time to explain! But even if she had, how could I defend what I had done? Should I have redeemed Willoughby? I had barely the briefest interval, however, to contemplate these misgivings when, from a tea shop but a few yards ahead of me, emerged two young ladies deeply engaged in conversation.

I recognised them at once: it was Marianne's sister Elinor, walking arm in arm with Fanny Price. I was astounded. How was it possible that these two women from entirely different novels should be acquainted with each other? Moreover, what were they doing in Bath? They looked up, exchanged a brief, surprised glance, and hurried up to me.

"Good afternoon, Miss Austen," said Elinor with a graceful curtsey. "How lovely to see you."

"This is an extraordinary coincidence," murmured Fanny with a shy curtsey of her own. "Mrs. Ferrars and I were just talking about you."

"We only just met an hour ago," explained Elinor, nodding towards the establishment behind them, "and already we have become fast friends. We discovered that we have a great deal in common."

"You are indeed very much alike," agreed I with a smile, pleased by the notion of their new friendship. "I have dearly loved you both since the moment of your inception."

"You see?" said Fanny quietly, darting a meaningful look at her companion.

Elinor nodded gravely but remained silent.

A foreboding feeling came over me. "Is any thing the matter?" asked I.

"Not a thing," said Elinor.

"The weather is very cold and damp," observed Fanny, "do not you think?"

I knew them both too well to be taken in by the polite composure on their faces. "You need not keep any secrets from me. If there is something you wish to say, please speak freely."

"Well," said Fanny reluctantly, "we do not mean to complain. It is just that-" She could not go on.

"It is about our characters," interjected Elinor quickly.

"Your characters?" answered I. "But what is wrong with your characters? You are both excellent, intelligent women, with sincere and affectionate dispositions, strength of understanding, calmness of manner, and coolness of judgment."

"Precisely," stated Fanny.

"You made us too perfect," said Elinor.

"Too perfect?" cried I. "How can any one be too perfect?"

"I always behaved with the utmost of propriety," said Elinor, "no matter how difficult or oppressive the circumstance. At only nineteen years of age, I was required to be the model of patience, perseverance, and fortitude, obliged to keep my entire family financially and emotionally afloat, and to conceal my pain beneath a façade of complete composure, even when my heart was breaking."

"Yes, and you are admired for your strength of character, Elinor," insisted I.

"Admired perhaps, but not liked. No one likes a character who is flawless, Miss Austen."

"It was the same for me," remarked Fanny. "How I succeeded in maintaining even a modicum of self-respect in such a hostile, belittling, and unfeeling environment as Mansfield Park is purely due to God's grace and your pen. You made me sit timidly by while the man I loved chased after another woman, had me refuse a charming man who was almost entirely good, and would not even allow me to participate in a private play, insisting that it was indelicate and wrong! How I disliked myself! No one is fond of a shy, priggish, and passive character, Miss Austen. No one!"

"I am very fond of you," returned I emphatically. "Edmund likes you. He loves you."

"Only because you made him just as good and virtuous as I."

"The book has oft been praised for its morality and sound treatment of the clergy!" insisted I a little desperately.

"That may be so," said Fanny, "and please correct me if I am wrong, but your own mother finds me insipid, your niece Anna cannot bear me, and the reading public at large finds Edmund and I both annoying and as dull as dishwater."

To my mortification, I could not refute her statement.

"People love strong, outspoken characters," said Elinor, "who will not allow themselves to be trampled on by others-characters who have flaws but overcome them. Yet in our books, you imply that by being consistently patient, good, and silent, a woman can rise above difficult circumstances."

"Surely this message controverts everything you told us about life in that other book," said Fanny.

"What other book?" asked I.

"Why, the book that is everyone's favorite," answered Elinor with a tight little smile. She then said good-day, and after Fanny made a final comment about the weather, the pair linked arms, turned, and made their way down the damp, grey pavement.

My thoughts were in such a state of disarray that I hardly knew what to think or feel. I strode off in the opposite direction, crossing the road, when a carriage suddenly appeared out of the fog and nearly ran me down. It was some time before my heart returned to its natural pace. How long I walked on in this distracted manner along the nearly deserted streets I cannot say, but at length I passed the Abbey Church and found myself standing outside the Pump-room. A cacophony of voices issued from within, proof that not all the inhabitants of Bath had stayed at home.

