The Sailor's Rest

by Don Jacobson

"Redemption, revenge, and romance complete the tale as bonds of friendship conquer all."
-CEK

“An extremely well-written story that will keep you reading non-stop until you finish it! An enjoyable mix of Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion that creates a believable mix of original and new characters. A must-read!”
- Teresita in Mexico

“This was absolutely fabulous! It was intelligent and fun while illustrating the depth of the connection between Darcy and Elizabeth and Wentworth and Anne.”
- Pemberley Darcy, author of A Frankness of Character

"Part mystery, part adventure - and all heart - This has the feel of a Hornblower epic."
- Alice McVeigh, author of A Jane Austen Prequel.

Two grooms missing at the altar. Darcy & Wentworth kidnapped. Two great loves tried by separation, battle, and deception.

Set on the stage of Napoleon’s 100 Days, relish the mystery, sea chase, and, finally, the satisfying finish as four yearning hearts--desperate to be reunited-- draw closer together. Join the heart-stopping chase with Anne Elliot & Elizabeth Bennet as they search the tattered rooms of a waterfront inn, suffer on board a frigate engaged in a deadly game of naval chess, and then enter the gilded confines of London’s preeminent card room where revenge is riding on one final hand.

Can true love be lost at sea?

The Sailor’s Rest is set in the Persuasion timeline of 1815 but leaves in place the age and plot constructs established by Austen in Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen’s greatest lovers come together to be tested in the crucible of war on the Mediterranean’s blue waters and in the smoky confines of a prestigious London gambling den.

Genres: Audiobook, Romance, Regency, Fiction

391 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2023

About the author

Don Jacobson has written professionally for forty years. His output has ranged from news and features to advertising, television, and radio. His work has been nominated for Emmys and other awards. He has previously published five books, all non-fiction.

He now exclusively writes Austenesque fiction. In 2016, he published The Keeper: Mary Bennet’s Extraordinary Journey which began the Bennet Wardrobe saga.

Subsequent books in the series include:

Henry Fitzwilliam's War (e-novelette) (2016)
The Exile: Kitty Bennet and the Belle Epoch (2017)
Lizzy Bennet Meets the Countess (2017)
The Exile: The countess Visits Longbourn (2018)
The Avenger: Thomas Bennet and a Father's Lament (2018)
The Pilgrim: Lydia Bennet and a Soldier's Portion (2019)
The Grail: The Saving of Elizabeth Darcy (2022)


His entry in the North and South Anthology...Falling for Mr. Thornton entitled Cinders and Smokewas released in November 2019.

In 2018, he also published Lessers and Betters a novel-length Pride and Prejudice variation which contains the paired novellas Of Fortune's Reversal and The Maid and The Footman. These two works examine the same event (the mysterious attack on Kitty Bennet in Hyde Park on Guy Fawkes Day 1815) from two different perspectives: that of the gentry and that of the servants.

Meryton Press published two of his books in 2020--In Plain Sight (June) and The Longbourn Quarantine (August). Meryton Press also agreed to republish his entire self-published catalog (The Bennet Wardrobe series and Lessers and Betters) throughout 2021.

Meryton Press has published new editions of all of the Bennet Wardrobe books.

Jacobson holds an advanced degree in History with a specialty in American Foreign Relations. As a college instructor, Don taught United States History, World History, the History of Western Civilization and Research Writing.

He is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. He is also a member of the Regency Romance writers' collective Austen Authors.

He lives in Las Vegas, NV with his wife and co-author, Pam ( Roadcookin': A long-haul driver's guide to healthy eating), a woman Ms. Austen would have been hard-pressed to categorize, and their rather assertive four-and-twenty pound cat, Bear. Besides thoroughly immersing himself in the JAFF world, Don also enjoys cooking (Poulet au vinaigre is a particular favorite), dining out, fine wine, and well-aged scotch whiskey (Glenmorangie 18-Year-Old single malt--the water of life).

His other passion is cycling. Most days from April through October will find him “putting in the miles”. He has ridden several “centuries” (100 mile days). Don is especially proud that he successfully completed the AIDS Ride—Midwest (500 miles from Minneapolis to Chicago) and the Make-A-Wish Miracle Ride (300 miles from Traverse City, MI to Brooklyn, MI).

Reviews

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gripping Austen Crossover
This is an insightful crossover Pride and Prejudice/Persuasion story, that features the beloved couples from those highly acclaimed novels, and also incorporates characters and references from the author’s previously-written works—Lessers and Betters and the Bennet Wardrobe series.

Mr. Jacobson immediately pulls you right into the story with his Prologue, then Chapter 1 begins with a double-kidnapping mystery which leads to a gripping and danger-filled, adventurous sea voyage. The reader is not left without hope, as the friends and families of the kidnapped who love them come together as one to solve a crime, engage in a daring rescue amid a raging war battle on the sea, and eventually bring justice to the primary villain whose devious plot is foiled.

The author’s education and career experience is expertly revealed in the writing of this excellent novel. He intertwines informative historical background and references with the characters and action of the story, thus enhancing and strengthening the impression of it. While this may slow some readers like me, there’s no denying Jacobson’s writing is masterful—expertly supported by a vast and far-ranging vocabulary that educates. (Personally, I always take the time to read footnotes and references, and look up words that escape my memory or knowledge. Learning is a good thing, and one is never too old to do it.).

