Jan Merriman’s Jane Austen's Remarkable Aunt, Philadelphia Hancock is a captivating exploration of the life of Philadelphia Austen, a little-known yet fascinating figure who blazed her own path in a restrictive society. Rated four stars, this biography illuminates a remarkable woman whose story is both a reflection of her times and an inspiration to future generations, including her famous niece, Jane Austen.

Merriman’s portrayal of Philadelphia—or "Aunt Phila"—introduces readers to a woman who, despite being orphaned and constrained by the social limitations of eighteenth-century England, seized opportunities to carve out her own path. Her story is framed by both personal resilience and the historical context of British colonialism, as she ultimately embarks on an extraordinary journey to India, where she would marry and become part of the vibrant world of the Honourable East India Company. This narrative is both eye-opening and meticulously researched, showcasing Philadelphia’s life within the larger social currents of the era.

Philadelphia’s early life, marked by hardship and self-sufficiency, is particularly striking. Following a millinery apprenticeship in London, a rather unconventional path for a woman of her standing, she took the bold step of pursuing marriage abroad in colonial India—an option that, while radical, held the promise of financial security and social advancement. Her choice to make a life in India with an arranged marriage is presented with sensitivity, emphasizing her courage in venturing into an unfamiliar world and adapting to its customs, people, and politics.

In tracing Philadelphia’s story, Merriman skillfully unveils how her life impacted the young Jane Austen, whose early writings feature characters, like Cecilia Wynne in Catharine or the Bower, that echo Philadelphia's experiences. Merriman shows how Aunt Phila’s resilience and independence may have planted seeds in Austen’s own characters, who are known for their wit, intelligence, and spirit. Moreover, Merriman delves into the bond between Philadelphia’s daughter, Eliza, and Jane, further suggesting that Phila’s legacy contributed to Austen’s own understanding of complex female characters.

Rich in detail and historical insight, Jane Austen's Remarkable Aunt not only highlights Philadelphia’s journey but also provides an intimate look at the limitations and opportunities women faced in the eighteenth century. It’s a fascinating read for Austen enthusiasts and anyone interested in women's history. Merriman has crafted a thoughtful biography that honors a “girl of genius and feeling” whose life, though largely forgotten, reflects the strength and tenacity that define the women in Austen’s novels.

NetGalley, Chelsea Dugan

Jane Austen's Remarkable Aunt enriches our understanding of the Austen family and provides a compelling narrative of an adventurous woman whose life undoubtedly had an impact on Jane Austen’s work. This biography is a wonderful blend of social history, personal letters, and family dynamics, offering an intimate glimpse into the Austen family and the complex world they navigated.

NetGalley, Joanne Bough