Jane Austen remains a perenially popular author. People of all ages connect with her novels, unfinished works, and her life story. And many of us are now taking an interest in those around Jane. Anne Sharp was governess to Fanny Austen, Jane’s niece, and she was one of Jane’s dearest and closest friends. Godmersham Park by Gill Hornby is a warm and engaging novel that brings us into Anne’s life, and is perfect for any Austen-lover!
Thank you to Austenprose for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and for inviting me to be a part of the Godmersham Park book tour!
Godmersham Park, Gill Hornby
On January 21, 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. Her mother has died, and she has nowhere else to go. Anne is left with no choice. For her new charge—twelve-year-old Fanny Austen—Anne’s arrival is all novelty and excitement.
The governess role is a uniquely awkward one. Anne 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 instant dismissal. Anne knows that she must never let down her guard.
When Mr. Edward Austen’s family comes to stay, Anne forms an immediate attachment to Jane. They write plays together, and enjoy long discussions. However, in the process, Anne reveals herself as not merely pretty, charming, and competent; she is clever too. Even her sleepy, complacent, mistress can hardly fail to notice.
Meanwhile Jane’s brother, Henry, begins to take an unusually strong interest in the lovely young governess. And from now on, Anne’s days at Godmersham Park are numbered.
Why You Should Read This…
Understandably, Jane’s brothers aren’t terribly beloved by modern Austen readers. To our sensibilities, they really provided the bare minimum for their sisters and mother. However, I’m grateful that Edward provided a connection to Anne Sharp.
Hornby was the perfect author to bring Anne’s story to life. She brought a warmth and life to Anne, and as a separate character. Oftentimes, Jane-adjacent figures are tied closely to the famous author, but Anne’s story stands on its own here.
I more than appreciate how much research and work Hornby has put into her novels. If you know Jane’s life well (and most dedicated readers do), it can make reading lesser-researched novels difficult. You are constantly being pulled out by inaccuracies. However, that is absolutely not the case with Godmersham Park. Hornby has done extensive research with Jane’s surviving letters and other primary sources, and it makes for a truly immersive, Austen experience.
Godmersham Park is a must-read novel for any Jane Austen fan!
Is Godmersham Park by Gill Hornby on your to-read list? Or perhaps on your Christmas list?
Cheers,
The Historian
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