davemeister28 's review for:

The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides
4.0

Interesting, entertaining piece of literary fiction. Set in the 1980s, this book centers on Madeleine Hanna, a young woman graduating from Brown with a degree in English. Her thesis, in a circular nod to this novel's title and story, regards "The Marriage Plot"--the plotline in historical works (such as Jane Austen's) that concerns a woman's journey into marriage and beyond.

I say "circular" because, of course, this novel concerns Madeleine's own romantic journey. The twist is that it's the '80s, and that brings with it several wrinkles not present in Regency/Victorian Era works. How would "The Marriage Plot" play out in a more modern context?

The characters here are likable not despite, but because of their flaws. Are they annoying or do something infuriating now and then? Sure. That the characters evoke a reaction is a sign that the reader cares. The plot is engaging, the pacing is good, and every word by this talented author is in place. Long story short, if the cover blurb sounds at all interesting to you, then The Marriage Plot will prove to be worth your time.