Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, Blog Events, Jane Austen Inspired, Reading Challenges | Tagged Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, Books, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Mysteries, Mysteries, Novel, Reading Challenges, Stephanie Barron | 161 Comments

161 Responses

1. on 28 December 2010 at 7:16 am Linda B

   I don’t have a blog, but I read yours daily and will follow along on the progess of this challenge. I haven’t read any of these mysteries, and I wonder if it is better to read them in order???

   
   
   • on 28 December 2010 at 9:47 am Stephanie Barron

     Dear Linda B:
     I get asked that question all the time. I usually tell people to start with whichever novel appeals to them. But since we’re discussing a challenge, here, I will go out on a limb and admit that it’s helpful to read my series in order–for two reasons. First, the books begin with a twenty-six year old Jane in 1802, and have currently reached the publication of Pride and Prejudice in 1813. For a linear progression through Jane’s adult life, there’s nothing like reading the series in order. Secondly, there are recurring characters throughout the books you may enjoy meeting at the outset. Otherwise, each novel does stand on its own–and I hope you’ll check in with my blog from time to time to read about the inspiration for each of them. First post regarding Scargrave Manor will be up by New Year’s Eve, to kick off the Challenge. Happy reading!

     
     
2. on 28 December 2010 at 10:04 am Adrienne S

   This sounds so much fun and exciting! Where exactly do we sign up?

   
   
   • on 28 December 2010 at 2:08 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

     Hi Adrienne, to sign up, if you have a blog, write a post about your commitment and post a comment in this thread linking to it. If you do not have a blog, just leave a comment int this thread detailing your commitment. The complete details are listed in the post. Thanks for your interest. I hope you join in.

     Cheers, Laurel Ann

     
     
3. on 28 December 2010 at 10:11 am Theresa

   This sounds like a great challenge. As I’ve not read any of these books before I’m going to commit to being a neophyte with the possibility of achieving greater things!

   http://www.treehouse.typepad.com

   
   
4. on 28 December 2010 at 11:07 am Ruth

   I AM SO DOING THIS!!!!!! Will post a challenge “entry” on my blog later today or tomorrow.

   
   
5. on 28 December 2010 at 11:27 am Alexa Adams

   These books have been a huge hole in my Austenesque reading. Typically, I have avoided books with Austen as a character, but have recently been venturing into the genre a bit more. I also kind of said I wouldn’t commit to any more challanges, as they kind of stress me out, but this one is very tempting. Since I have some time to sign up, I think I’ll order the first book and see how it goes before commiting myself, though I have a feeling all my caution has already been rendered pointless, as I am pretty excited about the notion.

   
   
   • on 28 December 2010 at 2:20 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

     One book over the course of a year wouldn’t stress you, would it Alexa? You might find that you like them. I think Barron is an incredibly talented writer that you might learn something from as far as how she handles plot, history and style. Just a thought!

     Cheers, Laurel Ann

     PS I did not mean to imply that you needed to change your plot, history or style in your writing, just that it is helpful as a writer to see how others handle it. ;-)

     
     
6. on 28 December 2010 at 1:09 pm Ruth

   It’s official! Here’s my sign up post!

   http://booktalkandmore.blogspot.com/2010/12/being-jane-austen-mystery-reading.html

   
   
7. on 28 December 2010 at 3:38 pm Ruchama

   I’m in!!! i don’t want to commit to a level until I’ve read the first one (now on reserve for me at my local library.) Sounds great fun. My two guilty pleasures are Regency novels and Mysteries, so this looks perfect for me. I look forward to the books the comments, and maybe even a prize!! :)

   
   
8. on 28 December 2010 at 3:41 pm Karen Field

   I’m going for Afficianado! I’d been planning to start this series after the New Year. This will just make it more fun. I don’t have a blog, I just enjoy reading others’. Count me in for this!

   
   
   • on 3 January 2011 at 12:41 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

     Wow Karen! Afficianada? Well done.

     
     
9. on 28 December 2010 at 5:08 pm Joanne

   Hi, Laurel Ann! I’m in and I’m going for broke! I’ve already read Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron, but I’m looking forward to working my way through from the beginning! Thanks for this unique challenge!

   http://joanne-sliceoflife3.blogspot.com/2010/12/being-jane-austen-mystery-challenge.html

   
   
10. on 28 December 2010 at 5:19 pm stephaniebarron

    You know, this is so strange. I came up with the idea for Scargrave Manor while I was pregnant with my first son (more on that later on my blog), and he’s now sixteen. This challenge is a great way for me to revisit the series and think about what a long, strange road it’s been. I was finding my “Jane” voice with the first book–Scargrave Manor–and in my own humble opinion the subsequent novels are more successful. Probably every writer believes she improves with each successive book. For those of you just starting the series, however, I hope you’ll persist at least to Book 2–Jane and the Man of the Cloth–which remains one of my favorites. We have a lot to talk about over the coming months!

    
    
11. on 28 December 2010 at 8:26 pm Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)

    Count me in Laurel Ann! I’ll throw up a blog post now!

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:14 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Thanks for your commitment Kimberly. I look forward to your musings.

      
      
12. on 28 December 2010 at 8:46 pm 2011 Reading Challenge « Reflections of a Book Addict

    [...] For those interested in joining the challenge, more information is available at Austenprose. [...]

