Austen at Sea by Natalie Jenner is a wonderful 19th century historical fiction that is in the spirit of my beloved Jane Austen.

I absolutely loved The Bloomsbury Girls and The Jane Austen Society by Ms. Jenner, so I knew I had to read this.

I am extremely picky about how authors use the name, literary characters/themes, and the person and family of Jane Austen herself…so obviously I was a smidge nervous diving into a book that encompasses two of my favorite authors….and I am sure glad that I did.

It was nice to read an interesting and engaging historical fiction that takes the heart and spirit of Ms Austen and creates a cast of characters that kept me coming back for more. I felt invested, and that is itself is refreshing.

Definitely recommend.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and St Martin’s Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/25/25.

DNF for me. I just could not get into the story. The pacing was weird (for a book about a voyage across the sea, they didn't get on the boat until at least 20% of the way through the book, and then the next 5 chapters in a row were all the same day) and the writing was...not great, in my opinion.

Austen at Sea was everything I was hoping it would be. I love historical fiction but make it related to anything having to do with Jane Austen and I’m in! I went into this book with high expectations and I am so happy that they were met! If you’re looking for a great historical fiction book with wonderful writing, amazing characters, and an interesting look at history I can’t recommend Austen at Sea enough!

Austen at Sea
by Natalie Jenner
Pub Date: May 06 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Boston, 1865, Charlotte and Henrietta Stevenson, daughters of a Massachusetts Supreme Court Justice, have accomplished as much as women are allowed in those days. Chafing against those restrictions and inspired by the works of Jane Austen, they start a secret correspondence with Sir Francis Austen, her last surviving brother, now in his nineties. He sends them an original letter from his sister and invites them to come visit him in England.

In Philadelphia, Nicholas & Haslett Nelson—bachelor brothers, veterans of the recent Civil War, and rare book dealers—are also in correspondence with Sir Francis Austen, who lures them, too, to England, with the promise of a never-before-seen, rare Austen artifact to be evaluated.

The Stevenson sisters sneak away without a chaperone to sail to England. On their ship are the Nelson brothers, writer Louisa May Alcott, Sara-Beth Gleason—wealthy daughter of a Pennsylvania state senator with her eye on the Nelsons—and, a would-be last-minute chaperone to the Stevenson sisters, Justice Thomas Nash.

It's a voyage and trip that will dramatically change each of their lives in ways that are unforeseen, with the transformative spirit of the love of literature and that of Jane Austen herself.

Excited to see another book by this author relating to Jane Austen and her works! Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for the ARC to read for a review. Now I feel as though I should go back and reread all of Austen’s work just to understand lol the nuances of these works. The author has clearly very carefully researched Austen and her classic books.
This is the story of two sisters from Boston , the daughters of a judge. They lost their mother when they were young and their father is very controlling . The women are talented and intelligent clearly hampered by the times in which they live. They contact Jane Austen’s last living sibling and defy their father to travel to England to meet him.
The beginning of the book was a bit slow with so many characters being introduced. I wish the main characters had been a little more developed.
The timeline was not strictly linear, at times making me go Wait What Just Happened - a clever device adding interest to the story.
A lot of time was spent in the writing with 2 themes - the works of Jane Austen through book club meetings of the judges of Boston (really enjoyed this part) and the legality of the treatment of women and wives int the time period (post US Civil War) - this part got a little tedious for me.
In typical Jane Austen fashion all comes to a satisfying conclusion, This is a great book for fans of her work!

There is much to love about this novel. ‘Austen at Sea’ is smart and delightful - a must read for fans of Austen, and a gateway to participate if reading her novels is not for you. It’s told in the imitable style of Austen, but with a modern storytelling that makes it a more accessible and compelling read. History is woven into the story in a light, but not insubstantial way. It has strong characters displaying varying degrees of awareness of their circumstances and the societal restrictions they are living under. And intricate plotting - what begins as a comedy of manners launched by a moment of rebellion and high adventure, becomes a deeper and more direct study of the woman suffrage movement and the limitations of womanhood in society of that time period through perfectly pitched and detailed courtroom scenes.