As I was cold and thirsty, I hurried inside the Pump-room, where a crowd milled about in spacious elegance, and musicians in the west apse performed a pleasant air. A cursory glance revealed that I had no acquaintance there. Appreciative of the heat emanating from two large fireplaces, I made my way to the fountain, where I paid the attendant for a glass of water and drank it down. As I turned, I nearly collided with a handsome young man smartly dressed in the uniform of a naval officer, exactly like that of my brothers Frank and Charles.

"Forgive me," said he with a bow, before purchasing his own glass and moving on. The naval captain made a most arresting figure, and I wondered what lay behind the sad look in his eyes. My attention was soon diverted, however, by the sight of an attractive, fashionably dressed young woman who was intently studying all the passersby, as if seeking out some one in particular. She looked strangely familiar. All at once I knew why: it was Emma Woodhouse.

Emma! In my view, one of the most delightful creatures I had ever conceived! Upon catching sight of me, Emma started with recognition, a look that quickly turned to worry as she glided to my side.

"There you are! I have been looking every where for you, Miss Austen. Have the others found you?"

"The others?"

"Word has got out that you are in town. There are quite a few people who are-" (she hesitated) "-most anxious to speak with you."

Oh dear, I thought, my heart sinking. This could prove to be a most exhausting day. "Thank you. I will keep an eye out for the others, whoever they may be. But how is it that you are here, Emma? My book about you is only just completed. It has yet to be sold or published."

Product details

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B004JN1DFU
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Ballantine Books
Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 11, 2011
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 4.0 MB
Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Print length ‏ : ‎ 466 pages
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0345524973
Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled

Best Sellers Rank: #530,457 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #2,911 in Women's Literary Fiction
- #7,023 in Short Stories Anthologies
- #9,551 in Contemporary Women's Fiction

Customer Reviews:
115 ratings

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Brenna Aubrey
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**Please click the orange "+Follow" button to follow Brenna on Amazon & be notified about her new releases**
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Brenna Aubrey is a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of contemporary romance stories that center on geek culture. Her debut novel, At Any Price, is currently free on all platforms. Her books are on over a million e-readers worldwide, have been translated into German, French, Italian and Dutch. They've also been adapted as an interactive app game. Look for the brand new POINT OF NO RETURN series and her extremely popular GAMING THE SYSTEM series.
She has always sought comfort in good books and the long, involved stories she weaves in her head. Brenna is a city girl with a nature-lover’s heart. She therefore finds herself out in green open spaces any chance she can get. She currently resides on the west coast of the US with her husband and children (both human and furry).
THE POINT OF NO RETURN SERIES:
HIGH RISK ~ available now (Ryan & Gray part 1)
HIGH REWARD ~ available now (Ryan & Gray part 2)
THE GAMING THE SYSTEM SERIES:
0 Girl Geek ~ available now (prequel)
1 At Any Price ~ available now (Adam & Mia part 1)
2 At Any Turn ~ available now (Adam & Mia part 2)
3 At Any Moment ~ available now (Adam & Mia part 3)
4 For The Win ~ available now (Jordan & April)
5 For The One ~ available now (William & Jenna)
6 Worth Any Cost ~ available now (Adam & Mia part 4)
7 It Was Always You ~ available now (Jeremy & Michaela)
8 For The Taking ~ available now (Katya & Lucas)
More to be announced SOON.
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Myretta Robens
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Myretta Robens has lived in Regency England since she was old enough to read Jane Austen. As no eligible peers presented themselves and she never could get vouchers for Almack’s, she was forced to make her way by going into trade. She spent more years than she cares to count working in the field of information technology. It was rewarding in its own way but she never abandoned her first love. In 1997, She found an interesting way to insinuate the 19th century into the world of technology when she joined a friend in creating a Jane Austen web site. She still manages The Republic of Pemberley and invites you to visit if your obsession runs to Jane Austen.
When Myretta is not in the Regency, she lives outside Boston with her Australian Cattle Dog and a varying number of cats. You can find her online at myrettarobens.com, @Myretta and facebook.com/myrettarobens
Just Say Yes, her second published novel, was a finalist for RWA’s RITA award and won the Holt Medallion. Her latest release is Dressed to Kiss, an anthology set in England right before the coronation of George IV. She is delighted to have worked with three wonderful authors (Madeline Hunter, Caroline Linden, and Megan Frampton) on this fun book. Look for Lady Ashby's Major Scandal, coming out soon.
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Laurel Ann Nattress
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A life-long acolyte of Jane Austen, Laurel Ann Nattress is the author/editor of Austenprose.com a blog devoted to the oeuvre of her favorite author and the many books and movies that she has inspired. She is a life member of the Jane Austen Society of North America, a regular contributor to the PBS blog Remotely Connected and the Jane Austen Centre online magazine. Classically trained as a landscape designer at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo, she has also worked in marketing for a Grand Opera company and at present she delights in introducing neophytes to the charms of Miss Austen’s prose as a bookseller. An expatriate of southern California, Laurel Ann lives in a country cottage near Snohomish, Washington where it rains a lot. Visit Laurel Ann at her blog Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog, on Twitter as @Austenprose, and on Facebook as Laurel Ann Nattress.
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Monica Fairview
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Author of Pride and Prejudice variations and Magical Austenesque fantasy, Monica Fairview has been publishing since 2009. In the past, she worked as a literature professor and an acupuncturist. Now she spends her life in 19th century England, interacting with strong ladies in bonnets and handsome gentlemen in cravats and waistcoats.
Born in London, Monica lived in the USA for many years. She now resides close to Box Hill, where Jane Austen's Emma went for a picnic.
Monica loves to read until past midnight, chuckle, and visit historical places. Sometimes she enjoys doing nothing at all.
To find out when her next book is coming out, click the FOLLOW button on Amazon.
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/fantasyjaneausten
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Customer reviews