    
    
13. on 29 December 2010 at 8:23 am Bella

    Hi Laurel Ann, you must be a mind reader because I was just eyeing these up at the bookstore over the holidays!

    I don’t have a blog anymore, but definitely count me in to join the challenge. I can’t wait to start the first book :)

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:11 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Happy to have you on board Bella regardless of your blog status, though I do miss your musings.

      
      
14. on 29 December 2010 at 9:36 am Kristin

    I don’t have a blog, but I’m certainly up for reading Austen mysteries!

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:10 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Look forward to your comments Kristin

      
      
15. on 29 December 2010 at 9:43 am Much Madness is Divinest Sense » Blog Archive » Two More Reading Challenges

    [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge will take me out of my comfort zone a bit, as I have not read any Austen sequels and am not a big [...]

    
    
16. on 29 December 2010 at 9:46 am Dana Huff

    Count me in, Laurel Ann: http://www.danahuff.net/?p=2081

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:09 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Great Dana, you are awesome!

      
      
17. on 29 December 2010 at 3:21 pm Stephanie

    I would love to join the reading…I have already read all 11 books but will gladly re-read along with the rest. Truly an enjoyable series I greatly enjoyed it. I don’t have a blog but lurk here regularly.

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:06 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Already read all 10? You are a true aficinada

      
      
18. on 29 December 2010 at 6:34 pm Staci

    I’m in!! I’ve been wanting to read this series and now I have a fun challenge to inspire me to get to these books!!

    http://lifeinthethumbreadingchallenges.blogspot.com/2010/12/being-jane-austen-mystery-challenge.html

    
    
    • on 30 December 2010 at 11:05 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Great Staci, I look forward to your contributions.

      
      
19. on 29 December 2010 at 7:15 pm Meredith (Austenesque Reviews)

    Awesome challenge! I would love to join! It is very timely too, I just finished reading Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron. I’ll do my start up post in a few days and post the link here! Lookng forward to this year long event!

    
    
20. on 30 December 2010 at 9:11 am Adriana Zardini

    Laurel Ann, as I didn’t read any of these books I’m looking forward for the posts! Fantastic idea!

    
    
21. on 31 December 2010 at 1:03 am 2011 Reading Challenges & Goals « November's Autumn

    [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge Hosted by: Laurel Ann of Austenprose [...]

    
    
22. on 31 December 2010 at 4:01 am Luthien84

    I have not read any of the JA mystery novels yet. Thanks for organizing this event. I’ll be participating. Here’s my post: http://forloveofausten.blogspot.com/2010/12/reading-challenge-2011-being-jane.html

    Can I ask a question? Can I upgrade my level when I can manage to find more time to read some more of Stephanie Barron’s Jane Austen mystery novels?

    
    
    • on 31 December 2010 at 6:19 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Hi Luthien84 – you can upgrade at any time during the year. I think you will find that you will be compelled to do so. The novels are very addicting.

      
      
23. on 31 December 2010 at 10:35 am Joan

    I’m in! I’m totally an aficianada and will now hold off reading Lord Byron until I re-read the others! Yay! Reading goals!

    
    
    • on 3 January 2011 at 12:43 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Glad to have you joining us Joan. I commend you for choosing Aficianada. I look forward to your reviews.

      
      
24. on 31 December 2010 at 11:29 am Wallace

    I’m in! This sounds like so much fun. This will be a brand new series to me, so I am looking forward to it.

    http://unputdownables.net/2010/12/31/2011-reading-challenges/

    
    
25. on 31 December 2010 at 9:14 pm Lauren Cartelli

    I’m very in! Here is my sign-up post at my blog, The Literary Gothamite!

    
    
26. on 1 January 2011 at 9:55 am Bluestocking

    I’m in. My sign up post

    
    
27. on 1 January 2011 at 4:35 pm 2011 Reading Challenges « Unputdownables

    [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog [...]

    
    
28. on 1 January 2011 at 8:18 pm Jenna

    I’m in!

    http://janeausten.livejournal.com/1219273.html

    
    
29. on 1 January 2011 at 9:43 pm Mimi

    I am accepting the challenge-I plan to read all of the mysteries. Looking forward to it!

    
    
30. on 1 January 2011 at 9:44 pm Mimi

    http://www.walkerorganizing.blogspot.com

    
    
31. on 2 January 2011 at 5:03 pm Susan

    This is just what I need for 2011. I read Scargrave Manor on my Kindle for i phone. I loved it so much, I then found the Stillroom Maid at the Library. I want to read and reread all 11 books! I don’t have a blog, but will gladly comment.

    
    
    • on 3 January 2011 at 12:46 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Hi Susan, wow Aficionada. I’m impressed. It is a wonderful series. I look forward to your comments.

      
      
32. on 2 January 2011 at 5:07 pm Susan

    Sign me up for Aficionada.

    
    
33. on 2 January 2011 at 7:56 pm Amy L

    I don’t have a blog, tho I posted this link on my Facebook page. I have never read this series or joined any reading challenge so this will be a new delight for me!! Since this is a new endeavor I will sign up for Neophyte, but I would love to read each and every novel :)

    
    
    • on 3 January 2011 at 12:47 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Hi Amy, welcome to the challenge. I hope you enjoy this great series. I look forward to your comments.

