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Dearly Beloved
Dearly Beloved – inspired by the characters in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” Sometimes people do “die of little trifling colds,” and a tragedy at Netherfield destroys the harmony between Elizabeth Bennet and her family. As she begins her mourning under the protection of Mr. Bingley and struggles to heal from the pain of losing her beloved sister Jane, Elizabeth discovers a new source of hope in Mr. Darcy. His pride is overcome by her vulnerability, and his eyes are opened to her endearing qualities. Can he console her during the year of mourning and win her love and hand at the end of it? Will Charles Bingley, whose heart is broken, ever find love again?
- GenresHistoricalRomance
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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40 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 18, 2012
There are two distinct aspects I feel need to be reviewed when discussing this book and its as they are not of equal weight: the idea and the execution of it.
The idea of this particular variation is intriguing. Jane dying of her "trifling cold" definitely alters the tale beyond recognition and this will certainly be anathema to many fans, both for the simple fact of killing of one of the main characters as well as infusing the relatively happy love story with so much sadness. However, that doesn't mean that such a variation should not be written and to my knowledge this has been the only attempt so far and I think it was certainly worth exploring. I am rather delighted that someone had the courage to take on this attempt as I imagine the reception to such an idea would put many regency writers off. Had I been able to judge the book purely on the merits of the idea I probably would have happily awarded it four stars for the effort.
The execution, however, left much to be desired and I would have not even given it a two. My best rating would be 2.5 but I cannot actually merit it a 3. By the time I was half way through the book, it felt like the author had created several interesting pieces of the story, but had not been able to join them properly or even necessarily in the right order.
The first 20 to 30% of the tale is carried off well enough and I found myself quite engaged. However, the writing began to deteriorate, in my opinion, after Jane's death. The author began to focus on details I thought unnecessary, such as the meticulous detail of the coffin and the preparation of the body. This issue cropped up again later in the unnecessary detailed description of the settlement discussions between Darcy and Wickham which seemed unecessary to moving the tale forward. It would have been better if the author had spent the time he took on these points to have bettered other narrative more essential to the plot.
Then the dialogue moved from flowing relatively freely to becoming forced and awkward. It became apparent that certain conversations seemed to become necessary to move the story along, but they were not attended to with enough care to make the transitions in and out of the conversations smooth and instead sounded stilted and forced. The emotional reactions of the charactes varied greatly up and down instead of a more approriate development from one point of view to another. If I could have charted Lizzy's emotional state and the development of her feelings toward Mr. Darcy and what she thought of his own regard for herself, it would look like a zigzag line instead of a steady progression. Similarly Lizzy's "illness" seemed to have come out of nowhere and left just as quickly, and appeared to be nothing more than a mechanism to convey certain dialogue. She recovered so abruptly that I was completely jarred by sentence in which it was conveyed. It also would have made more sense for such a serious development to have occured early when there seemed to be more cause such an event rather than the manner in which it was presented. There were several conversations or events, in fact, which felt like they took place out of order, if for no other reason that the internal reaction of the characters seemed to jump all over the place as a result.
Similarly badly put together was Elizabeth's encounter with a particularly unpleasant guest at Pemberley. It was as if the segment was written in a rushed manner, and this sense of haste communicated itself in the dialogue which went from Point A to Z without stopping to hit any of the necessary points in between to have it make more sense. So I began to have serious trouble with the dialogue, both with the way the characters entered and left a conversation as well as how the conversation itself developed.
In all, I was a little bit dissapointed as the book, despite the incredible sadness of the story, started off well and I had higher hopes for it at the beginning than I did at the end. However, I think it is not a lost cause and could become a well put together novel variation of Pride & Prejudice with much more serious editing and significant revision. By the time I was finished I almost felt like a teacher being disappointed in a student's essay that I had high hopes for rather than being rather put out by a poor purchase of a book. I think this story could be much better told by the same author and I would like someday to see a different version of it. Nearly all transitions of scenes need much more effort as well as control of the overall direction and the events that propel the story.
The idea of this particular variation is intriguing. Jane dying of her "trifling cold" definitely alters the tale beyond recognition and this will certainly be anathema to many fans, both for the simple fact of killing of one of the main characters as well as infusing the relatively happy love story with so much sadness. However, that doesn't mean that such a variation should not be written and to my knowledge this has been the only attempt so far and I think it was certainly worth exploring. I am rather delighted that someone had the courage to take on this attempt as I imagine the reception to such an idea would put many regency writers off. Had I been able to judge the book purely on the merits of the idea I probably would have happily awarded it four stars for the effort.