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Customers say

Customers find the book perfect for Jane Austen fans, with uniformly excellent writing and clean content. Moreover, the stories are diverse, with one customer describing them as a "veritable cornucopia," and customers enjoy them immensely. However, the humor receives mixed reactions, with some finding it really funny while others describe it as very silly. Additionally, the story quality receives mixed feedback, with some finding the stories excellent while others find them quite boring.

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Entertainment value Enjoyment Pacing Diversity Writing quality Story quality Humor

7 customers mention "Entertainment value"7 positive0 negative

Customers find the book entertaining and perfect for Jane Austen fans, with one customer noting its wide range of approaches to the author's work.

"...human nature, the happiest delineation of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour are conveyed to the world in the best chosen..." Read more

"...There were also a lot of modern versions of Jane Austen's work. They were all written very entertaining and I enjoyed them immensely...." Read more

"Some are great, others not so much, but all in all a very enjoyable take on Jane Austen's writing style and characters." Read more

"...in this volume is also a big plus, allowing a wide range of entertaining approaches to Austen." Read more

6 customers mention "Enjoyment"6 positive0 negative

Customers find the stories enjoyable, with one comparing them to an ice cream sundae.

"...They were all written very entertaining and I enjoyed them immensely. I personally rated most of the stories 4 stars, some 5 stars...." Read more

"...Though very silly, it was really funny, and I loved reading it, though the actual plot between the defense lawyer and the prosecutor wasn't that..." Read more

"...And being a Jane Austen lover, this book was like an ice cream sundae, totally delicious!" Read more

"Some are great, others not so much, but all in all a very enjoyable take on Jane Austen's writing style and characters." Read more

4 customers mention "Pacing"4 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the pacing of the book, with one review noting it is inspired by Jane Austen's life and displays her greatest powers of mind, while another describes it as a veritable cornucopia of content.

"...only a novel... or, in short, some work in which the greatest powers of the mind are displayed, in which the most thorough knowledge of human nature..." Read more

"...paranormal, humorous, serious, in a courtroom, in a classroom, JA book-inspired, JA life-inspired...it's a veritable cornucopia...." Read more

"...All the authors who write about the different are very clever in bring out what readers want to read about Jane's writing." Read more

"...A really good idea and I would love a book two-please!" Read more

3 customers mention "Diversity"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the diversity of the stories, with one noting how each one is unique.

"...which the most thorough knowledge of human nature, the happiest delineation of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour are conveyed..." Read more

"...Here are twenty-two short stories to add fuel to the fire. Each one is unique...." Read more

"...There are 22 tales, and they're quite diverse...." Read more

3 customers mention "Writing quality"3 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book, with one noting it is uniformly excellent, while another mentions it is clean and well-edited.

"...effusions of wit and humour are conveyed to the world in the best chosen language." Northanger Abbey, Volume 1, Chapter 5..." Read more

"...They were all written very entertaining and I enjoyed them immensely. I personally rated most of the stories 4 stars, some 5 stars...." Read more

"...Content is clean. Highly recommend! I received this book as a gift from the editor with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise." Read more

19 customers mention "Story quality"13 positive6 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the stories in the book, with some finding them excellent while others describe them as boring.

