With a beautiful cover and a catchy subtitle, I was quick to fall for Jane of Austin by Hillary Manton Lodge.
As a Jane Austen fan, this modern-day tale had me captivated immediately with the story line of the three Woodward sisters and their story “of sweet tea and sensibility.” And as a reader who is native Texan, there were quite a few relate-able moments, celebrating my state’s capitol city. Another enjoyable element was the Texas (and tea) quotes Lodge includes as chapter introductions.
Enhanced with the point of view from two main characters, Lodge did a fabulous job of alternating the male perspective—a veteran—as well as the female’s—Jane Woodward, tea enthusiast. The drama did not fall short of an expected Austen retelling.
The included recipes were a surprising addition to the novel, somewhat reminiscent of Joann Fluke. For the sake of being an over-achiever, I tried the “Backyard Frito Pie” and the family gave the dish an “A.” (If I would have attempted one of the sweet recipes, I’m sure the table would have given me a round of applause!)
Even though it has a category of "Christian," only a few mentions of a church or musicians would lend itself that way.
It was a clean romance full of personable characters and makes for a fast, fun read.