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When Aurelie Harcourt’s father dies in debtor’s prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company.

When Aurelie decides to complete her father’s unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother’s disappearance–and perhaps even her father’s death.

Author Joanna Davidson Politano’s stunning debut set in Victorian England will delight readers with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance.

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My Thoughts

“A well-written book always revealed the complex truth about its characters, but more than anything, the basic truth about its author” p. 326

Politano has decisively landed on my list of favorite authors with her exquisite debut novel! Lady Jayne Disappears is masterfully written and completely captivating. Each page is an indulgence of beautiful words, every chapter hints at hidden meanings and elusive truths.

Aurelie Harcourt is a heroine worthy of readerly adoration. She is genuine, compassionate, and (despite her insecurities) an enormously talented storyteller. In many ways, Aurelie is caught in limbo between poverty and wealth, stories and secrets, suspicion and trust.

Silas Rotherham is observant, receptive, and protective. He plays his role as leading man with excellence and intelligence. Silas is a true gentleman and treats others with the utmost care. This is the kind of man mothers choose for their daughters, wise, devoted, and diligent.

I absolutely without an inkling of hesitation claim this story as one of my all-time favorites. I couldn’t resist sharing in Aurelie’s sorrows and cheering her on along the way. This book is simply extraordinary! I highly recommend it and eagerly anticipate future works from this promising author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano quote

About the Author

Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence.

She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her on her website.