Wonderfully rendered tale. I was convinced the whole of it was true. It was great fun to read aloud. I'm looking forward to more of your work.
Caroline (Arizona) 8/08
I could not put it down. I loved it... Absolutely brilliant book. I'm recommending it to all my friends, who all adore Jane Austen as well. I look forward to reading Charlotte Bronte's Secret Diaries! :)
Christina Brown (Brisbane, Australia) 8/08
Thanks for this delightful book; I've been under the spell of Austen's pen again and I've enjoyed every page of the story. It made me feel like reading through all my Austen collection again. I'm looking forward to your next work.
Corinne (France) 8/08
Enjoyed the book so much! I longed for the Jane Austen happy endings of her novels but feel content with the ending of her true life. Alas, there is no shame but much freedom in the truth.
Juliane (El Cerrito, CA) 7/08
Just finished reading the Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and loved it. I have been a devoted fan for over 50 years. Never tire of reading her novels. I am looking forward to Charlotte Bronte.
Kay Perkins (Orlando, Florida ) 7/08
It's 12:30 AM and I've just finished Lost Memoirs. My 12 year old daughter, Emily (named in honor of Charlotte's sister) wandered from her bedroom to ask why I was crying. I held up your book and attempted to explain. Your book is lovely and clever... I absolutely adored it. Thank you so much! Can't wait to read your next work about Charlotte!
Sandy (Port Orchard, WA) 7/08
I just finished your novel, right after I re-read Sense and Sensibility. How delightful to continue to reside in Jane's (fictional) interior! Thanks for writing such a fine book... I can't wait to be the discussion leader for your book when my book club meets in September (Tulane University Women's Association).
April Brayfield,
Associate Professor of Sociology,
Tulane University
(New Orleans) 7/08
Your novel... has captured my attention with such language, marvelous style, and stunning characters that take my breath away... It is like escaping from my realistic world into a lovely, cozy feeling, romantic fictional world... Perhaps that is why I love your novel so much. It thrills me, and deep inside my heart I feel as if I'm Jane Austen... "This author... is incredible!!"... Thank you for writing such a beautiful, unutterable story!
Jane (South Korea/ San Fernando Valley, CA ) 6/08
Dear Ms. James... I've literally rushed to your web site only moments after finishing reading the last page of "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen"...I wanted to find some continuity with Jane through you and not to allow the magic of the book to end. Since I feel that you must be a reincarnate of Jane Austen herself; I wanted to quickly make contact with you, hoping I would never have to relinquish my connection to the world of Jane Austen as you've given birth to in this writing. Thank you for writing this charismatic novel; it weaves so much of the past, while leaving our imaginations to wonder the 'what-ifs' for Jane Austen as we move into the future. Jane would say you've written a new classic and would be delighted that you chose to celebrate her in her own words. With my admiration,
Marlene W. Ross, MS (Framingham, Massachusetts) 6/08
I loved your book. I wrote a wee blog-review of "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen." My blog-posting can be found at: bookpuddle.blogspot.com.
Cipriano (Ottawa, Canada) 6/08
What a joy to read, I loved every bit of it! It would make a terrific movie!! Thank you for writing such a great story! I have all the Bronte sisters' books as well as Jane Austen's and I enjoy re-reading each and every one over again every so often. I shall look forward very much to reading all about Charlotte's secret diaries! A sincere "thank-you" for ALL your research, patience and hard work which provide us all with so many hours of interesting and enjoyable reading!
Barbara Gilbert 6/08
I just read your book this past weekend (I didn't get much studying done for my final exams, but it was so good that I don't really care) and I LOVED it! Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors as well, and I thought your blending of her style with a more modern one was perfect.... Your book was brilliant, and I can't wait for the next one.
