Pride, Prejudice and Peril: A gripping historical mystery perfect for fans of cosy crime and Jane Austen

by Jessica Bull

The latest installment in the devilish and delightful Miss Austen Investigates series

Jane Austen is preparing for the summer season.

As guests of their wealthy relatives Mr and Mrs Leigh-Perrot, Jane and her sister Cassandra will be holidaying in Bath Spa – the world-famous health resort, and more importantly, the epicentre of the marriage mart.

For many, the summer will be spent hunting husbands. But for Jane, when a series of murders breaks out across the city, she must chase down a killer instead.

With her beloved sister by her side, Jane is determined to bring the murderer to justice. Can she stop this villain from taking any more victims, before the summer ends? Or will her only dance of the season be with death…

Genres: Jane Austen, Historical Fiction

411 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 17, 2026

About the author

Jessica Bull lives in South East London with her husband, two daughters, and far too many pets. She’s addicted to stories and studied English Literature at Bristol University, and Information Science at City University, London. She began her career as a librarian (under the false impression she could sit and read all day), before becoming a communications consultant.



Her debut novel, MISS AUSTEN INVESTIGATES is published in 18 territories worldwide and was shortlisted for the Crime Writer’s Association ILP John Creasey First Novel Dagger. The second book in her Jane Austen murder mystery series, A FORTUNE MOST FATAL, was published in March 2025 and the third, THE AUSTEN CHRISTMAS MURDERS, in November 2025.

You can find her on...

Instagram: @jessicabullnovelist

Reviews

[Kez Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cosy historical mystery, with plenty of scandals, secrets and threats.
It follows Miss Jane Austen as she investigates an alleged theft by her Aunt, and soon discovers a blackmailing scheme, highwayman threat, suspicious murder and more, with her wit and intuition guiding her, and her sister Cassie by her side.
I enjoyed the atmosphere as they navigate the pressures of society, family and expectations, while the sisters go undercover, interview witnesses and try to prove their Aunt's innocence and expose the culprit. I enjoyed the letters exchanged between Jane and her mother, the honest and loyal sisterly bond, and seeing Jane Sleuth away in Bath.

[Lynn Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 of 5 stars
https://lynns-books.com/2026/09/21/re...
My Five Word TL:DR Review: My Favourite Instalment So Far

I’m very much enjoying the Miss Austen Investigates series, I had a few little issues here and there with the first couple of books but I find that I’ve really sunk into this series and I’m enjoying Jane’s exploits very much, I hope there are plenty more instalments in the pipeline.

Pride, Prejudice and Peril sees Jane and her sister Cassandra on a visit to Bath. They accompany their relatives, Mr and Mrs Leigh-Perrot, and although most people travel to Bath to take of the waters, enjoy the gatherings and hopefully secure a husband in the process, neither Jane or Cassandra have much interest in parading about but they are happy to accompany their relatives and Jane is hopeful to make contacts in the publishing business and possibly make inroads towards publishing her first book. They’ve barely had time to attend more than one assembly when their Aunt Jane (Mrs Leight-Perrot) is arrested on the most shocking of charges, accused of stealing a card of lace. She is arrested and imprisoned and it is left to Jane and her sister to try and uncover what is really going on and rescue their aunt before she is transported or worse.

I won’t discuss the plot, it’s amusing to discover it as you read along and I actually enjoyed Jane’s thought processes. I think this particular addition to the series was improved by the role of Cassandra as a grounding influence. The two spend a good deal of time together and while it isn’t possible to completely curb Jane’s natural impulsiveness, the steady calmness of Cassy certainly helps.

Instead here are my thoughts and feelings.

This was a very easy story to sink into. There’s the mystery pertaining to Aunt Jane, but what started out as surely nothing more than a simple mistake soon turns a lot more sinister eventually leading to murder. Jane and Cassandra find themselves dashing around bath interviewing people – many of whom have one thing in common – which obviously I’m not going to share here and often putting themselves in danger.

The setting is great. I loved that the story takes place in Bath with lots of little nods to Austen’s body of work – particularly the name of the highway robber. I really hope that the author intends to visit Bath again for more shenanigans. It really leant itself to the mystery taking place, with dark alleys, and shady places contrasting starkly with the extravagant balls and dances.