I consider The Sailor’s Rest a mature read due to some graphic descriptions of injury and death during a sea battle. The faint of heart may have difficulty with that. While some things are implied, there is no graphic sexual content in the book. There are several proofreading errors, including missing close quotes in some dialogue.

Highly recommend.

May 11, 2023 - Audiobook
The audio version of this book is also excellent. Benjamin Fife’s quality narrating skills made him an ideal choice for this male-centric story. Highly recommend.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listed as a P&P Variation this story does include Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth and the Crofts from Persuasion. It is a long story with some 65 foot notes, which slowed my progress. I also used the Internet to determine the meaning or identity of other words, places, items or persons. As noted in another review I was annoyed by the lack of ending quotation marks for many characters' conversations/quotes. I floundered in "Book 2" with all the sailors' jargon. I have no background nor have I read other stories which had such a large amount of that cant.

Our two heroes, Darcy and Wentworth, engaged men, are kidnapped when they accidently share a private dining room. Elizabeth Bennet and Anne Elliot realize something is wrong when their fiancés do not show up as expected.

They find clues after much investigation and follow with the aid of other. We have three ships meeting in the Mediterranean Sea and maneuvering to gain supremacy one over the other. Men die or are wounded. Our couples are reunited.

However, now the story moves on the bringing justice to the man who planned the abduction and more. Here, I also have to note that I do not play cards and so the illustrations of hands held and dealt meant nothing to me.

There is an epilogue and happiness evolves for old and new characters.

I have read some of the Bennet Wardrobe series but could not find it listed for this author on Goodreads when I went to number how many of that series I had read.

This story did keep my interest although, as I noted, I was slowed down by footnotes and jargon and my own research efforts. The author's research and details were obvious.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review

An adventure on the high seas for Austen’s top two romance pairs was a source of delicious anticipation. I couldn’t wait to listen in to the talented Don Jacobson’s Persuasion and Pride & Prejudice crossover sequel as told by now familiar and engaging narrator, Benjamin Fife.

The story opens with a chilling gothically-toned prologue from the villain’s perspective and then slips into a story of two gentlemen on the verge of their nuptials getting kidnapped away from the same quayside inn and then waking up in a nightmare situations as pressed sailors aboard a ship captained by a sadistic man eager to administer the whip and make their lives a misery. Meanwhile, their two ladies recruit able-bodied help and take to their trail in a long-game rescue mission.

The actions has good rising and falling between introspective moments, but always the tension draws tighter as the story crescendos to the riveting two-part climax moment involving a danger-fraught sea battle and later a spider-web of a trap for the orchestrator of the troubles.

I loved seeing the camaraderie between Wentworth and Darcy in their shared time of capture just as I was touched by the deep friendship that formed among their ladies, Anne Elliot and Elizabeth Bennet. Further friendships and connections were formed that made the group closer than family.

The author demonstrated a well-researched backdrop of Royal Navy life as well as the grander setting of Regency England. I was satisfyingly immersed in that long ago time.

Speaking of immersion, Benjamin Fife’s narration work made a fab story even richer and deeper for the listener with his voice work of the large group of characters and the exchange of narrators among them, but also a mastery of pacing and the feel of the various scenes.

All in all, The Sailor’s Rest met my expectations and then some. However, I’m not surprised because I’ve long since been a fan of both author and narrator. Those who enjoy well-described situation and getting deep inside the characters with a fabulous drama of romance and action should give this standalone historical fiction a go.

I rec'd an eARC and audio copy from the author to read and/or listen to in exchange for an honest review.

My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy June 28th.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 5+

A captivating journey on the high seas bringing together two beloved Jane Austen novels – Pride & Prejudice and Persuasion. What more could I ask for!

Adventurous! Dangerous! Powerful all-encompassing Love!

“Nothing in his old life had prepared him for the brutal simplicity of a sailor’s existence.” (quote from the book)

Some men will go to any lengths to get what they want. One such man has set his sights on eliminating another to get what he feels belongs to him. But he let others do his dirty work and things do not go according to plan. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time has Fitzwilliam Darcy caught up in the same net as Frederick Wentworth. Little did either man know that their brief acquaintance at The Sailor’s Rest will be the making of a life-long friendship.

What an amazing, gritty and realistic look at life on board a war ship during the Napoleonic Wars. Working as ordinary sailors on the Persephone, both Wentworth and Darcy take on different names. They have to watch their backs, but fortunately former crew of the Laconia are on board quietly helping.

“I spent seven years waiting for my life to begin. No more! If you now know where Frederick is not, you must take me to where he was.” (quote from the book)

When neither man show up for their wedding, Elizabeth Bennet and Anne Elliot are heartsore. With the help of family and connections, along with a brief letter from their last location, they join forces to go after their men.

“Living without you
Living alone
This empty house seems so cold
Wanting to hold you
Wanting you near
How much I want to bring you home”
(excerpt from Open Arms by Journey)

I loved this bonding of Elizabeth and Anne as well as original characters from Mr. Jacobson’s previous novels. The camaraderie and deep friendships that grew from their shared experiences and pain added further depth to the emotional impact of this story.

