Godmersham Park

From thenumber one bestselling author of Miss Austen, a powerful and moving novel featuring Jane Austens closest friend and confidante, perfect for fans of The Other Bennet Sister!

So envious of anyone yet to read this. A triumph!Nigella Lawson
A masterly piece of storytelling.Helena Kelly
The great writer is brought to life in this clever, well-researched piece of fictionThe Times
Thoroughly entertaining, Godmersham Park has some of the same understated wit and sharp observation as Austens novelsSunday Times
Displays a keen sense of wit and rich characterisation ... a thoroughly enjoyable bookObserver
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January 1804: Anne Sharpe arrives at Godmersham Park in Kent to take up the position of governess.

At thirty-one years old, she has no previous experience of either teaching or fine country houses. But her mother has died and she desperately needs an independent income if she is to survive.

For her new charge, twelve-year-old Fanny Austen, Annes arrival is all novelty and excitement.

But Anne is keenly aware that her new role is an awkward one: she is neither one of the servants nor one of the family, and to balance a position between the upstairs and downstairs members of the household is a diplomatic chess game. One wrong move may result in her instant dismissal.

She has just begun to settle into her position when dashing Henry Austen and his younger sister Jane come to stay.

Both take an immediate interest in the pretty, clever governess who quickly becomes drawn into the above stairs life of the Austen family.

Despite her best endeavours, Anne finds that she is beginning to fall in love. But has her survival at Godmersham Park just become a good deal more precarious?
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More love for Godmersham Park . . .

If you love Jane Austen youre sure to enjoy Gill Hornbys stylish glimpse into the life of young governess Anne Sharp. The Independent

Utterly absorbing and illuminating ... Gill Hornbys best book yet.Esther Freud

I read it straight through without looking up. Karen Joy Fowler

Meticulously researched, Hornbys absorbing novel revels in the joys and tensions of life above and below stairs.Mail on Sunday

An invigorating riff on an author whose life and works keep on giving, and an ideal companion for your beach towel this summer. Metro

Gill Hornby has created another winning tribute to the genius of Jane.Woman
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Loved Godmersham Park? Check out Gill Hornbys wonderful new novel, The Elopement!

Sunday Times bestseller, January 2023