Posted by Cassandra on June 18, 1997 at 18:51:43:
In reply to Re: Perfect Happiness posted by Lori on June 17, 1997 at 21:50:22
I read her review and with all respect intended... I completely disagreed with her. While it is definelty not the quality of Jane Austen, it is certainly the best "Emma" sequel/etc. to date. (I have read the others). It differs in that the characters have more passion than Jane originally intended. And yes, Frank is made out to be a bit of a psychopath.. but I kinda liked that twist. My advice. Read it for yourself and decide. Don't take either of us on our word, because everyone is different!
Lori-I don't know if any Austen sequel can be labelled "best", maybe lesser of evils. And I completely disagree about Billington bringing passion to the Knightley/Emma relationship. There is plenty of passion in JA, albeit between the lines. The proposal scene in particular: "Never had the exquisite sight, smell, sensation of nature, tranquil, warm, and brilliant after a storm, been more attractive to her. One of the things I disliked most about Perfect Happiness was the presentation of the Knightley marriage. In the beginning, Emma is described as if she were presiding over an old folks home. Perfect Happiness is laughable at moments, depending on your mood, -over the top.
Still, yes. Decide for yourself.