The writing itself. I feel like the author has really found her feet with this series. The dialogue, story, descriptions and pacing are really good. I never had a dull moment. And she manages to achieve a very good balance here with an easy reading style that still evokes the period very well.

As I said I really liked Jane and Cassandra’s relationship in this novel. almost as much as I sometimes felt that other members of her family were a little bit mean to her. Her brother and sister-in-law visit them to ‘help’ and spend most of their time trying to arrange a suitable match for Cassandra while ignoring Jane and leaving her out of excursions.

Overall, and I realise this is a relatively short review – which certainly isn’t a reflection of my enjoyment – I really enjoyed this and look forward eagerly to seeing what the author comes up with next.

I received a copy through Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.

[S.J. Higbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book in this series – Miss Austen Investigates, but for the fact that I found Bull’s depiction of Jane rather scatterbrained and giddy. This time around, the version of Jane that is presented is far calmer and more sensible.

Jane and her sister Cassandra have been invited to Bath by wealthy relatives Mr and Mrs Leigh-Perrot. Cassandra is in mourning for her fiancé, who died of yellow fever whilst accompanying troops in the Napoleonic War as their curate. The family, worried about Cassandra’s low mood, have urged the sisters to accept their kind invitation. However, disaster strikes. A member of the family is facing disgrace, while one of their new acquaintances is discovered drowned. Whilst his death is formally announced as a tragic accident, Jane has her doubts.

The murder mystery and the issue regarding the Austen’s hapless relative give this book plenty of suspense. I was interested to discover that Cassandra Austen did, indeed lose a much-loved fiancé – and the relative did actually suffer the event described in the book at Bath. No wonder Jane Austen didn’t like Bath all that much! However, the murders are all fictional which doesn’t prevent them creating a cracking story that works really well.

For me, the highlight of the book – other than the murder mystery and Mrs Leigh-Perrot’s ordeal – is the close relationship between Jane and Cassandra. Which doesn’t mean it’s all sweetness and light. The two have a bad quarrel at one stage, which gave a nice realistic tone. Sisters living so closely and under such strain are liable to give each other a hard time. That didn’t prevent this being a loving and deeply moving relationship. I also very much appreciated how Cassandra’s calmer more considered approach tones down Jane’s more excitable behaviour.

All in all, this turned into a thoroughly engrossing page-turner that had me staying up far later than I’d planned to discover what happens next. Highly recommended for fans of historical murder mysteries set in the Regency period, especially those who enjoy Jane Austenesque stories.
While I obtained an arc of Pride Prejudice and Peril from the publisher via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10

[Tzia · Rating 2.75 out of 5]

Jane Austen is spending the season in Bath with her sister Cassandra, under the supervision of their aunt and uncle. The trip takes an ominous turn when in quick succession a shopping trip goes wrong and a recent acquaintance is found dead. Are the two connected? Determined to find the truth, Jane and Cassandra find themselves investigating murder, blackmail, theft and more besides.

This was a great setup for a book but didn't quite deliver in the right places for me. The most interesting things for me as a reader were the murder and the case involving Jane's aunt. However, the murder was largely ignored and the case of the aunt was investigated but largely from a distance. There was only really one suspect - though a couple of others are vaguely entertained - and there's no way for the reader to deduce the killer or motive, which I always feel is a key ingredient of a cosy crime novel.

As a look at Regency life - particlarly the society rules of the time - this is a great book. Jane and Cassandra are frequently frustrated by the restrictions put upon them either because of their gender or because of the way the middle and upper classes were supposed to behave, and that was genuinely fascinating. There are some lovely moments in this, and there's a very human and emotive scene between the sisters when they're discussing Cassandra's reluctance to marry. On the whole though I found most of the characters quite irritating and superficial.

The previous book in the series was significantly better in my opinion, I don't see myself returning to this one though.

- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -

[Verity W · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

My first in this series and although I liked the premise, I found it hard going in the reading of it. The idea of the Austen sisters in Bath is great - but it felt more like the author wanted to write about the day to day of Bath than the actual mystery/mysteries and that's obviously a bit of a problem in a book that's being marketed as a mystery. But given that there's no chance of a romance plot in this neither Jane nor Cassandra married I guess a mystery plot is the best option if you're an author who wants to write fiction about Jane Austen.

