Not Quite Miss Austen: A Prequel to the Not Quite Series

by Kim Griffin

Step back to 1955 England and meet Margaret Elliot, an aspiring author born and raised in Jane Austen’s hometown of Steventon, England. Margaret has more in common with the famous author than she’d like. She, too has been spurned in love.

Rather than dwell on her lack of romance, she’s determined to be happy in her calling to singleness and write stories that bring glory to God. Moving to London with her best friend, she plans to work for a publisher as a step towards that future.

In steps publisher Graham Corbyn, and she’s no longer sure of anything. Follow them on their adventure to open a publishing company despite increasing opposition.

Not Quite Miss Austen is the prequel to the Not Quite Series. It can be read as a standalone, but will be better enjoyed before or after the other books in the series. Margaret is the thread that ties the series together and pops up in some form in each one. Each book has nods to Jane Austen’s works, but none are retellings.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 17, 2025

About the author

Kim Griffin is a former interior designer and homeschool mom who has been leading Bible studies for over 35 years and working in Women's Ministry for over 25.  Several years ago, God led her to begin writing words of hope.  She writes Christian women's fiction with clean romance and devotionals/Bible studies. Her desire is that her books will draw readers closer to the God who sees all of their imperfections and loves them still. 

Reviews

[Anna |This Curly Girl Reads| · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️Reading this was like stepping back to my grandparents time!

✨1950s
✨London
✨aspiring, hesitant author
✨Christian publishing Co.
✨older brothers BF
✨forced proximity
✨mystery gone wrong
✨facing challenges biblically
✨spiritually encouraging

I loved Margaret. She’s a very good girl and tender toward God, which was so refreshing. I love flawed characters with baggage and redemption tales, but it is also enjoyable to read a story about mature Christians who face challenges in life. ❤️

Though this could be read as a standalone, I’ve read the first two books in this series so enjoyed reading the backstory about a favorite character in book1! I noticed several locations that were familiar, too, which was fun.

A big part of this story is Christian romance. I found this one super, duper sweet 😍 The slow burn romance, Margaret’s innocence, and Graham’s chivalry… well, it was just so adorable🥰

I especially appreciate the themes of valuing God’s Word (and digging deeper), power in prayer, and doing right even when it’s hard. Friendship is a big part of this story, as well. I loved how often the characters prayed together!

If you’re looking for a book that will challenge and encourage you spiritually, Not Quite Miss Austen is one you’ll definitely want to read.

*I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but was not required to leave a positive review. These thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book. Oh my heart. 🥹😍 This is the sweetest, Christ-centered romance. It was not cheesy, and was kept completely clean (both are reasons I generally steer clear of romance).

But this isn’t just a romance book ~ there is also a mystery involved and I really enjoyed the twists and turns that that brought to the story!

I absolutely loved how prevalent Scripture and God was in this story: From the characters studying scripture, to challenging each other to do what is right even if it’s hard & may cost them everything, to turning to prayer knowing that is where true wisdom & guidance comes from and trusting God’s timing. Kim did an amazing job keeping Christ at the center of this story & challenging her readers to look at what legacy they are leaving for future generations.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A solid 5 stars!

If you enjoy a Christ-centered, clean romance with a dash of mystery and the occasional reference to Jane Austen then you absolutely must get this book when it releases on November 13!

Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy. All opinions are strictly my own.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy Jane Austen’s work (who doesn’t?), you will enjoy reading Not Quite Miss Austen. I quite enjoyed reading this book! This book is the prequel to the Not Quite series! I loved stepping back into London during the 1950s and reading Margaret’s story!

Margaret (FMC) has just experienced heartbreak and is now settling with the belief that love was maybe never meant for her. So just like I dive into books to escape reality, she dives into her writing since she is an aspiring author. But God’s plans are always greater than our own, and not long after, her path is crossed with Graham (MMC). Together, they set off on what turns into a mystery adventure while trying to find a new publishing company! I appreciate the way this story talks about the internal struggles that we can face in our everyday life. From feeling like we are not enough, to completely closing off to love because of bad experiences, it is a good reminder that we must never give up. He is always good through it all.