      
      
34. on 3 January 2011 at 9:26 am v v b

    i’m so excited to start on this one as a neophyte ;-)

    http://vvb32reads.blogspot.com/2011/01/being-jane-austen-mystery-reading.html

    
    
35. on 3 January 2011 at 5:53 pm Meredith (Austenesque Reviews)

    Yay! Can’t wait to read everyone’s reviews! Here is my start-up post:

    http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com/2011/01/being-jane-austen-mystery-challenge.html

    Thank you for organizing this, Laurel Ann!

    
    
36. on 3 January 2011 at 6:09 pm Kerri

    Have read ALL eleven of Stephanie Barron’s JA Mysteries (as well as her “Flaw in the Boood”) — and found myself eagerly awaiting them all. I welcome the opportunity to go back to the beginning and re-read them all (while also eagerly awaiting the NEXT installment in the series). WHAT FUN!

    
    
37. on 4 January 2011 at 11:53 am Alice

    Hi,
    I know that I can’t participate for the prize but can I join the challenge if my blog is in French? (It’s a blog dedicated to Jane Austen)

    
    
    • on 4 January 2011 at 2:14 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Of course you can participate Alice. Just post a link to your commitment blog. Even though its in French, I will always take a fellow Janeites word as truth. Thanks for your interest.

      
      
      • on 6 January 2011 at 6:13 am Alice

        Great!! I’m in!! Here is my post:
        http://janeausten.hautetfort.com/archive/2011/01/05/challenges-auteniens.html

        
        
38. on 4 January 2011 at 2:28 pm Emilee Turner

    Sign me up please!! I have been wanting to read a few of these books anyhow, so now I am really excited about reading them!!

    Here is my blog post about it:

    http://emileehope.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-reading-challenges.html

    
    
39. on 4 January 2011 at 3:43 pm Lee Smith

    I would like to join this challenge. The books sound great but since I haven’t read any I will keep to the neophyte and then see where it goes.

    Butterfly Blessings Sign Up Post

    
    
40. on 5 January 2011 at 12:32 am Celebrating 200 Years of Sense and Sensibility « AustenBlog

    [...] enough reading for you, Laurel Ann has set up a reading challenge just for Stephanie Barron’s Jane Austen Mysteries. Regular AustenBlog readers probably know that the Editrix is a big fan of this series, and it [...]

    
    
41. on 5 January 2011 at 1:16 am PJ

    I love a good mystery so I’d like to join as a neophyte and read 1 – 4 books in 2011. Should be fun.

    I can’t figure out how to copy the challenge image onto my blog… but I’ll keep trying.

    
    
    • on 5 January 2011 at 2:24 am Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Hi PJ, to copy the image, just click on the graphic. It will open another page. Right click and “save image as” in a folder on your hard drive or on the desk top. From there you can load it into your blog image editor. Hope that helps. LA

      
      
      • on 5 January 2011 at 2:02 pm PJ

        Thank you.

        
        
42. on 5 January 2011 at 8:42 am Challenges Galore for the New Year! « Infusions of Wit from an Everyday Girl

    [...] first challenge is the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, hosted by Laurel Ann over at  Austenprose. I’m very excited about this one. When I was in [...]

    
    
43. on 5 January 2011 at 9:22 am Nicole

    I’m so excited! Here’s my post: http://booklovingfool.wordpress.com/2011/01/05/challenges-galore-for-the-new-year/

    
    
44. on 5 January 2011 at 11:35 am Valerie

    I’m new to your site and haven’t participated in anything like this before, but it sounds like a fun & interesting challenge. I don’t have a blog myself, but I’d like to take part. I’ve never read this series before, so I think I’ll start off at the neophyte level & depending on how I like it upgrade later.

    
    
45. on 5 January 2011 at 2:07 pm Krystal

    Hi, I am new to this site and very interested in joining in the challenge! Seems like such fun and this is a series I have not had a chance to get started on.

    So, I do no have a blog and I understand that I just state my interest in being a part of the challenge in this section, correct?

    Thanks,
    Krystal

    
    
46. on 5 January 2011 at 3:34 pm Whitney

    My resistance is running thin. I’ll join this one too. Thanks for hosting these awesome challenges!

    
    
47. on 6 January 2011 at 8:33 am Angela Traubel

    I am SO loving these books! I just “discovered” them after hearing Stephanie Barron speak a couple of months ago at the JASNA AGM in Portland. I LOVE her writing – I LOVE all the real and personal information about Jane Austen and her life /world intertwined in a fun mystery! Excellently done! Count me in!!!

    
    
    • on 17 January 2011 at 10:04 am Angela Schwarz

      Ok girl, I’m in lets see how many we can read!! Thanks for letting me know about this!

      
      
48. on 6 January 2011 at 8:36 am Angela Traubel

    Oops! Forgot to mention I’m going with “Discple” (have 2 daughters expecting babies this year – don’t know if I could get them all in) – - is this all I do to be signed up?

    
    
49. on 6 January 2011 at 7:29 pm Katherine Keenan

    I love a good mystery and I love Jane Austen! Looking forward to reading this series! I’ve not done something like this before but it sounds like a lot of fun! Neophyte!

