Jane and the Final Mystery

Jane Austen Mysteries #15

by Stephanie Barron

The final volume of the critically acclaimed mystery series featuring Jane Austen as amateur sleuth

March 1817: As winter turns to spring, Jane Austen’s health is in slow decline, and threatens to cease progress on her latest manuscript. But when her nephew Edward brings chilling news of a death at his former school, Winchester College, not even her debilitating ailment can keep Jane from seeking out the truth. Arthur Prendergast, a senior pupil at the prestigious all-boys’ boarding school, has been found dead in a culvert near the schoolgrounds—and in the pocket of his drenched waistcoat is an incriminating note penned by the young William Heathcote, the son of Jane’s dear friend Elizabeth. Winchester College is a world unto itself, with its own language and rites of passage, cruel hazing and dangerous pranks. Can Jane clear William’s name before her illness gets the better of her?
 
Over the course of fourteen previous novels in the critically acclaimed Being a Jane Austen Mystery series, Stephanie Barron has won the hearts of thousands of fans—crime fiction aficionados and Janeites alike—with her tricky plotting and breathtaking evocation of Austen’s voice. Now, she brings Jane’s final season—and final murder investigation—to brilliant, poignant life in this unforgettable conclusion.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Historical Mystery, Regency, Cozy Mystery

312 pages, Hardcover

Published October 24, 2023

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Stephanie Barron was born Francine Stephanie Barron in Binghamton, NY in 1963, the last of six girls. Her father was a retired general in the Air Force, her mother a beautiful woman who loved to dance. The family spent their summers on Cape Cod, where two of the Barron girls now live with their families; Francine's passion for Nantucket and the New England shoreline dates from her earliest memories. She grew up in Washington, D.C., and attended Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, a two hundred year-old Catholic school for girls that shares a wall with Georgetown University. Her father died of a heart attack during her freshman year.

In 1981, she started college at Princeton – one of the most formative experiences of her life. There she fenced for the club varsity team and learned to write news stories for The Daily Princetonian – a hobby that led to two part-time jobs as a journalist for The Miami Herald and The San Jose Mercury News. Francine majored in European History, studying Napoleonic France, and won an Arthur W. Mellon Foundation Fellowship in the Humanities in her senior year. But the course she remembers most vividly from her time at Princeton is "The Literature of Fact," taught by John McPhee, the Pulitzer Prize winning author and staff writer for The New Yorker. John influenced Francine's writing more than even she knows and certainly more than she is able to say. If there were an altar erected to the man in Colorado, she'd place offerings there daily. He's her personal god of craft.

Francine spent three years at Stanford pursuing a doctorate in history; she failed to write her dissertation (on the Brazilian Bar Association under authoritarianism; can you blame her?) and left with a Masters. She applied to the CIA, spent a year temping in Northern Virginia while the FBI asked inconvenient questions of everyone she had ever known, passed a polygraph test on her twenty-sixth birthday, and was immediately thrown into the Career Trainee program: Boot Camp for the Agency's Best and Brightest. Four years as an intelligence analyst at the CIA were profoundly fulfilling, the highlights being Francine's work on the Counterterrorism Center's investigation into the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988, and sleeping on a horsehair mattress in a Spectre-era casino in the middle of Bratislava. Another peak moment was her chance to debrief ex-President George Bush in Houston in 1993. But what she remembers most about the place are the extraordinary intelligence and dedication of most of the staff – many of them women – many of whom cannot be named.

She wrote her first book in 1992 and left the Agency a year later. Fifteen books have followed, along with sundry children, dogs, and houses. When she's not writing, she likes to ski, garden, needlepoint, and buy art. Her phone number is definitely unlisted.

Reviews

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane Austen's life is of great interest to the many fans of her books. This series by Stephanie Barron has long been one I read with relish. Barron uses Jane's own diaries to craft each episode. The characters and locations are authentic with some creative license used to give Jane mysteries to solve. Thus as the timeline nears the date of Jane's death this series also must end. I greatly appreciate this 13th book as it neatly closes the door to our glimpses into this fictional view of Jane's life and is faithful to history.

Thank you to Soho Crime and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fitting ending to the Jane Austen series of fifteen murder mysteries is Jane and the Final Mystery. Jane, the superb author, with her mighty brain and knowledge of human beings, is again called upon to help a friend's son who is unjustly accused of the death of a school classmate. Even though Miss Austen is in severe pain from the ailment that eventually ends her life, she still goes to the aid of her good friend.

James Austen features in this one. He was Jane's favorite nephew and the son of her eldest brother, James, of whom she was none too fond. James, the elder, is a clergyman who is stingy, whiny, and is prone to lecture. James, the younger, is charming and warm and literary, like Aunt Jane. James's school chum has been accused of murder. Jane also knows the family very well. Harris Big-Wither is the boy's uncle and the man who Jane accepted in a marriage proposal and then rejected the following morning. Ouch!

Harris's sister is the mother of the boy accused and having met him, Jane is assured of his innocence. William Heathcote is a shy, stuttering youth of fifteen with no social graces. Hardly the type to bludgeon a notorious bully and drown him, Will has little time to clear his name, before he is degraded forever in good society. He has Jane on his side and that always is a good thing.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last in the author's beloved series evokes so many emotions. Sadness, knowing it's the final book. Gratitude, for the story captures Jane so well that we feel we're beside her, buoyed by her inimitable spirit even as her body fails. Intrigue, as she helps to solve the gripping mystery involving a son of her friend Elizabeth. Janeites and histfic mystery lovers will adore this tale and race to read (or reread) the whole series with joy!

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

All good things must come to an end and, in this case, come full circle in some ways. Jane explores the British public school world with the aid of her favorite nephew when faced with getting to the bottom of a young man’s death before her dear friend’s son is convicted of murder.


