Quick Take

In the vein of Downton Abbey, Jane Austen's beloved but unfinished masterpiece-often considered her most modern and exciting novel-gets a spectacular second act in this tie-in to a major new limited television series. Written only months before Austen's death in 1817, Sanditon tells the story of the joyously impulsive, spirited and unconventional Charlotte Heywood and her spiky relationship with the humorous, charming (and slightly wild!) Sidney Parker. When a chance accident transports her from her rural hometown of Willingden to the would-be coastal resort of the eponymous title, it exposes Charlotte to the intrigues and dalliances of a seaside town on the make, and the characters whose fortunes depend on its commercial success. The twists and turns of the plot, which takes viewers from the West Indies to the rotting alleys of London, exposes the hidden agendas of each character and sees Charlotte discover herself... and ultimately find love.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Sanditon

Introduction

"Sanditon" is a captivating novel that brings Jane Austen's unfinished masterpiece to life in a new and exciting way. Written by Kate Riordan, this book offers a fresh interpretation of Austen's story, taking readers on a journey filled with intrigue, romance, and self-discovery. Set in the early 19th century, the story follows the impulsive and spirited Charlotte Heywood as she navigates the complexities of a seaside town on the brink of commercial success. With its engaging plot and richly drawn characters, "Sanditon" has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its ability to transport them to a world of drama and enchantment.

About Kate Riordan

Kate Riordan, the author of "Sanditon," is a talented writer and journalist from England. With a background in journalism and a passion for storytelling, Riordan brings her unique voice to the world of fiction. Her previous works, such as "Birdcage Walk" and "The Girl in the Photograph," have garnered critical acclaim, showcasing her ability to weave intricate narratives that captivate readers. In "Sanditon," Riordan continues to demonstrate her skill in crafting compelling stories that blend historical fiction with modern sensibilities, creating a reading experience that resonates with audiences.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Plot: Readers appreciate the twists and turns of the plot in "Sanditon," which takes them on a journey from the West Indies to the rotting alleys of London. The book's ability to expose hidden agendas and reveal the characters' true intentions keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Diverse Characters: The book's diverse cast of characters, including Lady Denham, Clara Brereton, and Sir Edward, adds depth and complexity to the story. Readers find themselves invested in the fates of these characters and enjoy watching their relationships unfold.
Continuation of Jane Austen's Legacy: Many readers find "Sanditon" to be a fitting continuation of Jane Austen's legacy. While it differs from Austen's typical style, it still captures the essence of her storytelling and offers a fresh perspective on her beloved characters.
Visualization of the TV Series: Some readers found that reading "Sanditon" after watching the TV series helped them appreciate the book even more. The book provides additional scenes and insights that enhance their understanding of the characters and their motivations.
Moderate Recommendation: While some readers found "Sanditon" to be an enjoyable read, others felt that it lacked the depth and complexity of Austen's other works. Some felt that the characters were thinly developed and that the plot was somewhat predictable. However, they still appreciated the overall experience and enjoyed the book as a historical fiction piece.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Storytelling: Kate Riordan's ability to weave a captivating story that draws readers in is one of the main reasons for recommending "Sanditon." The book's ability to keep readers engaged from start to finish makes it an enjoyable read.
Continuation of Jane Austen's Legacy: For fans of Jane Austen, "Sanditon" offers a chance to explore her unfinished masterpiece in a new light. While it may not be a traditional Austen novel, it still captures the essence of her storytelling style and provides a fresh perspective on her beloved characters.
Diverse Characters: The diverse cast of characters in "Sanditon" adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more engaging for readers. The relationships between these characters and their motivations keep readers invested in their fates.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Depth: Some readers felt that "Sanditon" lacked depth compared to other works by Jane Austen. They found some of the characters to be thinly developed and felt that the plot was somewhat predictable. These factors made it difficult for them to fully engage with the book.
Disappointing Ending: A few readers were disappointed with the ending of "Sanditon." They felt that it was abrupt and left unanswered questions, which detracted from their overall enjoyment of the book. They wished for more closure and resolution for the characters' stories.

Conclusion

"Sanditon" by Kate Riordan is a captivating novel that brings Jane Austen's unfinished masterpiece to life in a new and exciting way. With its engaging plot, diverse characters, and continuation of Austen's legacy, it has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its ability to transport them to a world filled with drama, romance, and self-discovery. While some readers found it lacking in depth compared to other Austen works or felt disappointed with the ending, overall "Sanditon" offers a compelling reading experience that fans of historical fiction and Jane Austen alike will enjoy.