    
    
    • on 18 January 2011 at 5:23 am Stacey Hamilton

      Finally getting back to check the details. I’ll begin at the beginning and see how far I get! Thanks for the invitation, Katherine, this sounds like fun! Neophyte, for sure.

      
      
50. on 6 January 2011 at 10:04 pm I Couldn’t Resist: 2011 Jane Austen Challenges « Diary of an Eccentric

    [...] Austenprose is hosting the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2011, during which participants will read selections from the mystery series by Stephanie Barron.  I’m signing up for the “neophyte” level of 1-4 books. [...]

    
    
51. on 6 January 2011 at 10:39 pm Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 | Custard Kisses~ life in the slow lane

    [...] Rules for signs up can be found here. [...]

    
    
52. on 6 January 2011 at 10:49 pm Andrea

    I haven’t read a single one of these books, in fact I hadn’t even heard of them until I saw this challenge. I am excited to discover them! Sign me up :)

    http://custardkisses.wordpress.com/2011/01/06/being-a-jane-austen-mystery-reading-challenge-2011/

    
    
53. on 7 January 2011 at 5:11 am Anna (Diary of an Eccentric)

    Count me in! I signed up for the 1-4 book level. I’ll read one for sure, but hopefully at least four.

    http://diaryofaneccentric.wordpress.com/2011/01/07/i-couldnt-resist-2011-jane-austen-challenges/

    
    
54. on 7 January 2011 at 6:40 am M.C.

    I accept the challenge!

    http://squarerootofpi.livejournal.com/963611.html

    
    
55. on 7 January 2011 at 9:21 am Patricia Gulley

    I’ve read 9, so I’m an aficionada, major fan, and have book 10 to read, and book 11 on my wish list.
    Love the series.
    Patg
    Downsized To Death
    http://www.wingsepress.com

    
    
56. on 7 January 2011 at 11:10 pm Lara

    What a coincidence! I read all of Stephanie Barron’s mystery books several years back,
    and then recently read Jane and The Madness of Lord Byron. This excited my interest once again and I have reread all of Stephanie’s books over the Holiday Break.

    I think I love Lord Harold as much as Jane, and wonder if Stephanie Barron has ever considered writing The Gentleman Rogue’s story while on the continent or elsewhere? Would love to see his perspective of Jane.

    Did I mention I love Lord Harold Trowbridge? And Geoffrey Sidmouth is second :)

    
    
    • on 10 January 2011 at 3:22 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Lara – you are in luck. You will be able to read more about Jane and Lord Harold Trowbridge as a short story in the upcoming Jane Austen inspired anthology Jane Austen Made Me Dot It, due out in Oct 2011. Stephanie has contributed the story Jane and the Gentleman Rogue. It is wonderful.

      I hope you will revisit her wonderful series and join the reading challenge.

      Cheers, Laurel Ann

      
      
57. on 8 January 2011 at 10:28 pm Raquel

    Dear Laurel

    my post is ready: “Desafio Sense and Sensibility no Austenprose”

    Raquel,
    Jane Austen in Portuguese

    
    
    • on 10 January 2011 at 3:29 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Raquel, thanks for your participation in the S&S challenge. Did you intend to commit to the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge also? Not sure since you linked your S&S post to this challenge post.

      
      
58. on 9 January 2011 at 7:55 am Ruth

    I know I’m a few days early, but I just finished Jane and the Unpleasantness of Scargrave Manor (for the 4th or 5th time, LOVE it), and went ahead and posted a review on my blog. I will try to remember to re-post the link when the challenges page “goes live,” Laurel Ann – hope that’s ok! http://booktalkandmore.blogspot.com/2011/01/review-jane-and-unpleasantness-at.html

    
    
    • on 10 January 2011 at 3:30 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Oh my goodness Ruth, you are so on top of everything. You put me to shame. The official challenge page will go up on Wednesday too. Well done.

      
      
59. on 9 January 2011 at 9:32 am Much Madness is Divinest Sense » Blog Archive » 2011 Reading Goals

    [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge [...]

    
    
60. on 9 January 2011 at 7:25 pm Reading Challenges for 2011 « Love Letters to the Library

    [...] (hosted by Austenprose) [...]

    
    
61. on 9 January 2011 at 8:29 pm Kim

    I’m going to try for Aficionada, as these books sound fantastic!

    http://loveletterstothelibrary.wordpress.com/2011/01/09/reading-challenges-for-2011/

    
    
62. on 9 January 2011 at 9:50 pm Valerie

    Put me down as an “aficionada”! I’m excited to share in this challenge as I already have had the series on my “to read” shelf for some time, this is the perfect reason to dive right in!

    
    
63. on 11 January 2011 at 11:28 am Kelli

    I am so excited about this challenge. I have never read any of Stephanie Barron’s novels but they sound wonderful!! Put me down as a Neophyte! Thanks!!

    
    
64. on 11 January 2011 at 7:58 pm C. Allyn Pierson

    Count me in! I love mysteries and Jane Austen, so what could be better. Have actually not read any of these because I wanted to read the first one first and didn’t have it. Got in Portland while at the AGM and now I am sitting down to read. I already finished the first one this week. Definitely put me as an aficionada

    
    
65. on 11 January 2011 at 11:23 pm Jessica M.