“I learned the most important lesson any man is permitted. I found that love is nothing you may purchase or own. It is the simplest of gifts, uncomplicated by poets’ musings…Love is a complete existence through which you move, thrive and are nurtured.” (quote from the book)

Mr. Jacobson does not touch lightly on topics. He delves deep into the persona and psyche of his characters and his research is impeccable. The battle scenes came alive before my eyes and his love of the written word is comes through on every page. I will admit, I know nothing about poker and was a bit lost during that major scene near the end. However, it did not lessen my enjoyment of it for the tension was still palpable. Needless to say, I loved it and highly recommend it! Bravo!

But now that you've come back
Turned night into day
I need you to stay

So here I am
With open arms
Hoping you'll see
What your love means to me
Open arms
(excerpt from Open Arms by Journey)

[CEK · Rating 5 out of 5]

A marathon rescue

This book has an improbable and amazing breadth and depth of subject matter, emotion, historical reference, and philosophical questions. The basic plot finds Darcy and Wentworth kidnapped and a cast of characters from Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion committed to their rescue. Over 100,000 words later, we have experienced exciting sea battles, sweet romantic yearnings, increased understanding of the Regency class system, various plots and counterplots, and a thesaurus of seafaring jargon. Redemption, revenge and romance complete the tale as bonds of friendship conquer all.

[Suzan Lauder · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for a JAFF romance, 20% of this book is for you. If you're looking for an action-adventure book, 50% of this book is for you. Where's the rest of the book? Well, it should be on the cutting room floor because it has no business being in the book in the first place. There were plenty of errors to be found, and under all that, I just didn't find a book that entertained me except for some action scenes in Book 2 that were a tangent! Never mind what I didn't find because I'm not at all educated in the Napoleonic wars.

This review will be a technical review with minimal subjective analysis and no synopsis.

- The plot was weighed down with too much extraneous information and thus, dragged on too long. A handy substantive editor would have advised removing large swaths of material that didn't contribute to the complete story arc: weighty backstory, waxing lyrical, overly detailed descriptions, redundancies, extra characters, useless footnotes, side plots, and the bulk of a tedious epilogue.
- With the exception of a war scene, the pace was fairly slow, focusing on narrative and detail. This was particularly obvious in the opening scenes and the epilogue, both of which were a snail's pace. The start was so slow and the content so uninspiring, I nearly quit the book.
- Angst abounded. The first book, largely back story, was lower in drama. The middle sections of the book are for readers who can manage top level dramatic tension.
- The book was in third person multiple point of view, with one minor situation of head-hopping found in the action scene of the war at sea.
- The author used a great deal of telling and not showing in the narrative, which could be a part of why the book was so slow in sections. A few filter words were found.
- Language was too hoity-toity for the average reader. The author seemed to reach for the difficult words or unusual uses of words to impress the reader. I had to look up more than a dozen words; I wish I'd kept count. Some I truly thought were misuse of words and found that they were archaic or rarely used definitions of a word. A novel is not the place to play with Mr. Collins's verbosity. Every time a reader has to stop and look up a word, they lose the flow of reading, thus interest in the book, exactly opposite to what the author desires. Same goes for non-Regency words and phrases and Americanisms: ten of the former, three of the latter, plus four misused words, two misspelled words, and a contraction.
- Although the author used excellent poetic descriptions, he got carried away with his words and phrases in some cases where he used a whole section to chatter on about something that was a sideline about the scene and did not move the story forward. In other words, it was just an opportunity to show off his wonderful prose.
- The author also knocked the reader out of the Regency with modern language in the way of phrases such as a quote from a song and "left Darcy in the dust."
- From missing semicolons, misused hyphens, missing possessives, possessives in the wrong place, to missing closing quotes, a fair number of punctuation errors were seen by me--and I doubt that's all of it.
- In several places, the sentence structure was so awkward, it was impossible to understand what the author was trying to say.
- At two points in the book, the font goes white and is almost impossible to read.
- Non-Regency errors include the use of ruby port for them men, who would most likely drink tawny port since ruby port is a lady's drink; use of familiarity of first names with strangers; women did not go to funerals; there were no panties in the Regency, or nothing like panties; and Selkirk Castle is in Scotland.
- A general error was the change from brigadier to General and back again for Fitzwilliam in the middle of the book. In addition, late in the book, the comment was made of "no fumble-footed preachers allowed" and then the author introduced a newly minted cleric as a key participant.
- Scene setting had good intentions, but went over the top in execution. Some descriptions were vague and unclear, particularly in action scenes, even though long and convoluted. Poor timing of some details made the scene difficult to understand at times, e.g., on the ship--how many men?
- Because the book had three sections, it seemed as though the climax for the whole story occurred at 60%. Then again at 85%. So the denouement was extraordinarily long and became tiresome.
- There were too many characters and it was difficult to keep them straight. For example, two cabin boys were introduced, the first one thrown away until the epilogue. Many of the named characters had only one line. New characters were introduced as late as 94%. Characters changed names and were hard to keep track of. As for the canon characters, I do think the author did a fine job of taking Austen's characteristics and applying them to this book.
- The plethora of footnotes didn't explain living at Marshalsea or Coventry Island or Tyburn for example, details the readers may not know. In fact, most of the footnotes were items the reader didn't care about or knew, making the bulk of the footnotes an unnecessary distraction to the flow of the book.
- The romance was nicely done if too little of the novel. There were some special moments that I won't elaborate on so as not to spoil the new reader's experience. Because the couples were already about to marry, there was no development of the romance, instead, the book focused on maturing of the romance and showing how deep the feelings could be.
- The cover is nice, if a bit dark and foreboding. It shows good balance and is nicely sized for an Amazon thumbnail. If placed in action-adventure, the book would be too sedate; if placed in Regency romance, the book would look like a man's book. So I'm not certain if it meets the "buy me" criteria for either one. It is very different, though, and it does catch my eye. If that's enough for other readers, that's a good thing.