The Jane and the Final Mystery plot takes readers into the cloistered world of higher education behind the ancient stone walls of one of England’s prestigious prep schools and the English quality medical work at the time. The life of the teenage scholars, the traditions, and the rivalries were fascinating and play a huge role in the murder investigation as does the medical work of Giles Lyford. The victim was a malicious bully and William Heathcote, the son of Jane’s friend, was his biggest target and so became the chief suspect. William has a stammer and this made him a prime target.

On a side note, I thought it was fascinating and not just a little sad to see the book explore what it was like for a person to have a speech impediment at the time- people saw it as a reflection on intellect- and the way treatment for a speech impairment was handled.

Jane is obviously ill in this one so she has a youthful Edward Austen, son of her older brother, James Austen, as her stout partner in detecting. Edward has a winning personality and matched his clever aunt for wits and shared a literary gift and also the likelihood of having to follow in his father’s footsteps rather than his dear aunt’s.
Edward has already left Winchester for Oxford, but brings his Aunt Jane to help his school friend, William, when disturbing news comes to him in a letter. William is the prime suspect so Jane and Edward seek answers with the students and staff at the school where both boys both lived and studied. The evidence leads them on a twisting path to a surprising end.

True to Austen’s life and to the Regency era, it is obvious this book and series has been carefully researched and the historical details integrated with the mystery plot. I enjoy the explanatory footnotes throughout when a quirky historical term needs explaining for a modern reader.

Jane and the Final Mystery was an absolutely fabulous finale to the series. I could taste the bittersweet knowledge that dear Jane was nearing the end of her life, but the solution of this case was a triumphant high note. Those who enjoy historical mystery that is cozy in tone, but detailed and deeply immersive in backdrop and character should definitely slip this series onto the reading list.

I rec'd a finished copy via Soho Crime and Austenprose and an eARC via Netgalley to read in exchange for my honest review.

My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on Oct 23rd for the blog tour.

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Synopsis
As an aging Jane Austen's health is in decline, she is pulled into the mystery of who killed her beloved nephew's classmate. Her nephew is accused of the murder and is facing the hangman's noose. Can Jane find the real killer and exonerate her sister's son?

My Overall Thoughts
I love a good retelling or spin-off of beloved characters. A treasured classic author cast as a character is a twist on this trope that I find quite interesting. I was hooked immediately. This was the first novel in this series that I've read and definitely going to go back and read the earlier books.

What I Didn't Love
The mystery wasn't really twisty. Nothing very unexpected happened. There was no huge story arc.

Potentially Offensive Content
Some violence

What I Loved
It was simply a quick, fun read. The language and setting seemed true to life. I know that it is difficult to do justice to a character like Jane Austen, but I felt the author made her believable.

I Would Recommend This Book To
If you like cozy mysteries with a historical twist, then this book is for you.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself in the position of reading this last book of a series first, but this delightful mystery was easily read as a standalone. Jane Austen the sleuth is such a treat! Like many others, I love the fact that the author uses Jane’s own diaries to bring her true voice to this series. Jane’s struggles with her own health are described so well that they bring a great deal of authenticity and reality to this work. The mystery, the characters, and the setting all blend together well into a captivating story. The topic of school bullying and hazing is just as relevant today as it was then. The fact that this is the last mystery is a sad one, but this book is a must-read for Austen fans.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Austenprose PR. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Georgiana 1792 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chiudo l'ultimo dei romanzi di questa serie con gli occhi lucidi. Il romanzo si conclude ad aprile 1817, tre mesi e mezzo prima della morte di Jane Austen, quando ha messo fine da appena una quindicina di giorni al suo tentativo di andare avanti con il suo ultimo romanzo, The Brothers, che rimane così incompiuto al 12° capitolo, e che sarà pubblicato solo molto più avanti con il nome di Sanditon.
Sta per arrivare la Pasqua, e il fratello di sua madre, James Leigh-Perrot, è appena morto, e ancora c'è qualche speranza di ottenere un'eredità da lui, cosicché James e Cassandra si sono recati a Scarlets in Berkshire in attesa della lettura del testamento.
Nel frattempo, però, suo nipote James-Edward - il figlio di James, che sarà più avanti il biografo di Jane Austen e che qui viene chiamato semplicemente Edward - chiede alla zia di accompagnarlo a Winchester per l'udienza preliminare del coroner per la morte - che a tutta prima sembra un suicidio, ma che potrebbe essere un omicidio - del più prepotente dei prefetti del Winchester College, Prendergast, in cui deve testimoniare anche il giovane William Heathcote, il figlio della cara amica di Jane, Elizabeth Bigg, sorella di quell'Harris Bigg-Wither di cui Jane aveva rifiutato la mano dopo averla accettata. Come lo zio, William soffre di balbuzie, un difetto che si accentua quando è particolarmente nervoso. E sarà proprio quella balbuzie a farlo vedere come sospetto e a farlo incriminare per l'omicidio di Prendergast. William rischia l'impiccagione, anche se è appena quindicenne.
Jane ed Edward si danno da fare - in quanto ospiti di Elizabeth al n° 12 del comprensorio della cattedrale (Close) dove ha affittato una casa per il periodo in cui il figlio è al college - per investigare su cosa è accaduto a Prendergast e scagionare così William.
La parte gialla questa volta è anche piuttosto banale e collegata a filo doppio a ciò che accadde davvero al Winchester College quello stesso anno. Ma ci sono delle scene che sono particolarmente commoventi, come il vedere il rapporto di grandissimo affetto tra Jane e il nipote Edward, il desiderio di poter avere un'eredità per lui perché si possa dedicare alla passione per la scrittura anziché diventare pastore, come suo padre - il parsimonioso James - ha stabilito per lui (sogno infranto dalla scoperta che lo zio Leigh-Perrot ha lasciato tutto a sua moglie Jane Leigh-Perrot).
E la bellissima scena in cui Jane entra nella cattedrale per pregare la Vergine, quella stessa cattedrale in cui qualche mese più tardi verrà sepolta.