    I’d like to join in! I’m going to go for the Neophyte level since I’m doing a couple of other reading challenges this year and starting law school in the fall (eek!), but I do want to read the whole series so maybe I’ll end up at a higher level by the end of the year. :) I don’t have a blog, but I’m planning to do reviews on my Goodreads account and I created a Goodreads shelf for the challenge. Here’s the link:

    http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3019127-jessica?shelf=jane-austen-mystery-challenge

    
    
66. on 12 January 2011 at 2:44 am Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor, Being the First Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] is my first selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, [...]

    
    
67. on 12 January 2011 at 2:28 pm Angie

    Please sign me up! :)

    http://neveradullmoment-angie.blogspot.com/2011/01/being-jane-austen-mystery-reading.html

    
    
68. on 13 January 2011 at 4:59 pm Jj

    Mystery + Jane Austen = me being happy. I’ve not read any of Ms. Barron’s mysteries before, so I’m looking forward to it.

    http://citivolussus.blogspot.com/2011/01/being-jane-mystery-reading-challenge.html

    
    
69. on 14 January 2011 at 12:26 pm Karen V. Wasylowski

    I would love to join! Sign me up. I have all of nine followers on my blog http://www.karenvwasylowski.blogspot.com. I had ten but I lost one while packing. I love to read, especially anything Jane. sounds like fun

    
    
70. on 14 January 2011 at 7:38 pm Claire

    This sounds like a great series! I have already put a hold on the first book at the library. I can’t wait to get started!

    Claire

    
    
71. on 15 January 2011 at 7:04 am Kathi

    Well, I’ve never done anything like this before but today I got on a Jane Austen kick. I love mysteries and I love to read so this seems a good match for me.

    
    
72. on 17 January 2011 at 10:01 am Angela Schwarz

    I am looking forward to this challenge! Love all things Jane Austen and reading is a passion. I believe that disciple is the level for me. I am starting with the first book.

    
    
73. on 17 January 2011 at 1:20 pm LucyParker

    Happy to join in for at least four of the mysteries, maybe more!

    
    
74. on 17 January 2011 at 2:12 pm Nullifidian

    Count me in! I love the Jane Austen mystery series, although I have not read all the books (only #1-7).

    I’ll shoot for reading all 11 books this year. I have #1-9 already.

    The link in my name goes direct to the relevant post, and the link to the general blog is:

    Books Promiscuously Read

    
    
75. on 17 January 2011 at 5:26 pm Tonya

    I too will be joining in the challenge, it sounds exciting indeed. I have not read anything about Jane Austen, but I’m confident that I will become a fan of hers. I will be reading at the neophyte level starting with book 1 and moving onward. My post can be found at the following link.
    http://thechristiancourier.blogspot.com/

    
    
76. on 17 January 2011 at 5:29 pm Linda M

    I love these books. I’ve read and own the first 9 but I’ll reread them all this year plus #10 and 11. These are much better than most of the books with Jane Austen as a character.

    
    
77. on 18 January 2011 at 12:11 am Upcoming Reading & Writing Challenges, & Literary Blog Events in 2011 « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] My two challenges for 2011 are still open: The Sense and Sensibility Bicentenary Challenge and the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge 2011. So…take the leap, and join the [...]

    
    
78. on 18 January 2011 at 1:16 pm Joanna

    I’m so excited about this! I love the Jane Austen Mysteries and will take any excuse to read them all again. They’re the only fiction books, other than our dear JA’s, worthy enough in my eyes to be on my Jane Austen shelf at home.

    I’d like to enter as Aficionada and read all eleven books. My first post is here: http://oldsoulparttwo.blogspot.com/

    
    
79. on 20 January 2011 at 3:22 pm Becca

    OK I’m in. This sounds fun! Looking forward to it!

    Link to my lit blog, which I will use for this challenge:

    http://lkingglassrvws.blogspot.com/

    
    
80. on 23 January 2011 at 2:51 pm Misti

    I am going to participate as an aficionada! This is quite the committment, but I think I can handle it; in fact, I’m looking forward to it.
    Here is the link to my reading blog:
    http://mistismusings-misti.blogspot.com/2011/01/being-jane-austen-mystery-reading.html

    
    
81. on 27 January 2011 at 11:14 pm Winner Announced in the Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor Giveaway! « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

    
    
82. on 28 January 2011 at 7:39 pm BeingJennifer

    I just found your blog. Love it! I don’t have a blog, but I do have a Facebook page. I could post there. Either way, I am totally committed to finishing reading the Being a Jane Austen Mysteries and continuing as they come out! I just finished Jane and His Lordship’s Legacy 20 minutes ago. I will put the next book on hold at the library as we speak, so to write or as I write, so to speak. mmmm…
    These novels are my Jane fix when I’m not reading Jane. I will continue on in the series. I will be at least a disciple this year and reread some or all of the previous books. Love them!!

    
    
83. on 3 February 2011 at 8:40 pm Janet

    I am not sure how to register as I have read all of the books except the latest. I can always read them again.
    I think I can manage disciple.
    Off to order a book.
    (I should be grading papers….don’t tell the kids.)

