Book 192

Pride, Prejudice, and Cheese Grits, by Mary Jane Hathaway, 2013.

I should preface my review by saying that I do not, as a rule, read romantic novels.  At least not since I was about thirteen.  I will occasionally read a historical novels, but I generally prefer mysteries, classical literature, and nonfiction.  I do, however, read (and love) Jane Austen, so the premise of this book intrigued me. 

Mary Jane Hathaway wisely avoided rewriting or reinterpreting Pride and Prejudice.  She limited herself to referencing it, both literally at the start of each chapter, and figuratively throughout the story arc. 

Not only is Pride, Prejudice, and Cheese Grits a romantic novel, it is a Christian romantic novel, which, sadly, does not always result in good or even readable literature.  Happily, Hathaway avoided all the heavy-handed traps by keeping her writing light and deft.  Further, she has crafted a story that is interesting and engaging, and characters that are appealing, likable and flawed enough to be relatable.