If you enjoy heartwarming, mysterious adventures, great friendships, faith-filled, and of course, all of Jane Austen’s work, you will enjoy this book!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Quite Miss Austen is the third book I have read written by Kim Griffin, and she has become an instant read for me. Every book is so well written and faith-filled.

I loved diving into the behind-the-scenes of setting up a Christian publishing house. Margaret is introduced to Graham through her brother. Giving her the job of her dreams and the opportunity to pursue her writing dreams. As Graham and Margaret get to know each other, things start to blossom between them. Everything seems to come crashing down when someone appears to be stealing their new clients. Working together, they solve the mystery.

This boss-to-more romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.   
Kim Griffin does a fantastic job of intertwining faith throughout the whole novel.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author.  A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story. I really loved the writerly aspects, and found it charming to consider what publishing and marketing would have looked like in the 50s. The romance was sweet, the faith messaging was clear, and the cozy mystery aspect was a nice addition.

[Daniellehullreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy revisiting favorite characters in a series, and the 4th book of the Not Quite series by Kim Griffin was a treat! It's a prequel and a novella, and I was immersed in the history of the Corbyn family. There was a superb mystery, characters whose foundation is built on Christ, and a budding romance.

[Eden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Quite Miss Austen, Kim Griffin’s prequel to the Not Quite series, is a delightful Christian historical romance intertwined with a mystery. Reading others in the series first is not necessary to enjoy this inspiring story. Join Margaret Elliot, who wants to be an author, and Graham Corbyn, who is starting a Christian publishing company, as they learn to work together and develop deeper trust in God.
Much like Jane Austen’s novels, women seeking their place and setting play an important part in Not Quite Miss Austen. Griffin does a great job of capturing a love of books and writing. I recommend Not Quite Miss Austen and look forward to reading the other books in the Not Quite series. Thank you to the author and the publisher for my review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

[Rachel Gruber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book it’s a Christ centered romance book , that you can’t put down . Kim Griffin writes with such grace with her characters you almost feel like you’re in that time century .
This book is part of her series but you don’t have to read them on order but I highly suggest you read all of them because they are so good . 😊
I was part of her arc and this was my first time reading her first books . I need to go back and read her others .

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just when I thought the book was going to be a predictable romance, it took a turn and involved a mystery too. What fun!

Ms Griffin always writes with a great desire for people to follow God in their own lives, sharing characters who rely on God’s word and its wisdom for their lives.

[Aline Guedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kim Griffin never disappoints! I truly enjoyed getting to know Margaret’s story after seeing glimpses of her in the Not Quite series. This book beautifully shows how her journey of heartbreak, faith, and trust in God brings everything full circle.

Graham, her brother’s best friend, plays a wonderful role in helping her see how God can use every situation — even pain — for His purpose. I especially loved how the story reminds us that when we surrender our hearts to God, He opens doors we never imagined possible.

This book is heartfelt, faith-filled, and inspiring.
I received an ARC, but these are my honest thoughts.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a nice and refreshing Christian romance novel. I liked the story about Graham opening his own Christian book Publishing company. I love how the author added scripture and faith in God in this book as a major part. The romance was sweet although a really slow burn. I would’ve preferred the romance a little more sped up but othan that I don’t have any complaints. I need to read the rest of the series now.

Thank you to the author for allowing me to apart of the ARC team.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Quite Miss Austen is the long-awaited prequel fans of Author Kim Griffin and Ms. Griffin’s Not Quite Series have been waiting for and it did not disappoint! Not Quite Miss Austen takes place in 1955 when Margaret Elliot lands a job at London’s Corbyn Publishing as a secretary to it’s owner Graham Corbyn. Graham’s dream of becoming the UK’s go-to publisher for Christian authors is easier said than done. Especially when someone is poaching your clients and trying not get entangled in a lawsuit. Margaret can’t believe the gift God has given her to have a job at a Christian publishing company with an opportunity to publish her own books in the future. The job could not have come at a better time for Margaret. On the heels of losing her father, Margaret feels that she has no place to live when her Mother moves in with Margaret’s brother and his family. Margaret loves working for Corbyn Publishing—from helping Graham with the day-to-day operations to creating new ways to sign new authors and sell books. When Margaret learns that authors are being poached from Corbyn Publishing, Margaret does everything she can to help Graham out. As Margaret and Graham set out on a mission to save the company they learn powerful lessons about God’s Faithfulness, Timing, and Love.

