In Anna James’ “Read Me Like a Book”, a Bookseller Gets Whisked into “Pride and Prejudice” — See the Cover! (Exclusive)

**Anna James to Make Adult Fiction Debut with ‘Read Me Like a Book’**

In an exciting announcement for book lovers, English author Anna James is set to release her first novel aimed at adult readers, titled *Read Me Like a Book*. The book, which pays homage to Jane Austen’s beloved classic, *Pride and Prejudice*, is scheduled to hit the shelves on 27th April 2027, published by Berkley, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

James, best known for her successful middle-grade series *Pages & Co.* and *Chronicles of Whetherwhy*, is taking a bold step into the adult fiction market with this upcoming title. She describes *Read Me Like a Book* as a “love letter” to Austen’s work, blending themes of romance, self-discovery, and the enchanting allure of literature into a whimsical narrative.

The story follows Marianne Buxton, who finds herself at a crossroads after she loses her job. In a stroke of luck, she secures a position at Wildflower Books, a charming local bookshop. Despite her new surroundings, Marianne’s relationship with books is somewhat complicated; she is not an avid reader. Adding to the challenge, she must share the workspace with Jude, a colleague described as a “literary snob” who carries a rather critical view of others’ reading habits.

As Marianne settles into her new role, she uncovers a hidden door in the bookshop that leads directly into the world of *Pride and Prejudice*. This discovery offers her an escape from the pressures of her own life, allowing her to immerse herself in the romantic and elegant world crafted by Austen. However, her adventures take an unexpected turn when she encounters a captivating stranger in this literary realm, prompting her to reconsider the boundaries between fiction and reality.

In an interview, James explained her inspiration behind the novel. She said, “*Read Me Like a Book* is rooted in some of my favourite things — classic British rom-coms, independent bookshops, and Jane Austen. I wanted to write a bookish love story that you don’t have to be bookish to enjoy; a *Pride and Prejudice* love letter that you don’t need to be an Austen fan to enjoy.” Her goal is to craft an accessible romantic comedy that resonates with a broader audience.

Set against the backdrop of a quaint bookshop, the narrative promises both humour and heart, as Marianne navigates the complexities of her feelings towards Jude, as well as the enchanting allure of the characters from the Austen universe. With long-time favourites such as Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and Mr. Wickham making appearances, readers can look forward to a delightful fusion of classic literature and contemporary romance.

James expresses her enthusiasm for sharing Marianne’s journey with readers, highlighting the importance of creating relatable characters and engaging plots. “I am so excited for readers to meet Marianne and Jude and visit Wildflower Books,” she said, hinting at the excitement that awaits.

*Read Me Like a Book* is now available for pre-order, making it an anticipated addition to the literary landscape of 2027. As the publication date approaches, readers are invited to delve into James’ enchanting world where the lines between reality and fiction blur in an exploration of love, identity, and the transformative power of literature.

As we await this promising debut, it remains evident that Anna James has crafted a unique narrative that encapsulates the charm of classic tales, while delivering a fresh and modern perspective. Fans of James’ earlier works and lovers of romance alike will undoubtedly find joy in this upcoming release, paving the way for her success in the adult fiction genre.