The CBG is gearing up to discuss John Lanchester's The Debt to Pleasure in just over a week's time, but for our May book I've gone back to the master list of suggested titles and chosen Daphne du Maurier's 1951 novel My Cousin Rachel.
This may well be a book you've read before, perhaps a long time ago, but it's bound to be new to many of us, and should, I hope, be an excellent read. Here's the blurb:
"Orphaned at an early age, Philip Ashley is raised by his benevolent older cousin, Ambrose. Resolutely single, Ambrose delights in Philip as his heir, a man who will come to love his grand house as much as he does himself. But the cosy world the two have constructed is shattered when Ambrose sets off on a trip to Florence. There he falls in love and marries - and there he dies suddenly.
In almost no time at all, the new widow - Philip's cousin Rachel - turns up in England. Despite himself, Philip is drawn to this beautiful, sophisticated, mysterious woman like a moth to the flame. And yet ... might she have had a hand in Ambrose's death?"
Sally Beauman says in her introduction that this was the last of Daphne du Maurier's great bestsellers, a book in which she used the full battery of her skills ..."The result is dazzling".
My Cousin Rachel should be easily obtainable through retailers and libraries wherever you are, but in case of difficulty, The Book Depository will supply it with free delivery worldwide. Let's talk about from Saturday 22nd. May onwards, and please do join us if you haven't done so before and would like to take part - we are a friendly bunch!
I read it quite recently and thought it was a wonderful novel. I look forward to hearing others' opinions.
Posted by: Harriet | 15 April 2010 at 01:14 PM
I remember this book very fondly. After I read "Rebecca" I read as many other Du Maurier books as I could find.
Posted by: Julie Fredericksen | 15 April 2010 at 02:48 PM
I'm sorry I've not read along for several of the past books you've chosen. I read this years ago and loved it and would enjoy reading it again, so hopefully will be able to join in in May. I see on your sidebar you are reading the new Joanne Harris novel--can't wait to hear what you think of it, and am also happy to see a new Babara Trapido! I'll dig out my copy of My Cousin Rachel very soon!
Posted by: Danielle | 15 April 2010 at 03:03 PM
Goodness me, I've actually read this book (a first for CBG and me) and within living memory too! I will now have the very unusual experience of re-reading a novel within about 12 months of my very first encounter.
Posted by: Dark Puss | 15 April 2010 at 06:12 PM
I would love to join in. I read My Cousin Rachel a couple years ago and would enjoy a reread as well as hearing what others think of it. Now I have to go find my copy!
Posted by: Jaimie | 16 April 2010 at 04:41 PM
Excellent, Jaimie!
Posted by: Cornflower | 16 April 2010 at 07:22 PM
Oooh I will be joining in for this one, yes, yes, yes. Well i hope I will be able too if am about on the date. I think I am though, hoorah!
Posted by: Simon (Savidge Reads) | 17 April 2010 at 12:09 AM
Yea! I got this for Christmas and haven't read it yet. I'm looking forward to reading along with ya'll.
Posted by: Susan in TX | 17 April 2010 at 03:19 AM
My Real Life book group did My Cousin Rachel maybe 18 months ago, and I was quite impressed. I thought it was the cleverest character I'd read in a long time... but won't give any more away, lest I spoil the book!
Posted by: Simon T | 17 April 2010 at 10:04 PM
Great - It's a wonderful book. Also the 1st time I've read the CBG book beforehand. Actually I've read it several times, over many years. I have found du Maurier's books readable, clever and memorable. Another read of this book will be a joy. Thank yoohoo!
Posted by: Sandy | 20 April 2010 at 08:53 PM
I'll be joining in if I get hold of a copy in time. I'd love to read this. :)
Posted by: claire (kiss a cloud) | 21 April 2010 at 03:59 AM
I would love to join in with this one too. I have just found this book group and it seems really great and I am looking forward to reading the book.
Posted by: Alison | 21 April 2010 at 04:57 PM
Great, Alison - welcome!
Posted by: Cornflower | 21 April 2010 at 05:11 PM
What a coincidence! I'm reading this right now after just having enjoyed The House on the Strand. Lyn at I Prefer Reading just told me that this is your book club choice for May. Perfect! I can finally join one of your group reads.
Posted by: Mrs.B. | 24 April 2010 at 08:41 AM
Good, Mrs. B!
Posted by: Cornflower | 27 April 2010 at 05:37 PM