For the most part, this book is slow and has too much detail. I nearly quit the book due to the boredom of Book 1. I adored the action of Book 2 even though the information was hard to follow at times when a lot was going on. I skimmed most of Book 3 as it had too much information, although the concept was clever. Likewise, I skimmed the epilogue, which had no cleverness that I could discern. Had it had several good editors, perhaps The Sailor's Rest would have been less draggy and more readable. I would have preferred a lot fewer trips to the dictionary, that's for certain!

Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author and some might say that this review could be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are always honest and impartial.

[Bsao · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating book of extraordinary depth, though I have to admit, that many of the technical details were rather too much. I was immersed in the story, but jolted out every time I had to look up an obscure word or read one of the numerous footnotes and I can't say I was interested in the connection of the Wardrobe series which seemed like another point of which I was ignorant. I don't play cards and was mostly clueless of what was going on at that point, despite the illustrations and was only interested in the end result.

However, the entire story was gripping and exciting and I was immersed in the crossing over of my two favourite JA novels and the mystery and adventure which ensued. I believe, now I've finished it, that it would probably be best to read it again and I would get even more education and understanding whilst still enjoying the richly described story.

I am normally a speed reader, but this is not a story you can read quickly if you want to understand what's going on. Since it pulls you in from the prologue, you will want to understand as much as you possibly can so the dictionary and the footnotes are required accompaniments. It's such a very compelling and involved tale that I enjoyed so much I can overlook those requirements as the story stayed with me with its rich details. I even dreamt of it! Though perhaps that was because I stayed up late to finish it ;)

[Melissa Halcomb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was, in a word, amazing! Exciting, thrilling, griping to add a few more.

Shortly before his wedding to Elizabeth, Darcy is dispatched to the north to act as proxy for an injured Bingley in a business matter. Heading the opposite direction, also days away from marrying his beloved, Anne Elliot, Captain Fredrick Wentworth (of my personal favorite Persuasion) has been summoned to appear before the admiralty. By chance, they both break their journeys in a small inn where D is induced to share his private room with the naval captain. Unfortunately, the captain is the target of a diabolical kidnapping scheme. Knowing the target only by name, the kidnappers take both gentlemen from the inn and out to sea.

Their brides, united in purpose and with a band of formidable allies, set out across the ocean to find their loves and bring them home.

I loved every moment of this. It was creative and thrilling and intruiging. I stayed up reading an hour past what I had intended last night then forced myself to put it down right at the point of battle or else I knew I would not get any sleep. I actually woke up thinking about it, anxious to dive back in, which I did.

Having said this, you may wonder why four *'s instead 5? Reading this was like when I read a Shakespeare play for the first time. I understand the general gist of the story, but I don't always kow exactly what's happening. I have to read it several times before I have any sort of grasp on it. I truly loved this, but there was so much nautical jargon and regency cant it was really hard to follow at times. I love when an author includes some regency cant; it adds a touch of authenticity to the story that I enjoy. But this went a little too far. Every page was laced with archaic terms, slang, and naval speak that at least this reader had a very difficult time following, and I'm no novice to regency cant! I knew what was going on, but not what was being specifically talked about a lot of the time. There is a reference included in the back of the book, but I did not enjoy being constantly torn from the story becuz I didn't know this specific term or that. And I was reading on my kindle which makes flipping back and forth difficult.

The romance was lacking. After crossing half the world, facing danger and the unknown, worrying and pining for those whom they hold most dear, when the couples are reunited, there was almost nothing. Anne runs to Wentworth, not to embrace him or kiss him, but to act as a shield. E doesn't run to D at all. Any romantic moments were glossed over.

Also, the epilogue was a bit of a let down. After an action packed story, it was nothing more than where are they now?

Otherwise, a wonderful read that kept me glued to my reader as much as I could manage. Loved it.

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0 out of 5 stars Sailing to Rescue the Abductees!
Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2023
Verified Purchase
My hat is off to Don Jacobson for such a well written and interesting novel. The plot kept me interested in this long novel and took a few days to read and understand what was really happening. I knew nothing about ships, terms used by sailors, etc. and had to look up somethings but in the end, it all made sense to me. He portrayed the characters in the novel and you can picture in your mind as you read as what was going on in the plot.
He took characters from several of Jane Austen's novels and meshed them up into one great novel I am sure Jane herself, would approve of the results.
The words I won't forget is loblolly boys and what was their duty on the ship. Another interesting thing I never would have thought of was to put sawdust on the deck during a scrimmage.
the abductees were rescued, the couples were united, the perpetrator was caught and punished. The couples remained friends, had families and ended well! However, things didn't go well for the perpetrator in the end for him or his wife.
Thank you Don for a wonderful and interesting read and I will probably read it again to see what I missed.

