Jane Austen passed away in July 1817 at the tender age of 41 from Hodgkin lymphoma. The effects of this dreaded illness caused her to suffer and deteriorate on a daily basis from 1816 until the time of her passing. Over the course of 14 Jane Austen mysteries, Stephanie Barron has kept the beloved author of such novels as SENSE AND SENSIBILITY, EMMA and PRIDE AND PREJUDICE alive in the hearts and minds of readers. Regrettably, JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY will be the last in this series.

The book takes place just a few short months before Jane succumbs to her illness. She spends the majority of her remaining years in a cottage in the village of Chawton, which her brother, Edward, procured for the family. Jane and her friend, Elizabeth (among others), are residing there at the start of the novel.

"Stephanie Barron is clearly more than just an Austen fan and throughout the series has turned her into a living, breathing character."

Jane’s final mystery kicks off when her 15-year-old nephew, Edward, comes to visit Chawton. He informs his aunt that Arthur Prendergast, a classmate of his at Winchester College, was killed under suspicious circumstances. Even more distressing is that his friend, William Heathcoate (who happens to be Elizabeth’s son), is the prime suspect.

Edward goes on to share the sordid details of hazing rituals, brutality and mistreatment, all of which seem to happen directly under the nose of the headmaster, Dr. Gabell. Arthur was both struck in the head and drowned, indicating that someone clearly wanted him dead.

Harnessing all of her remaining strength, Jane takes to horseback with Edward to visit with some of the individuals associated with the case. From there, she begins to piece together all of the facts. Readers will witness the testimony of several people involved, which will provide more than enough information to zero in on the person responsible for the murder.

The novel moves forward at a brisk pace, with Jane staying in Winchester until a satisfactory solution is found. Her work, along with Edward’s aid, is pivotal to the outcome and makes for an excellent historical mystery. Stephanie Barron is clearly more than just an Austen fan and throughout the series has turned her into a living, breathing character.

Thankfully, Jane Austen remains a writer of significance. Posthumous releases like PERSUASION, NORTHANGER ABBEY and SANDITON continue to keep her alive through her well-delivered words.