Gill Hornby

On January 21, 1804, Anne Sharpe arrives at Godmersham Park in Kent to take up the position of governess to twelve-year-old Fanny Austen. At thirty-one years old, she has no previous experience of either teaching or fine country houses. When Mr. Edward Austen's family comes to stay, Anne forms an immediate attachment to Jane. They write plays together, and enjoy long discussions. Meanwhile Jane's brother, Henry, begins to take an unusually strong...