Rachel S. (Connecticut) 6/08
Your novel... was most inspiring. Many times throughout the book I found myself thinking, "If only this was true!" ... I'm captivated by the language of that time... I enjoyed your novel so much. I laughed out loud many times when I encountered your characters' brilliant humor. My heart raced when I saw Mr. Ashford's name printed on the page, and it ached when he and Jane were torn apart. You have created something truly wonderful. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world. With sincere admiration,
Bridget Bellmore (Curwensville, Pennsylvania) 6/08
I loved the book! It was so beautiful and sad that I cried for Jane and Frederick Ashford... Thank you for putting your gift of writing to work on Jane Austen's life.
Erna Arnesen (Cupertino CA) 6/08
Thank you for a wonderful book. I haven't enjoyed a book like that in a long time. I couldn't put the book down.
Nimisha Gohel (New Jersey) 6/08
I've read several historical fiction books about Jane Austen, some of them quite similar to yours. But what I like about yours is the real-life feel to it, as if I'm really reading what she wrote. It took me a while to actually be convinced by your notes and such that it wasn't all real! Thank you for such a marvelous book that gives us a look at Jane's thoughts and feelings.
Olivia (Colorado) 6/08
Found your book quite by accident... I really enjoyed it, particularly the way you interwove reality and fiction. I found myself hoping it was more true than not; that Jane did, indeed, find love at the seaside. Thank you for your time and effort.
Linda Morris (Bristol, CT) 5/08
We have added your book to our new online book club called 'Girls Rule'!
Kate Johnson (Chicago, Ill ) 5/08
I really enjoyed your book, I actually didn't pay attention to the cover and just started reading, and I really thought it was Jane Austen's memoirs...so at the end I realised I was fooled... a little disappointment, that Mr. Ashford is just fiction, but in a way I am so happy I had the opportunity to believe that I am really reading Jane's memoirs and that her books reflect her major thoughts from her life...very sweet and precious moments. Congratulations.
Carmen S. (Romania) 5/08
Aren't you the sly one? I was going to send my son an email asking if he met Mary Jesse while he was attending Oxford, but I wanted to finish the book first. Now I'm glad I waited! Ha! You did a great job making me believe her Memoirs were really found. It was fun picking out characters from her books that were from her "real life."
Danette del Castillo (Phoenix, Arizona) 5/08
This beautiful novel achieved Jane Austen-like brilliance! As a dedicated Austen fan, I found in this book that blend of creativity, romance, beautiful language and great plot I've searched long and hard for -- and which other people have tried to capture (often unsuccessfully) in the many sequels, remakes & retellings of her books. I loved the premise that this is the "memoir exactly as Jane Austen wrote it" so we finally get her POV. I loved how Jane's humor shows through so authentically, and the lovely blend of characters and events used in her novels. I also found her fears and struggles to get published ringing believeably true and honest. Thank you for a most satisfying read!
Kaare Revill (Fallbrook, CA) 5/08
I could not put it down! I really felt like I was listening to Jane Austen herself. The way you blended fiction with facts made me forget at times that it really was fiction. The story itself was beautiful. I simply love Mr. Ashford! Tears blurred my eyes at the end. I didn't want it to end. To quote Jane Austen: "...but for my own part, if a book is well written, I always find it too short." That's exactly how I feel. It is a wonderful book and I will be reading it again. I'm going to give it to my friend for her birthday and I know she'll love it too. Thank you so much for writing such a lovely book! They're hard to come by these days. Please keep writing!
Chelsea (Cobleskill, New York) 5/08
I don't know how to put this without sounding crazy, but the book was magical. It really makes you feel like you are part of Jane's life, and she is pouring her full heart and soul into every word. I loved every aspect of the book, and especially, Mr. Ashford. I too have been fortunate enough to have married my Mr. Ashford. I can't thank you enough for reminding me! Thanks again, and hope to read more of your marvelous books.
Stacey Petty (Rock Island, IL) 4/08
I loved loved loved your book! I could not put it down, and when it was done I wanted to read on. So realistic; I feel like I knew Jane Austen personally. Fantastic read!
Gio (Canada) 4/08
I absolutly adored this book! I actually thought that this was really Jane Austen's memoir and was stunned at the end to find out it wasn't real! The author did an AMAZING job keeping to Jane Austen's voice and even had me in tears by the end! Wonderful work!
