Book Review: Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen|#AustenBookClub BOTM-March

Blurb (as on Goodreads):

Jane Austen’s first novel—published posthumously in 1818—tells the story of Catherine Morland and her dangerously sweet nature, innocence, and sometime self-delusion. Though Austen’s fallible heroine is repeatedly drawn into scrapes while vacationing at Bath and during her subsequent visit to Northanger Abbey, Catherine eventually triumphs, blossoming into a discerning woman who learns truths about love, life, and the heady power of literature. The satirical novel pokes fun at the gothic novel while earnestly emphasizing caution to the female sex.

“The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid.”

The mention of an Abbey brings to my mind, a haunted castle, some possessed objects, and a very dark, almost murderous history. Do you feel the same?

Well, our protagonist does. Catherine Morland is your average girl who would rather be outdoors than worry about trivial things such as education. But when she gets a chance to visit Bath, she makes some very gossipy and enthusiastic friends. She also gets to meet the man of her dreams- Mr. Henry Tilney.

“No man is offended by another man’s admiration of the woman he loves; it is the woman only who can make it a torment.”- Henry Tilney

‘Northanger Abbey’ is different from other Austen’s books. The protagonist is a horror book fanatic and has strange taste in friends. She is kindhearted, says what’s on her mind and has a curious side. I enjoyed reading about Catherine because she sees life as black and white. Mr. Tinley, on the other hand, stole my heart with his light-hearted humor, a great perspective about life in general, and his love for Catherine (Darcy is still the best because misunderstood guys are my thing).

The story has been narrated slightly differently too. The Author is proud of her heroine and she is enjoying writing about the adventures of Catherine Morland herself because Catherine is so ordinary and normal- no sharp words, no attitude etc, just a dreamy teenage girl.

The social status and money a girl will bring in to a family play a role here and so does the importance of a normal childhood. Mr. Tilney’s father represents parents who would rather be cold than understanding their spouse or children. All in all, its a wonderful story about hopeless love, conniving friends and a loving family.

Purchase Links:                                 |Amazon Paperback|