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Murder at Northanger Abbey: Sequel to Jane Austen's Spoof on the Gothic Novel
Delightfully spooky sequel to Jane Austen's original parody on the Gothic novel.
Newly married to her beloved Henry, Catherine’s eyes are now open to the grownup pleasures of wedded life. Yet she still hasn’t quite given up her girlhood fascination with all things Gothic. When she first visited Northanger Abbey, she only imagined dreadful events had occurred there. This time the horror is all too real. There’s been a murder, and Henry has fallen under suspicion. Catherine is determined to clear her husband’s name, but at the same time, she’s afraid for her own safety, since there’s a very good chance the real murderer is still in the house.
This delightful sequel reprises the mischievous spirit of Austen’s original spoof on the Gothic novel, while giving Catherine a genuine murder mystery to unravel.
Newly married to her beloved Henry, Catherine’s eyes are now open to the grownup pleasures of wedded life. Yet she still hasn’t quite given up her girlhood fascination with all things Gothic. When she first visited Northanger Abbey, she only imagined dreadful events had occurred there. This time the horror is all too real. There’s been a murder, and Henry has fallen under suspicion. Catherine is determined to clear her husband’s name, but at the same time, she’s afraid for her own safety, since there’s a very good chance the real murderer is still in the house.
This delightful sequel reprises the mischievous spirit of Austen’s original spoof on the Gothic novel, while giving Catherine a genuine murder mystery to unravel.
274 pages, Paperback
First published June 17, 2020
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176 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 10, 2020
Do you ever read a book and enjoy it to such an extent that your mind continues to dwell on the characters and you imagine your own continuation of the story? If that story is Northanger Abbey, then it is no stretch to imagine that the heroine, Catherine, must have her dream of living inside one of her delicious gothic novels fulfilled even while reveling in the happiness of being married to her Henry and settled at Woodston Cottage. Oh, not as the gullible young girl who conjured up ghouls and mystery where it didn’t exist, but a heroine worthy of adventure when the adventure finds her. If you perked up at this possibility, then, like me, dear reader, you are primed for Shannon Winslow’s Murder at Northanger Abbey.
Murder at Northanger Abbey opens with Catherine and Henry Tilney, newlywed and living in bliss at Woodston Cottage. Catherine is still settling in as mistress and exalting in the tender and passionate love of her husband. She has learned from her earlier adventures and set aside the impressionable girl who saw a bloody skeleton in every locked trunk or a villain in every frown. She’s sensible now and seeks to be a credit as a vicar’s wife.
Into this idyllic life, an invitation arrives from General Tilney for them to attend an All Hallow’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Northanger Abbey. Henry is dubious and still has strong feelings about his father’s treatment of Catherine, but if this means an olive branch, he should accept. Catherine is thrilled about the ball and revels in the chills she feels about spending All Hallow’s Eve at a house she once thought haunted.
Their arrival reunites all the Tilneys including Elinor and her husband. Catherine also meets a pretty young, but ineligible woman whom Frederick brought to annoy the General, though she is startled to notice a soft spot in the cruel Captain. The General also has a young pretty woman on his arm and she is very much eligible as the daughter of a Marquess. He is bursting with some sort of inner glee over what is to come later in the evening and she can only take heart that he welcomed them if a tad coolly.
And, after the General’s dramatic surprise, there is a death. The magistrate investigates and a surprising party is taken into custody. Catherine discovers that murder and potential suspects all around her is not the same in real life and her imagination conjures up a villain that has her locking her door at night and looking over her shoulder during the day. Time is now her enemy as she searches for the truth.
I was not far into this book when I was reveling at how it felt like a near seamless transition from the original into this sequel. The characters felt like Austen’s own as did the setting, manners, and actions. Shannon Winslow was true to Austen even while painting the story with her own personal touch. There were some whimsical moments between Catherine and Henry that drew a delighted sigh and a few uncomfortable moments with the General or Frederick that had me cringing, yet appreciating what transpired. This was a murder mystery, but it has the heart of an ongoing romance where a couple is learning each other in depth and face their first crisis where trust, mutual comfort, and strength apart is needed.
I won’t pretend to brilliance of mind, but I do enjoy murder mysteries and I had the culprit and even the motive and means right away. By no means did this short change my reading enjoyment. I might know, but the characters did not and the officials who had a suspect in custody getting ready to go on trial for their life most certainly did not.
Speaking of the officials and trial. It was interesting seeing the methods of policing and legal matters carried out reflective of those historic times. The courtroom drama scenes were taunt with excitement and I was wringing my hands as much as poor Catherine.
I summarize by saying this was a sensational sequel and I hope Shannon Winslow feels the urge to write more mysteries- set in Jane Austen’s literary world, of course. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy Austen sequels, but also appreciate historical cozy mysteries.
My thanks to the author via Austenprose for providing an eARC copy for me to read in exchange of my honest review.