Courtney (California) 4/08
I have been an avid reader of the classics since I was a girl. Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice are my favorites. Her books transport me to a different time and place, just as this amazing novel has managed to do.....it's almost like Jane Austen is reborn in Syrie! I could not for a minute have doubted that this was not from the eloquent pen of Ms. Austen. Please do continue to write and enthrall us with similar literary treasures. Thank You.
Bindu (New Jersey) 4/08
. . . I absolutely love it! I cannot put it down!
Susan Zito (Baltimore, Maryland) 4/08
Hours ago on a plane from PA to NV I finished your book. I fell in love with it. . . I cried -- teary moments on a crowded plane. I too have a devoted and best friend in my sister. Loved every minute of your book. Thank you for sharing it.
Sharon Larsen (Las Vegas, NV) 4/08
Loved your book . . . It was hard to read when I was crying.
Angela Knautz (Plano, Tx) 4/08
Fantastic! What a novel use of fiction and fact. It was so believable that at times I forgot it was fiction. Well done!!!
Lesa (Nebraska) 4/08
Thank you so much for this book, it was a captivating read. I admit I picked it up on a fluke, but am ever so glad I did. The editor's note at the beginning of the book was genious! I admit I do not know that much about Jane Austen, but now I am quite intrigued by her and plan to find out more.
Amy (Geneva, IL) 4/08
Thank you very much for "turning me onto" Jane Austen with your incredible book. . . I loved it. I will be watching for your work.
Cynthia Herd (Lancaster, Ohio) 4/08
Loved your book! I have read all of Jane Austen's books and truly felt like I was reading another. Thank you!
Dale Bernt (Waterloo, Ontario Canada) 4/08
Just finished reading your book and ENJOYED IT IMMENSELY. I bought one for my sister (her name is ELIZABETH). . . Would certainly be interested when (your) new book will be coming out..
Ginny Griffin (NYC; now Stockholm, ME) 4/08
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! I have read nearly every book claiming to be a follow-up to Jane Austen's work and I was disappointed in all of them until now. It is like you and Jane became one of the same mind. I hope you will write another very soon!!!!
Jill Powell (charleston,sc) 4/08
Your book was life changing for me. I could not put it down. It became something very real to me. Thank you . . . I will be waiting for your future work.
Dominika Savage (halifax, canada) 4/08
I just finished reading The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and LOVED IT! It was beautiful! Could not read the last chapter without tears. It was heart wrenching. This novel NEEDS to be made into a movie. Please, Jane Austen fans are begging you for this. Your writing has mesmerized us. Hard to tell fact from fiction. I look forward to your future work! Thank you for this masterpiece!
Josephine (North Arlington, NJ) 3/08
Throughout the novel you had me wondering if this was indeed fact and I had to read the back cover of the book several times throughout to remind myself that it was fiction! Your ability to portray Jane as a strong and very intelligent woman while still being sensitive and emotional was amazing. Her meetings with Mr. Ashford always excited me! Thank you for the wonderful read and I look forward to reading more from you in the future.
Ashley Gow (Kingston, Ontario, Canada) 3/08
I just finished your book today and it moved me to tears. I can never get enough of Jane Austen, and you did a great job of weaving together the fictional and factual versions of her life, while staying true to her character. I loved it!
Susan Kulasekara (Edwardsville, IL) 3/08
It absolutely came through as Jane doing the writing and speaking. It is so authentic and I have deep admiration for an author who can be so involved and do all that research. I hope and pray we get more.
Kitty (St. Louis) 3/08
...The ending was simply heart-breaking -- and I love it! -- it's really very convincing and beautiful. The least I could do is rave about it in my blog. I'm looking forward to your next book, and thank you for contributing to ensure Jane Austen's immortality.
Edmund Camacho (Newfoundland) 3/08
To read Edmund's Blog about "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen," CLICK HERE.
