I guess this book helped me realize that when it comes to reading books intended to be funny, I prefer the subtle and understated British style of comedy. It also turns out to be nearly timeless – still funny after a hundred years.
When I started reading this book I had no idea of how old it was or the story, and it felt like it with a few minor adjustments it could be a contemporary tale. The story of a confident young woman starting a new life in a rather scary situation – the spooky and devoid of life Cold Comfort Farm – was all the better as it put the female lead behind the steering wheel and let her take control of the situation.
The writer showed us each character’s motivations and weaknesses, and we enjoy Flora’s good-hearted manipulations and polite and surefooted suggestions. I felt like I should be reading more female characters that are written in this positive, confident style.
I’ll look into more books like this one – it is a genre that I never thought I would particularly get into, so a nice surprise. Next I’m reading Beloved by Toni Morrison.