Murder at Northanger Abbey opens with Catherine and Henry Tilney, newlywed and living in bliss at Woodston Cottage. Catherine is still settling in as mistress and exalting in the tender and passionate love of her husband. She has learned from her earlier adventures and set aside the impressionable girl who saw a bloody skeleton in every locked trunk or a villain in every frown. She’s sensible now and seeks to be a credit as a vicar’s wife.
Into this idyllic life, an invitation arrives from General Tilney for them to attend an All Hallow’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Northanger Abbey. Henry is dubious and still has strong feelings about his father’s treatment of Catherine, but if this means an olive branch, he should accept. Catherine is thrilled about the ball and revels in the chills she feels about spending All Hallow’s Eve at a house she once thought haunted.
Their arrival reunites all the Tilneys including Elinor and her husband. Catherine also meets a pretty young, but ineligible woman whom Frederick brought to annoy the General, though she is startled to notice a soft spot in the cruel Captain. The General also has a young pretty woman on his arm and she is very much eligible as the daughter of a Marquess. He is bursting with some sort of inner glee over what is to come later in the evening and she can only take heart that he welcomed them if a tad coolly.
And, after the General’s dramatic surprise, there is a death. The magistrate investigates and a surprising party is taken into custody. Catherine discovers that murder and potential suspects all around her is not the same in real life and her imagination conjures up a villain that has her locking her door at night and looking over her shoulder during the day. Time is now her enemy as she searches for the truth.
I was not far into this book when I was reveling at how it felt like a near seamless transition from the original into this sequel. The characters felt like Austen’s own as did the setting, manners, and actions. Shannon Winslow was true to Austen even while painting the story with her own personal touch. There were some whimsical moments between Catherine and Henry that drew a delighted sigh and a few uncomfortable moments with the General or Frederick that had me cringing, yet appreciating what transpired. This was a murder mystery, but it has the heart of an ongoing romance where a couple is learning each other in depth and face their first crisis where trust, mutual comfort, and strength apart is needed.
I won’t pretend to brilliance of mind, but I do enjoy murder mysteries and I had the culprit and even the motive and means right away. By no means did this short change my reading enjoyment. I might know, but the characters did not and the officials who had a suspect in custody getting ready to go on trial for their life most certainly did not.
Speaking of the officials and trial. It was interesting seeing the methods of policing and legal matters carried out reflective of those historic times. The courtroom drama scenes were taunt with excitement and I was wringing my hands as much as poor Catherine.
I summarize by saying this was a sensational sequel and I hope Shannon Winslow feels the urge to write more mysteries- set in Jane Austen’s literary world, of course. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy Austen sequels, but also appreciate historical cozy mysteries.
My thanks to the author via Austenprose for providing an eARC copy for me to read in exchange of my honest review.
July 15, 2020
I have read and enjoyed most of this author's other books. This one has been featured on several blogs and thus brought to my attention and added to my "Must read" mental list. It is a sequel and I would definitely recommend that you read JA's story first. I did not read that book recently but I have no problems remembering how naïve Catherine was in the story and how her love of reading Gothic novels twisted how she viewed various event in her life.
In this story Catherine remembers well how she misrepresented various things discovered or related to her at Northanger Abbey BUT now the life of her beloved husband is on the line. Yes, the couple along with the rest of Henry's family, neighbors to his father, the General, and acquaintances are gathered for an All Hallow's Eve Ball at the Abbey. The General is very melodramatic in his hints about the evening and the gathering storm outside with its thunder and lightning only add to the atmosphere. Then there is all that noise heard overhead.
Yes, a murder occurs and a magistrate arrives and questions family, guests and some servants. Circumstantial evidence and family history provide suspects but only one person does not have an alibi and that is Henry.
So the story evolves around Catherine's own deductions as she knows Henry is innocent. Indeed all who know him believe the same but that is all opinion, not fact. Catherine comes up with one after another who in her mind had reason and MUST have had opportunity. She opines that some one must be lying and others must be in on the lie. She questions her own logic many times due to her past mistaken views.
I won't give any hints as to her suspects or if or when they were cleared...or not. And as already said, the author gives us an alternate ending so you get to chose your favorite. This story was very well written and flows smoothly in style after canon's story. I highly recommend it.
In this story Catherine remembers well how she misrepresented various things discovered or related to her at Northanger Abbey BUT now the life of her beloved husband is on the line. Yes, the couple along with the rest of Henry's family, neighbors to his father, the General, and acquaintances are gathered for an All Hallow's Eve Ball at the Abbey. The General is very melodramatic in his hints about the evening and the gathering storm outside with its thunder and lightning only add to the atmosphere. Then there is all that noise heard overhead.
Yes, a murder occurs and a magistrate arrives and questions family, guests and some servants. Circumstantial evidence and family history provide suspects but only one person does not have an alibi and that is Henry.
So the story evolves around Catherine's own deductions as she knows Henry is innocent. Indeed all who know him believe the same but that is all opinion, not fact. Catherine comes up with one after another who in her mind had reason and MUST have had opportunity. She opines that some one must be lying and others must be in on the lie. She questions her own logic many times due to her past mistaken views.
