French Lieutenant's Woman, The
Fowles, JohnA somewhat experimental novel with surprises. Set in 19th-century Lyme Regis.
Comments from Groups
We all enjoyed reading "The French Lieutenant's Woman". Some of our group had read it twice before and were pleased to have the opportunity of re-reading it. John Fowles skills and ability to draw the reader into the Victorian world and his depiction of the characters also enjoyed. Lively discussion comparing the moral and social scenes of Victorian times with the present day. Wellington 31Quite a complicated book, a range of different views. Interesting to watch the film also, with its two side-running themes. The book took us into prolonged discussion and argument. We had a great morning with plenty of laughs and a wide variety of reactions. Cambridge 002This generated a lot of discussion - especially the alternate endings. Wellington 27Four loved this book and four found it annoyed them greatly! Carterton 002
Pages
399
399
Year
1969
1969
Reviews
03-10-2022
This novel provoked a great deal of discussion. There was a feeling that we must have read different versions since we had such varying ideas! Most of us found it initially difficult to get into and agreed that it required a great deal of concentration. It certainly was a stimulating novel and the discussion made some of the group feel they would like to re-read the book in the light of what was revealed during the discussion!
03-10-2022
Most of us felt like starting this book all over again as soon as we had finished. As well as puzzling over the enigmatic character of Sarah, we were fascinated by the sociological comments on the Victorian era.
03-10-2022
We found this book very interesting, but struggled with the notes. The questions were obscure and difficult to answer.
03-10-2022
We enjoyed this but puzzled over the ending.
03-10-2022
Some really enjoyed it - one didn't at all, found it hard work! All found the F.L.W (Sarah) a difficult character to understand - seemed bizarre! We all now want to see the film to find out how they handled the surprises and the endings. We also intend to read at least one more by Fowles' other novels to compare them. All enjoyed his use of language, irony and turn of phrase.
03-10-2022
Allow plenty of time to get through this book! We all agreed that it was a great book, but will be calling on the library to finish it off.
03-10-2022
Very good discussion. Those who read it as a text book enjoyed it, but as a novel the author kept straying from the story to put in his views. We were all glad to have read it.
03-10-2022
Such a mixed response to this novel. Personally I loved it. Fowles perfectly portraying the social customs and mores of 20th century Britain. It's no wonder our forebears sought a better life in N.Z. However several members found the structure and language required too much concentration and could not sustain the read.
03-10-2022
3 out of 10 members finished it. Hard to get into it with this Victorian English! A few words not even in the dictionary. Author talking to readers with information and suggestions. We will have a movie night with the film!