Review of "Jane Austen: The World of Her Novels"

Although the themes in the novels of Jane Austen are absolutely ageless, her novels were set in a distinct time and place and it is the details of these settings – though not absolutely integral to her themes of true love and integrity – that can be occasionally confusing for modern readers. What was a barouche box? A phaeton & ponies? Austen’s contemporaries knew immediately which "peace" Mr. Shepherd of "Persuasion" spoke of when he told the Elliotts that their house will be easily rented because "this peace will be turning all our naval officers ashore" but 21st century readers might not.

Which is why a book such as "Jane Austen: The World of Her Novels" is so delightfully enlightening. The first section of part one, "Jane Austen and Her Family," sheds interesting biographical light on the famed novelist within her family realm while the second and third sections entitled, "England and the World" and "A Sense of Place" shows how certain aspects of Georgian and Regency society affected Austen, her family and her fictional characters.

Part two contains very thorough synopses of Austen’s novels, which include more information than one might expect. For instance, the synopsis of "Persuasion," in addition to summarizing in detail the love story of Captain Wentworth and Anne Elliott, also includes a lengthy quote from a 19th century Lyme guidebook as well as an entire paragraph describing contemporary Lyme in light of approximating the spot where Louisa Musgrove fell. The synopsis of "Emma" contains detailed description of 18th century Bristol, which sheds some very interesting light on Mrs. Elton, as she originated from that city.

Le Faye’s writing is both exquisitely crafted and straightforward. The copious accompanying illustrations – maps, sketches, portraits (included as they resemble the physical descriptions of Austen’s characters) and some photos – are simply breathtaking and add layers of depth to Le Faye’s insightful prose.

This book is a very enlightening trip into Jane Austen’s world that her fans will truly appreciate.