I won't give any hints as to her suspects or if or when they were cleared...or not. And as already said, the author gives us an alternate ending so you get to chose your favorite. This story was very well written and flows smoothly in style after canon's story. I highly recommend it.
June 29, 2020
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Murder at Northanger Abbey is the perfect sequel to Northanger Abbey with a well written story full of mystery, some gothic elements, and an impressionable Catherine Morland, well, Catherine Tilney now.
Before reading this book, I thought it was time to re-read Northanger Abbey and I’m very glad I did because reading one book after the other made me realise how wonderful Shannon Winslow’s writing is. The transition to this sequel is natural and written in such a tasteful and smooth manner that it felt I was reading Austen’s penned sequel to Northanger Abbey.
The story starts right after Catherine’s marriage to Henry Tilney, and we find the newlyweds living happily at Woodston Cottage until an invitation arrives from General Tilney. The General invites them to attend an All Hallow’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Northanger Abbey, and the couple decides to accept the invitation in an attempt to solve the breach that was caused due to the General’s treatment of Catherine.
At Northanger Abbey the Tilneys reunite with Elinor and her new husband, with Captain Tilney, and a few original characters, but this is a gothic mystery so we couldn’t just have a happy reunion could we? Everything seems quite normal, and even the General’s temper is as predicted, until a murder occurs at the Abbey. The magistrate is called, people are interrogated and someone is arrested to be taken to trial. This sequence of events will finally give Catherine Tilney the opportunity to live her very own gothic novel. She will remain at the Abbey investigating the murder, and she will not rest until she finds the culprit, the question is: will she let her imagination take over her senses once more? Has this character learned from past events? Will she mistrust her own judgement because of the events that took place at Northanger Abbey when she was single? Catherine is Catherine, and you’ll see the author was faithful to her personality.
What impressed me the most about this book was the similarity to Austen in terms of writing and character traits. All characters remain very true to themselves, and I could have easily believed that Jane Austen had written this story herself.
The book is also very well balanced in terms of pace which allows the reader to have an agreeable reading experience. At first we feel compelled to read the book because we feel too attached to these characters and we want to know more about their lives, and at a later stage we just want to know who was the murderer, so we may say this is a real page turner. Another fact that contributed to this effect was the addition of small cliffhangers at the end of each chapter, who can stop reading when the chapter ends with something shocking?
Murder at Northanger Abbey also brings a touch of innovation that I’m sure readers will appreciate. It does not have one ending, but two! Shannon Winslow decided to add an alternative ending as a bonus to her readers, so if you’re not quite satisfied with the first, you can read the second one and simply choose which one you love best. I personally prefer the first ending, and I would not miss the second if it was not there, but it’s undeniable that this is a great addition to the book and that many readers may prefer the second ending and the excitment to read a different outcome.
Summing up, Murder at Northanger Abbey is the type of book you will not want to miss. It is extremely well written, in a style very similar to Austen's, and will provide readers who crave for more adventures of Catherine Morland an opportunity to finally see this heroine solving a true murder taken place at a gothic Abbey. It is full of mystery, a bit of humour and it even shows us a little romance between Catherine and her Henry. If you like Northanger Abbey, you will love this one for sure.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Murder at Northanger Abbey is the perfect sequel to Northanger Abbey with a well written story full of mystery, some gothic elements, and an impressionable Catherine Morland, well, Catherine Tilney now.
Before reading this book, I thought it was time to re-read Northanger Abbey and I’m very glad I did because reading one book after the other made me realise how wonderful Shannon Winslow’s writing is. The transition to this sequel is natural and written in such a tasteful and smooth manner that it felt I was reading Austen’s penned sequel to Northanger Abbey.
The story starts right after Catherine’s marriage to Henry Tilney, and we find the newlyweds living happily at Woodston Cottage until an invitation arrives from General Tilney. The General invites them to attend an All Hallow’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Northanger Abbey, and the couple decides to accept the invitation in an attempt to solve the breach that was caused due to the General’s treatment of Catherine.
At Northanger Abbey the Tilneys reunite with Elinor and her new husband, with Captain Tilney, and a few original characters, but this is a gothic mystery so we couldn’t just have a happy reunion could we? Everything seems quite normal, and even the General’s temper is as predicted, until a murder occurs at the Abbey. The magistrate is called, people are interrogated and someone is arrested to be taken to trial. This sequence of events will finally give Catherine Tilney the opportunity to live her very own gothic novel. She will remain at the Abbey investigating the murder, and she will not rest until she finds the culprit, the question is: will she let her imagination take over her senses once more? Has this character learned from past events? Will she mistrust her own judgement because of the events that took place at Northanger Abbey when she was single? Catherine is Catherine, and you’ll see the author was faithful to her personality.