"...What I like so much about short story anthologies is that regardless of your schedule, you can usually find time to read at least one story... the..." Read more

"This compilation of short stories was wonderful. There were to many to comment on any specific story, as there were 22 such stories...." Read more

"...Jane Austen's Nightmare, Syrie James An intriguing story where Jane Austen herself wandered the streets of Bath, encountering some rather..." Read more

"...Though some stories were just okay, I others I really liked, and still others I loved. I would highly recommend this collection...." Read more

8 customers mention "Humor"5 positive3 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the humor in the book, with some finding it really funny and entertaining, while others describe it as very silly.

"...Though very silly, it was really funny, and I loved reading it, though the actual plot between the defense lawyer and the prosecutor wasn't that..." Read more

"...Regency, modern, paranormal, humorous, serious, in a courtroom, in a classroom, JA book-inspired, JA life-inspired...it's a veritable cornucopia...." Read more

"...uninteresting book of stories that were too short and at times, too silly...." Read more

"...here from true fan fiction to credible what ifs, lovely lovely read from laughter to pathos.A really good idea and I would love a book two-please!" Read more

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Christina Boyd
Dream Team of Austen Authors+ Deft Editing Skills= Grand Slam Hit!
Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2011
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"It is only a novel... or, in short, some work in which the greatest powers of the mind are displayed, in which the most thorough knowledge of human nature, the happiest delineation of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour are conveyed to the world in the best chosen language." Northanger Abbey, Volume 1, Chapter 5

Jane Austen Made Me Do It, Original Stories Inspired by Literature`s Most Astute Observer of the Human Heart is a collection of twenty-two original Jane Austen-inspired stories including contributions from best-selling authors Pamela Aidan, Stephanie Barron, Carrie Bebris, Laurie Viera Rigler and Lauren Willig. Editor Laurel Ann Nattress, and blog mistress of Austenprose - A Jane Austen Blog, has assembled her dream team of authors and for this anthology asking them to "stay within the theme of exploring Austen's philosophies of life and love by reacquainting readers with characters from her novels or introducing original stories inspired by her ideals. From historical to contemporary to young-adult fiction to paranormal, five of the major novels and Austen's life are featured in this anthology," p. xiv. In addition, one story by a previously unpublished author, Brenna Aubrey, was picked as Grand Prize winner via a contest hosted by the Austen fan site Pemberley.com. With such a significant range in this compilation, surely one would agree, "One cannot have too large a party. A large party secures its own amusement." Emma, Volume 3, Chapter 6

On my first reading of this anthology, I must admit that I singled out my favorite authors first. Yes, yes. I realize out of order was not how the editor intended it to be read, but, "One man's way may be as good as another's, but we all like our own best." Persuasion, Volume 2, Chapter 1. So of course, for me, I began with "Jane & the Gentleman Rogue," by Stephanie Barron. What can I say? You had me with the title. Anything that has more of the Gentleman Rogue must be 5 stars. This was a terrific "fragment of a Jane Austen Mystery" chocked full of treason and breathless intrigue, that Barron surely knocked out of the park!

Another stand out was "Letters to Lydia" by Maya Slater. In the spirit of Jane Austen's much studied remaining correspondence, these are letters from Pride & Prejudice's minor character Maria Lucas, the younger sister of Mrs. William Collins, nee Miss Charlotte Collins to Elizabeth Bennet's youngest and wildest sister, Lydia Bennet. Loved, loved, loved how I could truly hear Maria's voice as she recounts a supposed secret Love Affair and tryst between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet- and how she unwittingly "helped them along." (Bonus points for Mr. Collins' lisp!)

"Jane Austen and the Mistletoe Kiss," by Jo Beverley was a definite favorite. Flowing with Austen-like brilliance, this tale about a genteel, but impoverished, widow and her three daughters who have an amiable, rich neighbor who often meet was CHARMING from beginning to end. Anytime there is a clear, happy ending, preferably resulting marriage, I am bound to be enchanted!