***Copy from NetGalley for review consideration*****

[Mona Sami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of *Pride, Prejudice and Peril* before publication. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

*Pride, Prejudice and Peril* is a clever and charming historical mystery that imagines Jane Austen as an amateur detective. Jane and her beloved sister Cassandra travel to Bath as guests of their wealthy relatives, Mr and Mrs Leigh-Perrot. While many visitors are focused on fashionable gatherings, advantageous marriages and the excitement of the summer season, Jane soon finds herself investigating a series of murders taking place across the city.

Jane makes a very engaging detective. Her intelligence, curiosity and ability to observe the smallest details of human behaviour feel entirely suited to solving a mystery. She notices the pride, jealousy and dishonesty hidden beneath polite conversation, while those around her frequently underestimate her because she is a young unmarried woman. Her sharp observations and dry humour give the story plenty of personality without making her feel too modern for the period.

The relationship between Jane and Cassandra is one of the strongest parts of the novel. Their affection and loyalty provide warmth alongside the darker murder investigation, and Cassandra is more than simply a companion following Jane from one suspect to another. Their conversations feel natural and help show the personal side of Jane beyond her wit and determination to uncover the truth.

Bath is also an excellent setting. The assemblies, elegant houses, marriage market and social expectations create a lively historical backdrop, while the murders reveal the secrets and resentments beneath the city’s respectable surface. I enjoyed the contrast between people carefully protecting their reputations in public and Jane quietly discovering what they have been hiding in private.

The mystery contains a good range of suspects, motives and clues. The pacing is relatively measured, particularly while the social world and different characters are established, but the investigation becomes more absorbing as the connections between the victims emerge. Readers unfamiliar with Jane Austen may still enjoy the central mystery, although those who recognise the historical figures and references will probably gain an additional layer of enjoyment.

Overall, *Pride, Prejudice and Peril* is an entertaining and atmospheric historical mystery filled with wit, secrets and period detail. Jessica Bull successfully combines a traditional whodunnit with the manners, relationships and social observations associated with Austen’s world. It is a delightful read for fans of historical mysteries, clever female detectives and imaginative stories involving beloved literary figures.

[One Foot in Iceland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since the days of Stephanie Barron's beloved fabulous series, the idea of character-observer-extraordinaire Jane Austen as an investigator of mysteries is just genius, and this latest novel from self-confessed fan-since-childhood Jessica Bull, continuing her excellent series, is no exception. Jessica's Jane is, in my opinion, a very faithful representation, doubtless due to the meticulous research and obvious affection the author has for her subject matter. Jane is hampered in her investigative pursuits by the constraints of polite society and the level of her social standing - quite below that of those she's staying and socialising with in the Season at Bath in this novel. Pride and Prejudice and Peril addresses the fascinating episode in Jane's family history of her Aunt Jane Leigh-Perrot's arrest and trial for the crime of stealing a card of lace. Was this the result of a proclivity to light fingeredness, or slapdash wrapping on the part of the shopkeeper, one Mrs Gregory? This may seem quite small potatoes to us today, but the value of the lace brings the crime into the realms of the penalty being death or transportation - so this is no insignificant matter!
It soon becomes apparent that Mrs Leigh-Perrot is not the only one negotiating troubles at Mrs Gregory's shop, as a blackmailer is in play, and then a body is dredged up from the river - someone to whom Jane had been advised to apply for help in her aunt's case has been murdered. Jane does her level best to try to get to the bottom of things, hampered as mentioned both by social constraints and her own preconceptions, (prejudices, you might even say!) as it turns out.
Edward Austen(-Knight) & wife Elizabeth come to Bath once the Leigh-Perrots are removed to Ilchester, and this smoothes Jane's path in society in some ways, as Beth is on a mission to matchmake for Cassandra, still grieving the loss of her beloved Tom Fowle some 2.5yrs previously. Neddy, in his role as High Sheriff of Kent, is listened to more readily than a young woman, frustrating for the sisters, but they make the most of his presence and input.
Throughout the book, the bond and affection of the sisters shines through. This was something the author was keen to represent and do justice to, and I feel she can rest her 'quill' easy - this has been achieved with éclat.
The twin plotlines of the true story of the lace arrest, and the fictitious murder, are cunningly and convincingly intertwined to make a tightly plotted mystery, with several blind alleyways, that you'll really enjoy getting your teeth into. Highly recommended!