What impressed me the most about this book was the similarity to Austen in terms of writing and character traits. All characters remain very true to themselves, and I could have easily believed that Jane Austen had written this story herself.
The book is also very well balanced in terms of pace which allows the reader to have an agreeable reading experience. At first we feel compelled to read the book because we feel too attached to these characters and we want to know more about their lives, and at a later stage we just want to know who was the murderer, so we may say this is a real page turner. Another fact that contributed to this effect was the addition of small cliffhangers at the end of each chapter, who can stop reading when the chapter ends with something shocking?
Murder at Northanger Abbey also brings a touch of innovation that I’m sure readers will appreciate. It does not have one ending, but two! Shannon Winslow decided to add an alternative ending as a bonus to her readers, so if you’re not quite satisfied with the first, you can read the second one and simply choose which one you love best. I personally prefer the first ending, and I would not miss the second if it was not there, but it’s undeniable that this is a great addition to the book and that many readers may prefer the second ending and the excitment to read a different outcome.
Summing up, Murder at Northanger Abbey is the type of book you will not want to miss. It is extremely well written, in a style very similar to Austen's, and will provide readers who crave for more adventures of Catherine Morland an opportunity to finally see this heroine solving a true murder taken place at a gothic Abbey. It is full of mystery, a bit of humour and it even shows us a little romance between Catherine and her Henry. If you like Northanger Abbey, you will love this one for sure.
February 25, 2022
Not bad- the tone was right but I wasn’t really in the mood for this.
January 23, 2021
Catherine’s Next Visit to Northanger Abbey has all the Gothic Intrigue She was Seeking!
TYPE OF NOVEL: Sequel to Northanger Abbey
TIME FRAME: Begins a few months into Henry’s and Catherine’s first year of marriage
SYNOPSIS: The happily married Tilneys are unexpectedly invited to a masked ball at Northanger Abbey! And while their relationship with the family patriarch is far from genial, they optimistically agree to attend General Tilney’s grand masked ball on All Hallows Eve. But Henry’s reservations about his father’s intentions prove correct as General Tilney shares some shocking revelations with his children and guests…And the evening goes from shocking to horrifying real quick when someone is found dead and Henry becomes a suspect of their murder! What can Catherine do to clear her husband’s name? What happens if Henry is found guilty?
WHAT I LOVED:
- More, Yes More!: This book is already a win for me because it is a sequel to Northanger Abbey! I yearn for more Henry and Catherine, don’t you? And I love seeing more of them together! Especially when they encounter mysteries, dangerous situations, and all things gothic! I am so glad Shannon Winslow gave readers more of this delightful couple in a suspenseful sequel!
- Endearingly Ever After: Henry and Catherine are adorable together, and I loved how Shannon Winslow included some endearingly sweet scenes of their blissful and uncomplicated life together. I love Catherine’s contagious ebullience and her steadfast devotion to Henry. And I was so pleased to see Henry’s teasing playfulness and constant admiration and appreciation for Catherine. This is one happy union with whom I’d love to spend more time!
- Narrative Remarks: Similar to Northanger Abbey, Shannon Winslow has adopted Jane Austen’s style of narration for this sequel. And in addition to presenting the story in third-person limited omniscient, the narrator often addresses the reader directly with opinionated remarks and asides. This narrative technique is so playful and amusing, and Shannon Winslow employs it masterfully. Her revealing asides about Henry’s and Catherine’s affection and thoughtful pokes preparing the reader for the murder were all deftly placed. I especially enjoyed the remarks about Catherine not being a proper Gothic heroine due to her inability to faint and failure to have a wretched night sleep.
- Character Portrayals: It was lovely to encounter many of our familiar friends from Northanger Abbey in this novel, and to see them as very much what they ever were. Ms. Winslow conscientiously and skillfully matched tone, speech, and behavior to each Northanger Abbey character she reintroduced. General Tilney was appropriately mean-spirited and tyrannical, Captain Tilney – irreverent and self-serving, Eleanor – sympathetic and supportive, Henry – honorable and dutiful, and Catherine – enthusiastic and imaginative. It was interesting to witness the growth and development with some of these characters yet recognize that in some essentials they are still very much the same.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Middle Bits: Sometimes it felt like there wasn’t enough going on in the middle of this story. After the murder takes place there is roughly 150 pages before the truth starts to be revealed and the action once again picks up. During that middle time there is a lot of gathering of information, reciting of events, interrogating, and trial proceedings. And sometimes it felt a little slowly-paced and repetitive. While I did find some of the inquest and trial scenes interesting, part of me wished for a little bit more to be going on – especially since I was able to correctly guess the murderer fairly quickly. Maybe some red herrings or other suspicious intrigues with secondary characters would have kept the reader guessing.
CONCLUSION:
What better way to enjoy this spooky season than to spend All Hallow’s Eve attending a masked ball at Northanger Abbey and stumbling onto a suspicious murder?! With Murder at Northanger Abbey, Shannon Winslow beautifully blends together satire, sweet affection, and sinister events while skillfully capturing the essence of Jane Austen’s characters, tone, and playful style. I recommend for readers who enjoy encountering “dreadful situations and horrid scenes!”
