Sense and Sensibility by Jane AustenMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really did enjoy this, probably a notch under Pride and Predjudice, Im not sure if thats because it was my second Austen and P/P was such a surprise to find I enjoyed so much, or because it had slightly less to it that that one. I have discovered I get a real buzz from reading an historical classic. Its so much more that just the story, its an uncanny insight to another periods customs and morals, written right then and there by someone living in that environment, rather than something written in contemporary times set in the past. Historical fiction is often fascinating too if well researched but I do love picturing the author at work in Regency England. Such a different time. I mean, in all honesty the novel is all froth and bonnets, not a great deal happens apart from 2 sisters fretting In their own different ways over which man they many or may not end up marrying and whether they will be able to secure them a bit of future happiness and stability. Nobody works. Its all tea parties and calling cards. But the dialogue is exquisite and very clever. I loved Mrs Jenings matchmaking. There were several moments where I couldnt help thinking of French and Saunders, the one where Jen is trying to learn her lines for an upcoming Merchant Ivory production.
'Helena Bottom Carter.. Maggie Smith... Me'
'Oh Miss Honeyhives, Miss Honeyhives... ahem ahem, Reverend Bootle I Do Declare' etc etc etc..
I loved the conversations between Lucy and Elinor, both keeping up the pretnence of politeness and friendship, whilst busy weedling information out of each other, Lucy being spiteful and evil and Elinor being quietly superior. You cant help but smile at them all all having fainting fits and needing a lie down and the merest whiff of a gentleman with an income
Emma is next on the Austen list.
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