The execution, however, left much to be desired and I would have not even given it a two. My best rating would be 2.5 but I cannot actually merit it a 3. By the time I was half way through the book, it felt like the author had created several interesting pieces of the story, but had not been able to join them properly or even necessarily in the right order.
The first 20 to 30% of the tale is carried off well enough and I found myself quite engaged. However, the writing began to deteriorate, in my opinion, after Jane's death. The author began to focus on details I thought unnecessary, such as the meticulous detail of the coffin and the preparation of the body. This issue cropped up again later in the unnecessary detailed description of the settlement discussions between Darcy and Wickham which seemed unecessary to moving the tale forward. It would have been better if the author had spent the time he took on these points to have bettered other narrative more essential to the plot.
Then the dialogue moved from flowing relatively freely to becoming forced and awkward. It became apparent that certain conversations seemed to become necessary to move the story along, but they were not attended to with enough care to make the transitions in and out of the conversations smooth and instead sounded stilted and forced. The emotional reactions of the charactes varied greatly up and down instead of a more approriate development from one point of view to another. If I could have charted Lizzy's emotional state and the development of her feelings toward Mr. Darcy and what she thought of his own regard for herself, it would look like a zigzag line instead of a steady progression. Similarly Lizzy's "illness" seemed to have come out of nowhere and left just as quickly, and appeared to be nothing more than a mechanism to convey certain dialogue. She recovered so abruptly that I was completely jarred by sentence in which it was conveyed. It also would have made more sense for such a serious development to have occured early when there seemed to be more cause such an event rather than the manner in which it was presented. There were several conversations or events, in fact, which felt like they took place out of order, if for no other reason that the internal reaction of the characters seemed to jump all over the place as a result.
Similarly badly put together was Elizabeth's encounter with a particularly unpleasant guest at Pemberley. It was as if the segment was written in a rushed manner, and this sense of haste communicated itself in the dialogue which went from Point A to Z without stopping to hit any of the necessary points in between to have it make more sense. So I began to have serious trouble with the dialogue, both with the way the characters entered and left a conversation as well as how the conversation itself developed.
In all, I was a little bit dissapointed as the book, despite the incredible sadness of the story, started off well and I had higher hopes for it at the beginning than I did at the end. However, I think it is not a lost cause and could become a well put together novel variation of Pride & Prejudice with much more serious editing and significant revision. By the time I was finished I almost felt like a teacher being disappointed in a student's essay that I had high hopes for rather than being rather put out by a poor purchase of a book. I think this story could be much better told by the same author and I would like someday to see a different version of it. Nearly all transitions of scenes need much more effort as well as control of the overall direction and the events that propel the story.
October 20, 2013
Having now read both of this author's Pride & Prejudice variations I believe he has mommy issues. In both Dearly Beloved and Rock's in the Stream Mrs. Bennet does not merely disfavor her second eldest child but despises and abuses her.
The beginning of this book is worth of 4 stars. It is a truly different spin on P & P but when it falls apart it drops quickly to 1.
It starts out quiet well with Jane falling ill, Lizzy going to Netherfield to nurse her and Jane taking a turn for the worse. Mrs. Bennet isn't just unkind to Lizzy she is again horribly abusive. When Jane is discovered to be suffering from Spinal or Viral Meningitis (not ever stated but implied) her time on earth is short. Mrs. Bennett blames Lizzy for allowing Jane to die and disowns her, Mr. Bennet is blackmailed into agreeing, the remaining sisters go along to get along.
The author obviously spent a lot of time researching Regency funerary practices but it turns into a TL;DR section. For some reason Jane is laid out at Netherfield and none of her family calls. After Jane's funeral Darcy decides that Bingley and Elizabeth should remove to Pemberley. Lizzy is in traditional full mourning; but Bingley is in a strange place where he isn't entitled to public mourning but he is really sad.
Once the party arrives at Pemberley the book takes a turn for the worse. I had hoped that the departure from the original would continue but i was disappointed.
This is one of those book where you get so angry you want to throw your kindle across the room but you don't because it was expensive.
The beginning of this book is worth of 4 stars. It is a truly different spin on P & P but when it falls apart it drops quickly to 1.
It starts out quiet well with Jane falling ill, Lizzy going to Netherfield to nurse her and Jane taking a turn for the worse. Mrs. Bennet isn't just unkind to Lizzy she is again horribly abusive. When Jane is discovered to be suffering from Spinal or Viral Meningitis (not ever stated but implied) her time on earth is short. Mrs. Bennett blames Lizzy for allowing Jane to die and disowns her, Mr. Bennet is blackmailed into agreeing, the remaining sisters go along to get along.
