The Summer Before the War(Random House) is Helen Simonson’s latest novel. It’s set in Rye, East Sussex, just before World War I. The death of Beatrice’s father leaves her in straitened circumstances. But she’s determined to make her own way. In her review, Betsy Burton says Simonson “has crafted a most deliciously readable, romantic, satiric—and insightful—book.”
Then, Austen Diamond’s picked out a few weeknight concerts—well worth attending, he says, if you don’t mind staying out late.
Indie-rockers Little Green Cars hail from Dublin, Ireland. They’ll be at The State Room on Monday, March 28th.
Or, if you’re in more of a dancing mood that night, Chairlift might be the show for you—over at Urban Lounge.
Shannon and the Clams produced one of Austen’s favorite albums last year. If you like garage- and surf-rock music, they’ll be at Urban Lounge on Wednesday, March 30th.
Music heard on this Books & Beats:
Intro: “Two Figures by a Fountain” by Dario Marianelli
1: “Easier Day” by Little Green Cars
2: “Ch-Ching” by Chairlift
3: “Ozma” by Shannon and the Clams.