I entered the great church by the south portal, hard by the arched slype, and made my way quietly through the chilly south transept to the south choir aisle. My hands were joined loosely at my waist, hidden by my cloak but devout from habit; my head I kept tilted well back, the better to scan the soaring interior spaces. Lacking a tower, Winchester Cathedral is curiously unremarkable when viewed from the exterior, but once inside, it is a place that robs the lungs of breath. When one is accustomed to an intimate family church like St. Nicholas, which sits just off the sweep of Chawton Great House as it has for some five centuries, the grandeur of stone pillars and vaults, the magnificence of stained glass and lead veins, the weight of tombs and the sharp smell of countless epochs, impose a sombre reverence.

L'incontro con Harris Bigg-Wither, che da ventenne le fece una proposta di matrimonio e adesso è un uomo sicuro di sé con una moglie e una prole sorprendente (ha avuto dieci figli, e Jane pensa: Good lord, I thought suddenly. Had I accepted him, should I have had ten children? —And shuddered at the thought.). Il suo rapporto con il dottor Lyford, che la avrà in cura fino alla sua morte; la sua rinuncia a lenire i dolori con il laudano, in attesa di dolori ancora più acuti di quelli che già la prostrano; e anche la sua presenza al Close, quel gruppo di case sul lato della cattedrale con un praticello davanti al quale nel 2025 verrà collocata la sua statua (ho appena tradotto degli articoli e ne ho scritto uno per JASIT sull'argomento, quindi questa coincidenza mi è sembrata particolarmente significativa).

Probabilmente tra qualche anno rileggerò questa serie, che ho cominciato più di un decennio fa, per vedere i primi romanzi da un'altra ottica (all'epoca non mi ero resa conto di quanto rivelassero della reale vita di Jane Austen); ma per ora sono ancora molto coinvolta emotivamente per averne il desiderio.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

After 15 novels in this exemplary series, author Stephanie Barron has finally arrived at a terminus. Jane Austen died in 1817, and that is the year in which we find Jane, working on her new manuscript while suffering through the disease that would shortly kill her - as well as the attention of doctors intent on bleeding her. Even so, this final volume has her summoning the strength to investigate the murder of a senior pupil at an elite boarding school. Suspicion falls upon the son of a dear friend, and Jane soon becomes entangled in the bizarre world of Winchester College as she works to clear his name. The plotting is top rate, but it is the voice of Jane Austen and the carefully calibrated setting of early 19th Century England that stands out. A superlative achievement in historical fiction and a highly satisfying read. Farewell, Jane.
I received a free digital advance copy from the publisher.

[ColleenSC (colleenallbooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @this_is_edelweiss and @soho_press for an eARC of Jane and the Final Mystery, the last book in the “Being a Jane Austen Mystery” series by Stephanie Barron that I’ve been reading since I was 10 years old.

This series shines because of Barron’s ability to capture Austen’s tone. The style is spot-on. All along, I’ve felt that I’ve experienced Jane Austen’s life through these books. And yes, drama and intrigue that never happened have been added in. But I have loved going on adventures, experiencing mystery and romance and danger with Jane.

The Winchester setting of this particular novel was compelling. There are a few scenes in Winchester Cathedral, the place where Jane Austen is buried. I visited there when I went to England, and I loved being able to have that connection to the book. The story also brought out the academic politics of the attached school. The mystery and culprit aren’t too shocking, but I still enjoyed the plot.

This final book is obviously sad because we know Jane will die in a few short months. She is ill and in pain. She is grappling with the knowledge that she may not get better. And yet, I found this book more upbeat than the previous one. We see Jane with her nephew Edward, who will eventually write the “Memoir of Miss Jane Austen.” They have a lovely relationship and get to investigate together. We see Jane’s cleverness and strength of character. Most poignantly, we see how she still has hope, despite her illness. I think Austen fans will be inspired by this book. I am now extremely tempted to reread the series!

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I only started reading Stephanie Barron’s Being a Jane Austen Mystery series with the final two books, I absolutely plan to go back some day and read the previous thirteen that I missed. It’s clear that the author has done meticulous research in order to write so delightfully in Austen’s 1st person POV (which is spot-on) and with such evident affection. Historical fact & people are indelibly linked to the fictional mystery, making it extremely easy to picture Jane Austen as an amateur sleuth and putting readers right in the midst of her life and family.

“Hold the reins in both hands,” [Edward] instructed. “Loosely, Aunt. Not as tho’ you wish to tie off a bleeding man’s stump.”

In Jane and the Final Mystery, readers continue to watch Jane decline in health but remain stalwart of spirit. I personally identified with Jane in several ways – her being a childless aunt with a close relationship to her nieces and nephews, her day-to-day struggle with a chronic (and worsening) illness, and also with the tremulous hope that maybe she’ll yet find a doctor who not only cares enough to help but also knows how to do so. Of course, the title of this novel is a dire foreshadowing of what we already know from history to be true… indeed, that we are walking through the final months of Jane Austen’s life with her. And yet, the novel retains the wit and intelligence that are familiar to this series, wrapping readers up in a comforting embrace and immersing us into a layered mystery that succeeds in (mostly) distracting us from the inevitable.