The characters are endearing – from the loving Stevenson sisters central to the story, the earnest Nelson brothers, lonely and mischievous Sir Francis Austen. Equally notable are the indominable forces of Sara-Beth, Constance, and Louisa May Alcott; these women are a constant guide for the rest as they pursue love, happiness and betterment of self and society as a whole. And my favorite collection of characters: the supreme court justices with their literary discussion group – essentially a book club for Jane Austen novels. Having these learned men dissect the plots and themes of Austen’s novels in contemporary time adds layers to the novel’s discussion of the progressive movement [and the resistance it faced] to include women in the newly evolving rights coming out of the Reconstruction Era.

Thanks to St Martin’s Press and NetGalley for an early copy of this novel to read and review.

DNF. This was SO incredibly boring and not very well-written. I was expecting something about Jane Austen, not random people reading about Jane Austen. There was also a subplot about women's suffrage, normally something I find fascinating. But this book was trying to tackle too many topics at once. The characters were flat and I didn't care about any of them. Also, the author needed to choose a point of view. If you're going to use third person limited, stick to that. Don't randomly switch to third person omniscient in some scenes!

I struggled through the first 20% before abandoning. Just not my cup of tea.

Natalie Jenner’s AUSTEN AT SEA was a delightful story. It had the same charm as Jenner’s earlier books, but the at sea aspect added an element of charm that her other books did not have. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC.

This is my favorite book I've read this year (out of 100+). There are several layers to this story. It's about siblings, there's romance, there's adventure, there's betrayal, there's devotion. And of course, there's Austen. Well written. Well researched. Will buy a physical copy.

This is my my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me an ARC.

Two sisters board a ship after corresponding with Jane Austen's family member about getting a memento of her. The sisters are not alone. Aboard also are others who expect to bid on the memento.

I was so lucky to have had the chance to read an ARC of Natalie Jenner’s AUSTEN AT SEA. What an utterly delightful book! It begins with two sisters’ journey from Boston to England to learn more about their favorite author, the late Jane Austen, and what follows is a charming and often funny adventure laced with mystery, romance, and Austen-esque wit. The cast of characters, which includes Austen’s seafaring brother, burgeoning author Louisa May Alcott, and more, pepper the story with quick banter and memorable personalities. The love and loyalty sisters Charlotte and Henrietta show for one another throughout the plot’s twists and turns shines. For anyone who loves Jane Austen, Louisa May Alcott, classic literature, or a reading romp with endearing characters, this is a true treat.

The book was a little hard for me to get into, but I kept at it and I’m so happy I did. There were a lot of characters to develop and the scenes were so well developed. I loved this story. Harry and Charlie are some of my favorite characters, strong female characters. Their drive and determination is so admirable and I envy their closeness.

This book was a great story!

I want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this advanced reader copy and this is my honest opinion.

When I finish reading one of Natalie Jenner’s books, I am always in awe and overcome with many thoughts and emotions. This time I had tears. This tribute to Jane Austen is moving, probing and enlightening. The outcomes for the large cast of characters are all finely executed and for some of them, the closing chapter is quite emotional.

Austen at Sea is a complex novel divided into four books (sections); each set at a different location: Boston, The Sea, Hampshire, The Court—with separate chapters and headings.

It is a vivid exploration of the heart, society and legacies. I would expect nothing less from intelligent, deep thinker Natalie. I enjoyed all aspects of the novel: the multi-faceted large cast of characters, the way she wove Jane Austen’s world into her own novel fabric. And I marvelled at how she utilised her legal background as a past lawyer to express accurately those scenes which required such knowledge. The court sessions between Scott and Scott and the conversations at The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court between the Justices were brilliantly presented and accented with a touch of literary finesse. It was intriguing to read the justices’ opinions and judgements on various Jane Austen novels, proving their relevance and meaning, and how her works apply in real life situations.

This novel takes Jane Austen’s writing out into the highways and byways and puts her well-loved books to the test. So many topics are covered such as the challenges women faced: the lack of equality, ownership in marriage, desire for freedom and self-fulfilment. Along with the importance of family and friends, relationship challenges, and romantic encounters.

