The story of a modern young woman who receives romantic advice from the spirit of Jane Austen.
praise for According To Jane:
"Marilyn Brant's debut novel is proof that Jane Austen never goes out of style. This is a warm, witty and charmingly original story of a woman coming of age and finding her own happy ending--with a little help from the ultimate authority--Jane Austen herself." ~Susan Wiggs, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
It all started for Ellie in Mrs. Leverson’s English class in the mid-eighties at the tender age of fifteen. Pride and Prejudice was the next selection for the class to read. The books were handed out and Jane made her first appearance, “tsking” in Ellie’s head. Sam Blaine sat behind Ellie thanks to alphabetical order. Sam was the love and hate of Ellie’s young life. They argued and butted heads constantly. He seemed to thrive on tormenting her. Sam is the first stop on Ellie’s quest for her “Mr. Darcy.” Will she ever find him and her happily ever after or will she forever suffer only “Mr. Wickhams”?
According To Jane is a delight from beginning to end. Ellie begins her journey on that perilous road we call romance with Jane Austen as her constant mental companion. I adored this book! I zipped right through, smiling the whole time, loving every minute. From the moment Jane uttered her first “tsk” I was a goner. I didn’t want to do anything but read the book. Jane’s commentary as Ellie goes about her life and numerous mistakes is such great fun. Regency era sensibilities and morals applied to the mid-eighties to modern day, what a joy. Jane and Ellie are the perfect pair and I empathized and sympathized with Ellie at each of her “pit stops.” We’ve all had our Dominics, Jasons Andreis etc… The teen flashbacks were bittersweet for me. According To Jane is a charming romantic comedy that I have no trouble imagining as a movie and I’ve been busily casting it since I finished. According To Jane is a definite keeper that I can see myself returning to time and again, just for the happy pick me up feeling it gives me. I’m eagerly looking forward to Ms. Brant’s next book.
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