Not Quite Miss Austen by Kim Griffin was a delightful escape for me! I love how God’s Love and Truth were soaked onto every page. After meeting Margaret at the very beginning of the Not Quite Series, I was excited to find out that Ms. Griffin gave Margaret her own story. I loved learning about Margaret’s early beginnings and that Not Quite Miss Austen was purely from Margaret’s perspective. I loved (finally) getting to meet Graham! Graham was definitely the perfect Christian gentleman, in word and deed. I love that God gave Margaret a job she loved and adored and how He provided all of her needs, because I can truly say from past experience that God is like that. I love how Margaret allowed God to embolden her to express her ideas for the company and how she wasn’t afraid to follow the Holy Spirit’s Leading. I loved the aspect of owning a Christian publishing company—I can’t remember the last time I read that in a book! I love how Corbyn Publishing truly acted like a Christian-owned business and how Graham did his best to run it with integrity. I love the deep discussions that Graham and Margaret had about God and life and how it changed them both and made them see things differently. I also appreciated Graham’s patience that he bestowed upon others in the book. I also loved how Graham and Margaret’s relationship grew as friends and more. I love how Not Quite Miss Austen had a spritz of intrigue in the plot when it came to Graham and Margaret following the clues to find out who was poaching the clients of Corbyn Publishing. The spritz of intrigue in Not Quite Miss Austen and the setting of London and surrounding areas gave the book a cozy feel full of Hope. It wouldn’t hurt my feelings at all if Ms. Griffin continued Graham and Margaret’s story even further! I highly recommend Not Quite Miss Austen by Kim Griffin!

Have you read Not Quite Miss Austen? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank Kim Griffin for giving me a copy of Not Quite Miss Austen to review, for giving me the information I needed for this post, and for letting me be on the ARC Team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape.

[Brandy Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Quite Miss Austen by Kim Griffin
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Christian Romance
A Prequel to the Not Quite Series.
He owns a publishing company & she’s an aspiring author.

About the Book:
Margaret Elliot is an aspiring author who was born and raised in Steventon, England. She is a single woman who is happy to write stories that point to God. She moves to London and starts working at a publishing company. Graham Corbyn is the owner of said company. Follow them on their adventure of opening a publishing company despite opposition.

My Thoughts:
I can’t say enough good things about this book. This is such a sweet story that points you to God. I love Margaret’s heart for the Lord. They face so many trials in this book, but they always look to God in times of trouble. Margaret is such a role model. In times of trial instead of running away from God, she runs to Him. This book is full of encouragement for your soul. You won’t regret adding this to your TBR.

Some Quotes from the book I loved:
“My father often said when we are following God’s call, don’t be surprised if Satan throws everything he can at us to thwart it.” (Isn’t this the truth!)

“If it was God’s plan, he would have to make it abundantly clear” (this made me laugh)

“There’s so much brokenness in the world. But in a way, God used it for good.” (Amen to that!)


Couple: Graham & Margaret
Spice: None - Clean Romance
Language: None
TW: None

🩷ARC received, but all opinions are my own.

