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Sunday, January 14, 2018

Austen-like novel set in the present

The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay

I don’t believe that I have ever read any of Jane Austen’s books, but that didn’t prohibit me from enjoying this book, set in Bath, England, in a regency manor.  Two childhood best friends go on an Austen Escape to experience life as it would have been for an Austen character.  While there exploring the past, they come to terms with their present lives and change their futures.

Katherine Reay writes in a very readable style, and although I am more a fan of suspense than romance, I enjoyed this book.  The characters had interesting quirks and well-written personalities.  Mary was one of my favorites, although I did not understand why she put up with Isabel.  As the story progressed, I grew to like and understand Isabel better.  This experience turned out to be life-changing for both women.


The book had themes of friendship, love, personal growth—but I did find a spiritual emphasis missing.  It was a good, clean read, although I was surprised that part of it was set in a bar.  If a reader is looking for an Austen-like novel heavy on relationships and personal growth, this is a great book!  I received a free copy from the publisher for this, my honest review.

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