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Anne Elliot, A New Beginning
A Persuasion Re-imagining.
On Anne Elliot's 25th birthday, her family declared her to be a spinster, but instead of being downcast by this change in status, she finds it to be quite liberating. As a result of her new-found freedom, Anne becomes a long-distance runner, and this activity greatly increases her confidence. It is this new Anne who Captain Frederick Wentworth meets when he sees the love of his life after eight years of separation. The Captain admires the changes in Anne, and he finds that he is falling in love with her all over again. However, there is a complication. The heir to Kellynch, the Elliot estate, William Elliot, has also come back into the picture after an estrangement with Anne's father, Sir Walter Elliot, and he has set his sights on Anne. Now living in Bath, Anne senses that something is not right, and with the help of a street urchin named Swoosh, she sets out to discover what William Elliot is really like.
On Anne Elliot's 25th birthday, her family declared her to be a spinster, but instead of being downcast by this change in status, she finds it to be quite liberating. As a result of her new-found freedom, Anne becomes a long-distance runner, and this activity greatly increases her confidence. It is this new Anne who Captain Frederick Wentworth meets when he sees the love of his life after eight years of separation. The Captain admires the changes in Anne, and he finds that he is falling in love with her all over again. However, there is a complication. The heir to Kellynch, the Elliot estate, William Elliot, has also come back into the picture after an estrangement with Anne's father, Sir Walter Elliot, and he has set his sights on Anne. Now living in Bath, Anne senses that something is not right, and with the help of a street urchin named Swoosh, she sets out to discover what William Elliot is really like.
210 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2010
About the author
Mary Lydon Simonsen
46 books182 followersI am the authors of several Pride & Prejudice and Persuasion re-imaginings. I have also written a modern love story, The Second Date, Love Italian-American Style, and three British mysteries, Three's A Crowd, A Killing in Kensington, A Death in Hampden, Dying to Write, and Murder by Moonlighting.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, volunteer, reader, writer, serious recycler.
When I read for relaxation, I read mysteries. My greatest love is history. When I am doing the research for a new book, I love digging for historical nuggets.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, volunteer, reader, writer, serious recycler.
When I read for relaxation, I read mysteries. My greatest love is history. When I am doing the research for a new book, I love digging for historical nuggets.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 28, 2018
I've enjoyed this author's writing for so long. She has a knack for the clever turn of phrase and creative, alternate era historical settings in which she places her Austenesque stories. I was tickled to see that she wrote this spoof variation on Jane Austen's Persuasion.
In the bare bones, it follows along the majority of the Persuasion milestones and then near the end, the book presses forward into uncharted territory for all the participants, but particularly Anne and Frederick who share the narration of the story.
It was fun to see what twists were done to the old, familiar characters.
Mary becomes a TAM (Trained Angel of Mercy) and conducts health care clinics while rendering medical aid to all who need it.
Anne jogs and gets a case of the 'blues, navy blues'.
Wee Willy Elliot the gambler and womanizer
Sir Walter and Elizabeth branch out into selling skin care products at Avon River home parties.
Captain Bennick is a tragedy addict.
And, like with other books, the author gives the readers a sparkling and fun new character to adore.
Young street kid, Swoosh, who teaches Anne and Frederick the ropes for getting on in the bad part of town.
I think the biggest thing to understand is this is farcical from cover to cover- I laughed, snickered, and rolled my eyes with delight, but it also has some good depth and doesn't go utterly off the rails. Anne learns an important lesson about perception being the key to all things. She comes into her own when she decides to make her own happiness rather than wait for it or imagine it will never come. Frederick realizes it was his own pride that caused him to let eight years slip past him. And, though hilarious, each foible for the characters is satirezed so they are obvious to the reader.
I enjoyed this this as a light and engaging alternate take on a classic. Persuasion fans will really get a kick out of it if their humor runs along spoofy lines.
In the bare bones, it follows along the majority of the Persuasion milestones and then near the end, the book presses forward into uncharted territory for all the participants, but particularly Anne and Frederick who share the narration of the story.
It was fun to see what twists were done to the old, familiar characters.
Mary becomes a TAM (Trained Angel of Mercy) and conducts health care clinics while rendering medical aid to all who need it.
Anne jogs and gets a case of the 'blues, navy blues'.
Wee Willy Elliot the gambler and womanizer
Sir Walter and Elizabeth branch out into selling skin care products at Avon River home parties.
Captain Bennick is a tragedy addict.
And, like with other books, the author gives the readers a sparkling and fun new character to adore.
Young street kid, Swoosh, who teaches Anne and Frederick the ropes for getting on in the bad part of town.
I think the biggest thing to understand is this is farcical from cover to cover- I laughed, snickered, and rolled my eyes with delight, but it also has some good depth and doesn't go utterly off the rails. Anne learns an important lesson about perception being the key to all things. She comes into her own when she decides to make her own happiness rather than wait for it or imagine it will never come. Frederick realizes it was his own pride that caused him to let eight years slip past him. And, though hilarious, each foible for the characters is satirezed so they are obvious to the reader.
I enjoyed this this as a light and engaging alternate take on a classic. Persuasion fans will really get a kick out of it if their humor runs along spoofy lines.
Read
July 20, 2010Mary Lydon Simonsen’s love of Jane Austen’s Persuasion and her sense of humor are evident in her latest novel, Anne Elliot, A New Beginning. Readers will need a sense of humor as well and not mind some liberties being taken with their beloved Austen characters to enjoy this parody, which had me in stitches throughout.