Review on Instagram

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful!!!! It was so refreshing to see Margaret, the Matriarch of the Not Quite series young and discovering her love story with Graham. Indeed from a young age, she was a force to reckon with - God fearing, determined, and encouraging. I enjoyed Graham and Margaret's love story, the support, and the friendship. The way she encouraged his dream, never allowing him to give up but upholding him physically and spiritually is awesome. Not Quite Miss Austen by Kim Griffin reminds us that no one is too young or old to be a blessing in God’s kingdom. It is also a reminder that each of us has a legacy to those coming through our actions and steps. Margaret and Graham's love, spiritual growth, and character definitely created a solid legacy for their upcoming generation.
The twists in the publishing story, the desire to be an instrument in God’s hands with their careers is a true pointer to their love for God and a message to us today to use all we have and do to the glory of God. The support from the mothers, friends, and family is beautiful to see. Both mothers are an inspiration to mothers, to be a loving support and friend to their children.
Not Quite Miss Austen is definitely urging me to go back and re-read the other books in the series now that I know Margaret’s story. A beautiful read all through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heidi Sjostrom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kim Griffin’s newest release, Not Quite Miss Austen, is the prequel to for her Not Quite series. One does not have to read the books in order. Each one can stand on its own with cameos from other books. Margaret is the common thread that holds the series together and this book is her story. Graham Corbyn, friend of Margaret’s older brother, is starting up a publishing company dedicated to printing quality Christian fiction. Upon her brother’s good word, Graham hires Margaret to be his secretary. Unfortunately someone is trying to thwart Corbyn’s efforts to start up his company by stealing his authors away. As they put their heads together to solve this mystery, Margaret and Graham grow closer to each other.

This sweet story reminds the reader to rest in the faithfulness of God. That just because God has placed on your heart a specific calling or pursuit doesn’t mean it won’t be without its difficulties. When those challenges arise is a time for prayer and trust the Lord will provide in His time. This tender love story is a perfect building block to the rest of the series. I loved getting to know Margaret better. In the first book you meet her at the end of her life so to read about what shaped her was special.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC from the author. No postive review was required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cadence · Rating 4 out of 5]

- 3rd person, single POV (Margaret)
- Christian Fiction/Romance/Hist. fic/A bit of Mystery
- kisses only romance

"We are all tempted, it's what we do with those temptations that matters. That's also why we are to be in fellowship with other believers. We can bear one another's burdens and point each other to him when our burdens seem to great"

Not Quite Miss Austen is a prequel to Kim's 'Not Quite' series. I've read one of those books and really enjoyed it, so I was extra excited to see what this one would hold. I was very happy with how this one turned out. This is my third book of Kim's and I've been loving her writing style and her books full of so much faith and love.

I usually don't care much for books written in 3rd person. I just feel more connection to first person POV characters. That being said, if the writing is well done then the POV doesn't bother me. And I found that to be the case with this book. While written in 3rd person, the writing is so beautifully done that I was able to keep my head and interest in the story.

I enjoyed the characters, especially Graham, he was the absolute sweetest. I also loved that they did a regular group bible study at the office, as well as spoke about reading/studying their bibles daily on a personal level. They took the time to pray when things were hard, and not just for themselves, but for the others around them.

This story was not just a romance, there was a fun little side mystery mixed in that kept things going smoothly. Not Quite Miss Austen was a sweet and heartwarming read that I definitely recommend for those of you who enjoy Christian fiction.

I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Griffin has penned another wonderful “Not Quite” novel. Not Quite Miss Austen is a
beautifully written novel about what total surrender to God’s will looks like.
This book introduces us to Margaret Elliot and Graham Corban. Both have definite feelings
of their individual callings from God and are pursuing them. Along the way God intertwines
these callings and shows them the ways that iron sharpens iron. Life is not always easy
and requires hard work; if you are living a life for Christ, there is spiritual warfare all around
you, and danger lurks where you never suspect. But as in real life, we see that although the
spiritual battles rage, the war is already won. I encourage you to read the book to find out
why Margaret is “not quite” Miss Austen

[Hannah Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a clever concept (similarities, but not quite) and excellent story telling. I love anything connected to Jane Austen and this was just beautiful.

Margaret has just moved to London to find work in the publishing world. Graham is starting up a new Christian publishing company and needs a secretary. They work well together which is put to the test with the various hiccups they encounter.