The author obviously spent a lot of time researching Regency funerary practices but it turns into a TL;DR section. For some reason Jane is laid out at Netherfield and none of her family calls. After Jane's funeral Darcy decides that Bingley and Elizabeth should remove to Pemberley. Lizzy is in traditional full mourning; but Bingley is in a strange place where he isn't entitled to public mourning but he is really sad.
Once the party arrives at Pemberley the book takes a turn for the worse. I had hoped that the departure from the original would continue but i was disappointed.
This is one of those book where you get so angry you want to throw your kindle across the room but you don't because it was expensive.
February 3, 2017
Shy has a very good review on Goodreads and I found myself agreeing with the points made.
Although the premise of this book could have made for an interesting and different variation I found the language stilted, unnatural and even elementary. It just didn't flow smoothly. This happened, that happened, plodding along or jumping from one event to another or one person's thoughts to another.
Then there were some missing elements. There is mention of an express sent to the Gardiners when Jane is dying. But then we read nothing of them until near the end of the book. I agree that the shock Elizabeth goes into when she is living at Pemberley seems to be a much delayed reaction to not only Jane's death but to the abusive scapegoating treatment Elizabeth received at the hands of her mother...a demented soul in this book.
I also found rather odd the scene with Tuesby...an assault at Pemberley. Where were the footmen who are usually posted outside doors, especially as guests are expected shortly? And why was Darcy not informed immediately that one of his guests had arrived early and that he was alone with Miss Bennet in the drawing room? Leaving a man and a woman alone would not be allowed and surely whomever delivered the man to that room should have ushered him in and seen that the only person there was an unmarried young lady.
Shy mentions the details about the coffin, the shroud, the settlement arrangement with Wickham and how much time was spent going into those details. I agree. I also had questions as to whether or not the allowance Elizabeth was receiving from her father was enough to pay for the complete new wardrobe as Elizabeth went into mourning and then half mourning.
My mind was not agreeably engaged by this story. I read it to the end mainly so I could post a review.
Although the premise of this book could have made for an interesting and different variation I found the language stilted, unnatural and even elementary. It just didn't flow smoothly. This happened, that happened, plodding along or jumping from one event to another or one person's thoughts to another.
Then there were some missing elements. There is mention of an express sent to the Gardiners when Jane is dying. But then we read nothing of them until near the end of the book. I agree that the shock Elizabeth goes into when she is living at Pemberley seems to be a much delayed reaction to not only Jane's death but to the abusive scapegoating treatment Elizabeth received at the hands of her mother...a demented soul in this book.
I also found rather odd the scene with Tuesby...an assault at Pemberley. Where were the footmen who are usually posted outside doors, especially as guests are expected shortly? And why was Darcy not informed immediately that one of his guests had arrived early and that he was alone with Miss Bennet in the drawing room? Leaving a man and a woman alone would not be allowed and surely whomever delivered the man to that room should have ushered him in and seen that the only person there was an unmarried young lady.
Shy mentions the details about the coffin, the shroud, the settlement arrangement with Wickham and how much time was spent going into those details. I agree. I also had questions as to whether or not the allowance Elizabeth was receiving from her father was enough to pay for the complete new wardrobe as Elizabeth went into mourning and then half mourning.
My mind was not agreeably engaged by this story. I read it to the end mainly so I could post a review.
April 12, 2022
Ok
I'm struggling a bit to really wrap my head around this story. There are some really nice bits, and the romance is nice, but I've got to be honest, not one of them besides Darcy seemed mature enough for marriage.
Both Lizzy and Bingley were so caught up in their grief (which, I get), that it was like they weren't focused enough on their partner. It was honestly just a lot.
And then throw in Georgie (who, I believe wasn't even out in society) and my lord, she pretty much acted her age throughout the whole piece. There was a specific scene where she practically stomped her foot at Darcy and threw a fit. It just kind of took me out of the story a bit. And then **spoiler** the conflict with Georgie and Bingley just felt so so childish.
Mrs. Bennett was particularly terrible, and I honestly found myself wishing someone (Darcy) would just scream at her at put the blame where it actually belonged. I'm not actually sure why everyone was so careful of her feelings when she was horrible to Lizzy throughout the whole story. In my opinion, she deserved some vitriol of her own.
Overall, it was an ok story, but probably not one I'd read again.
I'm struggling a bit to really wrap my head around this story. There are some really nice bits, and the romance is nice, but I've got to be honest, not one of them besides Darcy seemed mature enough for marriage.