[Acantha · Rating 2.75 out of 5]

Another murder mystery involve Jane Austen and her family.

The main plot revolves around a blackmailer and their victims. People wind up dead or injured, and Jane takes it upon herself to try and solve who is behind it.

As a regency era inspired book, this is a triumph. The focus on how things were in that day and age, especially for women, is artfully done. There are so many rules surrounding how their gender and social class governs how they behave, right down to simple things such as not approaching someone of a higher status. They have to do it first. It really limits the type of investigating that Jane can do, but I did like that the author remained true to the world. Jane and her sister still manage to do some things and we get to see both their brains in play as they solve the puzzle.

I wasn't a huge fan of the characters, my favourite was her sister Cass, but there are so many scenes where she is talked over and talked about, and not until near the end does anyone bother to ask how she actually feels. Aside from her, most of the characters felt rather one dimensional and almost a parody of a regency book character, than characters in their own right.

The second main plot involves her aunt who is accused of theft, and in those days it carried a very harsh penalty. Yet the book ends before that plot is resolved one way or another - it is assumed that it ends happily, but we don't get to see it, and it feels somewhat anticlimactic for a plot to just stop with little more than a handwave and two characters discussing the possible outcome. I was honestly invested in that and so really frustrated that the plot just ends.

It almost feels as though the author wanted to write about Bath in Regency times, about Jane, but not about the murder and the blackmail. It's a cosy where the author is less interested in the cosy crime element which would be fine if it wasn't marketed as such. As it stands, I'm not sure I'd come back to this series.

For those who like the regency era or who want to just be in Jane Austen's head for a bit, this is a fun book and I'd recommend it. For those who want cosy crime, less so.

~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~

[Emma Alvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

October 1799. Jane and her sister Cassandra are staying with their wealthy aunt and uncle in Bath Spa - a place famous for healing health and the epicentre of the marriage mart. But Jane isn’t interested in either of those things. She is here to try and forge links to the literary world. However, things soon take a very different turn when her aunt is accused of theft and a gentleman’s body is pulled from the River Avon. There is a mystery waiting to be solved and Jane and Cassandra are on the case. Soon, they find links between the two cases and a mysterious man named Mr. Rex who is trying to blackmail them. Who is Mr. Rex? And how did he discover their secrets? Can they find him and stop him before he claims another victim?

Charming, witty and uplifting, we’re back with another delightful whodunnit featuring amateur detective Jane Austen. Exquisitely written, cleverly crafted and richly imagined, Jessica Bull transports us back in time and immerses us in Jane’s world, where there always seems to be a new mystery that needs to be solved. In this installment there are a number of different investigations at first, but it soon becomes clear there are links between them. The cases are cryptic and complex, with many threads to unravel and a multitude of suspects, but our intrepid heroine doesn’t give up and eventually puts all the pieces of the puzzle together.

Jane is a fabulous protagonist. Intelligent and feisty, she knows exactly what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. I love how she rallies against societal norms, pursuing a career in literature instead of settling down and finding a husband. One of my favourite things about this series is Jane’s bonds with her siblings, particularly the close bond between Jane and her elder sister, Cassandra, who often helps Jane in her investigations. In this book their bond seems closer than ever and I loved watching them work together. They are very different, but those differences compliment one another and help them as they try to solve a case.

So if you’re looking for a cosy mystery that is also an absolute riot, this is the book for you.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pride, Prejudice and Peril is such a charming blend of cosy mystery and Austen‑esque wit, and I thoroughly enjoyed slipping into this version of Bath with Jane and Cassandra at the helm. What stood out immediately is how naturally the author captures Jane’s voice — clever, observant, quietly amused by the social theatre around her — while still giving her the agency and curiosity needed to anchor a murder investigation.