You did a great job of capturing the feel of Our Dear Jane without sounding overdone or artificial. Your love of her and knowledge about her shone through on every page, and the interweaving of the plot with her novels was very well done. Thanks for a terrific read!
DeeDee (Mississippi) 3/08
I was enthralled with your story. I could not put down the book. I have never read Jane Austen and I now feel compelled to read all her novels. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Helen (New Jersey) 3/08
Thank you for creating such a beautiful love story as this. I absolutely adore your novel and didn't want it to end! It inspired me to reread all of Jane Austen's novels. Thank you so much!!!!
Sara (Pittsburgh, PA) 3/08
Your story was compelling and so believable, it makes me wish that someone would really find some long lost information about Jane Austen's life... Congratulations on this wonderful book.
Hedye Berdjis (Germany) 3/08
What an astounding feat you have accomplished. The voice of Jane Austen. I have also had her in my head for many years, and have read everything but her letters. Do you keep company with either of the Bronte sisters? To be so gifted at such a young age, then die so young, with so much life in front of them, would beg the question "What if?" Thank you for "The Lost Memoirs". I didn't want it to end. Keep writing.
Jeanne Gale (Swansea, MA) 3/08
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Jeanne, my next novel for Avon, due out in spring 2009, is about the Brontes!
Yesterday night I finished your book and I was perfectly delighted - I must say!!! I know it's quite uncommon for a four and forty year old man to say that he adores (or better) loves Jane Austen's work but I do indeed!... Greetings from a Janeite from the old world!
Thorsten Lages (Germany) 3/08
I absolutely LOVED "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen." It seemed so very real, and I really thought that an old trunk HAD been found. You did a marvelous job of weaving fact and fiction! Keep up the good work.
Irene Morrissey (South Deerfield, MA) 3/08
Syrie, I absolutely love the book. I could not put it down once I began to read it. I would have liked to meet Frederick Ashton (SMILE). I look forward to your writing further works. Perhaps expanding on Jane. Again, I think you.
Patricia Waldbillig (Cincinnati Ohio) 3/08
... absolutely loved it. I really hated for it to end. At the beginning of the book I kept wondering is this factual? But by the middle I was sure it was, so I was quite surprised when I got to the Author's notes! You did a great job!... I am now thirsty for more...!
Julie (Bonney Lake, Washington) 3/08
...LOVED it!!! It's such a good read and I practically devoured it. I love the way you intertwined history with fiction. I surprised myself at the end when I had a couple of tears in my eyes. Well done!!!
Marla (Toronto, Canada) 3/08
...I saw your book in Literary Guild Magazine. I have to say that I could not put it down. What a fun book! I felt as if Jane were writing to us again. What a wonderful talent you are.
Teresa (Idaho) 3/08
...an amazing book. It was beautiful! I have always been a big fan of Jane Austen and this novel was just perfect in trying to reveal some hidden love of her life. Thank you.
Caiti King (Felton, CA) 2/08
...fantastic. I could not put it down... lively, interesting, intriguing and utterly page turning. Thank you so much!
Susan Pappas (Southampton, PA) 2/08
Thank you, I just finished your book last night, I simply couldn't stop, You transported me away to another time, another world. I wanted to live there in the past with her. All the emotions you awakened, the dreams were very strong. I cannot but thank you for writing it, I will treasure your book forever.
Nicole Ott-Yunis (Venezuela) 2/08
There are only three words I can think of to describe your book: I loved it! You made Jane Austen come alive for me. I enjoy reading books by authors who can portray historical figures as living, breathing human beings, instead of the dry figures often written about in history texts. I felt every emotion Jane experienced, and at the end I wished the story was really true. You did a fantastic job, and I hope you continue to write about Jane in the future.
Melissa Slaton (California) 2/08
I would like to congratulate you for your book. I was immensely moved. I have always been fascinated by the life and works of Jane Austen. Your book, written in style very much like that of Jane Austen herself, woven around the events of Jane Austen's life, I must say has made an impression on my mind and heart. In my opinion your book is a must read for all who those love Jane Austen. Moreover, the photographs of Chawton Cottage, Netley Abbey, Bath, Lyme and Winchester Cathedral on your website are a treat for all eyes. Once again, congratulations!
