During an eventful season at Bath, young, naove Catherine Morland experiences fashionable society for the first time. She is delighted with her new acquaintances: flirtatious Isabella, who introduces Catherine to the joys of Gothic romances, and sophisticated Henry and Eleanor Tilney, who invite her to their father's house, Northanger Abbey. There, influenced by novels of horror and intrigue, Catherine comes to imagine terrible crimes committed by General Tilney, risking the loss of Henry's affection, and must learn the difference between fiction and reality, false friends and true.
With its broad comedy and irrepressible heroine, 'Northanger Abbey' is the most youthful and optimistic of Jane Austen's work.
This edition is based on the first edition of 1818, and includes a new chronology and additional suggestions for further reading.
Witty and Clever
This Jane Austen classic is often overlooked, sitting in the shadows of our beloved Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion and Emma. What a shame It is just as clever and witty as Austen's better-known novels.When young and sheltered Catherine Moreland is thrust into Bath society, her life starts to reflect the mysterious gothic novels she loves to read. She meets dashing Mr Henry Tilney, whose cheeky nature quickly captures Catherine's attention. When she accepts an invitation to the Tilney's home at Northanger Abbey, Catherine stumbles into a great secret- the mysterious death of Henrys mother. As Catherine and Henry's relationships begins to blossom, Catherine becomes obsessed with uncovering the Abbeys secret. Her wild suspicions become known to Henry, jeopardizing their relationship forever.This novel is hard to put down, with witty dialogue, timeless characters, fast-moving storylines and a loveable hero. Definitely one to add to your classics collection. By Jacqueline Cameron
QBD, 31/07/2014