Friday, February 25, 2011

Persephone Reading Weekend

When I decided to participate in the Persephone Reading Weekend I wanted to make sure I could actually finish the book I started. I have several Persephone's on my shelf but they are quite lengthy; more than just a weekend read for me.

The Making of a Marchioness was a perfect fit.


To say that this is a quick read would be an understatement; I actually read this book in less than a day. What sweet few hours I spent in the life of Emily Fox-Seton. Emily is so endearing, much like Polly in 'An Old Fashioned Girl'. Yes, the book is predictable; I, however found the simplicity of the writing enjoyable and pure. Call me old fashioned but I really enjoy a wholesome read these days.

You are taken on a summer journey with Miss Fox-Seton as she is performing her duties as (in modern terms) executive assistant to Lady Maria in the country. Nothing seems to faze Miss Fox-Seton as she works tirelessly to please. Her hard work goes unnoticed to no one but herself. She is so appreciative of every ones "kindness" and is so glad to be of use. As cirucumstances would have it, dear Emily's comfortable little world is given quite an upset that even she, the queen of optimism, is having difficulty bearing ... until ... no spoilers here!

This was a fun little event to participate in. I am in the middle of a book that is close to 1000 pages long so I appreciate the sense of accomplishment having finished this book. Leave me a comment and tell me if you have ever read a Persephone and if so, what is your favorite and your name will be thrown in the hat for my copy of 'The Making of a Marchioness'. Now, don't get too excited - my copy is the one pictured above (It's not a gray cover or the American cover version). I'll announce the winner on Wednesday.

7 comments:

~ The Jolly Bee ~ said...

I panicked for a minute, thinking it was ttpt and I was caught unprepared. But no, it's Friday. We're ok. Your Persephone book sounds like a sweet read.

Old Dominion Heather said...

I didn't know she wrote for adults. I read many (most?) of her children's fiction: The Secret Garden, Little Lord Fauntleroy, A Little Princess. I may have to look for that one!

Paperback Reader said...

No need to enter me, Adrienne, as I have a copy of this but did you know that the Persephone edition has a sequel of sorts? Two volumes in one (I originally read the one shorter volume too - ideal for an event like this!)

The Shuttle by Frances Hodgson Burnett is also published by Persephone and is an outstandingly compelling and enjoyable read.

Thank you for joining us for our Persephone Reading Weekend.

Harriet said...

What a delightful sounding read! And one that can be read in less than a day is always appealing. I shall be reading Gardener's Nightcap by Muriel Stuart as my Persephone read this weekend. Thank you for all the links about this great idea.

Cristina (Rochester Reader) said...

Thank you for a lovely review. This is one I want to read!

Paige said...

I haven't ever heard of or read a Persephone book - I'm intrigued!

Paula said...

I've not read a Persephone book but every one you review sounds sweet and fun. I really really need to check Persephone out!