Nidhi (India, currently in CA) 2/08
I am so thrilled to have found your wonderful novel. I am a fan of all things Austen, and when I first discovered, as a teenager, that Jane had a good friend also named Alethea, I was even more entranced by her. Seeing through Jane's eyes in this book, and seeing more of Alethea Bigg, has been a dream come true. I've been unable to put your book down since I started it. Thank you so much for bringing another Alethea to life!
Alethea White-Previs (Mechanicsville, VA) 2/08
As a writer I was especially touched by Syrie's treatment on the subject of writing; the excuses based on fear that writers often give themselves for not writing, as expressed on page 127 of The Last Memoirs of Jane Austen. Syrie's approach to the readers understanding of Austen is innovative and as close to genius as Austen herself. I was mesermized, enchanted and entertained just as Jane Austen intended her readers to be!
Kathie Pitman (Forked River Beach, New Jersey) 2/08
I've always loved Jane. Your book now makes Jane course through my veins as I turn page after page yearning for her happiness yet knowing her fate. One of the most incredible alive fictions I have ever read!! Sandra
Sandra Rediger (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada) 2/08
I loved it. It was heartbreaking to read it and know how the story ends and yet hope, by some chance, there will be a wedding at the end of the book. It really brings Jane Austen to life and shows a very personal part of her life and I am sure Jane herself would have enjoyed the book, and laughed at how the world has wondered over her secret life. Thank you so much for your wonderful work!
Patricia (California) 2/08
I, a girl of only seventeen years of age, am an admirer, some might even say obsessed, of Jane Austen and her works... I hope you can picture my reaction on Christmas morning of 2007 when I received your novel as a gift, for my mother knew that anything relating to Jane Austen would be a prized possession of mine... The entire time I was reading this novel, I believed every word of it, soaking up every little detail, even sharing with my friends the secrets of Jane Austen's life... believing so much in this novel, taking everything to heart... You wanted the reader to believe one hundred perfect that this novel was truly Jane Austen's lost memoir and without a doubt I did. And for that, for making me believe in such a story, I give the highest praise and admiration for your piece of art, for that is what it is. Your novel is a creation that blends fact, and not just fiction, but great imagination, so effortlessly, I am out of words to describe how much I enjoyed your wonderful novel. Indeed "I believe in your story as you have told it... as good as if it were true." I look forward to reading your next novel.
Vanessa (Clinton, Connecticut) 2/08
Your book was the first modern treatment of Jane Austen that had the same lovely feel. Most writers are not able to hide modern style and sentiments, so I applaud you for the extra effort you gave. Thank you for such a lovely story, and giving me great enjoyment.
Deborah Cameron (North Vancouver, Canada) 2/08
I most thoroughly enjoyed it...you did a great job. I have passed the word to several people as it being recommended reading. One friend coming back through the Canadian airport said she saw it prominently displayed...she is now definitely going to get it...the cover is so nicely done as well. Wishing you much more success. I very definitely can see this on the screen one of these days!
Fonda Morris (Los Angeles) 2/08
Well done! I note you are a screenwriter. Be in time for the next round of JA filmed adaptations. I think your book is one of the best. Will certainly give a good report at our meeting of the Brisbane Jane Austen Society.
Fiona Gaske (Brisbane, Australia) 2/08
I just had to tell you how truly spectacular it is! I couldn't put it down! :)
Lisa Rogers (Maryland) 2/08
I just finished your very lovely book, "The Lost Memoirs..." I am a devoted fan of Jane Austen and have frequently been disappointed in books that capitalize on her name and work. Your book was absolutely delightful-- thank you so much for sharing it with the world. I look forward to reading more of your work.
Zofia Monczka (New Providence, NJ) 2/08
I have, like yourself, been an avid Jane Austen reader and fan all of my life. Her life resonates so much truth about pain, happiness and suffering that I can relate to... your very delightful book... was "so like Jane" herself... Your writing really brought about strong emotions to my own heart and for this I think you are brilliant. Thank you for the inspired and wonderful writing.