    
    
84. on 4 February 2011 at 11:55 am Christina

    I am at #5 now (Stillroom Maid)– apparently that makes me a Disciple… So far. Onward! :) So enjoying this challenge! Had I known there were so many despicable rakes and “the Gentleman Rogue,” I doubt I would have put this series off for so long.

    
    
85. on 8 February 2011 at 9:50 pm A Review of Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor by Stephanie Barron « Reflections of a Book Addict

    [...] is my first completed review for the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge   Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor by Stephanie Barron Random House (2008) [...]

    
    
86. on 9 February 2011 at 6:32 pm Tarina

    I would like to try my hand at this also. I Have a few of these and haven’t began to read them I will try for the Neophyte… and see how it goes from there. I have a blog it is http://doodlebugsandsweetpeas.blogspot.com
    Thank you,

    
    
    • on 11 February 2011 at 2:23 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Welcome to the challenge. I hope you enjoy her wonderful novels. LA

      
      
87. on 12 February 2011 at 7:10 am cathycrane11

    I’m in, new to blogging but I will try posting this. Since I love Jane Austen, I am going for the Aficionada Level.

    http://cathysreadinglist.blogspot.com

    
    
88. on 19 February 2011 at 1:52 am Winner announced in the Jane and the Man of the Cloth Giveaway! « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

    
    
89. on 26 February 2011 at 4:26 pm Olivia

    I’m in; I’ve already read the entire series, anxiously awaiting the Jane and the Canterbury Tale novel. Can I re-read the series for the fun of it? I think so :) I need some motivation and this looks like fun!

    Aficionada 9 – 11 novels.

    http://52waystomakeadifference.blogspot.com/

    Fun stuff…thank you!

    
    
    • on 28 February 2011 at 7:49 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Welcome Olivia. I hope you enjoy Stephanie Barron’s fab and fun mysteries.

      
      
90. on 27 February 2011 at 7:20 am Your Jane Austen Reading Challenges! « Jane Austen in Vermont

    [...] “Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge” also lasts all year [enrollment ends July 1, [...]

    
    
91. on 1 March 2011 at 12:36 pm Cayla

    I don’t have a blog of this kind, but I’ve read the first two mysteries and will hopefully be picking up the third one soon. I loved “Jane and the Man of the Cloth!”

    
    
92. on 1 March 2011 at 2:22 pm Marla

    I am a new reader of your blog and was introduced to it via a link for this reading challenge. I’m coming in a little late, but would love to join in. I am committing to the Disciple level (procuring all of the books is a bit problematic for me, otherwise I would go for all 11!). I wrote about the challenge on my blog. The post can be found here: http://startingthenextchapterbooks.blogspot.com/2011/03/being-jane-austen-mystery-reading.html

    Thank you for hosting such a fun challenge! I’m really looking forward to it.

    
    
93. on 9 March 2011 at 2:22 am Jane and the Wandering Eye: Being the Third Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] is my third selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, 2011. Participants, please [...]

    
    
94. on 17 March 2011 at 2:44 pm Winner Announced in the Jane and the Wandering Eye Giveaway « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

    
    
95. on 9 April 2011 at 6:50 am Ritamaie

    I just discovered your blog a couple of days ago. I love Jane Austen, and I would like to participate in the Challenge. I will start at the Neophyte level, as I have never read any of these “Jane Austen Mysteries.” I am looking forward to it!

    
    
    • on 9 April 2011 at 7:07 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

      Hi Ritamaie, sure. I am happy to add you to the list. Have fun. I recommend starting with the first in the series. Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor. Enjoy!

      
      
96. on 13 April 2011 at 3:09 am Jane and the Genius of the Place: Being the Fourth Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] is my fourth selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, 2011. Participants, please [...]

    
    
97. on 22 April 2011 at 7:20 pm Debbie Harris

    I have read all of the books in the series and I am currently re-reading them and I am thrilled that this month you embrace Jane and the Stillroom Maid. That is the one I am currently re-reading. Thanks for the opportunity to read these again with some very interesting discussions.

    
    
98. on 22 April 2011 at 7:26 pm charla

    This sounds fun! I am a bit late, but i think i can still manage the Neophyte level. But, If I can manage, i may read more before the end of the year. Thank you so much for offering this challenge! I will start with the 1st four and post a review as quickly as i can. I have ordered the first 4 from amazon. I can’t wait to get started!

    http://booktalkswithcharla.blogspot.com/2011/04/being-jane-austen-mystery-challenge.html

    
    
99. on 28 April 2011 at 9:22 pm Giveaway winner announced for Jane and the Genius of the Place « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

    [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

    
    
100. on 1 May 2011 at 2:22 pm Laura S.

     Please add me to the list. I just finished all 11 books yesterday (well, not in one day but over the past months or so). I had already read them in the past but wanted to read them all again before finally getting to Lord Bryon. (too many new books in the line on my nook!). I loved the Lord Bryon and am thrilled that Mona has returned. I always disliked the way Jane was treated by Lord Harold’s family. Anyway, book #4 (which i think is the current one on the blog) had great twists and turns and I think Jane is returning to the area in #12.
     I hope that the series continues, and maybe adds a new one in Derbyshire- it was alluded to in the begining of the Stillroom Maid.
     Thanks for the entry. ENJOY the books. I can’t wait for the next one.

