Juliane reviewed Pilgrims don't wear pink by Stephanie Kate Strohm
Review of "Pilgrims don't wear pink" on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
German Review: buechertruhe.blogspot.com/2011/09/rezension-pilgrims-dont-wear-pink.html
Deutsche Rezension: buechertruhe.blogspot.com/2011/09/rezension-pilgrims-dont-wear-pink.html
The Story
Libby is a fan of the past. She loves Jane Austen, Shakespeare and historical romances. In summer, she decides to work in a camp which is under the slogan of the 18th Century. Libby is shocked at first: an unfriendly roommate, uncomfortable clothes and a spirit that spits in the camp.
But it all has evolved quite differently than she first thought: She gets to know Cam, a young man who works also at the camp - as a sailor - steals her heart.
But he seems almost too perfect to be true ...?
My opinion:
I would have neeeever thought that I would like this book so much! The cover is funny, but I would have expected a flat and nice novel. Wrong! The story is much better than you would think from the blurb and the cover. More than once …
German Review: buechertruhe.blogspot.com/2011/09/rezension-pilgrims-dont-wear-pink.html
Deutsche Rezension: buechertruhe.blogspot.com/2011/09/rezension-pilgrims-dont-wear-pink.html
The Story
Libby is a fan of the past. She loves Jane Austen, Shakespeare and historical romances. In summer, she decides to work in a camp which is under the slogan of the 18th Century. Libby is shocked at first: an unfriendly roommate, uncomfortable clothes and a spirit that spits in the camp.
But it all has evolved quite differently than she first thought: She gets to know Cam, a young man who works also at the camp - as a sailor - steals her heart.
But he seems almost too perfect to be true ...?
My opinion:
I would have neeeever thought that I would like this book so much! The cover is funny, but I would have expected a flat and nice novel. Wrong! The story is much better than you would think from the blurb and the cover. More than once I laughed out loud and got several fits of giggling. That happens not very often when I read a book.
The negative first: It's a pity but I have to say that the beginning of this story is pretty weak. Libby is close to her departure, and she talks to Dev, her best (gay) friend. I think this entry scene is too long and not-entertaining. But well - who reads on wins. As soon as Libby arrives at the camp, the fun begins.
The whole abient alone is hilarious. All young people who put themselves into corsets, dresses and tights... Not missing the cavaliers who bring flowers! Events take place on large ships, halls or in a kitchen that is not equipped with a single electrical appliance.
Libby gets into a love triangle, without realizing it. As a reader, you suspect very early what is behind all. Cam is a slimy charmer that reminds strongly to Willoughby and Wickham. The Austen fan knows right away: He's not kosher.
Also outside the men world every Austen fan can look forward to the story. Allusions are en masse. Libby likes to talk about her favorite books and movies. For example, she explains why Henry Tilney is her favorite Austen hero. But not only Jane Austen is treated here. Even new-fangled things, like the movie "Legally Blonde". Sort of like Elle Libby feels first among all the "freaks".
Ultimately, the book is not exciting or tragic. Rather, it is a light novel, it wins with romance - and his wit. The author writes funny and witty dialogues, again and again adds clever scenes that are familiar to one and puts directly a picture of a movie in one's mind. Some may find this annoying - I love it!
The writing style is casual, the book can be read quickly and it's hard to put it down. The characters are addictive. Libby may be a little naive she's allowed to with her sixteen years. Her friend and enemies are fun and real - yes, those snakes are everywhere. The true hero of the story is to fall in love with ;-)
By the way, a word about the love story: What a good morale. Yes, the same morality that already taught Jane Austen, but they young people can not be told enough. You should keep your eyes open, who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. In this book, there is fortunatly a happy ending. I love the ending! This one will warm your heart and you can just say "Awwwwww".
All in all:
A feel-good book that will cheer up every rainy mood. For young romantics who are in the film, television, music and literary genre familiar - a must-read! The story is full of romance and comedy. I keep my fingers crossed that the novel will be filmed someday.