Both Lizzy and Bingley were so caught up in their grief (which, I get), that it was like they weren't focused enough on their partner. It was honestly just a lot.
And then throw in Georgie (who, I believe wasn't even out in society) and my lord, she pretty much acted her age throughout the whole piece. There was a specific scene where she practically stomped her foot at Darcy and threw a fit. It just kind of took me out of the story a bit. And then **spoiler** the conflict with Georgie and Bingley just felt so so childish.
Mrs. Bennett was particularly terrible, and I honestly found myself wishing someone (Darcy) would just scream at her at put the blame where it actually belonged. I'm not actually sure why everyone was so careful of her feelings when she was horrible to Lizzy throughout the whole story. In my opinion, she deserved some vitriol of her own.
Overall, it was an ok story, but probably not one I'd read again.
June 19, 2012
I loved the idea for this book. So daring, so different - what if Jane Bennet had died of that "trifling cold" when visiting Netherfield?
Unfortunately I found the story itself disappointing and, in some places, downright unusual. At one point the author actually goes into great detail regarding the burial preparations - I wonder, did the author work at a funeral home? It certainly isn't the only unusual moment, as there are a lot of unnecessary scenes that could have been conveyed with a well written paragraph.
The pacing was inconsistent, and the character responses felt very out of touch with reality. What Regency character of refinement would say that they were so angry they could kill someone? Highly unusual.
Until the story has the benefit of an experienced editor I would not recommend it.
Unfortunately I found the story itself disappointing and, in some places, downright unusual. At one point the author actually goes into great detail regarding the burial preparations - I wonder, did the author work at a funeral home? It certainly isn't the only unusual moment, as there are a lot of unnecessary scenes that could have been conveyed with a well written paragraph.
The pacing was inconsistent, and the character responses felt very out of touch with reality. What Regency character of refinement would say that they were so angry they could kill someone? Highly unusual.
Until the story has the benefit of an experienced editor I would not recommend it.
June 19, 2016
This book is so sad. There is so much anguish and depression that when it is overcome that it almost seems unreal. The author wrote in such a way that I could feel it deeply. That being said, the feeling was not what I usually look for in a P & P variation.
December 4, 2023
well-written with strong emotions
The early part is heartbreaking, with plenty of joy and heartache in the rest of the book as well.
High angst
The early part is heartbreaking, with plenty of joy and heartache in the rest of the book as well.
High angst
April 30, 2013
Ouch! The author clearly doesn't like Mrs. Bennet. She can never "forgive" Lizzy for "killing" Jane. Thank goodness Darcy is to the rescue!
August 13, 2024
Jane died of the illness that kept her at Netherfield, and Mrs. Bennet reacted very badly, blaming Elizabeth and throwing her out of Longbourn. Mr. Bennet appears rather spineless and weak when he allows it, but it seems that Mrs. B had some leverage. Bingley mourns Jane as well, and Elizabeth stays with him or the Darcys during her mourning. Darcy is a rock for her, and their relationship develops peacefully with no major conflicts, he's only waiting for her year of mourning to be over so he can propose. Mind you, back then you were supposed to mourn a parent for a year but the socially expected mourning was not as long for a sibling. So he could have proposed a lot earlier, in all propriety.
I liked the plot idea and this could have been a very angsty variation and there is a lot of tears, weeping, sobbing and crying in the story, as well as feelings of guilt, insecurity, abandonment... But I didn't really feel the angst, I found it a bit melodramatic.
A few plot questions I had are under the spoiler.
I liked the plot idea and this could have been a very angsty variation and there is a lot of tears, weeping, sobbing and crying in the story, as well as feelings of guilt, insecurity, abandonment... But I didn't really feel the angst, I found it a bit melodramatic.
A few plot questions I had are under the spoiler.
February 10, 2019
Avid Reader
I have to say that I have read some novels where Mrs.Bennett was truly horrid! I kept waiting for someone to remind her that she was the person that sent her daughter to to Netherfield and rarely visited using the younger daughters as an excuse. Darcy 's confrontation was not enough. Fortunately, Darcy and Georgina were there to comfort her, especially after Elizabeth was banned from Longbourn by her mother. Some readers have criticized the description of Jane 's coffin, but I saw it as writer allowing the readers to see what Elizabeth was experiencing. Elizabeth was not alone with two bachelors. Georgina serves as hostess once Caroline left Netherfield. Plus Mrs. Hensley was always present. If course we had the Wickham and Lydia scenario with some changes. Bingley best his behind, and Darcy gave him a black eye the next day. I would have given this book a five of Darcy and Elizabeth married sooner to have a life together instead an epilogue.
