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siria's review
3.0
One of the better examples of a biography that I've read lately, Harman's book examines not only Fanny Burney's life, but gives us a wonderful glimpse of the wider world in which she found herself. It's well-written, with some lovely clear prose. I think the aspect of the book which I liked the most, however, was that Harman displayed a clear empathy with Burney, and a respect for her, but at the same time didn't allow that to blind herself to other aspects of the woman's personality. Harman has a very deft and concise way of exposing the contradictions, weaknesses and distinctive elements of Burney's personality which make her so fascinating to read about.
A warning, though, that this is not the book to read if you don't want to hear about the details - and very in-depth details at that - of a mastectomy as performed in an era before the advent of anaesthesia or pain killers. *winces*
A warning, though, that this is not the book to read if you don't want to hear about the details - and very in-depth details at that - of a mastectomy as performed in an era before the advent of anaesthesia or pain killers. *winces*
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