Keeping the Castle

Starred review from April 23, 2012
In her first book in 10 years, Kindl (Lost in the Labyrinth) creates a sharp-witted comedy of manners set in 19th-century England that mirrors the narrative voice of Jane Austen. Seventeen-year-old Althea Crawley’s mission is to secure a husband rich enough to repair the family’s crumbling castle, since her wealthier live-in stepsisters aren’t much help. (They “did feel some obligation to contribute towards their upkeep, but the sum was ever in dispute, and tardy
in payment.”) Althea’s best prospect for a suitable fiancé is newcomer Lord Boring, but much to her annoyance, at social outings and parties she finds herself paired with his brash and outspoken companion, Mr. Fredericks. The banter between Althea and Mr. Fredericks will clue in readers that they are, in fact, a perfect match, something it takes Althea a while longer to recognize. Althea’s tongue-in-cheek commentary regarding the selection of a suitor and her razorlike quips are abundantly entertaining, but it is the heroine’s remarkable ingenuity and compassion for loved ones—including her widowed mother, younger brother, and an artist friend, Miss Vincy—that make her so endearing. Ages 12–up.

November 1, 2013

Gr 7 Up-Althea Crawley, 17, must marry a wealthy suitor in order to ensure her widowed mother and young brother do not end up among the impoverished. Their family castle, though unique in design and dear to their hearts, is poorly made and crumbling. Althea, by far the most attractive woman in Lesser Hoo, should be able to score a rich husband. However, her big mouth has a way of deterring potential proposals. Having run off several local bachelors already, Althea sets her sights on newcomer Lord Boring. She just might be able to secure this one, if only she can refrain from engaging with his obnoxious companion, Mr. Fredericks. Bianca Amato's narration of Kindl's novel ((Viking, 2012) is spot-on for the male roles, but a bit unconvincing when portraying the main character. Despite this drawback, the tale's humor shines through. This take on Pride and Prejudice is full of laughs and unexpected plot twists and a perfect choice for teens who love the romance of Jane Austen's classic but struggle with the language.-Jennifer Furuyama, Pendleton Public Library, OR

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