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Sequel to Northanger Abbey
TIME FRAME: Begins a few months into Henry’s and Catherine’s first year of marriage
SYNOPSIS: The happily married Tilneys are unexpectedly invited to a masked ball at Northanger Abbey! And while their relationship with the family patriarch is far from genial, they optimistically agree to attend General Tilney’s grand masked ball on All Hallows Eve. But Henry’s reservations about his father’s intentions prove correct as General Tilney shares some shocking revelations with his children and guests…And the evening goes from shocking to horrifying real quick when someone is found dead and Henry becomes a suspect of their murder! What can Catherine do to clear her husband’s name? What happens if Henry is found guilty?
WHAT I LOVED:
- More, Yes More!: This book is already a win for me because it is a sequel to Northanger Abbey! I yearn for more Henry and Catherine, don’t you? And I love seeing more of them together! Especially when they encounter mysteries, dangerous situations, and all things gothic! I am so glad Shannon Winslow gave readers more of this delightful couple in a suspenseful sequel!
- Endearingly Ever After: Henry and Catherine are adorable together, and I loved how Shannon Winslow included some endearingly sweet scenes of their blissful and uncomplicated life together. I love Catherine’s contagious ebullience and her steadfast devotion to Henry. And I was so pleased to see Henry’s teasing playfulness and constant admiration and appreciation for Catherine. This is one happy union with whom I’d love to spend more time!
- Narrative Remarks: Similar to Northanger Abbey, Shannon Winslow has adopted Jane Austen’s style of narration for this sequel. And in addition to presenting the story in third-person limited omniscient, the narrator often addresses the reader directly with opinionated remarks and asides. This narrative technique is so playful and amusing, and Shannon Winslow employs it masterfully. Her revealing asides about Henry’s and Catherine’s affection and thoughtful pokes preparing the reader for the murder were all deftly placed. I especially enjoyed the remarks about Catherine not being a proper Gothic heroine due to her inability to faint and failure to have a wretched night sleep.
- Character Portrayals: It was lovely to encounter many of our familiar friends from Northanger Abbey in this novel, and to see them as very much what they ever were. Ms. Winslow conscientiously and skillfully matched tone, speech, and behavior to each Northanger Abbey character she reintroduced. General Tilney was appropriately mean-spirited and tyrannical, Captain Tilney – irreverent and self-serving, Eleanor – sympathetic and supportive, Henry – honorable and dutiful, and Catherine – enthusiastic and imaginative. It was interesting to witness the growth and development with some of these characters yet recognize that in some essentials they are still very much the same.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Middle Bits: Sometimes it felt like there wasn’t enough going on in the middle of this story. After the murder takes place there is roughly 150 pages before the truth starts to be revealed and the action once again picks up. During that middle time there is a lot of gathering of information, reciting of events, interrogating, and trial proceedings. And sometimes it felt a little slowly-paced and repetitive. While I did find some of the inquest and trial scenes interesting, part of me wished for a little bit more to be going on – especially since I was able to correctly guess the murderer fairly quickly. Maybe some red herrings or other suspicious intrigues with secondary characters would have kept the reader guessing.
CONCLUSION:
What better way to enjoy this spooky season than to spend All Hallow’s Eve attending a masked ball at Northanger Abbey and stumbling onto a suspicious murder?! With Murder at Northanger Abbey, Shannon Winslow beautifully blends together satire, sweet affection, and sinister events while skillfully capturing the essence of Jane Austen’s characters, tone, and playful style. I recommend for readers who enjoy encountering “dreadful situations and horrid scenes!”
Austenesque Reviews
December 14, 2025
**3.5 Stars**
Cozy Reader Book Club - December 2025
Cozy Reader Book Club - December 2025
June 18, 2020
WOW! This book is absolutely incredible! It is intriguing, mysterious, romantic, and such a great continuation of "Northanger Abbey"! Whenever I picked up "Murder at Northanger Abbey", I was whisked back in time, and went on quite an adventure!
I absolutely love Ms. Winslow's Jane Austen sequels! Her writing style is exciting, entertaining, detailed, and very Austen-esque, and she truly knows how to vividly make a story jump off of the page before the reader's eyes. The tone, pacing, and characters of this book felt true to Austen's original novel (while introducing us to some new characters too), and I also love the bits of humor intertwined throughout the book. I don't want to tell too much about what Ms. Winslow does specifically (you will have to read to find out!), but, I will say, it is so clear how much Ms. Winslow loves and respects Jane Austen! She truly emanate's her style quite beautifully!
Catherine and Henry, along with many others, are invited to Northanger Abbey by General Tilney...and someone there is murdered. Catherine, Henry, Eleanor, Jonathan, among others, and quite a few new faces bring this story to life. Each and every one is so well-thought out, and their interactions, wants, fears, and desires feel so authentic to who they are.