“Her trial ended in acquittal; but she remains a subject of familial uneasiness.” (about Jane’s Aunt Jane)

Speaking of the mystery, I found it to be quite intriguing and well-drawn. I loved that it involves actual historical figures even beyond Jane’s family – in this case, a William Heathcote a few years before he inherits the title of the 5th Baronet of Hursley. And while the mystery is fictional, it’s always interesting to read about real people whom Jane did indeed encounter. It serves to make Jane herself seem more ‘real’ too. As we meet William, he is yet a teenager, plagued by his stuttering, and falsely accused of murdering a fellow student (who happens to have been his arch nemesis) at Winchester College (his boarding school). Enter Jane, a close friend of William’s mother Elizabeth, and Jane’s dear nephew Edward, a friend of William’s. I thoroughly enjoyed Edward & Jane’s relationship, in addition to appreciating their ability to solve a mystery. I began to suspect the actual murderer before Jane or Edward did, but there were still some surprising twists I was not expecting.

“I am once again struck by the subtlety of your understanding, Aunt.”

“It is a family failing,” I assured him, and returned to Elizabeth.

Bottom Line: Jane and the Final Mystery is at once witty and affectionate, even as readers know in the back of their minds that we are experiencing Jane’s final months along with her. The tone remains light and cozy, the kind of book you can just sink into and escape the world for a few hours. Barron’s talented writing voice and her careful research both shine in Jane’s cleverness, her narrative, and her sleuthing skills. It is easy to see our beloved Austen in this role, and although there is some degree of sadness in saying goodbye to this series – and to Jane – your heart will ultimately be lightened in reading this book.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this story, Jane is unfortunately nearing the end of her life and her health is in decline. Set in March 1817, she travels to Winchester College with her nephew Edward to investigate the death of one of his former schoolmates. The accused murderer is the teenage son of Jane’s good friend Elizabeth Heathcote (nee Biggs). I loved how the mystery slowly unfolded. I suspected the killer early on, and was correct, though had a moment of doubt. The true reward was the exquisite writing and spending more time with dear Jane.

This is the final book in the Jane Austen mystery series by Stephanie Barron and I enjoyed it very much. In my opinion, the series can be read and enjoyed in any order. I started with Jane and the Twelve Days of Christmas in 2014. I went back to read books 1, 2 and 3 in quick succession, then more recently book 13. Jumping around in the series has not been a problem for me and I’m happy that I still have so much more of the series to read.

I received an advance reader copy from the publisher and Austenprose PR. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.

[Silver Petticoat · Rating 5 out of 5]

After 15 delightful and intelligent books, the successful mystery series (the first published in 1996) with Jane Austen as an amateur sleuth - has reached its end. Jane and the Final Mystery takes place in 1817 – the year Austen passed away, so it’s only fitting this final novel says goodbye to this lovely series and Austen as well – with Barron giving her an appropriate, heartfelt tribute.

What sets the final book apart from the others is that it has Jane Austen deal more with her own mortality – with the knowledge that she will soon likely die. And yet, she continues to fully live with her kindness, intelligence, and wit on hand.

Even as she suffers from illness and pain, Jane sets out to solve this latest mystery at Winchester College to help her friends and nephew discover the truth while saving an innocent boy’s life and reputation. It’s heartbreaking but poignant to read about Jane Austen’s suffering – but because she holds onto hope and faces her circumstances with courage – the novel never feels dark or depressing.

Austen spent her final days in Winchester, so the nearby college is the perfect place to set the last crime. Barron, as usual, is gifted at giving Jane Austen a literary voice within a mystery setting – showcasing impeccable historical research mixed with solid prose.

The mystery itself is like a good episode of a British crime drama – it keeps you hooked on the story – and wanting to investigate yourself to the very end. And the intriguing characters (particularly Jane) help you maintain a vested interest.

There is no romance in this book (unlike the last one) – but the friendships, familial connections, and sympathetic mystery (with an excellent twist) bring an emotional and authentic resonance to the story.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

Overall, I was sad to read the final pages. You can’t help but want a different ending for Jane Austen, and you wish this historical mystery series could continue – but it can’t.

Still, I’m glad I discovered this book series (Jane and the Year Without a Summer is a particular favorite), and I recommend checking out the books if you love historical fiction, mystery, and Austenesque novels.

Jane and the Final Mystery also works as a standalone novel if you’re looking for a good, cozy mystery to enjoy but don’t want to read an entire series. It’s a wonderfully researched historical fiction book with a compelling page-turning mystery to match.

All in all, Stephanie Barron ends the series in top form.

Content Note: A PG-like read.

ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATION
The Being a Jane Austen Mystery Series should be a TV series! With Jane Austen’s sleuthing, bits of romance, and intriguing mysteries, how could a TV adaptation not be a hit? It would be a dream to see these books come to life on the small screen.

Overall Rating: 4.5 (rounded up to five for Goodreads)

Disclosure: I received a free copy from the publisher via Netgalley and Austenprose PR. This book review is my honest opinion.

Note: This review was first published on The Silver Petticoat Review by Amber Topping