Many of my favourite scenes involve the plights and pleasures of two Boston sisters Henrietta and Charlotte, daughters of widowed Justice Stevenson. These ladies hungered for a taste of freedom that was unavailable to single women at that time. But with a burst of energy and bravery, they decide to bolt out the door to satisfy that longing. Next thing we know they are on the S.S. China, a transatlantic mail packet steamship, heading for Portsmouth. They are big fans of Jane Austen and after striking up a friendship and correspondence with ninety-one year old retired Admiral Sir Francis Austen, Jane Austen’s brother, they decide to visit him.

The Admiral is an intriguing character and I enjoyed reading his viewpoint chapters. He sets a conflict in motion when he decides to leave a special legacy gift of his sister’s, to Henrietta. A bizarre battle begins from both sides of the Atlantic that will expose and divide relationships. This item will raise many questions and concerns as to what is the honourable thing to do. I loved the solution at the end (cannot give anything away!) that I am sure both brother Francis and sister Jane would approve.

Watching the sisters each take their own emotional and romantic journeys into the unknown, the trials they faced and how they overcame them was quite exhilarating and at times heartbreaking. My favourite scene in the whole book is when Henrietta stands in court and makes a brilliant speech in her defence. Her oration was impressive, her understanding and use of the law genius and her persuasive command of words tugged on my heart strings and had me cheering! Who could not be won over by her stunning delivery and its profound content!

The Austen at Sea travellers on China with the sisters were interesting characters. There’s lots of humour, wit and tantalising predicaments. There are two rare book dealers (brothers) and a senator’s daughter pursuing them. Plus American author Louisa May Alcott travelling as a wealthy invalid’s companion (Anna Weld). This was a golden opportunity for Louisa to fulfil her dream to see Europe. On the ship, she is always hard at work, writing, but she also gets involved in leading a charity performance of Tale of Two Cities based on the latest novel by Charles Dickins. There are some amusing scenes here. And as for Louisa, she is well presented with her wise words about family, caring for others and her belief that ‘our differences buff each other to diamond-like shine.’ It was fun to see her in a real life situation.

Austen at Sea is filled with numerous literary gems, too many to mention. And I have only hinted at the power, presence and purpose of this magnificent tribute to Jane Austen. I think Jane Austen would be immensely proud of Natalie’s insightful and exceptional interpretation of her fiction world. And possibly happy that her brother was included! Definitely a must-read for devout Austen fans. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Publisher St Martin’s Press and Netgalley for a review copy.

From post-Civil War America, a group of brothers and sisters from America who are Austen fans cross the Atlantic to visit Sir Francis Austen, the last surviving sibling of Austen, searching for information about her life and writing. They discover more than knowledge; they encounter life and love. This is a typical historical fiction story by Natalie Jenner, and I really enjoyed it.

As a fan of the author's previous books, I was delighted to get the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. I enjoyed the main story of two sisters who were "superfans" of the late Jane Austen, to the extent of corresponding with Austen's elderly brother and, ultimately, traveling to England to visit him. I also was fascinated by the legal issues of the time related to marriage and property and the different policies in the US and England. I think the scenes with the Massachusetts judges discussing Austen's books were unlikely and unnecessary, distracting from the main story. I think the author did a wonderful job bringing the time period to life, especially highlighting the restrictive lives of women and efforts to improve conditions. It was also interesting to see the impact of the long delays in getting news from overseas, especially compared to current times. There is a big cast of characters, including Louisa May Alcott and often referencing Charles Dickens. Literature and theatre are common shared interests of the ensemble. Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley. I look forward to reading more from Jenner.

Jane Austen fandom has reached new levels in 1865 America. In Boston, supreme court judges read and discuss her works, regular readers share her books and analyze her characters. Jane can not have many followers as ardent as Harriet and Charlotte Stevenson, daughters of one of those Boston justices, who decide to write to Jane Austen's sole living sibling expressing their admiration for his sister. The 92-year-old admiral Sir Francis Austen is intrigued by the letter and a correspondence begins. In appreciation for his sister's matchmaking skill, he also enters into correspondence with two bookselling brothers from Philadelphia. He invites them both to visit, hinting at a sailing on a certain date in hopes that they will meet on the ship.