I have to say that I have read some novels where Mrs.Bennett was truly horrid! I kept waiting for someone to remind her that she was the person that sent her daughter to to Netherfield and rarely visited using the younger daughters as an excuse. Darcy 's confrontation was not enough. Fortunately, Darcy and Georgina were there to comfort her, especially after Elizabeth was banned from Longbourn by her mother. Some readers have criticized the description of Jane 's coffin, but I saw it as writer allowing the readers to see what Elizabeth was experiencing. Elizabeth was not alone with two bachelors. Georgina serves as hostess once Caroline left Netherfield. Plus Mrs. Hensley was always present. If course we had the Wickham and Lydia scenario with some changes. Bingley best his behind, and Darcy gave him a black eye the next day. I would have given this book a five of Darcy and Elizabeth married sooner to have a life together instead an epilogue.
September 24, 2017
Prolonged
I found most of the story dragging/ a little boring. They prolonged Jane's suffering then death and then thwe mourning period. Elizabfth's nearvous breakdown should have been closer to the death than few montjs after. Then there was the convenience of Charles and Georgie falling in love within a few months. If nothing else to read, I would read this, but if you have others, I'd read the others first
I found most of the story dragging/ a little boring. They prolonged Jane's suffering then death and then thwe mourning period. Elizabfth's nearvous breakdown should have been closer to the death than few montjs after. Then there was the convenience of Charles and Georgie falling in love within a few months. If nothing else to read, I would read this, but if you have others, I'd read the others first
September 18, 2024
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So, Jane dies of her "trifling cold" and Mrs. Bennett tosses Lizzy is out of the family, blaming Lizzy for Jane's death. The Darcys take Lizzy to Pemberley for her year of mourning. Bingley goes along because he's mourning Jane as well.
Lizzy cries a lot, goes virtually catatonic when she thinks maybe her mother was right and she, Lizzy, is to blame for Jane's death.
Basically, the book as far as I read was a dirge.
DNF at 59%.
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.
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So, Jane dies of her "trifling cold" and Mrs. Bennett tosses Lizzy is out of the family, blaming Lizzy for Jane's death. The Darcys take Lizzy to Pemberley for her year of mourning. Bingley goes along because he's mourning Jane as well.
Lizzy cries a lot, goes virtually catatonic when she thinks maybe her mother was right and she, Lizzy, is to blame for Jane's death.
Basically, the book as far as I read was a dirge.
DNF at 59%.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2022
tears, tears, and more tears
I could not stop crying and reading this story. I did not want to give any stars until I realize- I did not skim, skip, nor stop reading the story.
I feel it was to harsh on Mrs Bennett. However I appreciate the author kept true to Darcy and Elizabeth. The side plot was just as bad pleasing.
I could not stop crying and reading this story. I did not want to give any stars until I realize- I did not skim, skip, nor stop reading the story.
I feel it was to harsh on Mrs Bennett. However I appreciate the author kept true to Darcy and Elizabeth. The side plot was just as bad pleasing.
September 28, 2023
So much crying
This is a "what if" trope, full of tears and screams and emotional breakdowns. However, the writing style was so simplistic that my emotions were never stirred. Both Bennet parents were extremely over the top.
This is a "what if" trope, full of tears and screams and emotional breakdowns. However, the writing style was so simplistic that my emotions were never stirred. Both Bennet parents were extremely over the top.
August 23, 2024
Ugh
Very few P&P variations in which Jane actually dies of a trifling cold exist and/or make for a good read. In this version, the unexplained inability of Mr Bennet to be a man and put his wife in check absolutely ruined what could have been a decent plot.
Very few P&P variations in which Jane actually dies of a trifling cold exist and/or make for a good read. In this version, the unexplained inability of Mr Bennet to be a man and put his wife in check absolutely ruined what could have been a decent plot.
December 24, 2019
Emotional
A rather interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice. Very sad and emotional but I liked it.
A rather interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice. Very sad and emotional but I liked it.
January 15, 2022
So Beautiful!
Gentle readers please keep plenty of tissues or handkerchiefs nearby while reading this story. 5 stars, for a perfectly crafted tear jerker.
Gentle readers please keep plenty of tissues or handkerchiefs nearby while reading this story. 5 stars, for a perfectly crafted tear jerker.
January 26, 2022
Promising storyline, badly written.
