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A review by rereadsromance
The Grand Sophy by Georgette Heyer
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.5
The Grand Sophy is the very first Georgette Heyer book I have ever read, one that was originally published in 1950. I wasn’t sure how much I would like a historical romance written over seventy years ago, but it surprised me.
I found the story charming, laugh out loud funny at times, and only wished the ending hadn't been so abrupt, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, that Charles and Sophy were not literal cousins.
Still, I considered it a solid read. Until I read the note at the end of the story.
After reading the “History and Literary Repair” note, I realized that the original story featured a scene that ...perpetuates structural antisemitism, damaging and undervaluing the people of the Jewish faith.
The note further adds that ...with the support of the Heyer estate, we have engaged in what’s called "literary repair." Changing adjectives and some sentences to move away from damaging stereotypes.
In the end I was left with mixed feelings; because while I enjoyed the story, I do not care to consume media that perpetuates harmful stereotypes, even one that has undergone “literary repair.”
I found the story charming, laugh out loud funny at times, and only wished the ending hadn't been so abrupt, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, that Charles and Sophy were not literal cousins.
Still, I considered it a solid read. Until I read the note at the end of the story.
After reading the “History and Literary Repair” note, I realized that the original story featured a scene that ...perpetuates structural antisemitism, damaging and undervaluing the people of the Jewish faith.
The note further adds that ...with the support of the Heyer estate, we have engaged in what’s called "literary repair." Changing adjectives and some sentences to move away from damaging stereotypes.
In the end I was left with mixed feelings; because while I enjoyed the story, I do not care to consume media that perpetuates harmful stereotypes, even one that has undergone “literary repair.”
Content Warnings
Moderate: Antisemitism