Review: Fun, Frivolity and Fashion: a great revival of a much loved classic!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 17, 2012
I recently had to endure a week of travelling and was `monstrous glad' to have had this book as my companion.It's a witty, well crafted and light hearted spin on Jane Austen's `Pride and Prejudice' where being of average  height and prodigiously accomplished are not enough to see you married-off well. Indeed there are much grander heights to be reached by the young ladies who seek marriage - stature (high heels seem an acceptable way of cheating here) and being dressed in the very best of high fashion.There is a new man in town that is causing quite a stir with the ladies; sporting the tallest of hats and a preference for pied fashion, he sends the locals into a bonnet and gown buying frenzy. All of the usual characters are here, disguised ever so slightly by an exceedingly clever play on names and places as well as some eccentric habits, hobbies and haberdashery. To give away any more details would positively spoil your enjoyment.This book had me laughing within the first few pages and was entertaining right to the end. Mr. Andrews has remained true to the original story but further emphasizes the humour with an even greater embellishment of characters; all whilst adding subtle modern additions which will bring a smile to your face. It definitely stands on its own merits.I believe Austen fans will love this book and if you are not already a fan, then this book is ideal for introducing a new generation to her work and in my opinion, would be an excellent teaching text in schools: if used side by side with the original, it would in fact facilitate a better understanding of her comedic style and wonderful over-the-top characters which we have all grown to know and love. I would recommend this book to anyone who is in need of an engagingly funny diversion.Andria Saxelby for The Kindle Book Review