I
am not an Austen fan (Did I hear a gasp?) yet I have enjoyed this
series. I like the novels because of Reay's writing style, not the
topic of the plot. For example, while conversing with another as he
fly fishes, Mary says, “I cast for a new topic.” I do like Reay's
use of words.
The
plot revolves around people at a large manor house near Bath,
England. The visitors must portray Austen characters during their
stay. Austen fans will love all the references to Austen characters
and snippets of dialog found in her novels. Not being an Austen fan,
most of that was lost on me.
What
I found most interesting in the novel were the issues Mary's friend
faced. Isabel was fighting feelings from what her parents said to her
as a child. She was so troubled that she disassociated from reality
and became her Austen character. That aspect of the novel should give
parents much to think about.
Another
interesting issue in the novel was honesty among friends. There were
several layers of dishonesty that came to a climax during the stay at
the manor.
An
entertaining part of the novel for me was the company for which Mary
worked. I received some insight as to how companies come up with some
of those clever toys and gadgets.
I
recommend this novel to Austen lovers. Even if you are not an Austen
fan, there is still much to like about this novel.
You
can read a free preview here.
My
rating: 4/5 stars.
Katherine
Reay is a graduate of Northwestern University with a MS in marketing.
She and her family live outside of Chicago where she writes character
driven stories focusing on examining the past and how it influences
the present.
Thomas
Nelson, 320 pages.
I
received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My
comments are an independent and honest review.
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