Review: Retelling of Pride and Prejudice-suitable for YA
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 11 6, 2013
Ophelia London's DEFINITELY, MAYBE IN LOVE is a contemporary re-telling of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice using the backdrop of Stanford University and all of the social and elitist ideas and attitudes that go along with the membership. Although the storyline does not follow Austen's story to the letter, fans of P and P will definitely see similarities between the two novels.Our leading couple is Spring and Henry who clash immediately upon introduction.  But Spring needs help with her thesis and Henry is the young man who comes to her rescue. Hoping to keep everything professional Spring and Henry will find themselves drawn to each other with every encounter until the day that Henry walks out of her life without so much as a word or goodbye.Like the original storyline, there is no sex, no foul language, no graphic violence and only a hint of romance.  The story is promoted as a new adult contemporary but it did not reach the level of most other NA stories-the overall premise is subdued with only hints at what has happened and what is to come. The storyline felt more suited to a young adult (YA) or high school retelling than for new adult or adult contemporary-even the actions of the leading heroine came across as young and nave. The storyline is updated with the use of environmental disasters, going 'green', frat parties and social issues that surround all students and young adults. Our heroine is a feminist at heart and considers the actions of the male of the species condescending towards all women and girls.Overall, DEFINITELY, MAYBE IN LOVE is a sweet retelling of Pride and Prejudice that is suitable for all ages 13 and up.  Because the characters came across more like high school teens than third year university students, there is a definite YA feel to the story and one that may be enjoyed by a younger audience.Copy supplied by the publisher.