     
     
     • on 9 May 2011 at 3:48 pm Najwa D

       Wasn’t Lord Harold’s family gracious to Jane in Wandering Eye? And certainly Mona is always warm, though I wonder whether it was Lord Harold who tried to give Jane the emerald hair combs in Stillroom Maid; or perhaps it was Lord H’s suggestion to Mona as Lord H. didn’t likely have such a gift stowed in one of his own cases. Like you, I’m eager for the series to continue…

       
       
       • on 11 May 2011 at 5:01 pm Laura S.

         Yes, that is where we meet them, but after his death, Mona is unwelcoming and the family tries to not have Jane received the chest of papers. Prior to that, things seemed OK

         
         
101. on 8 May 2011 at 7:36 pm Najwa Dougish

     What fun–I’ve been reading along since I discovered this challenge a couple of months ago and just finished Stillroom Maid. I continue to delight in how seamlessly Stephanie Barron unites fact and fiction.

     Reading Maid sent me to the computer more than once: to determine whether Swithin was more than a saint, for Desdemona is so engaging, and to verify that the title of chapter 9 was indeed Mrs. Gardiner’s dismissal of the Pemberley house in preference of its grounds.

     I admit, too, for a preference for garnering history from novels though I am aware of the inherent limitations of such a practice. Having read Foreman’s biography of the Duchess of Devonshire some years ago, I recognize some of Barron’s political allusions, though I was struck by the Whig party’s inception and Barron’s explantation of their idealogical conflict with the Tories—the Whigs, it would seem, explicitly opposed the Tories’ view of rule by divine right in favor of rule by the consent of the governed. Barron’s sardonic account of the Whigs’ distinction between people of wealth and “common rabble” perhaps reveals her own Tory leanings, a sentiment those of us who recently watched William meet Kate in Westminster might share.

     The excerpts of “Miss Arnold’s Stillroom book” were an added dimension of pleasure: though generally willing to give at least some credence to the increasingly lost art of herbal remedies, I feel fairly certain that her advice for “the getting of sons” was the most efficacious of Miss Arnold’s prescriptions, bound to produce the desired result fifty percent of the time. I’m struck with how vast a stillroom’s stock must have been, how seemingly difficult to have such a collection with the limited travel and access to resources. And though a teetotaler, I might almost prefer the “dose of strong spirits” advised so amusingly after the directions for the cock sparrow brain laced courage tart.

     Finally, Lord Harold’s silencing of Mr. Cooper’s singing (p195 of my version of the book) was a hoot! In Trowbridge indeed is one worthy of Jane Austen—here the line between fact and fiction is too well known insofar as Austen’s marital status. Had the characters all been fictitious, and of Austen or Heyer’s creation, our heroine would have had the ending, alas, that Barron’s bit of ivory cannot.

     By the way, I wonder whether I’ve read Ch. 9 aright: did Trowbridge and Austen set out in a landau but arrive at Chatsworth in a curricle?

     
     
102. on 11 May 2011 at 2:42 am Jane and the Stillroom Maid: Being the Fifth Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my fifth selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, 2011. Participants, please [...]

     
     
103. on 16 May 2011 at 6:32 pm charla

     I just finished the 1st book-Jane and the Unpleasantness at scargrave Manor. I loved it! Here is my http://booktalkswithcharla.blogspot.com/2011/05/jane-and-unpleasantness-at-scargrave.html

     
     
104. on 25 May 2011 at 9:28 am Reading Challenges for 2011 | Austen Authors

     [...] year for the past 11 years and, indeed, the eleventh will release this year. To sign up, go to Austenprose and the sign up and commenting is similar to that of the Sense and Sensibility [...]

     
     
105. on 27 May 2011 at 12:10 am Giveaway Winner Announced for Jane and the Stillroom Maid « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

     
     
106. on 8 June 2011 at 10:46 pm Jane and the Prisoner of the Wool House: Being the Sixth Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my sixth selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, 2011. Participants, please [...]

     
     
107. on 11 June 2011 at 11:15 pm Tea in a Teacup

     I would like to join this challenge. Its a little late, but its always better late than never!

     
     
108. on 17 June 2011 at 1:40 pm Susan

     Lord Harold says to Lady Harriot: “You cannot flee one misery by choosing another. Do you understand me?” Such wisdom! I love Lord Harold.

     
     
     • on 20 June 2011 at 11:23 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

       Great quote Susan. Someones needs to compile a words of wisdom quote list by Lord Harold. We can all swoon together.

       
       
109. on 20 June 2011 at 9:04 am Danielle

     How I did not come across this soon I have no idea but I am going to join anyway. I read fast so I will go ahead and sign up for as Aficionada reader. I am looking forward to reading these books. I have read some of the reviews and they sound like great books. Can’t wait to see what everyone has to say and “meet” other Jane fanatics as well!

     
     
     • on 20 June 2011 at 11:24 pm Laurel Ann (Austenprose)

       Welcome Danielle, you still have plenty of reading time. Enjoy.

       
       
110. on 21 June 2011 at 5:29 pm Ferrin

     Hello I would really like to join this I love all things Jane Austen and actually have a few 1st editions of Pride and Prejudice. Please add me I know I’m cutting it close to the cut off but I’m so excited to get into this series I have them all downloaded on my iPad. I will read them all. Thanks.