Catherine is one of Jane Austen's heroines that I feel I am most like, and I loved being able to solve the crime along with her and the others characters. All of the puzzle pieces of the murder mystery weave together quite well. I feel like I had the same suspicions and realizations in time with Catherine, and like her...I was so surprised. I had so many different theories that had me guessing up until the last moment, then coming to the correct conclusion and gasping.
If you love Jane Austen, historical mystery, and / or just want to read an incredible novel that will have you turning pages late into the night, I highly recommend this book! I could not put it down, and could not wait to find out what happened each and every chapter. And a (no spoilers here!) surprise at the end of the book made my mouth drop.
Thank you so much to the author, Shannon Winslow, and her team, for sending me a review copy of this book, I so enjoyed it! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I absolutely love Ms. Winslow's Jane Austen sequels! Her writing style is exciting, entertaining, detailed, and very Austen-esque, and she truly knows how to vividly make a story jump off of the page before the reader's eyes. The tone, pacing, and characters of this book felt true to Austen's original novel (while introducing us to some new characters too), and I also love the bits of humor intertwined throughout the book. I don't want to tell too much about what Ms. Winslow does specifically (you will have to read to find out!), but, I will say, it is so clear how much Ms. Winslow loves and respects Jane Austen! She truly emanate's her style quite beautifully!
Catherine and Henry, along with many others, are invited to Northanger Abbey by General Tilney...and someone there is murdered. Catherine, Henry, Eleanor, Jonathan, among others, and quite a few new faces bring this story to life. Each and every one is so well-thought out, and their interactions, wants, fears, and desires feel so authentic to who they are.
Catherine is one of Jane Austen's heroines that I feel I am most like, and I loved being able to solve the crime along with her and the others characters. All of the puzzle pieces of the murder mystery weave together quite well. I feel like I had the same suspicions and realizations in time with Catherine, and like her...I was so surprised. I had so many different theories that had me guessing up until the last moment, then coming to the correct conclusion and gasping.
If you love Jane Austen, historical mystery, and / or just want to read an incredible novel that will have you turning pages late into the night, I highly recommend this book! I could not put it down, and could not wait to find out what happened each and every chapter. And a (no spoilers here!) surprise at the end of the book made my mouth drop.
Thank you so much to the author, Shannon Winslow, and her team, for sending me a review copy of this book, I so enjoyed it! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 5, 2022
Northanger Abbey was amongst the first few Jane Austen books that I read growing up. As such it has always held a special place in my heart. That being said, I'm not sure I ever really wanted or needed a sequel to the novel. I was content, even joyous with what the original author had set down on paper. Fast forward to years later, discovering that not only had a sequel been written but as a fully formed mystery, (a genre which I love). How could I resist?! It's eerie how well Shannon Winslow channels Jane Austen in this wonderful experience. I say "wonderful" because the main characters are so lovingly represented within the telling of this tale. The author is not forcing them to be her own creations, re-imagining them for the world of today. Rather she let's them be who and what they were, and who they want to become. From settings, dialogue, pacing, etc., nothing feels unnatural to the reader. She invites you as Austen did to observe, and to feel for characters as you see fit. The mystery aspects of the story work well too. Winslow builds just the right amount of tension, plants clues, and wraps everything up in a satisfying conclusion. (I will say that I actually guessed fairy early on who the killer was, but that in no way detoured my enjoyment of the piece. I think I just got lucky.) I think this novel was not only a love letter to Austen, but her many fans as well. I will certainly be picking up more of Shannon Winslow work in the not to distant future.
(Just as a side note: the Kindle edition ends at about 95% through, and there is an interesting afterwards that follows by the author. I won't spoil it for you if you are curious...)
(Just as a side note: the Kindle edition ends at about 95% through, and there is an interesting afterwards that follows by the author. I won't spoil it for you if you are curious...)
July 5, 2023
A Whodunnit Sequel
A Northanger Abbey whodunnit. Where’s Poirot when you need him? Then again, who needs Poirot when you have Catherine Tilney, née Morland, to figure it out? In this sequel, Catherine’s beloved Henry is accused of murder and while attempting to keep her wild gothic imagination at bay, not always an easy task, she seeks to discover the real culprit.
This is a light, low angst read. You never really worry, for we know Catherine and Henry must have their happy ending. In fact, Ms. Winslow offers up two happy endings, providing an alternative one for us to consider. I recently re-read the original Northanger Abbey to refresh my memory in anticipation of reading this book. It’s definitely not my favorite Austen book. I didn’t particularly care for Catherine’s personality, but she improved upon further acquaintance for me in this sequel. Perhaps it is the fact that she comes across slightly more mature. I always enjoy this author’s sequels, her specialty. If you love JAFF, you’ll love this book. Highly recommend.