Anne Elliot’s family declares her a spinster on her 25th birthday, and since she has no plans to marry anyone unless he’s Frederick Wentworth — to whom she was engaged until a family friend, Lady Russell, persuaded her to break off the relationship because he was poor and not likely to make much of himself — she feels a sense of freedom. Possibly inspired by the ending of the 2007 movie version of Persuasion, Simonsen’s Anne Elliot takes a morning walk, decides to chase a rabbit, and ultimately becomes a long-distance runner. Anne also is more outspoken, no longer willing to let people decide for her, and not in need of any one to support her. When Frederick comes back after more than eight years, now a wealthy naval captain, he admires the changes in Anne and is drawn to her once again.
Although Anne Elliot, A New Beginning is very much about Anne and Wentworth rekindling their romance, Simonsen’s retelling is so different from Austen’s original work that it takes on a life of its own. I loved how Simonsen deviated from Austen’s tale by making Mr. Elliot more horrid and mixing Anne and Wentworth up with a charming street urchin named Swoosh who gives them hilarious street names when they go undercover to get the scoop on Mr. Elliot. Anne isn’t the only character who undergoes a major transformation, and the changes in her sister, Mary, and a business undertaking by her sister, Elizabeth, and their father, Sir Walter, are hilarious! There’s a little bit of everything in this book, from romance and sexual innuendo to humorous anachronisms and more.
Unlike Persuasion, Anne Elliot, A New Beginning takes the characters of Anne and Frederick well beyond where Austen ends their story. It’s too bad that Pride and Prejudice gets all the attention because I really enjoyed Simonsen’s take on Persuasion — and she seriously could write another novel all about Swoosh. However, Simonsen told me she had to self-publish Anne Elliot, A New Beginning because it isn’t a different take on Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, which is what sells these days. I hope that changes in the future because the characters in Persuasion are just as captivating…and I’m still not ready to let them go just yet.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
Anne Elliot’s family declares her a spinster on her 25th birthday, and since she has no plans to marry anyone unless he’s Frederick Wentworth — to whom she was engaged until a family friend, Lady Russell, persuaded her to break off the relationship because he was poor and not likely to make much of himself — she feels a sense of freedom. Possibly inspired by the ending of the 2007 movie version of Persuasion, Simonsen’s Anne Elliot takes a morning walk, decides to chase a rabbit, and ultimately becomes a long-distance runner. Anne also is more outspoken, no longer willing to let people decide for her, and not in need of any one to support her. When Frederick comes back after more than eight years, now a wealthy naval captain, he admires the changes in Anne and is drawn to her once again.
Although Anne Elliot, A New Beginning is very much about Anne and Wentworth rekindling their romance, Simonsen’s retelling is so different from Austen’s original work that it takes on a life of its own. I loved how Simonsen deviated from Austen’s tale by making Mr. Elliot more horrid and mixing Anne and Wentworth up with a charming street urchin named Swoosh who gives them hilarious street names when they go undercover to get the scoop on Mr. Elliot. Anne isn’t the only character who undergoes a major transformation, and the changes in her sister, Mary, and a business undertaking by her sister, Elizabeth, and their father, Sir Walter, are hilarious! There’s a little bit of everything in this book, from romance and sexual innuendo to humorous anachronisms and more.
Unlike Persuasion, Anne Elliot, A New Beginning takes the characters of Anne and Frederick well beyond where Austen ends their story. It’s too bad that Pride and Prejudice gets all the attention because I really enjoyed Simonsen’s take on Persuasion — and she seriously could write another novel all about Swoosh. However, Simonsen told me she had to self-publish Anne Elliot, A New Beginning because it isn’t a different take on Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, which is what sells these days. I hope that changes in the future because the characters in Persuasion are just as captivating…and I’m still not ready to let them go just yet.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric.
I received a free copy of this book for review.
July 7, 2010
On her twenty-fifth birthday, Anne Elliot of Kellynch Hall, realizes that her family has put her on the shelf and considers an “old maid.” Reconciling herself to the fact that she will forever be ignored and disregarded by her family, Anne finds comfort in the thought of living for herself and doing as she pleases. Unlike the Anne Elliot of Jane Austen's Persuasion, this Anne feels empowered, liberated, and has confidence in herself. So what if she is unmarried? So what if her heart is broken? She is still alive, and life is too beautiful to be wasted! At times while reading this tale I had Helen Reddy's “I Am Woman” going through my head. I found the lyrics very appropriate for Anne's new attitude!
If I have to
I can do anything
I am strong
I am invincible
I am woman
To read more of this view go here: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
If I have to
I can do anything
I am strong
I am invincible
I am woman
To read more of this view go here: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
August 5, 2010
Every time I read Persuasion one thought always pops in my head, “I wish Anne had more confidence.” Mary Lydon Simonsen makes my dream come true in Anne Elliot, A New Beginning. Simonsen takes our beloved Anne and breathes new life into her meek personality that prevailed in Austen’s original work. This new and fresh look at one of my favorite Austen characters was too good to pass up, and the pages flew by as I got to witness a new and exciting chapter in Anne’s life as a liberated woman.
Anne Elliot is an old maid. She is a spinster. She is 25 years old and feels oddly liberated in this new status her family has given her. With this new-found freedom she begins running. Yes, you read that right, running. To her delight, this new activity makes her more confident and secure in herself than ever before, and she is ecstatic when Captain Wentworth happens upon her company eight years after their initial tumultuous courtship. Sound to good to be true? Of course it is, nothing in life is ever this easy! William Elliot, the heir to Kellynch (the Elliot estate), has come back from a long separation from Anne’s father following a disagreement long ago. Now that he is back he finds Anne just as attractive as Wentworth does, and he attempts to gain her courtship. Not is all as it seems, as Anne senses that William may have some tricks up his sleeve. Will she be able to unite with Wentworth or will William become an insurmountable obstacle? How will Wentworth react to her running when he finds out?