I was totally caught unawares by the cleverness in "What Would Jane Austen Do?," by Jane Rubino & Caitlen Rubino-Bradway. A contemporary story about a teenage boy who inadvertently signs up for a Country Dance for Beginners class (and not the "Boot, Scoot, Boogie" kind of country dance!) and must learn how to make the most of this summer experience. Fortunately, his keen wit and willingness to read Austen's novels helps him befriend the new girl in town. Just loved! ALL OF IT! Fantastic- a teenage hero quoting Austen appropriately and with a terrific moral ending? Even better, the authors biography states that they are currently developing "What Would Jane Austen Do?" into a full length novel!

But, "All Merit you know is comparative," Catharine. In such a large collection of works there is bound to be a slight disappointment or two. While reading "Me and Mr. Darcy, Again," a short extension of the novel, "Me and Mr. Darcy," by Alexander Potter, I suffered not just a little discomfort with the idea that a now married Mr. Darcy is wandering outside heroine Emily's hotel at night, staring up at her room, still carrying some sort of torch for her. In the end, Mr. Darcy does act honorably, and even charitably, in bringing about a happy resolution, but its conclusion was rather "vague." But I liked the story, despite myself. "A fondness for reading... must be an education in itself." Mansfield Park, Volume 1, Chapter 2

I was somewhat under-whelmed by Pamela Aidan's "The Riding Habit" as the now married Mr. Darcy seems to steam roll wife Elizabeth into riding, an activity she somewhat fears and takes no joy in. I also found it strangely odd that the pinnacle riding accident would bring about such a comparison to an upcoming ball and how she can surely expect the support of her loved ones around her. Indeed? Don't get me wrong: Aiden's writing style, language and cadence is pitch-perfect as ever. Beautiful even. I simply found the story disjointed from the Darcy and Elizabeth she wrote so well of in her awe-inspiring, tremendously popular trilogy, Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman. However, "One half of the world cannot understand the pleasures of the other." Emma, Volume 1, Chapter 9

Still, there are a surfeit of solidly entertaining, easy to love stories.

One of the stories inspired by Persuasion is Margaret C. Sullivan`s "Heard of You." I found this smart telling of how Admiral Croft and the former Miss Sophia Wentworth met as exciting at sea, as it was in the ballroom; making me sigh in all the right places!

"The Chase" by Carrie Bebris did not disappoint! Her depiction of a riveting and historic sea battle had me on the edge of my seat; truly captivated by this insight of how Jane Austen's brother Frank became post-captain.

The anthology opens with an introduction by the editor, Laurel Ann Nattress, as she pays deference to Jane Austen as well as the many novels, sub-genre and films Austen has inspired. Nattress shares how she came to love Austen's work in the `80s and how Austen has since catapulted to "megastar status" by means of "her strongest catalyst: the Internet and a wet shirt." p. xii. The Austen Legacy continues to grow and this collection of wonderful short stories is a brilliant tribute. Janeites and historical fiction readers alike will inhale this book! But with a dream team of Austen inspired writers under the deft editing skills of Laurel Ann Nattress, how could this be anything but a grand slam! "The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid." Northanger Abbey, Volume 1, Chapter 14

P.S. I might add that I wrote the above review from my advanced copy, missing the story of contest winner, Brenna Aubrey. Upon reading my complete copy on Thursday, I found Aubrey's Persuasion inspired contemporary story, written from a male doctor's point of view, quite lovely. That contest certainly discovered a talented writer.

There is also the additon of discussion questions -- perfect for book clubs. I also enjoyed the additon of the anthology's contributing authors' favorite Austen quotes... Much like a stroll down memory lane with a comfortable friend.

What I like so much about short story anthologies is that regardless of your schedule, you can usually find time to read at least one story... the tricky part is having the will power to not read the whole thing in one sitting! Enjoy!

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chatty1082
Jane Austen would be Proud!!!
Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2011
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This compilation of short stories was wonderful. There were to many to comment on any specific story, as there were 22 such stories. They ranged from continuations/alteration of Jane's works to stories with Jane herself in the story plot. There were also a lot of modern versions of Jane Austen's work. They were all written very entertaining and I enjoyed them immensely. I personally rated most of the stories 4 stars, some 5 stars. I also rate a few 3 stars but did enjoy those stories very much! There was only 1 story that I was disappointed in and could not understand why it was included, I had a difficult time reading it and will admit that I jumped to the next story. The winner of the story contest was one of my favorites. It is a modern version of "Persuasion" and definitely not to be missed. I hope the writer continues writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the story!!!

