News for Austen Enthusiasts : September 2021

It's getting to that time of year when its dark leaving the house for work in the morning and dark when I get home in the evening. There's a distinct chill in the air, and the call of the cosy coffee shop is almost irresistible. What you need is a good book to curl up with. I like to think of the autumn as Northanger Abbey season - it must be the Gothic elements! What's your favourite Austen to get through the longer nights? 

No matter the season, we always have Austen updates! 

Prayer Book Uncovered With Possible Links To Jane Austen

All the news and updates on this one from our very own Hannah England >>

Hampshire Campaigners in battle to prevent housing development in Austen country 

Campaigners have won an important concession in their battle to prevent 1200 homes from being built on Chawton Park Farm, in the countryside that inspired Austen's novels. The concession will insist that the council must give equal consideration to all the originally proposed sites. 

More on this story on HampshireLive >> 

Stephen Fry on the enduring appeal of Georgette Heyer

The beloved writer and broadcaster Stephen Fry is the most recent to mount a defence of the oft-maligned Georgette Heyer, pulp covers and all. We at the Austen blog got here ages ago - here's Vic Sanborn's thoughts. 

Read more in the Guardian >>

As always, we would love to know if we have missed anything, as well as all your thoughts on the news!