The Austen Affair A Novel

A New York Public Library Best New Romance Book of 2026!

"Enjoyably goofy. . .The time-travel element is a fun twist, and the comedy is weighted with just enough darker emotion." - The New York Times

"Bell sprinkles in enough references to Austen's works to satisfy any fan, but she also creates a love story that is genuinely moving in its own right...The story blends the wit and stakes of an Austen novel with the steaminess of a modern romance. A delightful homage to Austen with plenty of its own romantic charm." - Kirkus, Starred Review

"Bell makes a meal of the Austenian setting and does a fantastic job peeling back her well-matched leads' layers as they learn to let go of first impressions. It's an utter delight." - Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"In the honored tradition of Austen novels, this story is peppered with engaging and lovable characters dealing with societal expectations that challenge personal desires...Readers looking for an enemies-to-lovers trope, strong family connections, laugh-out-loud banter, and homage to all things Austen will devour this in one sitting." - Booklist, Starred Review

"If you love Pride & Prejudice and Bridgerton, you're practically guaranteed to love this book...The Austen Affair holds its own among modern classics like Austenland and Lost in Austen. I laughed, I cried, and I thanked the universe for letting me live in a time when women aren't considered trollops for not wearing gloves in public." - Buzzfeed

"Madeline Bell's The Austen Affair provides a delightful whirl for the reader...a wonderful diversion." - Jane Austen Society of North America

"Equal parts cheeky, swoonworthy, and heartfelt, The Austen Affair is a love letter to Jane Austen and her passionate fandom. This tale pulls you in with irresistible banter and 'opposites attract' mischief, and stays with you for the found family, the exploration of love and loss, and the timeless allure of Regency-era romance." - Emma Lord, New York Times bestselling author of Tweet Cute

"Warm, witty, and delightful, The Austen Affair is a heartfelt rom-com joy. Bursting with chemistry and Austen Easter eggs, it's the perfect romance for anyone who's dreamed of falling into their favorite Austen story." -Alexandra Vasti, USA Today bestselling author of Ne'er Duke Well

"Madeline Bell has resurrected Jane Austen in more ways than one in The Austen Affair, an absolutely delicious time-travel romp that combines regency-era set dressing with fresh, resilient, sexy protagonists. This book is a gem for anyone who never got over Darcy's hand clench or is dying to hear daresay in a sentence. With writing that moves deftly from contemporary to historical, characters that unfurl like pearls in an oyster, and *chef's kiss* Austen references, this romantic debut has got to be on your reading list!" - Clare Gilmore, USA Today bestselling author of Perfect Fit

"The Regency period, time travel, and an utterly charming contemporary romance all rolled into one novel? Yes, please! I loved this so much!" -Trish Doller, international bestselling author of Float Plan

"If you've ever wanted to live inside a Jane Austen novel, open this book! The Austen Affair is the perfect escapist romp. As soon as I closed the cover, I missed these characters. Hugh and Tess are the perfect, witty guides for a window into Jane Austen's world." - Tiffany Schmidt, author of A Date with Darcy

"Bell turns the wit and charm all the way up. It is a perfect read for fans of Austen adaptations and also an excellent suggestion for those looking for a classic enemies-to-lovers storyline." - Library Journal