[Barbara K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I have some mixed feelings about this Jane Austen variation, even though I love it. Therefore I'm dithering between rating it 4 or 5 stars. I definitely think it's a worthy and worthwhile read, and I may very well read it again. While I have some complaints, it's obvious that this is a work of love, and that a lot of deep thought as well as research went into it. On top of that, it's a decidedly unique reading experience, one that I'm glad I didn't pass up.

The style is much less like Jane Austen's and more like some less sparely written novels of the era. Austen's writing was unique for the period in its lightness and its conciseness. This leans more towards purple prose at times, which I suspect may be intentional, and uses more obscure language, in addition to which it includes a lot of slang as well as Classic and historical references. (I found the annotations useful.) For anyone who doesn't insist that a book move quickly and be easy to read, in the sense that we in the era of television are accustomed to modern fiction almost reading itself, and if the reader is willing to take some time and be willing to look up a word or phrase as needed, then it's exceptional - with a few exceptions, most of which I think can be attributed to cut-and-paste errors during the editing process. That's always unfortunate, but as a writer and editor I can attest they're tricky to avoid. There are also a few too conveniently neat tie-ups to the story. But again that may be intentional.

The Sailor's Rest (I am in love with that title) is not just a variation on Jane Austen's stories but contains nods to Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey and Maturin series as well as some other maritime novelists I'm not familiar with. I have read a few of O'Brian's books, so I had an idea what to expect in that regard. This is heavy on shipboard terminology and slang, so much so that I could almost feel the salt spray on my face at times while reading it.

The story is a crossover between two of Jane Austen's novels, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion. It involves the two main couples from those stories: Elizabeth Bennet and Fitwilliam Darcy; and Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth. This novel begins during their engagements, just before each couple is scheduled to marry.

Mr. Darcy finds himself sharing a private parlor with Captain Wentworth, at the aptly named inn, The Sailor's Rest, after both arrive wet, on a cold, stormy night. The men introduce themselves and divest themselves of wet clothing, so that both are in their shirts and without boots when disaster strikes, in the form of a paid criminal who drugs them and kidnaps them, delivering both men, because he doesn't know which is his intended victim, to a ship about to sail, where they are pressed into service as sailors under a captain who is something of a monster. On waking, on board the Persephone, Captain Wentworth senses immediately that some foul plot is at work, and insists to Darcy that they use false names.

Eventually, once the two men are missed at their intended destinations, the families of both men, as well as their betrothed ladies, join up at The Sailor's Rest to determine what happened. The inn is the last place from which each man wrote a letter to his beloved. An investigation ensues, and then a chase at sea.

This is an amazing story. I recommend it highly and add that if this is your kind of fiction, you don't want to miss it. Again, it's not easy, quick reading, and there are a few foggy passages. But it's still amazing. Don't try to speed through it. Take your time and enjoy.

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

A veritable page turner!

An extremely well written story that will keep you reading non-stop until you finish it! Enjoyable mix of Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion that creates a believable mixing of original and new characters. A must read!

[Granny C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome! His best yet. A must for Austen fans.

[Peg]

I'm at a bit of a loss as to how to review this book, which I see has garnered a number of four and five-star reviews from other readers. So I am going to leave it unrated.

This is the first book of Mr. Jacobson's that I've tried. (The promise of a Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion crossover was irresistible.) I had somehow got onto his email list (because I'd signed up for a free book giveaway contest, I think), and I've certainly enjoyed his regular blog posts, finding them informative and thoughtful. I can clearly see the deep love for Jane Austen's world and the careful--even joyful--attention to research, something I deeply appreciate. What a delight when the author's deep knowledge about a historical period adds layers of nuance to the story. The influence of other authors, especially Patrick O'Brian, is also abundantly clear.

The plot crackles with suspense, and I found myself speeding along without even stopping to write my usual Goodreads notes in the text. It drew me along as addictively as a crackfic, but...here's the thing, something that I haven't seen any other reviewers mention. Am I the only one who noticed? Surely not.

Despite the obvious influence of Patrick O'Brian, Mr. Jacobson's style is vastly different.

In fact, I think it's about the PURPLEST prose I've encountered in any book I've read in the last, oh, five years or so. Once that description of Mr. Jacobson's style occurred to me, I looked up the definition: "Purple prose is flowery and ornate writing that makes a piece of text impenetrable. It is characterized by long sentences, multi-syllabic words, excessive emotion, and a plethora of clichés. It's typically melodramatic and often too poetic."

