Jane of Austin: A Novel of Sweet Tea and Sensibility by Hillary Manton Lodge

(Thank you to Blogging For Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Just a few years after their father’s business scandal shatters their lives, Jane and Celia Woodward find themselves forced out of their San Francisco tea shop. The last thing Jane wants is to leave their beloved shop on Valencia Street, but when Celia insists on a move to Austin, Texas, the sisters pack up their kid sister Margot and Jane’s tea plants, determined to start over yet again.

But life in Austin isn’t all sweet tea and breakfast tacos. Their unusual living situation is challenging and unspoken words begin to fester between Jane and Celia. When Jane meets and falls for up-and-coming musician Sean Willis, the chasm grows deeper.

While Sean seems to charm everyone in his path, one person is immune – retired Marine Captain Callum Beckett. Callum never meant to leave the military, but the twin losses of his father and his left leg have returned him to the place he least expected—Texas.

In this modern spin on the Austen classic, Sense and Sensibility, the Woodward sisters must contend with new ingredients in unfamiliar kitchens, a dash of heartbreak, and the fragile hope that maybe home isn't so far away.

my thoughts:

Jane of Austin is a delightful, funny romance that is perfect for summer reading.  A retelling of Austen's brilliant novel, Sense and Sensibility, this modern version offers up a fresh spin on the old classic.  Set in Austin, TX we find ourselves captivated by the lovely Woodward sisters.  Due to financial scandal, they had to shut down their tea shop in San Fran and take up residence with some distant cousin in TX.  Talk about a wake up call!  Of course, the sisters are determined to make a go of things and set out to open up a new tea shop in their new homestead.  Tea and scones, anyone?  I couldn't help but crave these delicious treats as I read this book - the descriptions were mouth-watering and there are recipes in back! YUMMY!

As for the story, well, its not just about sisterly love.  There are the ups and downs of living in too-close quarters, opening up a new business, and falling in love.  Yep, there is romance, heartbreak, and a handsome, dashing man (or two).  And, there is drama galore - twists and turns that lead to confusion, anger, hurt, and heartache. So much drama - I loved it!!  Suffice it to say, the book has it all and I absolutely gobbled it up.  I sat down with my copy and didn't get back up til I was through with the book - it was just too darn good to put down.  I absolutely loved Jane of Austin.

I would happily recommend this book to fans of Hillary Manton Lodge and fans of retellings of classics - you will LOVE Jane of Austin!!




I received this book from Blogging For Books for this review.