As I said in my opening, I’ve always wished that Anne had more confidence. She finds all of this confidence running. WHAT a change confidence makes. Anne is unafraid to speak her mind, and frequently does so, much to the displeasure of Lady Russell. She stands up to Mary and makes her stop being such a hypochondriac, forcing Mary to do something positive with her life instead of wasting it away worrying. Anne helps the characters change their ways, while also forcing them to give her the respect she has deserved all along. (All of this is done with hints of humor along the way).
I think you can tell by now that Anne Elliot, A New Beginning is a satirical retelling of Persuasion. I’m usually really nervous about reading satirized versions of Austen’s novels because either a novelist takes it too far and makes it borderline ridiculous (see my review of Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard), or they don’t change enough of the story to make it a satire. Simonsen found the perfect blend between the two by infusing pop cultural references into the story that actually worked. Anne is all about running, so the references to Nike and other modern running related items makes sense in the context of the story. Also making Mary turn from a hypochondriac into a nurse was hysterical. She goes from being afraid of everything to suddenly making sure there are always bandages around and proper first aid techniques in use. It was a very humorous personality switch.
As usual Simonsen has given us a fresh take on an Austen classic. It was refreshing and exciting to see her new iteration of Anne as a confident and determined individual. All in all, I truly enjoyed Simonsen’s work and was happy to root for Anne and Wentworth until the end!
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-Ch
Anne Elliot is an old maid. She is a spinster. She is 25 years old and feels oddly liberated in this new status her family has given her. With this new-found freedom she begins running. Yes, you read that right, running. To her delight, this new activity makes her more confident and secure in herself than ever before, and she is ecstatic when Captain Wentworth happens upon her company eight years after their initial tumultuous courtship. Sound to good to be true? Of course it is, nothing in life is ever this easy! William Elliot, the heir to Kellynch (the Elliot estate), has come back from a long separation from Anne’s father following a disagreement long ago. Now that he is back he finds Anne just as attractive as Wentworth does, and he attempts to gain her courtship. Not is all as it seems, as Anne senses that William may have some tricks up his sleeve. Will she be able to unite with Wentworth or will William become an insurmountable obstacle? How will Wentworth react to her running when he finds out?
As I said in my opening, I’ve always wished that Anne had more confidence. She finds all of this confidence running. WHAT a change confidence makes. Anne is unafraid to speak her mind, and frequently does so, much to the displeasure of Lady Russell. She stands up to Mary and makes her stop being such a hypochondriac, forcing Mary to do something positive with her life instead of wasting it away worrying. Anne helps the characters change their ways, while also forcing them to give her the respect she has deserved all along. (All of this is done with hints of humor along the way).
I think you can tell by now that Anne Elliot, A New Beginning is a satirical retelling of Persuasion. I’m usually really nervous about reading satirized versions of Austen’s novels because either a novelist takes it too far and makes it borderline ridiculous (see my review of Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard), or they don’t change enough of the story to make it a satire. Simonsen found the perfect blend between the two by infusing pop cultural references into the story that actually worked. Anne is all about running, so the references to Nike and other modern running related items makes sense in the context of the story. Also making Mary turn from a hypochondriac into a nurse was hysterical. She goes from being afraid of everything to suddenly making sure there are always bandages around and proper first aid techniques in use. It was a very humorous personality switch.
As usual Simonsen has given us a fresh take on an Austen classic. It was refreshing and exciting to see her new iteration of Anne as a confident and determined individual. All in all, I truly enjoyed Simonsen’s work and was happy to root for Anne and Wentworth until the end!
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-Ch
July 11, 2011
Anne Elliot, A New Beginning is a fun, entertaining read, a story with many twists. I couldn't put it down. It’s a great parody.
The story is familiar and new at the same time.
Persuasion is one my favourite books, but sometimes I would like to shake Anne Elliot because of her indecision.
In Anne Elliot, A New Beginning you will discover a different Anne ; she is no longer an old maid, she becomes a long distance runner. Mary finds this shocking because“A lady does not run”. People are surprised by her directness. Anne is a brilliant character. A clever, funny and independent woman.” People may have their expectations, but I shall do what I think is best for me.” She is a sweet but strong woman. “Yes! I am a woman! I am invincible!”
Not only Anne changes, many other characters undergo a transformation. She has the ability to inspire others.
Here is a book that any Jane Austen’s fan is sure to appreciate!
The story is full of humour. I love the scene in which Anne plays the role of female fatale. It was very funny! The choice of words is fantastic!
There are also moments of great passion, of romance. Mary depicts Captain Wentworth in such a way that you can also fall in love with him.
This is the first book I read by Mary Lyndon Simonsen, and I’m looking forward to reading others.
The story is familiar and new at the same time.
Persuasion is one my favourite books, but sometimes I would like to shake Anne Elliot because of her indecision.
In Anne Elliot, A New Beginning you will discover a different Anne ; she is no longer an old maid, she becomes a long distance runner. Mary finds this shocking because“A lady does not run”. People are surprised by her directness. Anne is a brilliant character. A clever, funny and independent woman.” People may have their expectations, but I shall do what I think is best for me.” She is a sweet but strong woman. “Yes! I am a woman! I am invincible!”
Not only Anne changes, many other characters undergo a transformation. She has the ability to inspire others.
Here is a book that any Jane Austen’s fan is sure to appreciate!
The story is full of humour. I love the scene in which Anne plays the role of female fatale. It was very funny! The choice of words is fantastic!
There are also moments of great passion, of romance. Mary depicts Captain Wentworth in such a way that you can also fall in love with him.
This is the first book I read by Mary Lyndon Simonsen, and I’m looking forward to reading others.