Well, perhaps that's a bit harsh, but I kept stopping in my metaphorical tracks in my progress through the book to guffaw out loud in disbelief at lines like this:

Darcy stood as close to his friend as he dared for Wentworth had transformed in the past half-hour. The friendly, earthy sailor was gone, and a British Romulus stood in his place, preparing to slay a French Remus. Are not all who answer Mars’s call that grim god’s children, stained red in battle day raiment? Even in his two months aboard Persephone, Darcy had learned that a ship’s captain—whether good or evil—was a hallowed being, and the space about him was sacred. Mere mortals, even those of great social consequence, impinged on the deity at their peril.

and

Elizabeth is the embodiment of Woman—part mother, part siren, part counselor—she of Olympic legend. Mother of gods Hera was nothing like the fragile females lauded by men who style themselves as protectors. Maybe the Boadiceas and Judiths of the world have terrified them into pretending we are infants. Here on Naiad, Elizabeth, Sophie, Sarah, and the other Anne are queens of a world where men are doomed to die lamenting their end.

and

Now, she was tasting what every sailor’s wife must know, the bitter dregs of the cup which had sent the sweetest nectar over her heart’s lips. [hey, I never knew that hearts had lips]

and

Anne's bliss, that honied cup, was snatched away as her world collapsed into this most recent, agonizingly brief but profound chasm. The old Anne would have vanished into her comfortable warren like a plump coney seeking shelter from an eternal winter. Heartdeath had brushed its stygian cloak against her.

And these are just a few examples. There are many, many more passages like these, trust me.

Look, I get it...the plot is exciting, the stakes are INCREDIBLY HIGH and everyone is acting heroic and larger than life. So I can see how there would be a temptation to elevate the style accordingly. But personally, I find that the author's attempt to match his style with the stirring events he describes is a genuine misfire. I think he would have been better served to keep his style more transparent rather than intrusive.

I'm certainly willing to try his work again because as I said, I recognize and commend his multiple gifts as a writer.

But I suspect that surprised laughter at the stylistic turns of phrase in his prose was probably not the effect the author wanted or intended. Your mileage may vary.

[Donadee's Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don Jacobson – The Sailor’s Rest – Reviewed 4/10/23 – Read 4/10/23

A favor for his best friend sets a new course in Darcy’s life.

In this new version of Jane Austen’s most remarkable book of all time, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion, Don Jacobson takes us on a journey that no one, least of all Darcy, could have expected to happen in his life. In fact, Darcy’s life was so predictable it could be said that it was almost dull. But we all know that now that he has found the love of the most unpredictable person on earth, Elizabeth Bennet, his life will never be the same.

Doing a favor for his best friend, Bingley has led Darcy north and his stop at the Sailor’s Rest so that he could catch a fairy the following day. Doing this would shorten his trip considerably. As he sits writing his letter to Elizabeth, he is interrupted by a knock on the door; the proprietor asks if he would mind sharing his chamber with a naval gentleman. Of course, Darcy being who he was, says yes, that would be fine. Enter Captain Frederick Wentworth. The men got along fine and were enjoying their visit with each other.

Little did they know that this would be their last peaceful evening together. Another coach that arrived at the Sailor’s Rest that evening was a despicable person named Wadkins. He had been commissioned to kidnap Fredrick Wentworth and take him to a ship soon leaving the port on its next voyage. Wadkins was uncaring that his capture netted two instead of one, and the adventurous story begins…

What did I like? I have read many versions of the Pride and Prejudice variations, but I don’t recall ever reading one quite like this one. Of course, many of them have included danger to Darcy but holy cow, never on board a ship with a mad captain. There were moments when I did not think that Wentworth and Darcy would make it, but we all know that Darcy is built with a spine of steel, and he does not let little things, such as being kidnapped, stop him from reaching the woman he loves, Elizabeth!

What will you like? Stars above, this book is filled with so much action and unexpected moments of pain and injury. The life of a seaman was perilous. What made a difference was the steady leadership of the captain, but in this case, we have a man that has slipped over the edge. He aims to make Wentworth pay for every blip in his life. The women's flight to find their men is astonishing and gives us a second line of action away from Darcy and Wentworth's pain. All in all, one extraordinary read that will capture your heart.

• ASIN: B0BX5STS67
• Publication Date: 3/26/2023
• File Size: 2404 KB
• Print Length: 391 pages
• Genre: Sea Adventures Fiction, Action & Adventure Romance, Romantic Action & Adventure

[lori huff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful

A wonderfully dramatic, swashbuckling, and exciting tale that unites the main characters from P&P and Persuasion. William Elliot, the underhanded and oily heir presumptive to Kellynch, is upset that Anne Elliot has passed over him, and gotten herself engaged to Captain Frederick Wentworth. This doesn't fit in with his plans for assuring that he remain secure in his inheritance, so he orchestrates a kidnapping of Wentworth, leaving Anne free to marry him. Darcy becomes involved because he's in the wrong place at the wrong time, and it becomes a double kidnapping, since Darcy and Wentworth are taken together, and put on a ship with a corrupt captain. Darcy and Wentworth are forced into hard labor, and are treated poorly. This happens only days before each of them is scheduled to get married.

When the grooms don't show up at their respective weddings, each family institutes a search, and they converge on the last place that both men mentioned in their letters to their fiancees: the Sailor's Rest, an inn near the water. The two searching groups join forces, and there ensues a chase to recover both men that becomes dangerous, but also profoundly affecting to all parties involved.

