There’s something special about bookstores that double as coffee shops—especially when they also serve wine and beer. One of my favorite spots, Rough Draft, nestled in Kingston, NY, is the perfect blend of cozy and intellectual. As I waited for my latte to be made, I wandered through the shelves, letting my curiosity guide me. That’s when I stumbled upon Jane Austen’s Bookshelf by Rebecca Romney.
I had never heard of this book before, but as a devoted Jane Austen fan, I knew I had to see what it was about. At the moment, I’m already deep into another book for my book club, so I figured this might be a great audiobook to add to my rotation. And let me tell you—it did not disappoint.
First off, I always love it when an author narrates their own audiobook. There’s something special about hearing the words exactly as they were intended, with the right emphasis and emotion. Rebecca Romney does just that, and it adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. But beyond the narration, the content itself is absolutely captivating.
The book follows Romney’s journey as a rare book dealer, searching for the works written by women who would have influenced Jane Austen—books that Austen herself would have read. It’s a fascinating exploration of literary history, shedding light on the masterpieces created by women who, for various reasons (including the simple fact that they were women), have been largely forgotten. This book deepened my appreciation not only for Austen’s genius but also for the incredible contributions of these overlooked authors.
If you love period pieces, historical literature, or simply want to expand your reading list with books that shaped one of the greatest writers of all time, Jane Austen’s Bookshelf is a must-read. It will undoubtedly influence what you decide to pick up next.
So, next time you find yourself in a bookstore, whether it’s Rough Draft or another hidden gem, take a moment to explore. You never know what literary treasure you might uncover.
0 comments