[Rita Deodato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Jane and the Final Mystery is the last book in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series which mixes Jane Austen’s real-life events with fictional mysteries Jane has to face and taking place in 1817, we know this will be the last mystery Jane will ever solve. Every book can be read as a stand alone, and having read 2 other books in this series, I could not resist reading the final one.
When the son of Jane’s friend is involved in a murder investigation that unravels the brutality and harsh reality of England’s distinguished schools, Jane travels to Winchester with her nephew Edward Austen to be of assistance to her friend, but of course her wit makes her question events, and soon she discovers there is something that is not quite right in the accusation that is being made.
I liked witnessing the relationship Jane had with her nephew Edward, and I loved seeing them as investigation partners in this story. Their love for one another, and the care Edward demonstrated towards his aunt was endearing. I only wish we had seen more of Austen’s life and struggles. One of my favourite aspects of the previous book, Jane and the Year Without Summer, was the presence of Raphael West and the implications he had in Jane’s life. In this book, I missed that personal connection, and felt the story was solely focused on the mystery. Knowing this would portray Jane’s final months, I understand the author may have wanted to save the reader of the saddest moments of her life, but I would still have prefered to have this closer connection to her and her final moments.
The historical accuracy was impeccable in this novel and the attention to detail the author gave to all the historical details made this book very interesting. The footnotes were also a stimulating addition as they allowed the reader to learn more not only about the regency time, but also about Jane’s life and the one of her relatives. I don’t usually like footnotes, and I often disregard them. but in this book I always felt compelled to read them.
The writing was also very good and the author made me feel I was with Jane at Winchester the entire time. I could imagine everything that was happening as if I was there, and that is certainly a reflection of quality writing. Stephanie Barron’s writing is gripping and definitely the ingredient that made this book a great read.
Jane and the Final Mystery captures Jane’s voice in perfection and it is the most honest and authentic ending this epic series could have.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Culminating Conclusion to Stephanie Barron’s Brilliant Series

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Blog Tour

TYPE OF NOVEL: Mystery, Jane Austen as a Main Character

SERIES: Being A Jane Austen Mystery #15 (while it is a much richer experience to read these novels in order, they can easily be read out-of-order and standalone).

THE PREMISE:

Even though she suffers from a mysterious and incurable ailment, Jane Austen rallies her strength to leave the comforts of hearth and home to help her dear friend Elizabeth Heathcote (née Bigg). Elizabeth’s poor son has just been accused of murdering a fellow classmate from Winchester College. Can Jane clear William Heathcote’s name and discover the truth about Arthur Prendergast’s demise?

WHAT I LOVED:

- Rebellions and Rivalries – The Cruel World of Boys’ Schools: In this story, we learn a lot about the dynamics and domain of life in a boys’ school. It was an eye-opening experience. The bullying, the hierarchy, the pranks, the harsh discipline, and the lax supervision – boys really were learning the ways of the world once they left home… I appreciated the uniqueness of such a setting. I’ve read about Regency and Georgian school-life for young women in various novels, but it appears there is quite a difference when it comes to school-life for young men.

- Edward Austen: Helping his Aunt Jane with the intrigues of this mystery is her favorite nephew, James (Edward) Austen son of her eldest brother, James. Edward is clever, winsome, and perceptive. He shares a lot in common with his aunt, including some writing aspirations. I love that Edward was featured in this novel and I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with him. I loved seeing his quick thinking and readiness to act. He is a loyal friend of high morals and integrity. I especially loved his relationship with his Aunt Jane – he is solicitous of her care, he confides in her, and he seems to share the same innate understanding and keen observations skills as her. Their relationship was one of my favorite elements of this novel.

- Inheritances, Entailments, Natural Born Children: Common themes we see in Regency and Jane Austen novels, but ones I never tire reading about. The many benefits and freedoms of inheritances and legacies are widespread and can sometimes induce malicious acts or foul play… Small gifts of wealth can alter a person’s vocation, improve their marriage prospects, or even allow them to seek required medical assistance. I appreciated how Ms. Barron employed these themes throughout this novel.

- Factual Tie-Ins: There is truth and authenticity in every sub-plot of this novel. It never ceases to impress me how Ms. Barron can find and implement so many factual events or histories and incorporate them seamlessly into her writing. I absolutely adore reading the Author Notes at the end of each novel and learning which is truth and which is fiction. In this case, I am fascinated by the fate and fortune of poor William Heathcote. What happens to him after this story is just as interesting as the fictitious events during!

- Vivid and Consuming: Stephanie Barron’s prose is unparalleled. Attention arrested, emotions engaged, critical thinking activated – I was immediately drawn into the action and intrigue of this story. I felt I was amongst the Austen family, and I loved feeling such a close connection to their family dynamics and interactions.

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:

- Finale: Knowing this is the end of the series, part of me wishes it concluded with greater pomp, triumph, or finality – something worthy of honoring the fifteen remarkable works in this series. But given the reality of Jane Austen’s declining health and Stephanie Barron’s close adherence to truth and history, this more subdued and subtle conclusion keeps more with the realistic events of Jane Austen’s life at this time.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

🔦 This series continues to shine a light on the fascinating yet unknown intrigues of Jane Austen’s life.

🕵🏻‍♀️ I loved every minute of these sleuthing adventures with my favorite author! Next to Nancy Drew, she is one of my most favorite detectives.

🫶🏼 Thank you, Stephanie Barron, for this truly outstanding and epic Austenesque mystery series. It will continue to be treasured by Jane Austen fans and Austenesque admirers for many years to come.

Austenesque Reviews

[Suzan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a huge fan of Jane Austen, I’ve really been looking forward to reading this book!

Stephanie Barron skillfully combines historically accurate detail with excellent plotting, but what really stood out to me was the authentic voice of Jane Austen that shines throughout the story. The voice, the tone, the sharp wit and observations that make Jane such a beloved author were amazingly on point, and I was so impressed with the author’s ability to convey this!

Along with the clever mystery, there was also a very poignant and emotional feel to the story as Jane’s health was rapidly declining and she was facing her own mortality.

This is the last book in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series and I really enjoyed it, especially with its beautiful literary style. It’s the first book I’ve read in this series, but I’m now hooked and will be checking out the preceding stories.

I received a digital copy from Austenprose PR and NetGalley but a positive review was not required.

