Helpful Score: 13
Overall, lovely!
The back-of-the-book-blurb above leaves out a lot! Cassie's family is very bohemian, and in spite of what living in a castle might leave you to believe, the setting is the 1930's. I'm amazed that's when it was actually written -- it seems more like something written today set in that period. It's pretty wild to think that the author of "101 Dalmations" wrote a novel in the 1940's where the step-mother (an artists' model, when she's working) likes to commune with nature by walking naked through the countryside! She gets seen, too!
This was really an enchanting read. The writing is beautiful, and while there are a few slow spots, I found myself putting other things aside to leap back into this book whenever I could. I can see why people connect Jane Austen to this book -- the main characters are even Austen fans! -- but I liked this much better. I would have preferred a little more specific information at the end, but that may just be my desire to have every little detail spelled out for me.
Anyway, highly recommended! I can see why the literary reviewers are calling this one a modern classic, and for once it's even a classic I like!
The back-of-the-book-blurb above leaves out a lot! Cassie's family is very bohemian, and in spite of what living in a castle might leave you to believe, the setting is the 1930's. I'm amazed that's when it was actually written -- it seems more like something written today set in that period. It's pretty wild to think that the author of "101 Dalmations" wrote a novel in the 1940's where the step-mother (an artists' model, when she's working) likes to commune with nature by walking naked through the countryside! She gets seen, too!
This was really an enchanting read. The writing is beautiful, and while there are a few slow spots, I found myself putting other things aside to leap back into this book whenever I could. I can see why people connect Jane Austen to this book -- the main characters are even Austen fans! -- but I liked this much better. I would have preferred a little more specific information at the end, but that may just be my desire to have every little detail spelled out for me.
Anyway, highly recommended! I can see why the literary reviewers are calling this one a modern classic, and for once it's even a classic I like!
I loved, loved, loved this novel. It is written from the point of view of a teenager, but contrary to my fears, I found Cassandra's concerns, excitements, and anxieties to be endearing and realistic. In fact, I believe she will become one of my favorite characters--rather reminds me of Elizabeth Bennet. In fact, comparing this novel to Jane Austen is not far off the mark--with an honest, sparky heroine surrounded by wealthy bachelors, quirky family characters, and a plot filled with will-he-or-won't-he social situations. Do not let the 1948 pub date put you off, Cassandra is a very modern and honest narrator.
Helpful Score: 6
Charming. This would make an excellent youth/young adult book for a teenage girl looking for romance, a budding aglophile, or anyone who can appreciate a sweet coming of age story.
No graphic sex, only a couple kisses with stars in their eyes. refreshing!
No graphic sex, only a couple kisses with stars in their eyes. refreshing!
Helpful Score: 5
I thoroughly enjoyed this timeless love story. I was so impressed by the writers skillful ability to describe the scene and feelings of the main character/narrator. I thought the book was a delightful read and I thought the plot was interesting as well as realistic. A true love story!
Helpful Score: 3
This is a wonderful story....very unique and makes you wish she had written dozens of books. It's a gem. It's the kind of book to read when you want to escape everything and pretend again. It's a young adult book which I originally purchased from my teenage daughter's school book order. I wish I had discovered it when in my teens, but I'm so happy I found it!! One of a kind!
