I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

This book was absolutely adorable! The story is told from the perspective of 17 year old Cassandra Mortmain who lives in a dilapidated English castle with her family - a father, a stepmother, a younger brother, and an older sister. They are quite isolated from society not only because of their location but because of their limited funds brought about by Cassandra's father's struggles as a writer - he is suffering from writer's block and hasn't written a book in a really long time.

Cassandra, an aspiring writer herself, spends a lot of her time writing on her diary. She records the minutiae of their daily life which goes on pretty uneventfully until two young men - Neil and Simon Cotton - arrive to claim the estate.

Romance ensues among the characters - Cassandra, her beautiful sister Rose, and the Cottons. Insecurity, jealousy, longing, and unrequited love arise in this beautifully told coming of age story.

I found out about this book when J.K. Rowling cited it as one of her favorite books. Rowling stated that "I Capture the Castle" has "one of the most charismatic narrators" she had ever met, and she was right. Many girls will find themselves relating to Cassandra - her dreams, her doubts, her imagination, and her longing for love. As the plain sister, compared to the enticing Rose, she is often overlooked, and the reader can't help but sympathize with her. She also writes in a way that is absolutely charming. She is witty and descriptive. She is innocent but also very sensible. This book actually reminded me a lot of a Jane Austen novel, and that is always a plus for me. :)

This book was an absolute joy to read, but was also quite sad and poignant. After I turned the last page (especially the last page!), Cassandra left such a deep impression in me. In a way, she became a friend forever.

5 stars *****