Shenaz Esmail (Vancouver, B.C. Canada) 2/08
Your writing so closely resembled Jane's ....it was as if she had written it herself. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you!
Gloria (Indiana) 2/08
Thank you for writing this book! I couldn't put it down! My favorite part was making all of the connections between Jane's other novels and the movies, as I read. It really felt like I was reading something Jane would have written. Thank you for providing me with not only a new Jane Austen book to share, but for providing me with two days of, oversized-comfy-chair-while-drinking-my-tea-reading!!
Bethany (Gallup, New Mexico) 2/08
What a wonderful read. It kept me delightfully entertained. Loved it! I have not read any of Jane Austen's books, other than perhaps in high school for English lit, but I don't remember anything except that it was dry and stuffy. Your book has inspired me to read Jane's novels. Thank you for your wonderful novel.
Bonnie (Vallejo, CA) 2/08
It was fantastic. I've never read a book by Jane before... Thanks to you I am now a Jane Austen fan. I look forward to reading more of your books in the future.
Shannon Richards (Ontario, Canada) 2/08
Having just completed reading the "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen," I feel compelled to voice my praise for your writing. This delicious novel (yes, I mean delicious) has made me feel as if I were in the middle of all Jane's stories at once. The characters are true to Jane Austen, yet contemporary as well. You have truly written a masterpiece! I loved it! ... Keep up the good work. I can't wait until your next book.
Sharon Smith (Rising Sun, MD) 1/08
Thank you for a wonderful read! I love this book! Recently I read a book, JUST JANE, by Nancy Mosher, and enjoyed it. When I saw your new book at Borders, I snatched it up, immediately. It is beautiful--very attractive! I began reading as soon as I returned home, and I couldn't stop reading until I had finished. Your many hours of research have paid off. Thank you so much.
Elaine Wait (Lodi, California) 1/08
Tonight on the bus home from work in Boston I finished reading your book and just had to write to tell you how much I love it! It really touched me and brought her to life, and the way you pulled in the ideas for her stories was so plausible. Ashford is wonderful and so very human ... Can't wait to reread your book and immerse myself in a fascinating era! I'll be looking for your next book, Syrie.
Nancy Emmons (Marblehead, Massachusetts) 1/08
Thank you for your wonderful book "Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen". I actually enjoyed the book much more than Jane's own books and it has given me an interest to reread her novels. I am looking forward to discussing this book with my bookgroup in February and can't wait to read your new book.
Laurie (Cedar hills, Utah) 1/08
This is the first time I've been moved to write to an author following a reading of his/her work. Bravo! I felt as though I were reading a 7th book by Jane Austen. You nailed her voice. I was captivated, and only wish a trunk with her manuscripts/papers HAD been found so that we could look forward to your editing them and sharing your "findings" with us. The Editor's Foreword was clever, and the pages following the end of the novel allowed me to bask in the atmosphere you created a little longer. When can we expect another novel from you?
Sue Bennett (Asheville, NC) 1/08
The tears are still fresh on my eyelashes as I've just finished reading your novel. Thank you for sharing your exquisite writing. To echo Miss Austen's own words- "If a book is well written, I always find it too short." I suppose I'll have to comfort myself by re-reading it, as I so often return to other beloved novels. For many years, Jane Eyre has held the distinction of being my favorite novel, and I am delighted to read on your website that your next work will focus on Charlotte Bronte. I look forward to falling in love with that book too...!
Briana (MD) 1/08
I loved "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen". I loved it! I was drawn into the bookstore, as I am ALWAYS and was feeling sad because no book was calling out to me. Then I saw your book. I nearly ran to the checkout counter! I could barely wait to get home... What a magical invention. Thank you a thousand times Syrie! Now I know I will read everything Jane ever wrote... Thank you for a wonderful, imaginative and life like portrayal of such and incredible woman. When does the movie come out? Can Colin Firth play Mr. Ashford? =) Sending you a big hug via the web!!!