Of course this doesn't quite work, but what does work is deliciously charming and fun. Both sets of siblings are drawn into the circle of Louisa May Alcott, who decides to stage an adaption of "A Tale of Two Cities" that brings passengers together in entertainment and laughter. Giddy with new friendships, the sibling sets bring along others along to meet with Sir Francis, who is equally excited to meet these young Americans. He shares stories about his beloved sister that he has long wanted to tell.

"Austen at Sea" sweeps you happily along in its wake, mostly historically accurate and nimbly written. Recommended for anyone wanting an appealing read with sprightly characters and a tragic event in the center. Many, many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy of this delight in exchange for an honest review.

I loved Natalie Jenner’s previous books so I was excited to get an ARC of her latest novel, “Austen at Sea.” Although her earlier books dealt with Jane Austen as a theme, the reader didn’t have to be a Jane Austen fan to enjoy them. Those books focused on friendships formed based on a shared love of Jane Austen, and while Jane Austen was a common theme, the relationships among the characters took center stage. However, unlike her previous novels, this newest one seemed to require a knowledge and enthusiasm for Jane Austen not present in the author’s previous works.

“Austen at Sea,” which begins in 1865, shortly after the end of the American Civil
War and the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, focuses primarily on two sets of siblings: sisters Charlotte and Henrietta Stevenson, daughters of a Massachusetts Supreme Court Judge in Boston and brothers Nicholas and Haslett Nelson, booksellers from Philadelphia. Both sets of siblings are devout fans of Jane Austen and separately write to Sir Francis Austen, Jane Austen’s brother asking for information about his late sister. The Stevensons and Nelsons sail to Portsmouth to meet Sir Francis, who takes them to Chawton, the estate where Jane Austen wrote her books. Just before they leave Portsmouth, Sir Francis falls ill and has his servant give Henrietta a bequest relating to his late sister, which subsequently embroils Henrietta in extensive legal battles on both sides of the Atlantic.

Interspersed with accounts of the two sets of siblings and their assorted romantic interests are book club discussions among the Massachusetts Supreme Court justices, who convene during their summer break to discuss Jane Austen novels at length and in great depth, forming a very detailed literary criticism of her books. Unless the reader is a devout fan of Jane Austen, these interludes became somewhat tedious. In addition, there are detailed accounts of the court deliberations and rulings involving Henrietta, which also bog down the narrative.

Based on all of the above, I found it somewhat difficult to rate this book. On the plus side, the author has a beautiful prose style which brings her characters and the time period to vivid life. She has clearly done extensive research, throwing a light on the difficulties women faced particularly with regards to the struggle for the right to vote and a married woman’s right to own property.

On the negative side, the novel felt very long, especially with the extensive literary criticism of Jane Austen’s novels and the description of legal proceedings. Fans of Jane Austen will probably enjoy the literary criticism, and as a result have a more favorable impression of the book as a whole. In the end, I concluded that Natalie Jenner’s writing style, strong characters and historical detail outweighed any negatives I felt towards the book. I will certainly continue to follow this author’s future book releases.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review.

Austen at Sea by Natalie Jenner is a brilliant, perfect read and a great choice for a book club book. There's romance, intrigue on the high seas and a delightful story featuring historical figures and for Jane Austen lovers, you won't be disappointed.
You will meet Henrietta and Charlotte Stevenson who get on board a transatlantic steamship heading from Massachusetts to England and what they discover and encounter is beautifully written.
I loved this book so much!!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Having read the first Austen book by this author, I knew that I had to read this book. I was so excited to get preapproved. I loved the siblings and this historical fiction book is a must read for any Austen lover. Highly recommend!

Henrietta and Charlotte Stevensen manage to get on board the S. S. China, on a transatlantic steamship heading to Portsmouth. Their father who was a Massachusetts supreme court judge, has passed away. They are wanting freedom but as young unmarried women who have led a sheltered life, this can be challenging.
The steamship is full of interesting people. Louisa May Alcott is one of those passengers. There are two male book dealers and a senator’s daughter.
A beautifully written novel which will tug at your heart. The themes, setting, people and story make this a one a wonderful reading time to savor.