Captain Wentworth in His Own Words

By: Shannon Winslow

Narrated by: Nick Cracknell

Captain Wentworth has a lot of explaining to do! Why did he fly off in such an unreasonable rage when Anne tried to put their engagement on hold? And why didn’t he come back to try her again as soon as he was more financially secure? So much time wasted! What about his bad behavior when they met again years later – flirting with the Musgrove girls right in front of Anne? Was that really necessary?

Find the answers in Captain Wentworth in His Own Words. Catch a glimpse of his difficult childhood, and learn how he ended up in the Navy so young. Witness his first meeting with Anne, their falling in love, and tragic parting. Sail along on his daring adventures at sea. Before he meets Anne again, Captain Wentworth has travelled the globe. He’s risen to riches and respect. Yet, he’s still missing the one thing needed to crown all his other success: the woman he’s never stopped loving.

This is not a variation from but a supplement to the original story of Persuasion, chronicled in Wentworth’s point of view. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the things Jane Austen didn’t tell us about one of her most iconic heroes.

©2025 Shannon Winslow (P)2025 Shannon Winslow

Wonderful!

It was so good to hear what Wentworth’s thoughts and opinions was, and how he became the beloved hero we all know and love. The story was well written, and I loved to follow along Captain Wentworth’s footsteps and see how he wins Anne!

A seamless companion to Persuasion

I first started reading this book and then remembered that it was also released on audio so I switched to that version. This is the fourth in Winslow’s “In His Own Words” collection, and is a full standalone novel, not a continuation. Each book has focused on a different Austen hero, and like the others, this one stands entirely on its own.

Shannon Winslow doesn’t simply repeat canon; she focuses on the missing pieces we might have wondered about in the original. The things mentioned in the book description are answered, and answered well. And the move from canon to new material is so smooth that it feels seamless. Wentworth’s early struggles, his naval life, and his feelings for Anne Elliot all play a part in shaping his story.

As she notes herself, credit is also due to Jack Caldwell, who granted Winslow permission to adapt two of his short stories—The Taking of the Laconia and The Wreck of HMS Asp—for the corresponding chapters. I thought those scenes were especially gripping and added much to providing the listener with some action on the sea and a compelling glimpse into the captain’s naval life.

I am truly impressed with Nick Cracknell, a new-to-me narrator whose performance is outstanding. His character voices are distinct, including the ladies, and the audio production itself is excellent. I especially appreciated how he handled scenes with multiple voices, such as responses to toasts, which gave me a sense of being right there in the room with sailors. I hope other authors in this genre will take note of him.

Written by an outstanding author of Austenesque fiction, and one of my favourites, this is a very rewarding read and listen for any Austen lover who wants a fuller picture of one of her most popular heroes.

Highly recommend.

Fantastic!

This book is almost everything that was missing from the original Persuaion. The background of Captain Wentworth was so intriguing. The first courtship of Anne and Frederick was so compelling and captivating that you wanted it to last longer.

The only thing that could of made it better was to extend the book into their married life. I didn't want it to end!

Nick Cracknell did such a wonderful job narrating. He should narrate more JAFF books!

Fun

I have listened to several of this authors novels. They are great fun imagining more of the lives of Jane Austin’s characters