A Northanger Abbey whodunnit. Where’s Poirot when you need him? Then again, who needs Poirot when you have Catherine Tilney, née Morland, to figure it out? In this sequel, Catherine’s beloved Henry is accused of murder and while attempting to keep her wild gothic imagination at bay, not always an easy task, she seeks to discover the real culprit.
This is a light, low angst read. You never really worry, for we know Catherine and Henry must have their happy ending. In fact, Ms. Winslow offers up two happy endings, providing an alternative one for us to consider. I recently re-read the original Northanger Abbey to refresh my memory in anticipation of reading this book. It’s definitely not my favorite Austen book. I didn’t particularly care for Catherine’s personality, but she improved upon further acquaintance for me in this sequel. Perhaps it is the fact that she comes across slightly more mature. I always enjoy this author’s sequels, her specialty. If you love JAFF, you’ll love this book. Highly recommend.
July 25, 2020
At the conclusion of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, the author brings herself somewhat into the story, using the first person and speculating upon the nature of General Tilney’s disapproval of Catherine Moreland and its effect upon her relationship with his son Henry. Did the General’s initial rejection of the lowly Miss Moreland stoke the fires of desire between the two sweethearts? Perhaps we will never know. This question does lead the reader to ponder the characters, and certainly leaves the story open to more episodes.
Shannon Winslow has done just that in her Austenesque novel, Murder at Northanger Abbey. Deftly embodying the voice of Jane Austen, although somewhat softened for modern readers, Winslow has written an entertaining mystery that is perfect reading for a rainy night at home. Although I offered a spotlight post last year for her Prayer & Praise devotional, this is the first fiction title of hers that I have read. I’m not often drawn to mysteries, but Murder at Northanger Abbey was well worth my time. Although I deduced the identity of the victim’s killer early on in the story, I wasn’t sure that my assessment was correct, and even if correct, I had no idea how the narrative would play out. I enjoyed collecting “clues” for my theory, and it wasn’t until the guilty party confessed that I knew for sure that I was on target.
Not only was the main point of conflict a source of amusement, but Winslow’s writing style was frequently an agent of mirth, sometimes directly addressing the audience as Miss Austen also did and successfully bringing a “playfully mischievous flavor” to the story. As a Christian I was also impressed at her ability to reference the intimacy between a husband and wife in a way that was agreeably suggestive, but without being neither gratuitous nor Puritanical. It made for several comedic scenes indeed. Winslow’s understanding of the nature of Catherine Moreland Tilney’s character also provided moments of amusement, as the young wife’s imagination often got the best of her, much as it did in the source material.
Some rare misgivings about the piece lie within a few moments in between significant plot developments. The narrative slows a bit as Catherine spends much (justifiable) time hand-wringing over the fate of her husband, who has become a suspect in the untimely death of another individual in the tale. Similarly, there is a courtroom scene that becomes somewhat laborious and lacks a particular payoff that I was looking forward to. That said, the details covered in the trial are essential to the facts of the case. Without them, the story would have felt diluted. As such, the biggest qualm would merely come from the absence of that specific payoff moment. I decline to offer further details, lest I divulge things and ruin the mystery!
Those minor critiques aside, I found Murder at Northanger Abbey to be a delightful read. It will amuse fans of Austen’s lesser-read Gothic spoof, as well as those who simply enjoy a good mystery tale. Conservative readers can rest assured that the content is not gory nor horrific, and it contains no colorful language. At the same time, Shannon Winslow’s writing is so strong, she did not require those elements to make her work appealing. She brings wit and intelligence, and delivers a wonderful continuation to a classic novel, beloved by many.
Postscript: In a move I have never before seen done in a novel, Shannon Winslow offers an alternative ending to her story in a separate chapter, complete with a new perpetrator and a very different outcome. I found this addition to be unique and brave, and I commend Shannon for offering this to her audience. Well done!
Shannon Winslow has done just that in her Austenesque novel, Murder at Northanger Abbey. Deftly embodying the voice of Jane Austen, although somewhat softened for modern readers, Winslow has written an entertaining mystery that is perfect reading for a rainy night at home. Although I offered a spotlight post last year for her Prayer & Praise devotional, this is the first fiction title of hers that I have read. I’m not often drawn to mysteries, but Murder at Northanger Abbey was well worth my time. Although I deduced the identity of the victim’s killer early on in the story, I wasn’t sure that my assessment was correct, and even if correct, I had no idea how the narrative would play out. I enjoyed collecting “clues” for my theory, and it wasn’t until the guilty party confessed that I knew for sure that I was on target.
Not only was the main point of conflict a source of amusement, but Winslow’s writing style was frequently an agent of mirth, sometimes directly addressing the audience as Miss Austen also did and successfully bringing a “playfully mischievous flavor” to the story. As a Christian I was also impressed at her ability to reference the intimacy between a husband and wife in a way that was agreeably suggestive, but without being neither gratuitous nor Puritanical. It made for several comedic scenes indeed. Winslow’s understanding of the nature of Catherine Moreland Tilney’s character also provided moments of amusement, as the young wife’s imagination often got the best of her, much as it did in the source material.