[Kathleen Flynn]

I read Jane and the Final Mystery on my phone, because every now and then the Brooklyn Public Library, for reasons best known to itself, does not offer a Kindle version. I don't like reading books on my phone -- I spend enough time staring at that little slab of glass and metal already. I mention this because I think it explains part of why I had trouble sinking into this novel, even though I generally like Stephanie Barron, Jane Austen and cozy mysteries. Something about the combination of late 18th-century diction and peering at an iPhone was distractingly discordant. (You would think I would have the same problem with the Kindle, but I have learned not to see the Kindle, just the words it contains.)

Or maybe, I didn't want it to be the last one. It's been more than 200 years; you would by now think I would be over the injustice of Jane Austen dying at 41, right when her writing was getting even stronger and more interesting, right at what should have been her prime. But even fictionally, it's tough to take. It was hard to read about Austen's mysterious health problems in this story and to know what both the fictional Jane and the real Jane could not have known: that she would not last the year.

Being a failed completist, I have not read all 15 in this series of mysteries. But all the ones I have read, I enjoyed. Here, I particularly liked having the chance to fictionally visit Winchester, a town I briefly visited and wish I could have spent more time in. I also enjoyed the chance to spend some time with James-Edward, the lively favorite nephew who also fancied himself a novelist.

[Leslie Books and Socks Rock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first learned of Barron’s Austen mystery series last year with the book release, Jane and The Year Without a Summer. It had the style and spelling of Austen, her wit and I think it would be true to the Jane Austen that we love.

Maybe it’s because I’ve been binging the tv show “Psych” where Shawn Spencer says he’s a psychic and helps solve crime but he’s really just very observant. Think of this book and our beloved Jane as a crime solving psychic! She loved thinking on human behavior and when you really look into it – people do a lot of weird/silly/dumb things that can only make you wonder.

While I have only read book 14 in the series and now 15, which don’t need to be read in order, Jane is at the end of her life (that we know) although she’s started to feel unwell and unexpected news takes her away to see an old friend. A body has been found, a trial! I couldn’t stop reading then.

I think Barron is a talented writer to take such a beloved and timeless author and to be able to capture her writing style and come up with fun mysteries is a bonus. I feel I’ve learned so much about Austen’s life through the people she met and where she went. As always the editor’s footnotes are always fun to read and letter excerpts.

Thank you to the publisher and Austenprose PR for the advanced reader copy. This book releases next week and I can’t believe what an incredible and painstaking journey its been for Barron to finish a series that started nearly 30 years ago! What dedication to devote so much of one’s life.

If you love cozy mysteries, Jane Austen, historical fiction and a whodunnit then you won’t be disappointed in this book.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was thrilled and saddened to receive this ARC: thrilled because I have been reading this mystery series for half my lifetime and saddened because it is, as the title suggests, the final installment. The end of the last mystery was so poignant that I was a little hesitant to start this book. Once I read it, however, I found that this book was far less emotional than the one before it. The mystery was intriguing and dark, being an examination of the dark side of English boys' public schools, but both Jane and the narrator were surprisingly detached from her deteriorating health. In a way it made the reading process easier, but I would have liked a bit more heart to those sections. As usual, however, Barron's characterization of Austen and her friends and relations are wonderfully adroit. I will miss this series very much.

[Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane and the Final Mystery and the whole Being a Jane Austen Mystery series is a unique reading experience that takes the reader into Jane Austen’s private world.
I felt transported to the Regency and witnessed Jane’s day-to-day life, a precious experience for a die-hard Jane Austen fan like myself. My favorite part of the book is feeling like I’m walking around town with Jane, appreciating her persona and unique wit.
In this final book, we know Jane is about to die, but the author did an excellent job of keeping the story for being gloomy. It was touching to read about her coping with her disease and, at the same time, moving on with her life.
The mystery was gripping, if a little dark, and the resolution was fulfilling. It’s a great end to a fantastic series!
I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stephanie Barron’s writing from Jane Austen’s perspective was well done. The manner in which the characters spoke make you feel like you are an integral part of the story. I enjoyed reading the footnotes that the author provided. It helped to give details about Jane Austen’s real life and was fascinating.

I enjoyed the mystery, but I felt the story was a bit too long. If you enjoy mysteries, historical fiction, or are an Austen fan you’ll really like reading this story. This was the first book I have read in the series. It can be read as a standalone since I didn’t feel that I had missed any details that were connected to this case.

I received a copy of the book through Austenprose as well as NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Maria Grazia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stephanie Barron, the talented author known for her Being a Jane Austen Mystery series, brings us a captivating and bittersweet conclusion to a beloved literary journey in "JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY." As winter turns to spring in March 1817, we find Jane Austen's health slowly declining, threatening to silence her quill and halt the progress on her latest manuscript. But when a chilling mystery unfurls at her nephew Edward's former school, Winchester College, Jane's indomitable spirit and unwavering curiosity propel her forward into a world of secrets and deception.

The heart of this novel beats with the compelling mystery surrounding the death of a senior pupil at Winchester College, Arthur Prendergast. In the pocket of the deceased, a note emerges, incriminating the young William Heathcote, a beloved family friend. Winchester College is a realm unto itself, replete with its unique language, rites of passage, and a culture of cruel hazing and perilous pranks. As Jane races against her own deteriorating health, she endeavors to clear William's name and unravel the enigmatic threads of this case.

Stephanie Barron's brilliant writing shines through once again as she masterfully combines the authentic historical backdrop and biographical details of Jane Austen's life with an intricately woven plot. Barron captures Austen's voice in a manner that is both respectful and impeccable, making the characters and the setting come alive. Through Barron's words, Jane Austen's essence resonates, and the final season of her life unfolds with touching authenticity.

Throughout the series, Barron has adeptly merged Austen's world with the art of mystery, and "JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY" is no exception. The novel's storyline is as engaging as it is emotionally resonant. Jane's struggles against her own mortality and her relentless pursuit of the truth elicit deep emotions, making this novel a fitting and poignant send-off for the series.

