Sense and Sensibility

Star Read: ★☆☆☆☆

Summary: When Mr. Dashwood dies, his three daughter's and wife are left to endure financial hardships forcing them to leave their home and move to a cottage in Devonshire. Upon settling into their new surroundings, Marianne Dashwood, the romantic middle daughter, encounters Colonel Brandon, a man of considerable age and reserved demeanor who is immediately taken by her. However, it is not Colonel Brandon who captures Marianne's heart at first glance, but the dashing John Willoughby when Marianne takes a tumble while out for a walk, and Willoughby gallantly rushes to her aid. As time passes and their relationship deepens, Marianne begins to envision a future with Willoughby. During this time her elder sister Elinor, who has always been the most composed of the family, grapples with her own heartache when she learns Edward Ferris, the man she has feelings with, is bound by an engagement to another woman. As the Dashwood sisters navigate their emotional romantic entanglements, they are also thrust into the complex and unfamiliar world of social parties, whispered gossip, and the intricate dynamics of wealth and class. In this new environment, the sisters must learn to balance their desires with the realities of their circumstances while facing the challenges in their lives.

Suggested age rating: 18+ based on minor language, sexual references, as well as a more complex narrative.

Review: This classic novel, while loved by many, presents a narrative filled with more lows than highs, making it a challenging read for those unaccustomed to its pacing and style. The language barrier present can create a significant delay in comprehension, requiring readers to invest considerable effort to fully grasp the difference in vocabulary as the story unfolds. Due to this, the book is undeniably a slow read, with few pivotal moments that drive the plot forward or significantly alter the characters' trajectories. This lack of buildup and significant events can lead to a sense of stagnation, leaving one to wonder if the story will ever reach a satisfying conclusion or if it is simply wondering through the lives of its characters. Despite my personal reservations about the novel, I found a glimmer of appreciation for the author's choice to create two contrasting sisters at the heart of the story. The sisters, while different in temperament and outlook, navigate their respective challenges with a sense of loyalty showcasing how powerful the bond of sisterhood is. Another positive in the novel was the era in which the book is set, which provides a rich backdrop that enhances the reader's understanding of the societal hardships faced by lower-class individuals during that time. In conclusion, while I found myself disengaged from the novel due to its slow pacing and the absence of significant, transformative moments, I recognize that my personal taste may not align with the preferences of others. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that this novel may still appeal to many readers, particularly those who have a fondness for romance novels or stories set in different historical contexts. For such individuals, the intricate relationships and the exploration of societal issues may provide a rewarding reading experience, making this classic novel a cherished addition to their literary collection.

Language: 28 uses of the Lord's name in vain, 1 bi***, 1 ba*****, and gay is said as happy.

Indecency/Sex: A character is said to have an illegitimate child and partaking in a life of sin referring to being with several men sexually. Mention of a character being vulgar, characters being lovers, and a woman undressing (not meant sexually). A man leads a woman on even though he is engaged. The terms intercourse, making love, and being intimate are stated though each is not meant as a reference to sex they are referring to their other meanings.

Violence and Gore: Mention of characters dying.

Frightening Scenes: None present.

Substance Abuse: Characters drink alcohol and one character becomes drunk.

Spiritual Content: A character is said to meditate, church, and someone's Christian name is brought up. A character wants to work in the church and become a priest. Many characters bless and praise God.

Genres: Fiction, adult, historical, romance, classic.