October 11, 2013
Anne Elliot: A New Beginning was such a fascinating story to read. As always, I love Ms Simonsen's storytelling abilities. In essentials, this is Persuasion, but where Ms Simonsen deviates from the original is that at 25 yrs of age, Anne is considered "on the shelf" so some where she musters up some moxie and says what's on her mind and starts to exercise. This all helps her to move past her lost hopes and dreams and her heartache of losing Wentworth.
I love how Wentworth notices all the changes in Anne and comes to realize that there never was and never will be anyone else for him, even though he is still unguarded around Louisa.
I loved the added character of Swoosh and how he tied Anne and Wenworth together more.
Overall, just an enjoyable easy read. I could easily recommend this book to any and all JAFFer.
I love how Wentworth notices all the changes in Anne and comes to realize that there never was and never will be anyone else for him, even though he is still unguarded around Louisa.
I loved the added character of Swoosh and how he tied Anne and Wenworth together more.
Overall, just an enjoyable easy read. I could easily recommend this book to any and all JAFFer.
December 18, 2011
What a travesty! How could this author think that putting modern sensibilities and historically inaccurate activities into an Austen story would be okay? Marathon training? Red cross nursing? Avon home parties? Modern slang? My husband said I should have stopped reading it when, after every page or so, I kept exclaiming,"Oh, my heck!" to every obnoxious addition. I had to finish because, 1)I paid for the book, and 2)I had to see where the train wreck landed. Well, it's done and I can send it on to someone else on Paperback Swap.
August 22, 2011
I really enjoyed this version of Persuasion. It's always nice to have redeeming qualities in Mary Musgrove. Great read!
February 25, 2015
A Parody of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I rolled my eyes and smirked more than one time, but it's an entertaining parody.
June 22, 2010
This is the third book by Mary Lydon Simonsen that I’ve read and I have to say, she never disappoints. I enjoyed reading this novel so much that I read it in one single day. Luckily for me, it was a Sunday, so I had the time to dedicate myself to reading the entire novel in one day.
Anne Elliot is a new person and a strong, independent woman in this novel. On her 25th birthday, when she is declared to be a spinster, Anne decides to take life in her hands and free herself. I really wanted to hug Anne for her brave decision that brought such delightful changes to her character. I loved the original by Austen, Persuasion, but Anne’s resigned and quiet, sort of like a grey, quiet mouse, in the original. In Simonsen’s rewriting, she’s something else – strong, independent, with a sharp tongue and wit. I really loved it how she was able to talk back to her family. In the original novel, she swallows their humiliating remarks, but not this Anne. The main thing that strengthened Anne so much mentally, and also physically, is running. In this novel, Anne is a long-distance runner. I know, very anachronistic. But let me tell you, anachronisms really works so well in this novel. This story is meant to be a humorous take on Persuasion and a bit of a parody, and it has to be read as such. I found myself giggling several times.
There are many wonderful and funny allusions to modern times. Puns, fun and funny references to modern times, humour and irony are wonderful ingredients of this novel. I don’t know why, but for some reason my favourite reference was the “Avon Calling!” one. That really got me. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, buy the novel, read it and you’ll know. Really, you won’t regret it if you like humour and Jane Austen.
The novel also has serious and emotional moments. The serious moments refer primarily to William Elliot, the nasty heir to Kellynch, who is a bad man, indeed, and also to Anne and Frederick becoming forced to endure another separation due to Napoleon’s escaping from Elba. There is also romance, mostly between Frederick and Anne. It was really memorable to read about a jealous Frederick. Anne is not the only person who undergoes a great change for the better. Her sister Mary, the hypochondriac extraordinaire, also finds a new purpose in life that affects her marriage to Charles in a good way. Louisa and Captain Benwick also have their fair share of romance, but things are not easy for the melancholy Benwick. I loved it that the author concentrated on Benwick quite a bit, as well as on the family of Captain Harville. They’re sort of only by-standers in the original, but in this novel they have a clear voice. Even Elizabeth and Sir Walter change for the better. Essentially, they remain as vain as ever, but they do change for the better.
I really, really loved the novel. It is so cleverly written and has many funny, as well as some less funny moments that are really enjoyable to read. As a reader, I am fond of sexual subtlety as far as Austen’s characters go because the main characters are proper ladies and gentlemen, so I had to get used to the fact that Anne and Frederick were so open with each other in private and even produced sexual innuendoes quite freely. I know, this is part of the humour as well, but what can you do, that’s just my thing, I guess. Still, I enjoyed the novel thoroughly and I wasn’t too bothered by the sexual innuendos. The novel as a whole is really well written, very clever and witty. As I’ve said, a perfect read for someone who loves humour and Jane Austen. The story, as well as the characters, are dealt with in a fresh, desirable way. This novel made me love Persuasion even more. It reminded me why Austen is such a great author. Simonsen really is an Austen connoisseur.
If you ever get a chance to read this book, do read it. It’s a wonderful novel.
Anne Elliot is a new person and a strong, independent woman in this novel. On her 25th birthday, when she is declared to be a spinster, Anne decides to take life in her hands and free herself. I really wanted to hug Anne for her brave decision that brought such delightful changes to her character. I loved the original by Austen, Persuasion, but Anne’s resigned and quiet, sort of like a grey, quiet mouse, in the original. In Simonsen’s rewriting, she’s something else – strong, independent, with a sharp tongue and wit. I really loved it how she was able to talk back to her family. In the original novel, she swallows their humiliating remarks, but not this Anne. The main thing that strengthened Anne so much mentally, and also physically, is running. In this novel, Anne is a long-distance runner. I know, very anachronistic. But let me tell you, anachronisms really works so well in this novel. This story is meant to be a humorous take on Persuasion and a bit of a parody, and it has to be read as such. I found myself giggling several times.
