Riddle’s Reviews > Camilla > Status Update

3.3-4stars for me. It was a five for the longest time, but as time went on, it did drop a bit. One of the problems I have with it is how the theme of misunderstanding was used for about 400-500 pages. He walks in, misreads the situation, which could easily be cleared up, gets upset he thinks she's not who he thought she was, then she gets sad..for 100s of pages. It's still good, but it's something to keep in mind.

No one single quality is perhaps more endearing, from man to man, as good nature. Talents excite more admiration; wisdom, more respect; and virtue, more esteem; but with admiration envy is apt to mingle, and fear with respect; while esteem, though honorable, is often cold: but good-nature gives pleasure without any allay. (p.333) no more room

This is why classic literature is my favorite. This is why I adore Burney.

A good 5 so far. This book shows why I like Burney. Not only her writing style, but it also has elements I can't find anywhere else, which is: happy scenes, not just assault of all kinds, and death. In the Ch. "The Barn", they take in a family, whose father just escaped death, and give them more money, and Camilla shows such a wonderful side of herself, taking care of the baby and dancing with their kid. Love it!

I am really enjoying the book so far.(Some spoilers). I do like some of the themes Burney is using, such as the pursuit of knowledge; whether through Mr. Tyrold, the seemingly sporadic teachings of Sir Hugh, or the tutoring of Eugine; I really, really like that in a book. The only other thing is poor Eugine! Getting the pox, and from what I can tell a sort of facial deformity, then a dislocated shoulder. Poor girl!

Not far enough to form an informed opinion, but I have really enjoyed it so far. The setting is interesting, the character dynamics, while one of them has me curious and a feeling a little weird about, are interesting, and I am invested in the plot. Also, I really enjoy her writing style.

This will be my third Burney novel, and I am so excited for it. I hope I enjoy it as much as I enjoyed Evelina.