If I have any issue with this book, it's that the author embues many of the characters with the vocabulary and speech of a philosopher, a poet, and a politician all rolled into one. Even the lowliest of the ship's crew will answer a question with paragraphs of flowery prose. Why use only 5 words, when fifty is much more impressive? There was one scene where Elizabeth is trying to describe to Darcy a theory she has about a community of love. The scene, and Elizabeth's soliloquy, goes on for pages, and I could imagine Darcy's eyes rolling back in his head, and his mind wandering. In other words, I think the book could have been shortened considerably, without sacrificing any integrity, just by making the dialogue a little more concise.

However, this author is a master of prose, he knows how to craft a compelling story, and the romance is superb. I recommend this book highly.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when a surprising—and surprisingly vindictive—villain sets his sights on ruining a revered naval hero?

What a wild ride! There is nothing restful about The Sailor’s Rest, to be sure. This story is an epic tale on the high seas, complete with intricate naval customs and a fierce battle, and far from the staid drawing rooms of typical Regency-era novels. It is utterly unique in the Austenesque genre. Imagine a story where Fitzwilliam Darcy muses, “Nothing in his old life had prepared him for the brutal simplicity of a sailor’s existence.” (Loc 1956)

Unwavering Companions

“Anne could not imagine a world where she had not known Elizabeth Bennet.” (Loc 1515)

One of my favorite, yet relatively rare, combinations in Jane Austen Fan Fiction (JAFF) is one in which Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth Bennet and Persuasion’s Anne Elliot are friends. This story ratchets up their friendship with a shared trauma that seals their steadfast devotion to one another as sisters of the heart. An even more horrific shared experience between Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Captain Frederick Wentworth brings those gentlemen together in loyal comradeship as well. The support they all demonstrated for each other was a bright beacon in the turbulent tale.

Unparalleled Historical Detail

The author brought his extensive historical knowledge to this tale like the most impressive ship in the navy’s fleet and just blows the reader out of the water with incredible detail. This reads more like studious historical fiction with a pinch of romance than the usual historical romances in JAFF. At times, the details overwhelmed the plot and, honestly, the reader, so dense are the facts. This book has footnotes, folks!

Unexpectedly Thought-provoking

There is some philosophical prose woven into this action-packed story. Comparisons between Austen’s books and characters, which I had never before considered, merely scratch the surface. There are deeper elements here, commenting on the overarching societal norms in this time period when the aristocracy and the admiralty, and the poor who did their bidding, all had varying hands to play as the drums of war beat steadily across the sea.

Unusual Austenesque

Readers with a weather eye for unusual Austenesque variations will be captivated by the nautical adventures in The Sailor’s Rest.

4 out of 5 Stars

WE RECOMMEND THE SAILOR’S REST IF YOU ENJOY:

⚓ Nautical action

⚓ Impressive historical detail

⚓ Austen’s greatest lovers

⚓ Friends who become family

https://austenprose.com/author/katier...

[Emmaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book review 📚❤️

" The Sailor's Rest : A Pride and Prejudice Variation"
BY Don Jacobson's

5 outof 5 🌟

Don Jacobson's "The Sailor's Rest: A Pride and Prejudice Variation" is an exquisite fusion of two Jane Austen classics, "Pride and Prejudice" and "Persuasion," set against the tumultuous backdrop of Napoleon's 100 Days. One of the standout features of this novel is Jacobson's remarkable character development. He seamlessly introduces new characters while staying true to the essence of Austen's originals. This creates a rich tapestry of personalities that engage readers and deepen the connections between Darcy and Elizabeth and Wentworth and Anne.The narrative is a thrilling blend of mystery, romance, and adventure. It opens with a riveting search in a waterfront inn, followed by heart-pounding naval chess games on a frigate, and climaxes with high-stakes card games in London's elite gambling establishments. The author's attention to detail and historical accuracy make these scenes come alive.What sets "The Sailor's Rest" apart is its exploration of love's endurance in the face of separation, conflict, and deception. As readers follow these beloved characters on their arduous journeys, they are drawn into a narrative that beautifully balances the old and the new.Jacobson's commitment to preserving the timelines and plot constructs established by Austen in "Pride and Prejudice" while introducing elements from "Persuasion" is commendable. It results in a harmonious blend of two literary worlds, offering Austen enthusiasts a fresh and exciting perspective.In summary, "The Sailor's Rest" is a captivating masterpiece that will delight fans of Austen's novels and historical fiction. Don Jacobson's storytelling prowess shines through, making this novel a captivating and intelligent read. It seamlessly weaves romance, mystery, and adventure into a compelling narrative, leaving readers eager for more. This book is a testament to the enduring appeal of Austen's characters and the skill of authors who dare to reimagine their stories.

[Lady Jl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wentworth and Darcy get kidnapped

My favorite male characters by Jane Austen are Captain Wentworth and Mr Darcy do I knew I had to read this.
Captain Wentworth and Darcy are kidnapped by a villain who doesn’t know his victim and takes both men. The families begin a search. The bond between Anne Elliot and Elizabeth Bennet benefits them both as they begin their journey to find their fiancé’s. The bond between Wentworth and Darcy keeps both men alive while giving them hope.
I will say this felt like a historical lesson on sailing, not so much fun for me personally. That challenge for me changed when the audio book came out and I began that. It was more enjoyable for me.

