Readers aching for a contemporary Jane Austen novel will be relieved to find it in Cathleen Schine’s latest, “The Three Weissmans of Westport.” In this follow-up to “The New Yorkers,” Betty Weissman moves to Westport, Connecticut, after her husband of 50 years decides to leave her for another woman. She is joined by her two daughters—both going through hard times themselves—and what results is a book replete with unforgettable characters. Publishers Weekly praises the book’s “lovably flawed leads and the best tearjerker finale you’re likely to read this year.” And Booklist says:
It may be hard to envision a novel of manners set in our ill-mannered times, but accomplished author Schine has captured the essence of “Sense and Sensiblity” and dropped it into today’s Manhattan and Westport. The wide-ranging cast of characters—fools, scoundrels, poseurs, the good-hearted, and secret heroes – provides interesting interplay. Wild coincidences abound, so that Manhattan, Westport, and Palm Springs are but mere extensions of the classic drawing room. There is sadness but also love in his thoroughly enjoyable, finely crafted modern novel.
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