I finished reading A Weekend with Mr. Darcy by Victoria Connelly a few weeks ago. The book's jacket attests to it being a 'joyous' and 'terrific' read. It was not mistaken. Connelly weaves a tale that is engaging, fast paced, funny, unexpected, and memorable - exactly as a contemporary work of fiction should be.A Weekend with Mr. Darcy portrays both the romantic and professional lives of a group of women attending a Jane Austen conference in the twenty-first century. Connelly's work asks the question that many modern (and book loving) women have asked - where are the heroic, chivalrous, stoic, and romantic men in today's society? Do men with nineteenth century principles exist? Can we expect to find our very own Mr. Darcy?
Connelly's storyline is enhanced by well-defined characters and an unique view on the impact of literature. Connelly's work illustrates how readers can connect with each other through literature and establish new friendships. She proves that the written word is indeed very strong.
The unique quality of Connelly's work, and her past roles as reader and writer, can be found on page 181 of her work:
As a reader, one always felt so close to the author - as if they were telling their story just for you. They were born to entertain only you and their characters became your friends. You trusted your narrator and shared the most intimate of moments with them and so you naturally assumed that you knew them.I, for one, can relate.
Bibliographic Reference:
Connelly, Victoria. A Weekend with Mr. Darcy. London: AVON, 2010.
I have to admit that I've grown leery of Austen spin-offs of all sorts, but this book does sounds promising.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy a good Austen spin-off and your review has convinced me to give this one a try, it sounds great. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a really promising spin-off! I am adding it to my TBR list!
ReplyDeleteI've heard of this book but never seen this particular cover. Or maybe I'm thinking of a different book. Anyways, Fab review :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by and the kind comments, Alexis, Bonnie, Anne, and Karen. This was my first Austen spin-off, so I can't really say if it beats others... but I do suggest picking up a copy of this book. So good! :)
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