There are many wonderful and funny allusions to modern times. Puns, fun and funny references to modern times, humour and irony are wonderful ingredients of this novel. I don’t know why, but for some reason my favourite reference was the “Avon Calling!” one. That really got me. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, buy the novel, read it and you’ll know. Really, you won’t regret it if you like humour and Jane Austen.
The novel also has serious and emotional moments. The serious moments refer primarily to William Elliot, the nasty heir to Kellynch, who is a bad man, indeed, and also to Anne and Frederick becoming forced to endure another separation due to Napoleon’s escaping from Elba. There is also romance, mostly between Frederick and Anne. It was really memorable to read about a jealous Frederick. Anne is not the only person who undergoes a great change for the better. Her sister Mary, the hypochondriac extraordinaire, also finds a new purpose in life that affects her marriage to Charles in a good way. Louisa and Captain Benwick also have their fair share of romance, but things are not easy for the melancholy Benwick. I loved it that the author concentrated on Benwick quite a bit, as well as on the family of Captain Harville. They’re sort of only by-standers in the original, but in this novel they have a clear voice. Even Elizabeth and Sir Walter change for the better. Essentially, they remain as vain as ever, but they do change for the better.
I really, really loved the novel. It is so cleverly written and has many funny, as well as some less funny moments that are really enjoyable to read. As a reader, I am fond of sexual subtlety as far as Austen’s characters go because the main characters are proper ladies and gentlemen, so I had to get used to the fact that Anne and Frederick were so open with each other in private and even produced sexual innuendoes quite freely. I know, this is part of the humour as well, but what can you do, that’s just my thing, I guess. Still, I enjoyed the novel thoroughly and I wasn’t too bothered by the sexual innuendos. The novel as a whole is really well written, very clever and witty. As I’ve said, a perfect read for someone who loves humour and Jane Austen. The story, as well as the characters, are dealt with in a fresh, desirable way. This novel made me love Persuasion even more. It reminded me why Austen is such a great author. Simonsen really is an Austen connoisseur.
If you ever get a chance to read this book, do read it. It’s a wonderful novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2011
I'm currently reading this novel, but I had to post my thoughts so far. First, there are far too little Persuasion-inspired stories out there. Anne and Frederick's love story is one of the most bittersweet in literature, and their post-novel potential is the most interesting of all JA's couples (sail away, Wentworths!). Because of that, I devour any Regency-set Persuasion stories, published or otherwise.
As someone who has written alternate universe (or re-imaginings, as this one is called) stories, I know the trick of re-writing the source material lies in remaining true to the characters in the different setting. But this story's approach is very different. The alternate in this alternate universe is Anne herself. Austen's quiet, steady, loving woman of pure grace is changed into a 21st century feminist who speaks her mind and leaves everyone in her wake. She changes everyone around her, including her self-centered family, and Wentworth himself is chasing to catch up with her.
The problem is, it doesn't work. Changing the personality of the main character means that the events of the story should be changed, and they are, but not enough to be believable. Wentworth looks like a bumbling fool in this new Anne's eyes, and not the commanding, proud (but evolving) man in the original work. Anne calling everyone out on their faults and being pretty much awesome reeks of Mary Sue-treatment. It's a shame, because Austen's Anne, the real Anne, doesn't need to be an obnoxious bitch to have the reader root for her. It's her inner strength of character that makes the readers fall in love with her and makes Wentworth realize he'd never stopped.
With these changes to Anne's personality, none of Austen's Persuasion's highlights work anymore, so the writer should have removed them entirely. The deeply sensual moment when Wentworth helps Anne into the gig is ruined because faux-Anne isn't distressed or tired, and then she jumps off with a stubborn "no one's gonna tell me what to do" attitude (which, uh, was Louisa's role in the real story). And then they mash their pelvises together, as if the writer is saying that love can only exist if there's some overt sexual exposition (a modern interpretation of "love" which I find very lacking in effectiveness).
I absolutely hated this faux-Anne's comments throughout "the letter" scene. Not only did including it (the scene) not fit the newly-composed story (Wentworth's reasons for writing the letter were removed due to faux-Anne's prior actions and comments to him), but faux-Anne's commentary and criticism of Wentworth made me wonder why faux-Anne stooped so low as to love Wentworth at all. In short, the romance between faux-Anne and Wentworth is ruined by this re-imaging because faux-Anne is too 21st century for any Regency man to live up to her outlook on life.
And the author tries WAY too hard to be funny. The 20th and 21st century names and puns are distracting and left me saying, "Is this author seriously trying to be comical?" Just tell a story and leave the comedy to people who know what they're doing - like Jane Austen herself.
As someone who has written alternate universe (or re-imaginings, as this one is called) stories, I know the trick of re-writing the source material lies in remaining true to the characters in the different setting. But this story's approach is very different. The alternate in this alternate universe is Anne herself. Austen's quiet, steady, loving woman of pure grace is changed into a 21st century feminist who speaks her mind and leaves everyone in her wake. She changes everyone around her, including her self-centered family, and Wentworth himself is chasing to catch up with her.
The problem is, it doesn't work. Changing the personality of the main character means that the events of the story should be changed, and they are, but not enough to be believable. Wentworth looks like a bumbling fool in this new Anne's eyes, and not the commanding, proud (but evolving) man in the original work. Anne calling everyone out on their faults and being pretty much awesome reeks of Mary Sue-treatment. It's a shame, because Austen's Anne, the real Anne, doesn't need to be an obnoxious bitch to have the reader root for her. It's her inner strength of character that makes the readers fall in love with her and makes Wentworth realize he'd never stopped.
With these changes to Anne's personality, none of Austen's Persuasion's highlights work anymore, so the writer should have removed them entirely. The deeply sensual moment when Wentworth helps Anne into the gig is ruined because faux-Anne isn't distressed or tired, and then she jumps off with a stubborn "no one's gonna tell me what to do" attitude (which, uh, was Louisa's role in the real story). And then they mash their pelvises together, as if the writer is saying that love can only exist if there's some overt sexual exposition (a modern interpretation of "love" which I find very lacking in effectiveness).