August 21, 2014
Dearly beloved è una variation del famoso romanzo di Jane Austen Orgoglio e Pregiudizio, in cui, purtroppo, la cara Jane non supera la malattia provocatale dall'andare a cavallo, sotto la pioggia, da Longbourn a Netherfield. Mi è sembrata, questa, una scelta coraggiosa - che mi ha anche indotto a leggere il libro - perché Jane, oltre ad essere un personaggio piuttosto importante nella storia, è anche uno dei più buoni, o probabilmente il più buono che si possa ritrovare in letteratura.
Le scene che riguardano i giorni precedenti alla sua morte sono davvero strazianti ed emozionanti, ma, dopo la dipartita della maggiore delle Bennet, comincia una serie di eventi che mi hanno fatto un po' storcere il naso.
Innanzitutto, Mrs Bennet incolpa Elizabeth della morte della sorella, e la bandisce da casa. Neppure il signor Bennet può nulla contro la decisione della moglie, e per il proprio carattere, e perché minacciato dalla consorte, che gli fa temere uno scandalo che rovinerebbe irrimediabilmente le figlie più piccole.
Ora, è plausibile, anzi, certo, che Mrs Bennet avrebbe incolpato chiunque altro della morte di Jane fuorché se stessa, ma non credo che avrebbe mai e poi mai cacciato di casa Elizabeth. E' un personaggio che ama profondamente le sue figlie - e le sue azioni e i suoi comportamenti nel romanzo originale sono in gran parte "giustificati" dalla preoccupazione per l'avvenire delle ragazze -, e non avrebbe perso Lizzy dopo aver perduto irrimediabilmente Jane. Così come non si sarebbe recata a Pemberley da sola - azione già di per sé improbabile - per insultare la figlia e Georgiana, e per tentare di convincere Mr Darcy a non sposare Lizzy, a suo dire non meritevole di tale unione.
Mi è parso anche un po' esagerato l'episodio in cui Elizabeth cade in una sorta di stato catatonico, espediente affinché Mr Darcy le confessi il suo amore, a torto convinto che lei non possa sentirlo.
Troppo lunghe anche alcune scene tra i due, come quella in chiesa, mentre l'amore tra Georgiana e Bingley pare a tratti forzato e voluto dai due, più che sentito, anche se mi è piaciuta la differenza tra il sentimento che unisce Lizzy e Darcy, più passionale, e quello tra Georgiana e Bingley, più delicato.
Il romanzo, però, presenta anche degli aspetti positivi: è una bella novità che Lizzy vada a vivere a Pemberley e che la sua fiducia in Darcy cresca di giorno in giorno, e mi è piaciuto anche il personaggio di Georgiana, che ho trovato veramente adorabile.
Piuttosto improbabile, invece, il ruolo di "matchmaker" di Mr Bennet, e il fatto che molto spesso sia Elizabeth, nella coppia, a fare il primo passo.
Come accade in molte altre variation, Mary sposa Mr Collins, che ama e da cui è riamata, cosa che mi fa sempre piacere.
Grande assente Lady Catherine, zia di un Mr Darcy che sì, mette in campo tutte le proprie risorse affinché Wickham sposi Lydia ed Elizabeth non sia investita dallo scandalo, ma che neppure per un attimo viene sfiorato dall'idea che l'unione che tanto desidera, possa portare disonore alla sua famiglia a causa della posizione sociale della futura moglie.
Tutto sommato, Dearly beloved si è comunque rivelato una lettura piacevole, che ha fatto rivivere per qualche pomeriggio i sempre amati personaggi di Orgoglio e Pregiudizio.
http://iltesorodicarta.blogspot.it/
Le scene che riguardano i giorni precedenti alla sua morte sono davvero strazianti ed emozionanti, ma, dopo la dipartita della maggiore delle Bennet, comincia una serie di eventi che mi hanno fatto un po' storcere il naso.
Innanzitutto, Mrs Bennet incolpa Elizabeth della morte della sorella, e la bandisce da casa. Neppure il signor Bennet può nulla contro la decisione della moglie, e per il proprio carattere, e perché minacciato dalla consorte, che gli fa temere uno scandalo che rovinerebbe irrimediabilmente le figlie più piccole.
Ora, è plausibile, anzi, certo, che Mrs Bennet avrebbe incolpato chiunque altro della morte di Jane fuorché se stessa, ma non credo che avrebbe mai e poi mai cacciato di casa Elizabeth. E' un personaggio che ama profondamente le sue figlie - e le sue azioni e i suoi comportamenti nel romanzo originale sono in gran parte "giustificati" dalla preoccupazione per l'avvenire delle ragazze -, e non avrebbe perso Lizzy dopo aver perduto irrimediabilmente Jane. Così come non si sarebbe recata a Pemberley da sola - azione già di per sé improbabile - per insultare la figlia e Georgiana, e per tentare di convincere Mr Darcy a non sposare Lizzy, a suo dire non meritevole di tale unione.
