Ben H Winters
Quirk
Otago Daily Times, 2009
I’m sure that Ben H Winters thought that mixing B-grade horror with subtle social satire was a good idea. I’m not so certain his ‘co-author’ Jane Austen would agree.
In Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, a well-bred young woman must be proficient not only in music, art and embroidery, but also able to kill a homicidal sea-monster with her bare hands without breaking a sweat. When Mr Henry Dashwood is torn to death by a hammerhead shark, the Dashwood daughters and their mother find themselves domiciled on the bleak and isolated Deadwood Isle, far from the comfort and society of their childhood home.
They do not want for company however, and while Elinor, the eldest, pines for her brother-in-law Edward Ferrars, 16 year old Marianne is courted by both the dashing young treasure hunter Willougby, who saves her from a giant octopus his wetsuit showing off his manly beauty to striking effect. But the worthy Colonel Brandon also seeking her hand, despite a curse that has afflicted him with extensive facial tentacles. Heartbreak is guaranteed, and we can only hope true love prevails-unless avenging denizens of the deep kill them all. If only!
Although the original concept is mildly amusing, the authors have already collaborated on Pride, Prejudice and Zombies, and I’m not sure it merits a reprisal. Furthermore, despite maintaining the central narrative of Ms Austen’s original novel, the social parody in which she excels becomes a blunt instrument in Mr Winters’ hands. This is not one for the Jane Austen book club.
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