Austenland

The book we chose for our May book club meeting was Austenland by Shannon Hale. It is modern tale about Jane, who has not had a lot of luck finding the right guy and blames this on her unhealthy obsession with the perfect "Mister Darcy" she has in her mind. And that would be the Mister Darcy as played by Colin Firth in the BBC adaptation that she hides in her plant because she is embarrassed she longs for such an idyllic, and what she believes to be unrealistic, true love romance of her own.  

When an elderly (and wealthy) relative dies and bequeaths to her a trip to an English "role-playing" resort, Jane finds herself on her way to Austenland:  a getaway for women who are obsessed with all things Regency Romance, Jane Austen style.  She is suddenly wearing empire waist dresses and forbidden to have a cell phone as she tries to fit in among other women who vacation in this pretend world of the past. Flirting with the actors is part of the game, but Jane finds herself torn between reality and fiction. 

This novel is fun and entertaining, most especially if one also has a 'thing' for Mister Darcy and enjoys romantic tales. Sweet and funny, the story is an enjoyable read from beginning to end.  Our book club enjoyed sweet treats with an English Tea theme and of course lots of enjoyable company and lively discussion about this delightful read. 

-Merilee

 “If you were a woman, all I'd have to say is 'Colin Firth in a wet shirt' and you'd say 'Ah.'” 

 ― Shannon Hale, Austenland