I absolutely hated this faux-Anne's comments throughout "the letter" scene. Not only did including it (the scene) not fit the newly-composed story (Wentworth's reasons for writing the letter were removed due to faux-Anne's prior actions and comments to him), but faux-Anne's commentary and criticism of Wentworth made me wonder why faux-Anne stooped so low as to love Wentworth at all. In short, the romance between faux-Anne and Wentworth is ruined by this re-imaging because faux-Anne is too 21st century for any Regency man to live up to her outlook on life.
And the author tries WAY too hard to be funny. The 20th and 21st century names and puns are distracting and left me saying, "Is this author seriously trying to be comical?" Just tell a story and leave the comedy to people who know what they're doing - like Jane Austen herself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2012
It's hard to know what to make of this book when you first read it - is it a variation? A parody? An honest attempt at something different? Or is it a mixture of all of those?
It's definitely open to interpretation but, for me, it was simply a lighthearted and silly variation with a strong emphasis on the silly. That isn't a bad thing - I actually enjoyed a lot of the silliness - but I can understand why some readers were put off by it. It takes some getting used to – okay, it takes a lot getting used to – and definitely strays from both the time period and from what one might expect from a variation.
Even so, I really liked the premise of this. It’s quite unique and highly unorthodox for the time period it’s set in so it’s an intriguing idea to build a story foundation on. Unfortunately, the main pitfall of this was that the author had to stray pretty far afield of both characterization and social expectations for it to work. This can be a real downer for Austen loyalist – what is the correct term for this? Austenites? – and daunting if you’re expecting something in any way serious in this novel.
Another problem, at least for me, was that the running aspect of the story starts strong but quickly fades into the background. This could have been done purposely – there’s plenty of other odd bits to be bemused by – but I was still disappointed that it disappeared so quickly. Also, some of the descriptions in the book were absurd to the point of being comical – an example: Anne’s seemingly rippling biceps – which I actively chose to be amused by rather than irritated with.
The biggest issue for me, however, was that there was both too much change and too little change to make this work in the long run. For example, by the mid-point of this book Anne was hardly recognizable as the soft-spoken but strong character that Austen created; instead she was opinionated and outspoken, pointing out others faults regardless of the consequences. One would think, with such a change in the main character, the author would then too change the storyline a great deal so this new Anne could face new but no less important challenges on her road to happiness. This wasn’t the case here. In fact, Anne seemed to be able to do no wrong in this story – I hate that in a character.
Overall, though, despite there being plenty of other scenes and character I’d like to address (the scene with Wentworth’s “buttons”, anyone?), I won’t deny that I enjoyed this, especially since I don’t think the author meant for anyone to take it too seriously. In fact, I think it would be a big mistake to and lessen the readers enjoyment almost entirely.
It's definitely open to interpretation but, for me, it was simply a lighthearted and silly variation with a strong emphasis on the silly. That isn't a bad thing - I actually enjoyed a lot of the silliness - but I can understand why some readers were put off by it. It takes some getting used to – okay, it takes a lot getting used to – and definitely strays from both the time period and from what one might expect from a variation.
Even so, I really liked the premise of this. It’s quite unique and highly unorthodox for the time period it’s set in so it’s an intriguing idea to build a story foundation on. Unfortunately, the main pitfall of this was that the author had to stray pretty far afield of both characterization and social expectations for it to work. This can be a real downer for Austen loyalist – what is the correct term for this? Austenites? – and daunting if you’re expecting something in any way serious in this novel.
Another problem, at least for me, was that the running aspect of the story starts strong but quickly fades into the background. This could have been done purposely – there’s plenty of other odd bits to be bemused by – but I was still disappointed that it disappeared so quickly. Also, some of the descriptions in the book were absurd to the point of being comical – an example: Anne’s seemingly rippling biceps – which I actively chose to be amused by rather than irritated with.
The biggest issue for me, however, was that there was both too much change and too little change to make this work in the long run. For example, by the mid-point of this book Anne was hardly recognizable as the soft-spoken but strong character that Austen created; instead she was opinionated and outspoken, pointing out others faults regardless of the consequences. One would think, with such a change in the main character, the author would then too change the storyline a great deal so this new Anne could face new but no less important challenges on her road to happiness. This wasn’t the case here. In fact, Anne seemed to be able to do no wrong in this story – I hate that in a character.
Overall, though, despite there being plenty of other scenes and character I’d like to address (the scene with Wentworth’s “buttons”, anyone?), I won’t deny that I enjoyed this, especially since I don’t think the author meant for anyone to take it too seriously. In fact, I think it would be a big mistake to and lessen the readers enjoyment almost entirely.
March 15, 2011
I frequently pick up continuations or retellings of Jane Austen's works. I was really disappointed with this one. I enjoy contemporary reimaginings of Ms. Austen's work or keeping a novel in the time period originally written, but this one was set in the original timeframe with far too many modern references/phrases. It was tedious reading about many ficticious origins of modern things such as Red Cross, Betty Crocker, and Avon River Products (to name just a few). When you get to the part of the letter that Frederick wrote for Anne it seemed silly since they were already planning to be back together again.
February 13, 2014
Don't take this book seriously and you'll enjoy the ride. I laughed out loud on my commute to work this morning. If anyone mentions Whistler's mother I may not stop laughing. I never thought I'd like Mary but she transformed into an interesting character. I really enjoyed this silly story.
November 17, 2018
If anyone's looking for this book to read, there's a PDF available online for free. It's only 202 pages and I think everyone should read about how Anne Elliot invented jogging.
