Review: "Jane Austen: A Life" by Claire Tomalin

Of all of the Jane Austen biographies I've read, and re-read in the past month or so in England, none of them compare to Claire Tomalin's "Jane Austen: A Life  with its depth of research, rich historical and textual analysis and beautiful writing. If you only ever read one biography of Jane Austen, make sure it is this one. I'm also excited to read her biography of Charles Dickens, which I've been told is just as brilliant. 

Review: "Jane Austen's Letters" Collected and Edited by Deirde Le Faye

In its fourth edition, it is perfection itself. No other words describe it. One of my favorite passages, taken from Cassandra Austen's letter to her niece Fanny Knight on July 18, 1817 after the death of her beloved sister Jane Austen. 

I have lost a treasure, such a sister, such a friend as never can have been surpassed. She was the sun of my life, the gilder of every pleasure, the soother of every sorrow; I had not a thought concealed from her, and it is as if I had lost a part of myself. I loved her only too well -- not better than she deserved, but I am conscious that my affection for her made me sometimes unjust to and negligent of others; and I can acknowledge, more than as a general principle, the justice of the Hand which has struck this blow.

~Cassandra Austen 

Review: Amanda Grange's Jane Austen Inspired Novels

Amanda Grange has written a series of Jane Austen inspired fiction. I've just finished going through them. I enjoyed the opposite perspectives on the novels and Grange is insightful in her portrayals of the various Austen men and their innermost thoughts and emotions. Nonetheless, at no fault of Grange's, she is no Austen and the books lack the sparkle and wit of the originals. I specifically enjoyed "Captain Wentworth's Diary." Here's the complete list:

• Mr. Darcy's Diary
• Mr. Knightley's Diary
• Captain Wentworth's Diary
• Edmund Bertram's Diary
• Colonel Brandon's Diary
• Henry Tilney's Diary
• Wickham's Diary 

Review: "Geisha, A Life" by Mineko Iwasaki

I just finished "Geisha of Gion" by Mineko Iwasaki (but also titled "Geisha, A Life" in the United States) and loved it. I've read some other works, both fictional and anthropological, about Geisha and have loved learning about the Geisha culture and its influence on the modernization of Japan, both politically and economically. And if I'm being honest, I'm fascinated by Kimonos. "Geisha of Gion" is the contributing true story behind Arthur Golden's "Memoirs of a Geisha." There was some controversy because Mineko as a source was supposed to be kept anonymous but Golden printed her name among his list of sources. Here, she tells her story which is as interesting and intricate as the more popular fictional story. The memoir is both honest and striking. Although, not as well written as Golden's fictional piece, it displays the subtleties and beauty of this complex world. 

Recommendations:

• Geisha, A Life by Mineko Iwasaki
• Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
• Memoirs of a Geisha movie and soundtrack
• Geisha by Liza Dalby  (ethnography)

Review: "Major Pettigrew's Last Stand" by Helen Simonson

This novel lends itself to light reading, The prose is airy, vibrant, and enjoyable. Major Pettigrew is an interesting character a kind of mix of classic British ideals and modern reinterpretation. It was the perfect novel to read while traveling in Britain and has a lovely, satisfying ending. It is, however, a slow read and should be read for its intricate story and characters. 

Review: "The Secret History of the Pink Carnation" Series

Set in Europe during the Napoleonic Wars the series follows British female spies as they fight the increasingly violent radicalism of the French Republic and eventually find love. This series was incredibly fresh and fun. The plots are enjoyable and each book is hard to put down. Although each book has some historical origins the plots are fictional and established for a modern audience. Note: There are a few steamy scenes in each book! Each female heroine seems well established in her own novel and the breadth of characters lends to the overall ease of the novels. I recommend them for anyone who likes a fun and flirtatious spy novel. Perfect for a vacation or lazy day read.

My Favorite: The Betrayal of the Blood Lily 

Review: "Mr. and Mrs. Darcy Series" by Carrie Bebris

I loved this series of mysteries inspired by Jane Austen’s novels. The mysteries are not your modern day thriller but each plot is enjoyable and intricately involves the characters from the original novels. One of the best aspects of the novel was the unexpected characters who come in and out of the plot. The portrayal of Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship is loyal to the original, with all of the wit and affection between the couple delicately written. Thank you to Sydney for the recommendation!