Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange
F Grange, A.
As indicated by the title, this sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice takes a supernatural turn. The novel, told from Elizabeth’s point of view, begins the morning of Darcy and Elizabeth’s wedding. They leave for continental Europe on their wedding journey so that Darcy may seek the advice of old friends and relatives on overcoming the obstacles to their marriage created by their “differences”. Elizabeth is a bit dismayed by this, as she believed they had already resolved any issues arising from their different social standings. In some respects, the giveaway in the title is unfortunate, as the reader might have enjoyed putting together the clues (some subtle, some not so) as to why Darcy attempts to keep a certain distance between himself and his bride. References to conversations and events from Pride and Prejudice appear throughout the novel, and Ms. Grange does a good job of using language similar to that in Austen’s work, making it easier to see this book as a sequel. Several characters from the original also make an appearance. Lady Catherine de Burgh’s inclusion provides the reader with a new and different view of her objection to Darcy and Elizabeth’s marriage. While the resolution at the end may be a bit too easy, this novel is a fun way to revisit some of Austen’s most famous characters. - Shelley Geyer
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
F Strout, E.
Elizabeth Strout’s novel-in-stories Olive Kitteridge won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for fiction and, having read it twice, I am thrilled that it was honored with this award. Olive Kitteridge is quite simply an astonishing book, and its main character is unforgettable. The book deals with large, sweeping themes (death, infidelity, violence) but its beauty lies in the attention Strout pays to the small, intimate details of life. In September, Strout spoke at the North Carolina Literary Festival. In her talk she said, “fiction matters.” With Olive Kitteridge, Strout has proved that conviction with a remarkable, lyrical book that also pierces the reader with razor-sharp observations. Not to be missed. - Marian Fragola
20 Fiction