Mi è parso anche un po' esagerato l'episodio in cui Elizabeth cade in una sorta di stato catatonico, espediente affinché Mr Darcy le confessi il suo amore, a torto convinto che lei non possa sentirlo.
Troppo lunghe anche alcune scene tra i due, come quella in chiesa, mentre l'amore tra Georgiana e Bingley pare a tratti forzato e voluto dai due, più che sentito, anche se mi è piaciuta la differenza tra il sentimento che unisce Lizzy e Darcy, più passionale, e quello tra Georgiana e Bingley, più delicato.
Il romanzo, però, presenta anche degli aspetti positivi: è una bella novità che Lizzy vada a vivere a Pemberley e che la sua fiducia in Darcy cresca di giorno in giorno, e mi è piaciuto anche il personaggio di Georgiana, che ho trovato veramente adorabile.
Piuttosto improbabile, invece, il ruolo di "matchmaker" di Mr Bennet, e il fatto che molto spesso sia Elizabeth, nella coppia, a fare il primo passo.
Come accade in molte altre variation, Mary sposa Mr Collins, che ama e da cui è riamata, cosa che mi fa sempre piacere.
Grande assente Lady Catherine, zia di un Mr Darcy che sì, mette in campo tutte le proprie risorse affinché Wickham sposi Lydia ed Elizabeth non sia investita dallo scandalo, ma che neppure per un attimo viene sfiorato dall'idea che l'unione che tanto desidera, possa portare disonore alla sua famiglia a causa della posizione sociale della futura moglie.
Tutto sommato, Dearly beloved si è comunque rivelato una lettura piacevole, che ha fatto rivivere per qualche pomeriggio i sempre amati personaggi di Orgoglio e Pregiudizio.
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August 24, 2014
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2.5 Austen.
Una variación con muchos momentos intensos que permite disfrutar de la historia, pero en contrapartida hay un exceso de dramatismo en algunos otros. Lo más interesante del libro es la trama que produce la variación "la muerte de Jane Bennet" y cómo Elizabeth interiorizó esa pérdida. Hay una verdadera profundización de esos sentimientos.
Una variación que surge a partir de la enfermedad de Jane Bennet en Netherfield, se agrava a tal punto que muere, la historia va cogiendo un ritmo suave y lento para llegar a tomar más fuerza y capturando todo el interés. No podemos decir que solo es una historia triste o melancólica. La autora profundiza mucho en los sentimientos de los personajes a partir de ese hecho y cómo influye en sus vidas.
Hay una dosis de máxima angustia por cierto personaje perverso que agrava más la intensa tristeza que vive Elizabeth y da un giro a toda la historia. La participación de los Darcys y Charlie Bingley son relevantes.
Una variación con muchas subidas y bajadas, algunas situaciones inverosímiles, otras muy dramatizadas y otras más contenidas al pasar de un sentimiento de mucha agitación, a otra de superar emocionalmente ese momento.
Una trama valiente, la muerte de un personaje principal de Orgullo y Prejuicio, y más uno tan carismático como Jane Bennet, de ahí el sumo interés que tomé por leer esta variación; a pesar de sus peros es una historia que no nos dejará indiferente.
January 10, 2015
An easy read, though a bit monotonous at times.
An easy read, though a bit monotonous at times.
What to say... I enjoyed reading the book. I loved the premise behind the story, that of what would happen if Elizabeth's most beloved sister (Jane) died of the trifling cold. I will not spoil the story for any one but I will say that I was a bit disappointed in the writing style, to me the author would repeat the same things over and over and over, though maybe slightly different. The conversations and thoughts from the various characters just seemed to re-play throughout the story and the characters just didn't seem to grow in development as time in the story passed by. As another reviewer stated, "The author has developed some interesting and good segments but the transitions and the order of it appeared to be sometimes confused. The further I got into the book the more stilted and less thought-out the dialogue appeared leading to what really seemed like a rushed ending."
The development of some of the characters was not to my liking as well. Elizabeth at times was too meek and emotional, Darcy started out well but there were a few times the he was written so off character, Mr Bennet was so weak and definitely not the sardonic character we know and love. Oh and don't get me started on Mrs Bennet!!!
Yes there were parts that I really enjoyed, but I did have trouble getting past the repetitive parts.
An easy read, though a bit monotonous at times.