August 12, 2010
"People may have their expectations, but I shall do what I think is best for me. I only have this one life, and as limited as it is by society and my own family, it is mine to live as I see fit." --Anne Elliot
pg. 51
This is not your momma's beloved Austen story. Instead it is a fresh, somewhat modernized version of Persuasion. Modernized in the sense of the quote above. Anne will do what she wants and live her life as she sees fit. A Regency woman may dream about this but never actually do it like this Anne did. And I enjoyed Simonsen's retelling because of this aspect.
At 25 Anne Elliott is declared a spinster by her family and written off as unmarriageable. Instead of viewing her change in status as a death sentence, Anne sees it as a rebirth. A chance to do and be what she wants, instead of what society dictates. Why dwell on the negative? Anne is now free to pursue her life to the fullest; or at least as full as it can be without her one true love, Captain Wentworth.
The first thing Anne does is begin running along the country lanes, something that transforms her both physically and mentally. It clears her mind and strengthens her both body and soul. The freedom she experiences when running is so uplifting and positive, that she begins to impart her wisdom or good thoughts to others. Anne encourages those around her to better themselves, and in the process create some of the funny bits in the story. For example, Anne's sister and father very knowledgeable about skin care products, begin selling to friends and family the same products that keep them looking so young and healthy. The business they begin is Avon River Products. Another character who learns about running from Anne decides he would like white stars on the sides of his black boots, thinking they would be sharp looking. Converse sneakers anyone?
This story follows the same premise of Persuasion, but with some additional characters and events, which make for a fun read. Captain Wentworth becomes reacquainted with Anne after time has passed and realizes she is still the one and only gal for him. Anne and Wentworth have more frank conversations about each other and their relationship in this version, and it was quite refreshing to read it this way. And don't worry, Simonsen is true to the original source work in that Anne and Wentworth marry, but not without some hiccoughs along the way.
All in all this was a fun relaxing read. I enjoyed this retelling because although people, items and events are inserted into the story, it went with the general modern feel of this retelling. Come on, what Regency woman in her right mind would take up running and find it enjoyable? This retelling was fun and fresh without having to resort to vampires, werewolves, or hot sex scenes, and I appreciated that.
Maybe a little trite in some places, but overall an enjoyable read.
pg. 51
This is not your momma's beloved Austen story. Instead it is a fresh, somewhat modernized version of Persuasion. Modernized in the sense of the quote above. Anne will do what she wants and live her life as she sees fit. A Regency woman may dream about this but never actually do it like this Anne did. And I enjoyed Simonsen's retelling because of this aspect.
At 25 Anne Elliott is declared a spinster by her family and written off as unmarriageable. Instead of viewing her change in status as a death sentence, Anne sees it as a rebirth. A chance to do and be what she wants, instead of what society dictates. Why dwell on the negative? Anne is now free to pursue her life to the fullest; or at least as full as it can be without her one true love, Captain Wentworth.
The first thing Anne does is begin running along the country lanes, something that transforms her both physically and mentally. It clears her mind and strengthens her both body and soul. The freedom she experiences when running is so uplifting and positive, that she begins to impart her wisdom or good thoughts to others. Anne encourages those around her to better themselves, and in the process create some of the funny bits in the story. For example, Anne's sister and father very knowledgeable about skin care products, begin selling to friends and family the same products that keep them looking so young and healthy. The business they begin is Avon River Products. Another character who learns about running from Anne decides he would like white stars on the sides of his black boots, thinking they would be sharp looking. Converse sneakers anyone?
This story follows the same premise of Persuasion, but with some additional characters and events, which make for a fun read. Captain Wentworth becomes reacquainted with Anne after time has passed and realizes she is still the one and only gal for him. Anne and Wentworth have more frank conversations about each other and their relationship in this version, and it was quite refreshing to read it this way. And don't worry, Simonsen is true to the original source work in that Anne and Wentworth marry, but not without some hiccoughs along the way.
All in all this was a fun relaxing read. I enjoyed this retelling because although people, items and events are inserted into the story, it went with the general modern feel of this retelling. Come on, what Regency woman in her right mind would take up running and find it enjoyable? This retelling was fun and fresh without having to resort to vampires, werewolves, or hot sex scenes, and I appreciated that.
Maybe a little trite in some places, but overall an enjoyable read.
March 17, 2013
Alors, le mot clé est sans aucun doute parodie... du moins c'est l'excuse de l'auteure pour justifier l'existence du roman. Ce que je peux tout à fait apprécier.... Sauf qu'une parodie est normalement drôle et que je n'ai pas ri une seule fois. Tout est tellement "parodié" que ça en devient ridicule... Anne qui fait du "jogging", se lie avec un gang de rue à Bath (oui je sais, tellement énorme que ça doit faire rire sauf que pour le coup, pas moi) ... Rick (oui oui Rick) qui fait des allusions vaseuses ... Anne qui en rajoute, la soeur Mary qui se découvre une vocation d'infirmière, Elizabeth qui se lance dans le commerce. William Elliot... et sa vraie nature (rien de sexuel, même pas drôle) Une glorification d'Anne et Fredérick. Aucune finesse, ni subtilité ( ce qui sont pour moi les ingrédients clés d'une parodie réussie) Le personnage de Swoosh manque de crédibilité et d'intérêt et le tout est tellement bonbon rose que ça en devient pathétique ( et malheureusement toujours pas amusant)...