The Bath setting is wonderfully done. You get all the sparkle of the summer season and the marriage‑minded bustle, but there’s a darker thread running beneath it that gives the story real momentum. I loved how the book plays with contrast: the polite dances and polite conversations on one side, and the unsettling sense that something dangerous is moving quietly through the city on the other. It creates a tone that feels both comforting and intriguing.

Jane and Cassandra’s relationship is a highlight. Their sisterly warmth and shared humour give the story heart, and it’s lovely to see them working together — not in a dramatic, action‑heavy way, but with steady intuition and a willingness to look past the obvious. The mystery itself unfolds with a gentle pace, full of small clues, shifting suspicions, and that satisfying sense of watching clever women notice what others overlook.

What I enjoyed most is how the book never loses its Austen flavour while still delivering a genuine murder mystery. The dialogue sparkles, the social dynamics are deliciously observed, and the investigative thread feels organic to Jane’s character rather than imposed on her. It’s a story that understands its inspirations but isn’t constrained by them.

A delightful, atmospheric historical mystery with a heroine who feels both familiar and refreshingly capable. I had a lovely time with this one.

With thanks to Jessica Bull, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful instalment in the Miss Austen Investigates Series and my favourite so far. This book finds Jane and her sister Cassandra in Bath for the season as guests of their Aunt Jane and Uncle James Leigh-Perrot. The Leigh-Perrot’s, largely Aunt Jane, are keen to find suitors for their nieces, particularly Cassandra. However, Jane is only looking for help in finding a publisher and Cassandra is still mourning her fiancé Mr Fowle.

Briefly, Mrs Leigh-Perrot decides to take the sisters along with her on a shopping trip. However, after buying some black lace she is stopped after leaving the store and accused of stealing some white lace. Despite her protestation her family are shocked when she is later arrested and taken to prison in Illchester. Jane later discovers that Aunt Jane is just one person who has received a blackmail letter. Determined to prove her Aunt’s innocence Jane starts to investigate alongside her sister Cassandra, but before their investigations get far a recent acquaintance is found murdered.

I loved everything about this book. I know Bath fairly well so I found myself mentally following Jane’s path around the city. The mystery was very well done and my suspicions moved from character to character never once falling on the actual perpetrators. I also appreciated all the factual elements within the story, both small and large, for example the arrest of Mrs Jane Leigh-Perrot. You can read more in the author’s notes at the end of the book. Aside from Jane’s excellent detective skills, which are definitely improving from the earlier books, I really enjoyed the relationship between Jane and Cassandra. This was a perfect cozy historical read and I can’t wait for the next book.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Pride, Prejudice and Peril” is the fourth instalment in the ‘Miss Austen Investigates’ series, marking my first foray into the literary world of author Jessica Bull. Her unique take on Regency England and the Austen family is highly engaging. In particular, Jessica Bull's portrayal of Jane Austen as a sharp-witted detective, combined with the atmospheric Bath setting, makes for a thoroughly captivating read, which I enjoyed from start to finish.

What stood out to me right away is how beautifully the author captures Jane's voice. She is clever, observant and quietly amazed by the social theatre around her. Yet, beneath that quiet observation, she has the perfect blend of confidence and curiosity needed to anchor a gripping murder investigation and galvanise the pursuit of justice. Partnered with her beloved sister Cassandra, they try to outwit a violent monster stalking the upper echelons of Regency England, which has seen their aunt falsely imprisoned for shoplifting.

I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining read, with that lovely cosy mystery feel throughout and with the Austen-esque style of writing, adding perfectly to the authenticity of the era, this is a novel not to be missed.

I couldn’t tell that this was the fourth book in the series but having enjoyed this one so much, I’ll definitely be going back to read the earlier books and get to know the characters from the beginning.

#PridePrejudiceAndPeril - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Chloe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author and was immediately drawn to imagining beloved Jane Austen as an amateur detective, alongside her sister Cassandra. It was such a clever idea and was a joy to read.

Jane and Cassandra are staying in Bath with their wealthy relatives, attempting to find a potential publisher and possible life partner. When 2 people are murdered, Jane soon becomes involved in an investigation to clear her aunt's name and figure out who is trying to blackmail their family and friends.