Tina Felton (Cumberland, Maryland) 1/08
I just finished The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and until the very end... was totally lost in the realism of it all. Thank you!!! Great job, you created it all with the utmost respect for Jane's work. It is rare that a book moves me to tears, yours did... I will be looking for all your next great books, and again, Thank You.
P.S. I think I will be reading this book over and over again.
Michelle Horgan (Canada) 1/08
I adore Jane Austen, so I couldn't resist giving The Lost Memoirs a try. It really is an excellent historical fiction novel. I love the blending of research and imagination in this genre --when it's done well-- and your book is a prime example. I enjoyed coming upon the situations and characters that were meant to be the basis for elements in her books.
Amy Miller (suburb of Chicago) 1/08
I absolutely loved THE LOST MEMOIRS OF JANE AUSTEN. What a brilliant work. Congratulations.
Mary (Nevada) 1/08
I just finished the Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen, and thought it was excellent. You really captured Jane's voice. I always hoped that she had at least one romance in her life... Thanks for the beautiful book!
Patricia (Hawaii) 1/08
I just finished reading The Lost Memoirs Of Jane Austen and congratulate you on a brilliantly conceived and well written story. In particular I admire the way you incorporated personalities and situations appearing in Austen's novels into her life, which is just the opposite of her incorporating into her novels personalities and situations from her life. For a Jane Austen fan it was fun identifying the different Austen novels you drew from in creating your story. Your book as a whole is masterfully done.
John Biehl (Mercer Island, WA) 12/07
...Something drew me to your book and I must say that I am very glad it did... I read your book in one sitting and was amazed at how well you blended fact and fiction. I was especially pleased in your ability to model your own characters after some of Jane's more famous ones... a move which provided such a sense of where Jane gained her sources of inspiration for her own creations, that I often found myself forgetting that yours was a work of fiction. Oh, how I wish it wasn't. I, as I'm sure many others do, harbor a wish that Jane found love in her own life, and like you, I tend to believe that she did. I admire Jane Austen's writing so much that I'm sure the task of actually writing as Jane was daunting. I just wanted to let you know that you seemed to handle the challenge brilliantly and I think that even Jane herself would approve. I look forward to your next book!
Amy Dean (Washington Court House, Ohio) 12/07
I have just finished reading your novel "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen." I could not put it down ... You have done such an amazing job of capturing Jane's personality and I found myself believing in your story... it would be nice to think she found a love like that. I keep wanting to research more about it and have to remind myself it is fictional. I have read several biographies on Jane (I really like Jon Spence's) and therefore know most of the facts surrounding her, but you have sparked something within me... Thank you again for such an engaging and memorable story... This will be on my recommend list for years to come and I am sure that several family members and friends will be receiving this book as gift.
Carrie Bell-McHugh (from England, but currently in IL) 12/07
...You probably get most of your messages from adults, but I confess, I'm only sixteen. I'm very impressed with your work; I became so engrossed with your story that I constantly found myself believing that Jane Austen herself had written the whole thing! I'm so thrilled that I happened upon the book at Borders with my mom; and now my mom, who is an even greater Jane Austen fan than myself, is intent upon starting it up as soon as possible! Thank you so much for broadening my knowledge of one of my favorite authors and incorporating such enjoyable characters and ideas all into one spectacular novel!
Izzy (PA) 12/07
I took your book on the plane and just loved it!! You've made me want to go back and reread Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice. I particularly love your footnotes and the way you explain how a certain experience must have inspired a particular scene -- positively brilliant!! I went into B&N and bought two more for cousins I stayed with... I look forward to your next work -- hurry up!
Judy (California) 11/07
I am an employee at a retail bookstore and was overjoyed to see your book
"The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen" as one of our advanced copies ... Last night, ironically after watching both versions of S&S, I started reading it... I cried when she cried, sighed when she sighed ... Suffice to say I didn't go to bed at a reasonable time and look forward to doing the same thing this evening. I feel, after having read her letters to Cassandra, you truly embody what she would've felt and written. It really makes me feel as if I am reading her own words. I can't wait until your book is published so true Jane Austen lovers all over can appreciate your work.