Barron's impeccable research and evocative writing style take readers on a journey back in time, immersing them in the nuances of a bygone era. It's as if you've stepped into the pages of a Jane Austen novel, replete with courtly language, richly drawn characters, and holiday celebrations of two centuries past.

In addition to the compelling narrative, "JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY" is enriched with a cast of well-drawn characters and a plot full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end. Stephanie Barron's ability to mimic Jane Austen's prose style is nothing short of remarkable.

"JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY" skillfully combines history, mystery, and the enduring charm of Jane Austen's world. For fans of the series, this book is a must-read, a final tribute to a beloved amateur sleuth. It's a poignant and unforgettable conclusion that will leave you with a sense of fulfillment and appreciation for the remarkable journey we've been on.

[Silver Petticoat · Rating 5 out of 5]

After 15 delightful and intelligent books, the successful mystery series (the first published in 1996) with Jane Austen as an amateur sleuth – has reached its end. Jane and the Final Mystery takes place in 1817 – the year Austen passed away, so it’s only fitting this final novel says goodbye to this lovely series and Austen as well – with Barron giving her an appropriate, heartfelt tribute.

What sets the final book apart from the others is that it has Jane Austen deal more with her own mortality – with the knowledge that she will soon likely die. And yet, she continues to fully live with her kindness, intelligence, and wit on hand.

Even as she suffers from illness and pain, Jane sets out to solve this latest mystery at Winchester College to help her friends and nephew discover the truth while saving an innocent boy’s life and reputation. It’s heartbreaking but poignant to read about Jane Austen’s suffering – but because she holds onto hope and faces her circumstances with courage – the novel never feels dark or depressing.

Austen spent her final days in Winchester, so the nearby college is the perfect place to set the last crime. Barron, as usual, is gifted at giving Jane Austen a literary voice within a mystery setting – showcasing impeccable historical research mixed with solid prose.

The mystery itself is like a good episode of a British crime drama – it keeps you hooked on the story – and wanting to investigate yourself to the very end. And the intriguing characters (particularly Jane) help you maintain a vested interest.

There is no romance in this book (unlike the last one) – but the friendships, familial connections, and sympathetic mystery (with an excellent twist) bring an emotional and authentic resonance to the story.

OVERALL THOUGHTS
Overall, I was sad to read the final pages. You can’t help but want a different ending for Jane Austen, and you wish this historical mystery series could continue – but it can’t.

Still, I’m glad I discovered this book series (Jane and the Year Without a Summer is a particular favorite), and I recommend checking out the books if you love historical fiction, mystery, and Austenesque novels.

Jane and the Final Mystery also works as a standalone novel if you’re looking for a good, cozy mystery to enjoy but don’t want to read an entire series. It’s a wonderfully researched historical fiction book with a compelling page-turning mystery to match.

All in all, Stephanie Barron ends the series in top form.

Content Note: A PG-like read.

ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATION
The Being a Jane Austen Mystery Series should be a TV series! With Jane Austen’s sleuthing, bits of romance, and intriguing mysteries, how could a TV adaptation not be a hit? It would be a dream to see these books come to life on the small screen.

Overall Rating: 4.5

Disclosure: I received a free copy from the publisher via Netgalley and Austenprose PR. This book review is my honest opinion.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this concluding tale about the classic writing Jane Austen solving one more mystery as her health fails. The writing is exquisite. The characters are compelling. The research is impressive. And the murder mystery is surprising and so clever.

The writing is engaging with meticulous research shown throughout the novel. Barron's writing is beautiful and pulls readers into the story. The phrasing and word choice are reminiscent of Jane Austen herself. I felt like I was in Regency England trying to solve a mystery with Jane. The writing helps create that setting and tone for the story. Barron's writing was augmented by her impressive research. I appreciated her details about the time period and about characters in the novel. So much of this story is based in historical details true to the time. I absolutely loved that. She seamlessly weaves history into her story. Many authors write historical fiction but few can create such an authentic setting and story as Stephanie Barron.

Barron offers such a compelling, descriptive version of Jane that she seems to come right off the page. I love seeing Jane Austen as a character. Imagining how it would be to get inside her head and see her interact with those around her. I loved her loyalty to family and close friends. The ways she supports those she loves with her courage and cleverness. Each of the characters are well developed and create a community that you become invested in. You cheer for these characters. You want to figure out why William was framed. You want to understand how things work for these students at the college. You want to discover the connections in the Austen family and see them all have greater financial and health stability. At the center of these characters is Jane. And the beautiful descriptions of her character are what have made this series last so long and conclude in such a compelling way.  

The murder mystery elements are a clever balance of intensity and surprising twists. I do not often read murder mysteries. I am not a big fan of the violence and often find them a bit unbelievable. This is not the case with the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series. The mystery captivated me from the first pages. I was very invested in the outcome and trying to find the murderer alongside Jane and her nephew Edward. I thought the clues were cleverly place throughout the story. And the reveal of who the murderer was felt authentic and surprising. Plus there were a few incredible twists along the way that made my jaw drop. It is difficult to write murder mystery well and here is a whole series of beautifully crafted mysteries that are also true to the style of Jane herself. Well done, Stephanie Barron!

I really enjoyed this clever mystery! The characters are well developed. The historical setting is beautifully crafted. And the mystery is engaging and surprising. Even if you haven't read any of the others in this series, I highly recommend them to fans of historical fiction, murder mysteries, and Jane Austen alike!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Suzan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a huge fan of Jane Austen, I’ve really been looking forward to reading this book!