I really loved the warm connection between the sisters and the insight we got into their lives, aswell as the investigation. Both have their own lovable characteristics and are joint assests to the mystery unfolding. Their relationship was probably my biggest and most enjoyable part of the story. It was clear Jessica knew her history and had done a lot of research into the characters, setting and time, which pays off and allows you to fully picture yourself as a fly on the wall during the story. I was thoroughly entertained throughout.

Overall, this was a delightful, cosy read. I am aware this is book 4 in a series so it is a no brainer that I will be going back to read the previous ones as soon as I get the chance.

[Beverley Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pride, Prejudice & Peril by Jessica Bull due for publication 17 Sept 2026

Number four in this splendid series Jane Austen returns playing amateur detective helped by her sister Cassandra in the beautiful city of Bath.

There is a wonderful warmth and humour to the sister's relationship and the city itself weaves its spell with the baths, balls and parties they attend. Light and sparkling wit with an undercurrent of evil around their investigation of the alleged shoplifting by their aunt Mrs Leigh-Perrot. and the subsequent findings of blackmail and murder.

Cassandra's anger and grief when she is pushed toward a suitor by her sister in law Beth before she is too old for marriage is well written and totally understandable when she delivers her tirade to Jane as to why she states she will never marry.

These books are a joy to read and the author shows her research of the period and of Jane Austen herself.

Well done.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for a pre publication copy.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth of the Jane Austen Investigates series, and after reading the first and most recent, I’m desperate to seek out the other two. Nobody is under any illusion that this is fully factual, and that is how I’ve taken it. What we have is a well paced, tongue in cheek romp through the streets of Regency Bath, that pulls you into the gossip and the balls and the parlours of its residents. There is plenty of historical fact woven through, and a witty, relatable Jane solving mysteries with the intelligence, and understanding of human behaviour that we would expect from her. I’m familiar with Bath, having lived there for a while, and there is very much a flavour of the city, with accurate mapping and impeccable research of the era. Yes, this is a light hearted book, but don’t underestimate the care that has gone into it.

I received an e-arc from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Nimalee Ravi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Pride, Prejudice and Peril by Jessica Bull. It is a charming historical mystery that follows Jane Austen as she investigates a series of murders in Regency Bath. Jane is clever, curious and full of determination.

One of my favourite parts was the relationship between Jane and her sister Cassandra. Their bond feels loving and genuine, even when they disagree or become frustrated with each other. Cassandra worries about Jane and tries to protect her, while Jane values her sister’s support and companionship. Their closeness brings warmth and emotion to the story.

The mystery kept me guessing, and I loved the mix of family drama, secrets and society scandal. The writing is light, witty and easy to read, with plenty of atmosphere. A fun and cosy read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys Jane Austen and historical mysteries.

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, that was fun.

Jane and her sister Cassandra are visiting Bath with her aunt and uncle, the Leigh-Perrots. When shopping at a spreadsheet Mrs Leigh-Parrot is accused of stealing some lace. Soon, while trying to find out what is going on with that they become embroiled in a blackmailing scheme, and then murder. Jane sets out first to clear her aunt's name, and then to find the culprit or culprits.

The author knows her Austen history, so gets to play around with aspects of her life. There is an authors note at the back where she explains where certain details have been changed to fit the plot. She doesn't play too fast and loose with the facts. All in all, a satisfying read.

*Many thanks to Netgally and the publishers for a copy in exchange for an honest opinion.*

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Insta Book Tours and the author for this ARC.

As a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice, I read a lot of spin-offs, and therefore feel qualified to say that Jessica Bull captures the voice of Jane Austen better than anyone. I love the Miss Austen Investigates series and this book was absolutely no exception!

I love how this story is built on historical facts, but it doesn't feel dry because of it. These books are great fun; absolutely classic mystery novels and they're a joy to read.

I had no idea whodunnit - I was barking up the wrong tree the entire time - and I really enjoyed the side characters in this story too. So many people who were just good fun to read about!

If you're at all into your Austen, this is a series you should get into.

[Heather Howarth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this cosy crime novel. This time Jane and her sister, Cassie, are staying in Bath with their wealthy relatives, Mr and Mrs Leigh-Perrot.

