Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius

'I relished every page ... Byrne's knowledge of everything Austen wrote has an enviable thoroughness and perception which is rare among Austen scholars and which illuminates the whole of her text. I am tempted to say this is the best book on Jane Austen I have ever read.' Paul Johnson, The Spectator

'A definitive and pioneering study of a wholly neglected aspect of Austen's art' Michael Caines, Times Literary Supplement

'A fascinating analysis that marries meticulous historical research with critical imagination and flair' The Historical Journal