What to say... I enjoyed reading the book. I loved the premise behind the story, that of what would happen if Elizabeth's most beloved sister (Jane) died of the trifling cold. I will not spoil the story for any one but I will say that I was a bit disappointed in the writing style, to me the author would repeat the same things over and over and over, though maybe slightly different. The conversations and thoughts from the various characters just seemed to re-play throughout the story and the characters just didn't seem to grow in development as time in the story passed by. As another reviewer stated, "The author has developed some interesting and good segments but the transitions and the order of it appeared to be sometimes confused. The further I got into the book the more stilted and less thought-out the dialogue appeared leading to what really seemed like a rushed ending."
The development of some of the characters was not to my liking as well. Elizabeth at times was too meek and emotional, Darcy started out well but there were a few times the he was written so off character, Mr Bennet was so weak and definitely not the sardonic character we know and love. Oh and don't get me started on Mrs Bennet!!!
Yes there were parts that I really enjoyed, but I did have trouble getting past the repetitive parts.
May 12, 2012
I love to read “Pride and Prejudice” variations so I purchased Dearly Beloved as soon as I saw the kindle version on-line. I had read the author's other Pride and Prejudice variation so I was a little familiar with the writing style. I was a bit nervous after reading the synopsis, I confess. The author's plotline revolving around the grave illness and death of sweet, angelic, Jane Bennet!?!? Could it be done well? And should it be done? The answer is a soft, gentle, 'No' to both questions. There is sadness and misery on almost every page. Can love bloom in such soil? Perhaps a little, but it is blighted.
Dearly Beloved – inspired by the characters in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
Sometimes people do “die of little trifling colds,” and a tragedy at Netherfield destroys the harmony between Elizabeth Bennet and her family. As she begins her mourning under the protection of Mr. Bingley and struggles to heal from the pain of losing her beloved sister Jane, Elizabeth discovers a new source of hope in Mr. Darcy. His pride is overcome by her vulnerability, and his eyes are opened to her endearing qualities. Can he console her during the year of mourning and win her love and hand at the end of it? Will Charles Bingley, whose heart is broken, ever find love again?
Dearly Beloved – inspired by the characters in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
Sometimes people do “die of little trifling colds,” and a tragedy at Netherfield destroys the harmony between Elizabeth Bennet and her family. As she begins her mourning under the protection of Mr. Bingley and struggles to heal from the pain of losing her beloved sister Jane, Elizabeth discovers a new source of hope in Mr. Darcy. His pride is overcome by her vulnerability, and his eyes are opened to her endearing qualities. Can he console her during the year of mourning and win her love and hand at the end of it? Will Charles Bingley, whose heart is broken, ever find love again?
Read
August 16, 2012Loved this book! I know many were turned off by Jane's death and the funeral preparations but as a history buff, I was fascinated. What a long dramatic year for poor Elizabeth, but when you have a Mr. Darcy helping you through it is easier. I thought the scenes of Lizzy's doubts and anger at her mother were well written, and the story between Bingley and Georgiana were very well done.
January 11, 2013
It was pretty good, although I enjoyed Dearly, Departed much more. The first of the series had characters with very clear personalities and strong voices, and I felt the author lost that for the first half of this book. However, once she regained them the book improved for me, and I could enjoy the plot.
November 7, 2015
A Pride and Prejudice variation whereby Jane Bennet dies while trying to recover from her cold received from riding in the rain.
Because Mrs. Bennet blames Elizabeth for Jane's death, Elizabeth comes under the protection of Mr. Bingley and then Mr. Darcy during her year of mourning.
Can Bingley ever recover to love again, can Darcy and Elizabth come to an understanding?
Because Mrs. Bennet blames Elizabeth for Jane's death, Elizabeth comes under the protection of Mr. Bingley and then Mr. Darcy during her year of mourning.
Can Bingley ever recover to love again, can Darcy and Elizabth come to an understanding?
January 17, 2015
It has been a while since I read this one so I'm left with just impressions really. I thought this 'what if' was creative where it took off from the original and followed along with how things would play out if Jane had died while ill at Netherfield.
I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to Austenesque fans.
I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to Austenesque fans.
January 28, 2015
I love this one. There was only one piece of the story that seemed out of place and odd to me. Really enjoyed it.
February 25, 2016
Good read!
Certainly some very sad parts to this book but I enjoyed it very much. It was extremely well written and I expect to read it again in the future.
Certainly some very sad parts to this book but I enjoyed it very much. It was extremely well written and I expect to read it again in the future.
November 27, 2019
Meh....
Too much repetition & a few implausible plot points. Good story and writing but I'm not motivated to read it again our purchase it.
Too much repetition & a few implausible plot points. Good story and writing but I'm not motivated to read it again our purchase it.
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