Jane becomes embroiled in investigating who is behind a series of blackmail attempts against a number of family and friends and two murders as well as clearing her aunt’s name. This alongside finding a publisher and a possible life partner for Cassie.

The relationship between Jane and Cassandra is one of the greatest strengths of the novel - each complements the other and holds real affection. Both prove to be real assets in the investigation.

The story is well paced with multiple suspects, motives and clues.

An enjoyable read.

[Miki Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this series. I can imagine Jane Austen being curious enough to investigate curious happenings.
In this instance Jane and Cassandra have accompanied their Aunt and Uncle to Bath and Jane is hoping to make some literary connections to get her book published.
Events conspire against her and she finds herself and Cassandra investigating the circumstances which lead to her Aunt being arrested and held in gaol and the death of an acquaintance. In a society where one's reputation is everything, it is vital that she finds out what happened. An interesting book that gives insights into how life was back then.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy historical fiction novels, escaping to a different time period and learning about the customs and expectations of the world in a different time and I have enjoyed books written by the Austens, so this series by Jessica Bull is a perfect blend of character and place.

In Pride, Prejudice and Peril, Jane and her sister Cassandra have been sent to Bath to stay with Mrs Austen's relatives, the Leigh-Perrots in an attempt to have their daughters mingling in societal circles and establish a position for themselves with potential suitors. Jane of course has her mind on finding not a husband, but a publisher for her stories and I love her optimism and bravery in trying to strike out to achieve her dreams.

I actually started watching Bridgerton for the first time whilst reading this book so felt fully immersed in the societal expectations put on Jane and Cassandra to represent and uphold the family's honour as they attend balls, afternoon teas and promenades around Bath. It is not long until peril is introduced when Mrs Leigh-Perrot is accused of stealing some lace and is sent to a debtors jail until the crime can be investigated properly. Immediately Jane and Cassandra are on the case and discover that Mrs Leigh-Perrot is innocent of her crime and has been blackmailed into providing a ransom, as have other gentry members of the Leigh-Perrot social circle. A game is afoot and Jane is determined to solve it!

When the police find an acquaintance of the Leigh-Perrot's drowned in the river it seems as if someone else is on the hunt to silence people who can help Jane and Cassandra solve the mystery. I loved the pacing of the novel as Jane and Cassandra hot-foot it (albeit rather slowly up a hill in a carried chair) after possible assailants across Bath, down twisted streets, into shuttered houses and mingling with society from all classes in a quest for answers.

This is a book centred on family, exploring the relationships of class, gender, family and society in a mystery romp across Bath. I loved the side stories of Lady Saye and Sele, Mother Castle and the letters exchanged between Jane and her mother back home.

[Gill Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another sparkling mystery from Jessica Bull. I love the insights into Jane and Cassandra's lives (no doubt meticulously researched) and the strong sense of time and place. The story swept me along with its many twists and turns, but this is more than a who dunnit, it's a novel whose acerbic comments on life itself are worthy of Jane Austen's own pen. A delightful book which kept me thoroughly entertained. I can't wait for the next novel in the series.

[Hells · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed every minute reading this book. Jessica Bull has drawn a lovely portrait of the Austen sisters amid an interesting murder mystery. Jane is clever and stubborn and awkward at times, while Cassandra is a loving, devoted and steadying influence.

The story is rich with period details and I love that it's based on grains of real events. There is nothing I don't love about Pride, Prejudice and Peril.

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rounding up to 3 ⭐

This one felt me feeling a bit flat
I've read many books like this and it just won't stand out amongst the others.
Saying that, it raised a smile or two from me, and I did think at one point I'd just happily read a book of letters between Jane and her mother.


Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy

[Emma Hardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fabulous instalment as part of the Jane Austen detective series that goes from strength to strength. This being set in Bath too is the cherry on top. Beautifully immersive and the language on point as always. A thoroughly entertaining read.