     
     
111. on 22 June 2011 at 8:51 pm GlendaJayne

     I have just stumbled across this site … looking at Downton Abbey reviews, which by the way I love. I have just ordered the first two of these books and await their delivery. I am perhaps an Aficionada – after all I co-own a bookshop and am an avid reader. I am not too sure if I have done this right, but no doubt someone will put me on the right track.

     
     
112. on 23 June 2011 at 12:03 am Giveaway Winner Announced for Jane and the Prisoner of the Wool House « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. The [...]

     
     
113. on 28 June 2011 at 6:53 pm eventgirl19

     Hooray for this site! I’ve just discovered it, and it goes along perfectly with my new obsession for the ‘Being Jane’ mysteries. I love them! This year, I have already read the first nine (all free, from my amazing library!) and now I am embarking on number 10, and waiting for number 11 to come out later this year. Please count me in on this fun challenge! Thanks!

     
     
114. on 1 July 2011 at 8:19 pm Being the Only Reading Challenge In Which I Partake « Sequestered Nooks

     [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 [...]

     
     
115. on 1 July 2011 at 8:21 pm mystrygirl87

     Better late than never, I guess! I love the series, and can’t believe I missed this when it began. Since it’s so far along I’ll stick to the neophyte level for now.

     http://sequesterednooks.wordpress.com/2011/07/01/being-the-only-reading-challenge-in-which-i-partake/

     
     
116. on 13 July 2011 at 1:12 am Jane and the Ghosts of Netley: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my seventh selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, as we are reading all eleven mysteries in the series this year. Participants, please leave [...]

     
     
117. on 28 July 2011 at 12:02 am Giveaway winner Announced for Jane and the Ghosts of Netley « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen-inspired mystery series this year, so check [...]

     
     
118. on 11 August 2011 at 11:36 pm Jane and His Lordship’s Legacy: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my eighth selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, as we are reading all eleven mysteries in the series this year. Participants, please leave [...]

     
     
119. on 12 August 2011 at 12:38 pm Jane and the Man of the Cloth: Being the Second Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my second selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. You can still join the reading challenge in progress until July 1, 2011. Participants, please [...]

     
     
120. on 25 August 2011 at 4:09 pm GlendaJayne

     I have just order the 3rd & 4th books in the Jane Austen series … loved the first two and looking forward to the next. 11 books you say … not quite half way there, but I should have them all read by the deadline.

     
     
121. on 25 August 2011 at 10:57 pm Giveaway Winner Announced for Jane and His Lordship’s Legacy « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen-inspired mystery series this year. Be sure [...]

     
     
122. on 26 August 2011 at 12:24 pm Stephanie Barron Featured on NPR « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] eleven) novels featuring Jane Austen as a sleuth. We are reading the entire series this year in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 right here on Austenprose. You can check out my reviews through the 8th book and other participants [...]

     
     
123. on 8 September 2011 at 12:13 am Jane and the Canterbury Tale: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my ninth selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011, as we are reading all eleven mysteries in the series this year. Participants, please leave [...]

     
     
124. on 22 September 2011 at 10:35 pm Giveaway winner announced for Jane and the Canterbury Tale « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen inspired mystery series this year. Next [...]

     
     
125. on 26 October 2011 at 5:03 am Jane Austen’s Emma, a Detective Mystery?: Guest Post by Laurel Ann Nattress, editor of Jane Austen Made Me Do It « Diary of an Eccentric

     [...] are participating in my Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 at my blog Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog this year. You and I both share an affinity for [...]

     
     
126. on 24 November 2011 at 3:50 pm Giveaway winner announced for Jane and the Barque of Frailty « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We are reading all eleven novels in this great Austen-inspired mystery series this year. Next [...]

     
     
127. on 15 December 2011 at 12:31 am Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – A Review « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] is my eleventh and final selection in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. We have now read all of the mysteries in the series and completed the challenge! It has been a [...]

     
     
128. on 30 December 2011 at 12:22 am Giveaway Winner Announced for Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] Thanks to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011. [...]

     
     
129. on 30 December 2011 at 6:01 am Much Madness is Divinest Sense » Blog Archive » 2011 Reading Challenges

     [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Challenge: I never even started this one. I intended to, but I’ll be honest and say that without knowing how good these books are, I was afraid to buy them, and they never became available as free Kindle books or on PaperBackSwap (that I know of, anyway), so I was afraid to plunk down the money. I know, I know. I should just sample them on the Kindle and see if I want to keep reading. I should remember that Kindles have that feature. I keep forgetting about it, and it’s an awesome feature, for sure. But I do kind of what to see what would happen if Jane Austen met Lord Byron. [...]

     
     
130. on 2 January 2012 at 8:21 am 2011 Challenges Wrap Up « Diary of an Eccentric

     [...] signed up to read 1 book for the Being A Jane Austen Mystery Challenge, which focused on Stephanie Barron’s Being a Jane Austen Mystery series.  Alas, this is the [...]

     
     
131. on 2 January 2012 at 3:02 pm Winner Announced in the Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 Giveaway « Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

     [...] Being a Jane Austen Mystery Reading Challenge 2011 has concluded. It was a great year sleuthing with Jane Austen in Stephanie Barron’s classic [...]

     
     

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