The Austen Escape

Isabel wants to go to Bath, England, to experience two weeks of living like a character in a Jane Austen novel.  Not only does she want to do this experience, she also wants her best friend, Mary, to go with her. Mary's work is somewhat at a standstill and her immediate supervisor is trying to get her fired. In Mary's mind, there is no better time to make the Austen Escape.

After they reach Bath, something happens to turn Isabel's world upside down, and she reacts the only way she knows how. She retreats into a world only she knows, and confuses the others who are on the escape. 

Katherine Reay has written a soul-tugging book that grips the reader from the very first words. There is a bit of darkness to the plot, but it is not overwhelming, and it does have its lighter moments.

Katherine creates characters whose struggles mimic real life struggles every reader can relate to.  By setting this book in Bath, the reader gets a peek into another well-loved author's life and works, as well as a look into the life and times of the beloved author.  Some of the customs included changing clothes multiple times a day to suit the various activities of the day. 

The book is a deep read, but it is completely intriguing.  Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and a custom-made dress befitting Jane Austen herself. 

My thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book.