Leila (Connecticut) 10/07
As a fellow HarperCollins author, I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an ARC of your book. I'm reading it right now and find it to be an utter delight. Thought you might like to know I will be featuring it in my fall newsletter, where I always share what I'm reading, watching, etc.
Toni Blake (Kentucky) 09/07
I have just reviewed your book for Once Upon a Romance - I absolutely loved it. I am a huge Jane Austen fan so I always specifically ask for anything about her. Well Done! I was in tears when you wrote about how she felt about her writing and the first time she was published. I am a writer myself, and I was truly moved... I will make sure I tell everyone to 'pick this one up!'
Amy (New Mexico) 09/07
I read an ARC of your book and I was in tears at the end. (A little awkward for my seat neighbor on the flight I was on at the time!) I have a blog and I would love to interview you when the book comes out.
Mary (Orange County, California) 09/07
"This was one of the most wonderful books I have ever read... I had to keep reminding myself that it was a work of fiction... Wonderful job James."
Jeannie (Killeen, Texas)
"...takes you inside the heart and mind of Jane Austen-- her feelings, thoughts and emotions. This is a must read for Jane Austen fans!"
Melinda (Bourne, Massachusetts)
"This romantic novel is written so much like Austen's own novels-- with satirical wit and familiar characters-- that it is delightful for fans to link real-life events with her novels. Mr. Ashford, the mysterious object of Jane's desires, is so dashing and Darcy-esque that one truly wants him to be real, just to know that our heroine did have love in her life. Far more interesting, though, at least to this Austenite, is the story of Jane's truest and eternal love, her writing..."
Janet (Hayes, Virginia)
"...Particularly enchanting was how James took attributes of characters from Austen's novels and wove them into persons both real and fictional in Austen's life, while making it seem like it was done the other way around... Seamlessly, brilliantly done. It almost reads like real history. But on to the meat of the matter, and what the reader will really want to know about-- Jane's romance. Syrie creates the perfect romantic counterpart for Austen in the character of Mr. Ashford. The end, when it comes, will be far more poignant, heartbreaking, and pregnant with hope and renewal that one could possibly be expecting."
Cassondra (Nashville, Tennessee)
"Author Syrie James's personal & professional accomplishments serve her well in her reverent presentation of The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen... Her website brims with such a diversity of talents that one does not question why she is qualified to write about such a sensitive subject, but rather why she waited so long!... Five Austen stars!"
Laurel (Lake Stevens, Washington)
"The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen was such a treat to read. It stands alone as a great story. But for an Austen fan, it is a real gem."
Arlene (Louisville, Kentucky)
FULL TEXT OF THESE AND OTHER AVON "FIRST LOOK REVIEWS"
(Click on above link; scroll down to Reader Reviews from "HarperCollins FirstLook" and then click VIEW MORE)
"Exquisitely and Lovingly Told Story ... Syrie James made an extensive study of Jane's life & times, novels & letters, and her research shows ... I honestly adored this book and even, for a time, forgot that Jane does not marry Mr. Ashford. He is almost even better than Mr. Darcy (shocking, I know!) because he and Jane have that true, deep connection from the start, without the pride or prejudice ... I highly recommend The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen. It was absolutely fabulous."
Jane Austen's Regency World Magazine Review
Jane Austen Today Review
Wordpress.com Review
Romance Vagabonds Review
Reads from the Field
Bill Duncan, News Review
Amy, Once Upon A Romance
Kay, Romance Reader At Heart
Lorri, Dear Author
Susan Davis, News Observer
Harriet Klausner, Bookcrossing
Bette-Lee Fox, Library Journal
hare what you liked best about The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen in Syrie's
Guest Book.
Each month, Syrie will post her favorite messages, and one winner
will receive a leather Jane Austen Bookmark from Jane Austen's House/Museum
in Hampshire, England!