Frances Burney Frances Burney (1752-1840) was born in England to music historian and composer Charles Burney. Educated at home, she began reading and writing at age 10. She loved to compose letters and keep journals, which would be integral to her future caeer. In 1778, Burney anonymously published her first novel, Evelina, which was a sweeping success. When her identity was revealed, she formally entered literary society producing Cecilia in 1782 and Camilla in 1796. She wrote a total of four novels, eight plays and more than 20 volumes of letters and journals throughout her life. Read More Read Less