'the forgotten book' by mechthild glaser

Emma is used to things going her way. Her father is headmaster of her prestigious boarding school, her friends take her advice as gospel, and she's convinced that a relationship with her long-time crush is on the horizon.

As it turns out, Emma hasn't seen anything yet. When she finds an old book in an abandoned library, things really start going Emma's way: anything she writes in the book comes true.

But the power of the book is not without consequences, and Emma soon realizes that she isn't the only one who knows about it. Someone is determined to take it from her—and they'll stop at nothing to succeed.

A new boy in school—the arrogant, aloof, and irritatingly handsome Darcy de Winter—becomes Emma's unlikely ally as secrets are revealed and danger creeps ever closer.

My review:

4/5

Have you ever wanted a mash-up retelling of Jane Austen's Emma AND Pride and Prejudice, with some magic thrown in for fun? Honestly, that isn't a thing I ever knew I wanted. But oh boy am I glad it exists.

THE FORGOTTEN BOOK is exactly what I described above. It draws inspiration from both Emma and Pride and Prejudice - wee! - while weaving it's own magically fun tale. The protagonist, aptly named Emma, captures the spirit of her classic predecessor wonderfully. The way she talks, the things she does, it all fit perfectly with how I would envision a sixteen-year-old modern Emma. And although this time around there isn't a Mr. Knightley to keep her in check, there is a swoony young Darcy whom I promptly fell in love with. As one does where a Mr. Darcy is involved.

This one was a really quick read for me. As with last year's The Book Jumper, I was drawn into the story immediately, and while it wasn't as deep as some of the other fantasy titles out there right now, it was fun and refreshing. The characters were all a hoot, and I feel that the author did a really great job of building a new, quirky world within our own real world. I loved all of the nods to some of my favorite books.

I definitely recommend both of Mechthild Glaser's books, but especially THE FORGOTTEN BOOK. It's a really fun, fast read. And if you're an Austen fan then you're really in for a treat!

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