The Worlds of Jane Austen

“Kelly brilliantly reconstructs the tumultuous world that influenced Jane Austen's writing, offering readers a fresh and illuminating perspective that even those of us with a familial connection find revelatory.”

Caroline Jane Knight, Last of Jane’s Nieces from Chawton House

"I just wanted to say I have loved reading Helena’s book - it is a triumph. What I love about Helena’s book - which I also loved about Jane Austen: The Secret Radical - is the fascinating way she is able to contextualise Austen’s life and work in a way that gives the reader the opportunity to return to Austen with completely fresh eyes and a whole new understanding of how the world she lived in shaped her and her pen. Her writing is both fascinating and accessible, and I’ll return to this book over and over again!"

Dr Lizzie Rogers, Writer and historian of eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries

"Coming this September 23rd from @msashtondennis and the perfect accompaniment to the big #JaneAusten250anniversary year. Bursting with stunning illustrations. Rich with family and social history. #Janeites will eat this one up!"

"Helena Kelly’s The Worlds of Jane Austen gifts readers and Janeites alike with a look into the turbulent social, economic, and cultural influences on the novels of Austen—and her increasing influence on us in turn. In a world today that cannot tire of her famous stories, Kelly brings to her own work here a wonderful vivacity, energy, and acuity that calls to mind that of Austen herself. This is a wonderfully conceived and accessible account full of new information and enticing conjecture, over 150 expertly selected photographs and pictures, and illustrations to accompany the text which capture its joie de vivre perfectly. I inhaled this book and its treasure trove of information and insight, and highly recommend it to any reader not yet ready to leave the world of Austen’s novels and inevitably wanting more."

Natalie Jenner, Author of The Jane Austen Society and Austen at Sea

"The Worlds of Jane Austen provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of our most beloved author. Dr Helena Kelly expertly brings to life the events and culture that shaped Jane Austen’s classic novels and explores how her irresistible characters have retained their relevance for over two hundred years. With beautiful contemporary illustrations and references to popular culture, it’s a true delight for any Jane Austen fan!"

Jessica Bull, Author of Miss Austen Investigates

"Everything you ever wanted to know about Austen, from her childhood to the most recent adaptations. Lively text, beautifully illustrated - a must."

Gill Hornby, Author of Miss Austen and President of the Jane Austen Society