Picture a storyteller who spun her love for Jane Austen into a literary gem that captivated readers worldwide—meet Natalie Jenner! Born in England and raised in Canada, this historical fiction author burst onto the scene with her debut novel, The Jane Austen Society, a heartfelt homage to the timeless novelist. With a knack for blending post-war charm with modern sensibilities, Jenner’s stories invite readers to step into worlds where literature heals and unites.
What makes Jenner’s journey so compelling? It’s her pivot from corporate law to crafting novels that resonate with Austen fans and newcomers alike. Inspired by personal challenges and a lifelong passion for books, she’s become a rising star in historical fiction, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream.
The Making of Natalie Jenner
Born in England, Natalie Jenner moved to Canada as a child, where she excelled academically, earning a BA in English Literature and an LL.B. from the University of Toronto. Initially a corporate lawyer, she later thrived as a career coach and even opened Archetype Books, an independent bookstore in Oakville, Ontario. A devastating diagnosis—her husband’s incurable lung disease in 2016—prompted Jenner to reconnect with Jane Austen’s novels, sparking her return to writing. Her 2017 trip to Chawton, Austen’s final home, ignited the idea for her debut, marking a bold new chapter at age 52.
Natalie Jenner’s Unforgettable Stories
Jenner’s novels are like a cozy chat with a book-loving friend, laced with historical depth and Austen-inspired wit. Her debut, The Jane Austen Society (2020), follows a eclectic group in post-WWII Chawton who unite to save Austen’s cottage. A USA Today bestseller, it’s been translated into 20 languages, earning praise for its compassionate characters and literary nods. Bloomsbury Girls (2022) shifts to a 1950s London bookstore, where three women challenge gender norms, weaving in cameos from literary giants like Daphne du Maurier.
Her third novel, Every Time We Say Goodbye (2024), explores post-war London’s theater scene, while Austen at Sea (2025) promises a seafaring adventure inspired by Austen’s naval brothers. Jenner’s style—rich with historical detail, heartfelt ensemble casts, and themes of resilience—mirrors Austen’s ability to find universal truths in intimate stories. Her meticulous research and love for bookstores shine through, making each novel a tribute to the power of literature.
Why Natalie Jenner Matters
Natalie Jenner’s impact lies in her ability to make history feel personal. Her novels don’t just revisit the past; they explore how literature fosters community and healing, resonating with readers navigating their own challenges. By spotlighting women’s ambitions and friendships, she modernizes Austen’s legacy for today’s audience. As a former bookseller, Jenner champions independent bookstores, and her global success—her books are read in over 20 countries—proves that stories rooted in passion can transcend borders.
About Natalie Jenner
- Born: England, emigrated to Canada as a child
- Key Works: The Jane Austen Society (2020), Bloomsbury Girls (2022), Every Time We Say Goodbye (2024), Austen at Sea (2025)
- Awards: Goodreads Choice Award runner-up for Historical Fiction (2020)
- Fun Fact: Once owned Archetype Books in Oakville, Ontario
Ready to fall in love with Natalie Jenner’s world? Grab The Jane Austen Society and dive into her heartwarming historical fiction!