In my quest to read classics of different eras, I picked up Edith Wharton's The House of Mirth. I wasn't sure what to expect as I hadn't read anything by her previously. I loved it!
The House of Mirth tells the story of Lily Bart at the turn of the century as she tries to navigate the high society of New York. She is loved by all, but is unfortunate in that she is not independently wealthy and is not married. Her quest to remain in that society actually pushes her in the opposite direction.
The theme of this book is similar to a Jane Austen as the protagonist lives in a culture where the only viable option for financial stability is pursuing marriage. Don't expect the fluffiness of an Austen novel, but rather a more mature beauty of language and plot.
This book draws you in until the final scene. To say more would simply spoil it! I recommend it to any woman (and even men), even if you generally stay away from classics. I promise you, it doesn't read like a typical classic.
I'm going to let you in on a little secret. There's a good reason why I'm reviewing this book...because I'm going to give it away and two other wonderful reads next week on my blog!
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Well I cannot wait to enter your giveaway!
ReplyDeleteAnd I love classics and Jane Austen, so I think I will add this to my "must read" list.
You had me at "similar to Jane Austen."
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