Some rare misgivings about the piece lie within a few moments in between significant plot developments. The narrative slows a bit as Catherine spends much (justifiable) time hand-wringing over the fate of her husband, who has become a suspect in the untimely death of another individual in the tale. Similarly, there is a courtroom scene that becomes somewhat laborious and lacks a particular payoff that I was looking forward to. That said, the details covered in the trial are essential to the facts of the case. Without them, the story would have felt diluted. As such, the biggest qualm would merely come from the absence of that specific payoff moment. I decline to offer further details, lest I divulge things and ruin the mystery!
Those minor critiques aside, I found Murder at Northanger Abbey to be a delightful read. It will amuse fans of Austen’s lesser-read Gothic spoof, as well as those who simply enjoy a good mystery tale. Conservative readers can rest assured that the content is not gory nor horrific, and it contains no colorful language. At the same time, Shannon Winslow’s writing is so strong, she did not require those elements to make her work appealing. She brings wit and intelligence, and delivers a wonderful continuation to a classic novel, beloved by many.
Postscript: In a move I have never before seen done in a novel, Shannon Winslow offers an alternative ending to her story in a separate chapter, complete with a new perpetrator and a very different outcome. I found this addition to be unique and brave, and I commend Shannon for offering this to her audience. Well done!
October 23, 2021
This continuation of Northanger Abbey has Catherine and Henry Tilney finally getting an invitation to the Abbey for a costume ball, seemingly forgiven by General Tilney for Henry marrying beneath his station. Eleanor and the Viscount are there, as well as Captain Frederick Tilney and his lady friend from the village, Miss Holt. The night is stormy and eerie. The General denounces Henry and Catherine’s lowly marriage, taking the living at Woodston away from Henry. He also tells the Captain that if he continues with his courtship of the lowly Miss Holt, he will be denied as heir of the Abbey. Soon after this, the General is found dead from a fall from the roof and only Henry does not have an alibi. Catherine tries her best to solve the mystery in a round-about way, showing only a little more maturity than before her marriage. In the end, the person responsible must decide whether or not to do the right thing.
September 28, 2024
After Catherine and Henry are Wed
After reading many variations of Jane Austen's novels, this is the first of Northanger Abbey that I have come across.
This is a proper sequel, as most of the canon characters and their actions are thoroughly in character and believable. Catherine was particularly true to Canon with her diversion into fantastic plots and scenarios. I enjoyed how Ms. Winslow was able to show the affection between the newlywed Tilneys in their fun banter.
One aspect of Captain Frederick Tilney's path that didn't seem true was his desire to marry the innkeeper's daughter. Canon Captain Tilney would more likely have pursued the Marquess's daughter for a wife and used Miss Holt as he used other young women.
The bonus of an alternative ending was quite satisfying. I was fortunate to win a copy of the audiobook via an author's giveaway and am leaving a review to express my enjoyment of the story. I recommend it for its wit and writing.
After reading many variations of Jane Austen's novels, this is the first of Northanger Abbey that I have come across.
This is a proper sequel, as most of the canon characters and their actions are thoroughly in character and believable. Catherine was particularly true to Canon with her diversion into fantastic plots and scenarios. I enjoyed how Ms. Winslow was able to show the affection between the newlywed Tilneys in their fun banter.
One aspect of Captain Frederick Tilney's path that didn't seem true was his desire to marry the innkeeper's daughter. Canon Captain Tilney would more likely have pursued the Marquess's daughter for a wife and used Miss Holt as he used other young women.
The bonus of an alternative ending was quite satisfying. I was fortunate to win a copy of the audiobook via an author's giveaway and am leaving a review to express my enjoyment of the story. I recommend it for its wit and writing.
August 11, 2021
Fun Sequel
This story imagines what could have happened following Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. A ball is held at the Abbey, and family, friends, and neighbors have been invited. After some enjoyable dancing has commensed, the patriarch of the family makes some unpleasant announcements. Later on, when he is found dead, there are many who have motive. The most unlikely person is placed on trial for murder. Will Catherine be able to help the innocent from being found guilty? I recommend this sequel, a mystery with heart and humor intermingled.
This story imagines what could have happened following Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. A ball is held at the Abbey, and family, friends, and neighbors have been invited. After some enjoyable dancing has commensed, the patriarch of the family makes some unpleasant announcements. Later on, when he is found dead, there are many who have motive. The most unlikely person is placed on trial for murder. Will Catherine be able to help the innocent from being found guilty? I recommend this sequel, a mystery with heart and humor intermingled.
April 14, 2022
I loved getting to see a bit of Henry and Catherine’s marriage and enjoyed he mix of mystery, humor, and romance. I do wish Catherine had done a bit more investigating and thought at least part of the solution had been pretty clear all along, but overall it was a fun read and perfectly captured the characterization and style of Northanger Abbey while still being its own original work. I will certainly try more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2025
Delightfully ridiculous.
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