In The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay, Mary Davies, an engineer who is married to her work, is invited to travel to Bath England. Mary is hesitant to go, but she is desperately searching for some rest and recuperation. However, instead of a relaxing vacation, she is immersed in a world of messy relationships and unforeseen events. Just as circumstances seem to spin out of control, there is an unexpected opportunity for love. Will Mary take the chance on a relationship that she never thought possible? Or is she better off being alone?
The Austen Escape has an interesting premise and a character with a unique occupation. The complicated relationships provide the depth the reader has come to expect from a Katherine Reay plot. The English countryside and its surroundings are delightful as well. However, there is an inexplicable distance in the story, and I have a hard time relating to the characters. The story is tedious in some places which is unusual for such an incredible author. The Austen Escape has a lot of potential, but it isn’t my favorite.
Katherine's Chronicle 