[Cristina Huelsz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great crossover of Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice!
Don did an amazing work with all the nautical, war and Regency references that it makes you to travel in time and almost feel smell the salty water.
It´s a complex story as there´re many characters, a whole trip from England till the Mediterranean and back, having our dear ladies -Anne and Lizzy- searching for their loved ones while Frederick and Darcy fight to survive.
I adored the ending and I even cried for how touching it was when their finally together.
So, when Don sent me his novel to translated into Spanish, I was really surprised with the story and all the technical details, which made this to be my hardest translation in the year, which I´m very proud of.

[Donna Bokaie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

This is not an easy read. I'm not saying there isn't a HEARD for our darling couple. No, I'm meaning this author writes her character's speech as close as possible to how it was spoken. Not a challenge with our mid to upper crust characters, but quite a tough read with the lower class cant. I still don't think I understood quite a few of the sailors. I also spent some minutes looking up nautical terms from 1800 England. Some of the story wasn't fleshed out as well as I wanted and some scenes were overplayed with detail.
HOWEVER, I am recommending this book and looking forward to more from this Author.

[Lorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angst

Interesting plot and rich vocabulary. Characters true to themselves for the most part. Some good takeaways about friendship. I don't like when authors have characters mix languages in their sentences, a word or two here and there, and it happens often in this book. I'm glad I read this on a Kindle so the translation was available. The footnotes throughout were sometimes helpful.

[Doris Studer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A question

This is a unique and very well written book and the author is renowned for his special books. I assume the nautical scenes are diligently researched, but why not the French sentences and expressions? Were they just neglected or holds Mr. Jacobson – though his roots are hardly pure English – still some grudge against the French on a subconscious level? I don’t think he wanted to offend France by not calling her flag the TRICOLORE. I think it a pity for an otherwise good book.

[Miss-Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, interesting and touching adventure

It is impossible to overstate how well crafted this adventurous variation is, especially since it combines my two favorite Austen stories whose heroes and villains are encased in fabulous and entertaining writing, and well researched historic fiction. I’d give it 10 stars if I could! Thank you, Mr. Jacobson. Author! Author!

[Linda K Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

Don has written another hit. His research is evident. His complete study and development is superb.
A lot of emotions is exemplified and felt.
Nice combining is Anne and Elizabeth's stories. Wentworth and Darcy's tale is entwined with horror and friendship.
A must read.

[Liz H · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully dramatic and exciting tale

I would give this more than 5 stars if I could. The story is gripping while the book is well written and well researched. The original characters are well-drawn. The bonds between the couples, and the strong friendships that developed between Darcy & Wentworth, and Elizabeth & Anne were a joy to read.

The main characters are from two Jane Austen books; Pride and Prejudice, and Persuasion. The action takes place in the time between their engagements and weddings. An evil plot against Wentworth also ensnares Darcy. I never expected to be captivated by the recounting of a battle at sea, but I was.

[Svetlana Krajinski · Rating 3 out of 5]

Five stars for an original plot but unfortunately the writing failed to hold my interest so rounded down to three accordingly.

[Nina · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.

[Sophia-Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a crossover of P&P and Persuasion, my favourite of Austen’s works. I have read nearly all books by Don Jacobson within the Austen genre. It felt so good to return to one of Don’s works and casts of diverse characters within the Austen universe.

This time the plot follows Elizabeth Bennet, newly engaged to Fitzwilliam Darcy, and Anne Elliot, affianced to Captain Frederick Wentworth. The two men meet at an inn on their way south/north. Soon though, their families know something is wrong when the two men do not appear for their engagements/wedding.


Soon Elizabeth and Anne are on the case, along with old and new friends.
They set sail to find their men within the company of the Crofts and another known character, Vicomte Rochet.
The mystery is that Darcy and Wentworth have disappeared together from their inn. What has happened to them? And why? Soon the game is afoot across the Mediterranean Sea.


I believe old enemies are part of the plot to keep the two couples apart.
The book is a mix of romance, mystery and detective story, with adventure on the high seas included.

As Elizabeth and Anne find their sea legs, their two men are fighting to keep their identities hidden and bodies unmarked by punishments.
Soon the most exciting sea battle I have ever read is underway between a french ship and the ship which hides Wentworth and Darcy, though their ladies are quickly coming to their rescue.


After the battle has concluded onboard, I had thought a HEA was closing in, but the drama continues in London to bring the real villain to heel, so our two couples can live happily ever after.
I will admit to screaming at the book a few times, though mostly in surprise, “What?!” and “Don, what the hell…”, “I wonder if I’m right…” etc.

The book is an exciting, a little nerve-wracking, quick-paced book all around. The book is another great addition to my growing library of Don Jacobson’s books. The ending was So satisfying, in more than one way! I can only recommend this book, extremely highly!

[Natasja Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did not live up to the hype

I purchased this on recommendation, but I don’t feel like it lived up to the hype.
I found the villains very over-the-top, like the author just had to pile every negative trait he could think of, as if kidnapping and attempted murder wasn’t enough.
There were also several loose ends, and a bunch of missing words near the end, like the editor had skimmed over the last few chapters, or extra material had been added at the last minute.
The story was decent, and well-researched, but repetitive in places, and only a few of the characters felt like those I knew from Jane Austen’s novels.