Emma Watson

Emma Watson cover
Good Books rating 2.0

Technical:
  • ID: 1528
  • Added: 2025-10-07
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
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Reviews
Laura Gerold's Blog · 2024-11-20
unsettling 2.00

Aiken's continuation feels more Gothic and includes shocking elements that deviate from Austen's style.

The reviewer felt that Joan Aiken's part of the novel didn't resemble a typical Jane Austen tale. Instead, it took a more Gothic turn with several shocking deaths in quick succession. The storyline seemed to diverge significantly from Austen's original style, which might not appeal to those looking for a continuation in the same vein. The reviewer found the departure from Austen's characteristic wit and social commentary to be a notable change.


Quick quotes

    Joan Aiken's part did not seem like a Jane Austen tale.

    It was very Gothic and contained three shocking deaths in a row.

    The storyline seemed ...

Pining for the West · 2023-03-26
disappointed 1.50

The continuation is not a success and depends on what the reader is looking for.

The reviewer found Joan Aiken's continuation of Jane Austen's unfinished novel to be less than successful. They felt that it didn't quite capture the essence of Austen's writing and that the outcome depended heavily on the reader's expectations. The reviewer suggested that those looking for a seamless continuation in the style of Austen might be disappointed. However, they acknowledged that the book might appeal to readers who enjoy a different take on the characters and storyline.


Quick quotes

    Joan Aiken just takes up the tale from where Austen left off, it's not exactly a success in my opinion.

    I suppose it depends what you're looking ...

    It's not exactly a success in my opinion.

Austenblog · 2008-05-09
disappointing 2.50

The book is entertaining but fails to capture the essence of Austen's style. The plot is loose and lacks the depth of Austen's original work.

The reviewer found the book passably entertaining, but it didn't quite capture the spirit of Jane Austen's writing. They noted that the plot was rather loose and didn't have the same depth as Austen's original work. While Joan Aiken's writing is enjoyable, it doesn't fully live up to the standards set by Austen. The reviewer appreciated the effort to complete Austen's unfinished novel but felt it fell short in maintaining the original's charm and complexity.


Quick quotes

    While the book fails to retain the Austen spirit, Aiken writes a passably entertaining historical novel.

    While the plot was rather loose and ...

    Aiken's take on it.