Stephanie Barron skillfully combines historically accurate detail with excellent plotting, but what really stood out to me was the authentic voice of Jane Austen that shines throughout the story. The voice, the tone, the sharp wit and observations that make Jane such a beloved author were amazingly on point. I was so impressed with the author’s ability to convey this!

This is the last book in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series and I really enjoyed it, especially with its beautiful literary style. It’s the first book I’ve read in this series, but I’m now hooked and will be checking out the preceding stories.

I received a digital copy from Austenprose PR and NetGalley but a positive review was not required.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane and the Final Mystery is the final book in the series that Stephanie has been writing for nearly 30 years! Such an accomplishment and there is much that Janeites and crime fiction lovers are sure to embrace about this series.

“Jane, what are we to do?” “Let me to think a while,” I told her. “I shall not desert you. We shall all of us find a way out of this coil.”

This book can certainly be read as a standalone but lovers of this genre should definitely consider going to the start of this incredible series for pure entertainment. The mystery is intriguing as a spotlight is given to the darker side of the English school system of the day and the many issues that raged. Acknowledgement must also be given to the incredible research undertaken: it was richly detailed, providing readers with both an educational and authentic experience. The various footnotes included throughout and the Afterword provided by Stephanie are interesting and enrich the whole experience.

‘Charm, an easiness of manner, and good looks may hide any number of sins, as I knew to my cost. How many heroines had I thrown in the way of such men - the Willoughbys, the Wickhams, the William Elliots?’

Yet it is the character of Jane herself which drew me to this book in the first place and I was not disappointed. It is here that in my opinion, Stephanie has truly excelled. To capture not only the tone of Jane Austen but also her characteristics were she to find herself in the role of sleuth are so very believable. Being the final book, Stephanie does not shy away from the illness that plagued Jane in her final months. She is suffering in pain, facing the prospect that she will most likely not recover. This is handled with sensitivity.

‘I am uncertain why you ask the question, Miss Austen. Would you interfere in the coroner’s business?”

For Janeites everywhere who see Jane Austen using her great skill of observations put to the use of solving mysteries, this series is well worth further investigation.

‘I did not pray for myself specifically. I did not pray for healing. I did not pray for more energy, more health, more time with those I loved, and who loved me. I knew that such things were already in God’s hands … The Virgin could neither extend nor shorten my time on earth; but speaking with her might render it more peaceful.’








This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane and the Final Mystery by Stephanie Barron is a wonderful finale to the series of fifteen historical fiction mysteries about Jane Austen's life as a woman, author, valued family member and sleuth.

The Georgian era produced several literary geniuses, including Jane Austen. Barron beautifully weaves fact with fiction and uses vernacular of the time. She writes characters with incredible thoughtfulness and finesse with wondrous historical details such as transportation, stamps for letters, baking, medical treatment and clothing. Do be sure to read her notes in the back.

Nephew Edward is wise beyond his years and seeks his Aunt Jane's advice about a suspicious death where he used to attend college. He is also a voracious writer, the apple of Jane's eye. Jane's health issues are dealing a difficult blow but she finds distraction in the form of sleuthing which is of particularly significance as Edward's friend is implicated.

This series is delectable and would appeal not only to Austen fans but also those new to her.

My sincere thank you to Soho Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this engrossing novel. I absolutely adored this series!

[Carla Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. I have never read a Jane Austen book in my life. From the wording of the time period, I am assuming Stephanie did a wonderful job in writing this book into a Jane Austen like format. The book itself was well written. The story plot grabs you and hangs on so you can't put it down. Jane is helping her best friends son who is accused of murder that he did not commit. There are some dastardly fellows who intend to ruin Williams good name. Jane and her nephew Edward go out and try to get to the bottom of this murder mystery and to try yo get William free from the prison. All the while Jane is desperately sick and continues to tire easily. They uncover so many nasty characters along the way, you can't wait to see them all get their comeuppance. A very delightful mystery with twists and turns that keeps you on your toes. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and recommend it highly to those that love a good mystery. Kudos to the author.

[Céline Badaroux · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly gripping and touching finale for this series. Stephanie Barron definitely knows how to write Jane's voice and it's a pure delight to follow her through this adventure.

[Kailey (Luminous Libro) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane knows she is nearing the end of her life. Her health has been deteriorating for months and the doctors give her six months to live. However, when her old friend Elizabeth Heathcote is in trouble, Jane and her nephew Edward are ready to help. Elizabeth's son, William, has been accused of murdering a schoolmate at Winchester College, a boys' boarding school. Jane's nephew Edward tells her all about the boys college and how William endured hazing and cruel pranks. But could William have lashed out at his tormentors to the extent of murdering one of them?

I thought it was really interesting to have Jane Austen entering the exclusive world of a prestigious boys' school. They have their own lingo and traditions, and a very specific hierarchy of masters and prefects. Jane is shocked to learn about the awful beatings the younger boys will receive from the older boys, and how they are forced to run errands and clean for the prefects like servants.

Elizabeth's son, William, has developed a stutter, a speech impediment that was considered by many in Austen's time to be indicative of low intelligence. Because of this prejudice, he is not believed when he insists that he is innocent of the murder of his classmate.

I really liked seeing Jane and her nephew in this book. They work together to solve the mystery, and Edward is very solicitous for his aunt's health. He is attentive and courageous and intelligent. It was delightful to see how Jane and her nephew had similar personalities. It's really interesting to imagine what their family might have been like, how they might have talked with one another, and how they would have interacted.

The murder mystery is really good! I sort of guessed who the murderer might be, but I didn't know how or why he did it, so the mystery was still really intriguing.

I love the formal writing style that mimics the Regency era language. The dialogue is fairly close to what a real conversation might have been like in that time period. It really immerses you in the history.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8