Jane Austen herself, according to her family, used to speculate on the future of her characters. In “The Poignant Sting,” a line from EMMA inspired a novelette. MANSFIELD PARK inspired two alternate sequels, both involving characters from other books, and finally, a fantasia about Miss Austen herself, supposing she had been able to travel to Eastern Europe, where she met a mysterious and sinister count. Whose wit prevailed?

About the Author: Sherwood Smith has published over forty books, one of which was an Anne Lindbergh Honor Book; she’s twice been a finalist for the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award and once a Nebula finalist. She fell in love with Chinese historical dramas and hero tales six years ago, and ever since has immersed in Asian history, literature, and language.