Highlights:
Importance of prayer
The picnics
The weekend at the shore 🥰

I love Margaret for her creativity and her dreams. I love her steady influence and her love of nature.

I love Graham for his valuing of those around him.

“You make me want to be a hero...”
This was an ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction romantic mystery! Christ's love shines in Margaret Elliot and Graham Corbin, the main characters in the novel. When Margaret begins working for Graham and his publishing company, they find they make each other better, as iron sharpens iron. Graham's publishing company is up and coming and faces hardships (spiritual attack), and Margaret and Graham go to battle with prayer. The battle deepens, and an enthralling mystery unfolds. This book was very engaging, and I read it quickly, as I wanted to see what happened next! I highly recommend this book!

I received an ARC copy, but the opinions are my own!

[Books_with_values · Rating 5 out of 5]

EARLY READ:
What an enjoyable read☺️
This is a clean, faith-filled, easy road trip book for me.

Page after page, you’ll find the characters involved in intense and stressful situations and emotionally hard moments. And in the midst of everything, you’ll find them warring between faith or fear—Hoooow relatable! But will they lean on their own understanding or trust God?!

Kim Griffin writes a beautiful story of trust, of prayer, and of leaning on the word of God. She did a great job keeping God as the main character🤍

PS. I like the wardrobe choices in this book😉

[Luminous Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars ⭐️

This charming prequel to the Not Quite series follows the story of aspiring writer Margaret Elliot, as she begins her journey as a secretary at a Christian publishing house in 1955, London.

This sweet Christ-centered story truly captured my heart! I especially enjoyed the glimpse into the publishing world and the vibrant setting of the era. Margaret is a beautifully developed character with big dreams and strong faith. I loved how she continually turns to God for strength amidst uncertainties and her desire to write stories that honor Him. I also loved the way she encourages Graham in his faith, and their romance is very sweet and clean. The mystery surrounding the publishing company adds just the right amount of suspense and intrigue!

What really touched my heart were the faith moments and the scenes where Margaret and Graham read scripture and pray together, especially during difficult times. So beautiful!

[Terri Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Loved this prequel so much! Kim Griffin did so well with the story! I’m not typically a fan of one POV, but it was wonderful to immerse myself in Margaret’s world. I loved how God was the center of it all! And though it wasn’t the typical 3rd act break-up, it felt like one, and it was necessary. You did so well in writing grief, how it still hurts, but to remember the happy memories. Now time to reread Not Quite Mr. Darcy and get my hands on the other books!

[B Gehrt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed to receive this book on Miss Austen’s 250th birthday.

It was so good that I couldn’t put it down until I had finished it. What made this book especially meaningful to me was how authentically the characters shared God’s Love and frequently just the right Bible verse to make their feelings clear.

Please enjoy it.

[funkelbunt.liest · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful prequel to the Not Quite series with a sweet romance, a bit of mystery and a whole lot of relatable faith content.

The books of the Not Quite series are all inspired by, but no retellings of the beloved Jane Austen novels. I personally do prefer it this way, since I find most Jane Austen retellings to be rather lacking compared to the originals. But as a big fan of Miss Austen’s novels I really enjoy the parallels, the hints and nods to these classics that you can find in Kim Griffin’s series.

I loved both main characters and found their romance to be extremely sweet without being cheesy. I love that both put God first while trying to figure out if they should pursue a romantic relationship and how protective they were of each other.

The friendships in this book were wonderful and supportive and the mystery added some adventure and suspense to this wholesome novel.

What I love most about Kim Griffin’s books is the strong faith content. It’s not just a light touch of faith and a little prayer at the dinner table. Her books always keep Christ at the center in a way that feels real and relatable rather than preachy or unrealistic. Her characters are lovely, but not perfect and I always think her stories are a wonderful reminder that we don’t have to be perfect because only One is.

I recommend this book for readers who love heartfelt Christian historical fiction and clean romances - and of course especially if you are a fan of Jane Austen.

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.