Ce que j'ai aimé : ce que l'auteur a conservé du texte original
Ce que j'ai pas aimé : ce que l'auteur a ajouté au texte original
En bref : Avant de lire ce roman, je n'avais pas totalement conscience de la finesse et de la subtilité des sentiments décrits dans Persuasion ainsi que du travail fait sur la caractérisation des personnages. Maintenant c'est chose faite ! J'ajouterai que l'étiquette "parodie" ne justifie pas tout à mes yeux : et surtout pas le manque de finesse, la vulgarité et le gâchis d'une oeuvre comme Persuasion... surtout si comme ici, le résultat n'est absolument pas drôle. Bref, une parodie dont "l'humour" est complétement tombé à plat avec moi (trop de décalage, tue le décalage...)
Ma note : 1/10
Ce que j'ai aimé : ce que l'auteur a conservé du texte original
Ce que j'ai pas aimé : ce que l'auteur a ajouté au texte original
En bref : Avant de lire ce roman, je n'avais pas totalement conscience de la finesse et de la subtilité des sentiments décrits dans Persuasion ainsi que du travail fait sur la caractérisation des personnages. Maintenant c'est chose faite ! J'ajouterai que l'étiquette "parodie" ne justifie pas tout à mes yeux : et surtout pas le manque de finesse, la vulgarité et le gâchis d'une oeuvre comme Persuasion... surtout si comme ici, le résultat n'est absolument pas drôle. Bref, une parodie dont "l'humour" est complétement tombé à plat avec moi (trop de décalage, tue le décalage...)
Ma note : 1/10
February 18, 2017
Anne Elliot is a spinster according to his family. She is more than happy to oblige as she does not have to follow so many of the society's rules. Therefore, she starts running...
(to be continued)
(to be continued)
April 24, 2014
At first I didn't know what to make of it... then I realised it was supposed to be silly, so I went along for a silly ride, and I enjoyed myself.
The book borders on ridiculous, and the writing doesn't try to be amazing... This is not Austen!! This is an author having fun with some crazy ideas... Let's give Anne a voice and see what happens. I really loved the character of Anne in this retelling, I actually think the author stayed very true to her. I mean, sure she was much more outspoken, but I think that is where Austen's Elliot was heading. In this novel Wentworth's opinion of this new Anne mirrored my own... she had changed, but not fundamentally. She was the same good person, just with more confidence and a determination not to let being a woman stop her.
I loved the sexual connotations, I love the shock that Wentworth occasionally felt (always with a quick recovery). I also loved that this book did not really change what happened in the original novel, it was another novel that you could argue actually happened.... maybe this was the real story, maybe Austen just left these bits out... I mean, Austen never said that Elliot was not a runner!!
Private Ryan, Betty Crocker, Nike, and a stack of other completely innocent brand names make appearances in ridiculous ways... This is a very light read... a romp!!
The book borders on ridiculous, and the writing doesn't try to be amazing... This is not Austen!! This is an author having fun with some crazy ideas... Let's give Anne a voice and see what happens. I really loved the character of Anne in this retelling, I actually think the author stayed very true to her. I mean, sure she was much more outspoken, but I think that is where Austen's Elliot was heading. In this novel Wentworth's opinion of this new Anne mirrored my own... she had changed, but not fundamentally. She was the same good person, just with more confidence and a determination not to let being a woman stop her.
I loved the sexual connotations, I love the shock that Wentworth occasionally felt (always with a quick recovery). I also loved that this book did not really change what happened in the original novel, it was another novel that you could argue actually happened.... maybe this was the real story, maybe Austen just left these bits out... I mean, Austen never said that Elliot was not a runner!!
Private Ryan, Betty Crocker, Nike, and a stack of other completely innocent brand names make appearances in ridiculous ways... This is a very light read... a romp!!
August 2, 2010
Anne Elliot has accepted the fact that at the age of 25 she will mostly likely remain a spinster for life. Her one true love, Frederick Wentworth, is gone from her for good. Depressing times ahead for our Anne where one would think that she would just crumble, that she would just lay down and die, but not her, she will survive! And she does just this by taking up long distance running, which increases her confidence in her self and her decisions, and hence her sense of self worth.
Unlike Austen's portrayal of Anne as basically a doormat, used and humiliated by her father, Sir Walter and sister, Elizabeth, and taken advantage of by her sister Mary, a hypochondriac, Anne becomes a force of nature to be reckoned with. She retains her goodness and her willingness to help, but no longer will be told what to do and how to act by others.
Simonsen's book is a humorous and witty take on Austen's Persuasion, and if you read it as such, I can guarantee you'll enjoy it. I did.
Carole Reese
Unlike Austen's portrayal of Anne as basically a doormat, used and humiliated by her father, Sir Walter and sister, Elizabeth, and taken advantage of by her sister Mary, a hypochondriac, Anne becomes a force of nature to be reckoned with. She retains her goodness and her willingness to help, but no longer will be told what to do and how to act by others.
Simonsen's book is a humorous and witty take on Austen's Persuasion, and if you read it as such, I can guarantee you'll enjoy it. I did.
Carole Reese
August 2, 2010
Wow! This is a fabulous read -- sweet, charming and funny. Given the description, I was hoping to discover a more confident independent Anne, and this story delivers that in spades. What I was not expecting was how hilarious it would be. I just loved the sense of humor throughout -- with puns and one-liners abounding to great effect. I found myself giggling over and over again. This tongue-in-cheek take on one of Austen's classic heroines had me saying "you go girl". This Anne is definitely a woman after my own 21st century heart!! Thanks for making me laugh.
June 25, 2010
I loved this book it was just sheer fun. There were a couple curse words but nothing outrageous for today's society. Nothing sexually graphic described except innuendoes that were tactfully placed. The story line was unique as expected. The humor exquisite. Even ancillary characters of Miss Nightingale, John B. Goode, AARP, cosmetic lines, etc. There are just too many things to name.
July 8, 2011
Entertaining. Those looking for a more realistic story won't like this. The reference to modern day things become funny to find.
September 25, 2011
Well that was just silly...
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