EDMUND BERTRAM'S DIARY

Author: Amanda Grange ISBN: 9780709084648 12/2007 HISTORICAL Publisher: ROBERT HALE LTD.
Time Period: Regency England 1800-1809

Edmund Bertram's well ordered life at Mansfield Park is turned upside down by the arrival of the bewitching Miss Crawford. She brings the excitement of the fashionable world to the countryside, quickly captivating him with her beauty and her wit. But she is not all she seems to be, and if Edmund is to find the happiness he deserves he will need the help of all his friends, not least the gentle Fanny Price.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Once again, Amanda Grange has provided a highly entertaining retelling of a classic Jane Austen novel, as seen through the hero's eyes. EDMUND BERTRAM'S DIARY is pure fun, with the story told in a diary format that makes the reader feel like she's taking a peek into Edmund's most innermost thoughts. It gives an opportunity to see the intricate, and sometimes silly, workings of this Regency era country gentleman.

Edmund Bertram lives a peaceful existence at Mansfield Park. That is, until Fanny Price comes to stay with the family. His sisters are jealous of younger, shy, sweet Fanny, his brother indifferent, too consumed by his own pleasure to give much thought to the newcomer, his parents conscious of their responsibility while his meddling aunt is "obliged" to make certain Fanny doesn't get above herself. Edmund quickly learns he is capable of tender, compassionate feelings toward Fanny. The years go on and everyone gets older, if not wiser. Fanny and Edmund enjoy a friendship which becomes precarious when Mary Crawford comes on the scene. Then, everything becomes ridiculously unsettled and it is here where the reader really gets a good look at the love-induced turmoil of an otherwise serene man.

EDMUND BERTRAM'S DIARY is a fast-paced, light-hearted retelling of a familiar tale. It was the perfect way to wile away a snowy Sunday afternoon. I enjoyed every moment of it, and I believe Jane Austen fans, as well as those who enjoy a quick Regency romance, will too.

Kay James