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Anthology
Reviewed in the United States on May 13, 2020
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Jane Austen made me do it is a collection of over twenty short stories by renowned authors.

Jane Austen's Nightmare, Syrie James
An intriguing story where Jane Austen herself wandered the streets of Bath, encountering some rather displeased characters.

Waiting, Jane Odiwe
A delightful peek behind the scene of how Captain Wentworth and Anne delivered the news of their betrothal to her family.

A Night at Northanger, Lauren Willig
A contemporary ghost story where a group visit Northanger Abbey and get what they came for. The ghost was a surprise though...

Jane and the Gentleman Rogue, Stephanie Barron
Jane Austen encounters a mystery.

Faux Jane, F.J. Meier
A contemporary story about the faux signed first edition of PnP.

Nothing less than Fairy-land, Monica Fairview
A debacle arises when Mr Knightly moves into Hartfield. Loved it!

Love and best wishes, aunt Jane by Adriana Trigiani
Homage to the art of the written letter.

Jane Austen and the Mistletoe Kiss, Jo Beverly
A second chance at love, story.

When Only a Darcy would do, Beth Pattillo
A cute modern twist to meeting Mr Darcy.

Heard of You, Margaret Sullivan
Mr and Mrs Wenthworth spend a cosy evening with the Admiral and his wife, telling a story about Captain Wentworth's dabble in matchmaking.

The Ghostwriter, Elizabeth Aston
A contemporary story where a Janite meets with Jane Austen's ghost.

Mr Bennet Meets His Match, Amanda Grange
Mr Bennet gets reflective on the wedding day of his most deserving daughters.

Jane Austen, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Janet Mullany
Young girls discussing S&S and the Beatles

Letters to Lydia, Maya Slater
A collection of letters from Maria Lucas to Lydia Bennet with a revelation.

The Mysterious Closet: A Tale, Myretta Robens
A contemporary twist on Northanger Abbey.

Jane Austen's Cat, Diana Birchall
I visit with Jane Austen and her family.

Me and Mr Darcy, again... Alexandra Potter
A contemporary paranormal where Mr Darcy helos Emily with her relationship with Spike.

What would Austen do, Rubino and Rubino-Bradway
A contemporary story where James is in trouble at school for being too polite. Many quotes from JA's works.

The Riding Habit, Pamela Aidan
A delightful tale of Darcy teaching Elizabeth to ride. Loved it!

The Love Letter, Brianna Aubrey
Contemporary romance inspired by Persuasion.

The Chase, Carrie Bebris
A skirmish at sea for Jane Austen's naval brother Francis Austen.

Intolerable Stupidity, Laurie Rigler
A court case before judge Catherine de Bourgh where fanfiction is tried.

Rated: Chaste.

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Mrs. Kathleen Norman
Love this book ---obviously some stories are better than others ...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 24, 2016
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Love this book ---obviously some stories are better than others but overall a good read --better still it's a great introduction to lots of new (to me) authors and I've bought and read a number of books on the strength of these short story 'tasters'.

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april
fun for janeites...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 29, 2019
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charming....some stories, of course, better than others....but all a delight to read...it is amazing to realize the effect of those novels, written by austen, this intrepid, brave, intelligent, observant and sharp woman...reaching out through the centuries...even such fluffy little amusements as this collection inspired by her....i do wish she had known, or at least had had a hope, an inkling, a premonition, a hint of the great renown she now has reached...this text is cute, and a perfect gift for janeites...recommended...

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Bryan J. P
Read aloud...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 20, 2017
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I read aloud to my wife a lot and we are both JA fans. Read first two stories already and we enjoyed... Bodes well for the rest

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Jane Austen Made Me Do It: Original Stories Inspired by Literature's Most Astute Observer of the Human Heart (Being a Jane Austen Mystery) Kindle Edition

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5.0 out of 5 stars Dream Team of Austen Authors+ Deft Editing Skills= Grand Slam Hit!

4.0 out of 5 stars Jane Austen would be Proud!!!

3.0 out of 5 stars Anthology

Top reviews from other countries

5.0 out of 5 stars Love this book ---obviously some stories are better than others ...

4.0 out of 5 stars fun for janeites...

5.0 out of 5 stars Read aloud...

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Dream Team of Austen Authors+ Deft Editing Skills= Grand Slam Hit!

Jane Austen would be Proud!!!

Anthology

Love this book ---obviously some stories are better than others ...

fun for janeites...

Read aloud...