[Noemi Proietti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thrilled to return to the world of the Miss Austen Investigates series in which my favourite author turns into an amateur detective and solves crimes. Pride, Prejudice and Peril is the fourth book in this thrilling series and we see Jane and her sister Cassandra visiting Bath, in 1799, as guests of their wealthy Leigh-Perrot relatives. While Jane hopes to be introduced to literary people who may help her publish her novels, her relatives’ focus, especially her brother Edward and his wife Elizabeth (who are also visiting Bath), is to find a husband for an unenthusiastic Cassandra, two years after the death of her fiancé, Tom Fowle.

While Jane and Cassandra visit the streets of Bath and the Pump Room in a way that reminded me of Catherine Morland in Northanger Abbey, her aunt, Mrs Leigh-Perrot, is involved in a scandal that lands her in jail for shoplifting. Jane, with the help of Cassandra, is determined to prove her innocence, so she starts investigating but, as in the previous novels, her obsession with the investigation puts her in danger.

The author masterly draws from Jane Austen’s two real-life visits to Bath to create an intriguing and witty story. Jane Austen first visited Bath in 1797 and stayed with Mr. and Mrs. James Leigh-Perrot at the Paragon. She visited again in 1799, this time with her brother Edward and his wife Elizabeth. If you are familiar with Jane Austen’s biography, you know that in 1799, Mrs Leigh-Perrot was arrested for theft and held in jail and her husband stayed with her. Mrs. Austen offered to send Jane and Cassandra to the Ilchester gaol to keep her company, but the offer was turned down. At that time, theft of any item worth five shillings or more was punishable by hanging or deportation to Australia for 14 years (and we see Mr. Leigh-Perrot considering moving to Australia to be with his wife). In March 1800, Mrs. Leigh-Perrot was found not guilty. The author uses this event to create a terrific and captivating mystery involving blackmail, murder, and deceit.

I loved the setting of Bath, with its Season and its society, the beautiful houses and the streets that are familiar if you’ve read Jane Austen’s novels or any Regency romance set in Bath. The story is well-written and engaging, but my favourite part is the strong bond between the two sisters which is perfectly portrayed in this novel. Pride, Prejudice and Peril is yet another excellent historical mystery and I am already looking forward to the next one!

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a fun series and I’ve really enjoyed the previous instalments in Jane’s investigation attempts.
This is another great read. Seeing Jane and Cassandra at their very investigative best we’re treated to Bath in the summer. Restrictions in their very ‘feminine-ness’ doesn’t stop Jane as she hunts down the mysterious killer whilst trying to avoid her families good intentions to marry her off. Danger seems to follow Jane in this series and I love how Cassandra is prepared to follow her and back her up in all kinds of situations- their sibling relationship so strong.

[Georgina Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read nearly all of this series of books and this was my favourite yet, I just love Jane and the relationship she has with Cassandra. They get on so well and are almost like twins in the way they know what the other is thinking, which made it so much better that Cassie got involved in the investigation this time.

The sisters are in Bath for the season, to stay with their aunt & uncle who are going to introduce them to all the right people and, at their mother & sister-in-law’s request, find them suitable husbands. Only problem with this is that neither of them want them and their aunt gets arrested for shoplifting!!

Then a series of murders takes place and Jane feels compelled to find out who’s behind everything and help free her aunt. It just got better and better from then on. I really enjoyed this and hope there’s more to come - preferably with the duo at the helm again.

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always get excited by anything that is putting a twist on the classics. This book combines historical fiction with cosy crime.

The story follows Jane Austen herself. Instead of hunting for a husband, she's hunting a murderer!

There is mystery and murder and blackmail. It's a great plot and the characters are really charming. I really enjoyed the author's take on Jane Austen. The dynamic between Jane and her sister Cassandra is just superb.

[Karen Kingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first two novels and the Christmas novella in this series, I was thrilled to have the opportunity for an early read of this book. I’m happy to confirm that this is my new favourite book in the series, as Jane and Cassandra arrive in Bath with their relatives. I loved the mix of cosy crime, historical fiction and Jane’s investigations set in a city I love to visit.

There is a perfect sprinkling of humour throughout the story to make this a relaxing read (despite the occasional suspicious death). Jessica has created another wonderful mystery story featuring Jane Austen as a writer who is determined to solve the mysteries she encounters, with or without the help of her siblings, and having to cope with the social rules of the time. Available to buy now in all good bookstores. I’m hoping for another book (or two) in the series too.