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Conviction: a sequel to Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice
Conviction, a satirical, original sequel to Jane Austen's timeless classic Pride and Prejudice, reveals the romantic destiny of Georgiana Darcy. The author, however, does not rest on the laurels of Austen; she introduces an entirely new cast of characters, including an ambitious soldier, a wistful vicar, a flirtatious abolitionist, and an ordinary curate. The fates of these characters intertwine as each struggles to find the conviction to live out his or her own calling while confronting issues of loyalty, courage, faith, and love. Conviction is not a novel merely for fans of Pride and Prejudice, but for all who take part in the ordinary struggles of humanity.
308 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2004
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411 people want to read
About the author
Skylar Hamilton Burris
20 books279 followersSkylar Hamilton Burris is the author of five novels, including three sequels to Pride and Prejudice, a collection of poetry, and numerous essays and short stories. Driven by a love of traditional, meaningful poetry, Skylar founded Ancient Paths Literary Magazine in 1998.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 1, 2017
Conviction
a firmly held belief or opinion
the quality of showing that one is firmly convinced of what one believes or says
This book is sold and titled as a sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. And it is but it isn't the sequel most P&P fans would be looking for. There is very little Darcy and Lizzy. They barely have speaking roles. There is very little Jane and Bingley. There is a lot of Caroline, inappropriate, rude Caroline. But she's not rude to Mrs. Darcy or Mrs. Bingley she has chosen a new opponent, the Vicar. Mr. Markwood really is the main character of this book, a character spun uniquely by the author. However I doubt you would sell many books called Vicar Markwood: a sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
Then it is a story of Georgiana Darcy and her many suitors or several suitors or fiance and a really annoying persistent politician. This is another book where the servants don't understand the phrase not at home. When Georgiana was staying in London she was introduced to Major Talbot, a colleague of Col. Fitzwilliam. Don't look for a lot of our dear Colonel in the book; first the author insults him by referring to his service him a “ceremonial commission ” then she sends him off to American where he marries a wealthy American woman and never returns. Meanwhile Georgie finds herself in love with the Major and is thrilled when he comes to Lambton to train his troops. He is often in company with the Darcys and is attentive to Georgiana.
Wickham is reintroduced to the story when it turns out that the vicar had thrashed him over a woman's reputation. During this story the Major reveals that Wickham is stationed with him in Lambton. So I ask where is Lydia? Was she following the drum? While they didn't want Wickham at the house I assume that Lizzy and Jane would like to visit with their sister. Almost immediately following this exchange Lizzy falls desperately ill and still no one mentions Lydia.
Truthfully most of P&P's original characters get short shrift. Kitty is married off poorly to the vicar's assistant and falls in society. This is just ridiculous. Both of her older sisters had married respectable wealthy men, with nary a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out of in Dowry terms. If she couldn't marry rich in society she certainly could have married rich in trade and not be relegated to an awful cottage between Pemberley and Lambton. Seriously she could have remained single and lived with the Darcys or the Bingleys or the Gardiners. And this guy wants to 'improve her' F you very much dude.
The author breaks the fourth wall to speak directly to the reader. The first time it happened I found it amusing but it began to get annoying and dare I say farcical at one point she wrote “Had there been time enough for Miss Darcy's infatuation to evolve into something deeper, something more like love? Only she herself could know that, and I daresay it was a question she had failed to ask.” Which for some reason started to remind me of the criminologist / narrator in The Rocky Horror Picture show “So, by some extraordinary coincidence, fate it seemed, had decided that Brad and Janet should keep their appointment with their friend, Dr. Everett Scott. But it was to be in a situation which none of them could have possibly foreseen. And just a few hours after announcing their engagement, Brad and Janet had both tasted forbidden fruit. This in itself was proof that their host was a man of little morals and some persuasion. What further indignities were they to be subjected to?” Am I right?
Then there are the errors
Hetrfordshire
Ms. Annsely (So progressive )
He had first earned her attention that afternoon in Lambton
(they met in London)
a cry form
and a horse's reigns
Here's a bit of truth about me. When I am enjoying a book I can ignore errors but when I am unhappy they leap at me like the Lords in the 12 days of Christmas.
And with this book I was mucho unhappy. These are 3 begrudgingly given stars.
a firmly held belief or opinion
the quality of showing that one is firmly convinced of what one believes or says
This book is sold and titled as a sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. And it is but it isn't the sequel most P&P fans would be looking for. There is very little Darcy and Lizzy. They barely have speaking roles. There is very little Jane and Bingley. There is a lot of Caroline, inappropriate, rude Caroline. But she's not rude to Mrs. Darcy or Mrs. Bingley she has chosen a new opponent, the Vicar. Mr. Markwood really is the main character of this book, a character spun uniquely by the author. However I doubt you would sell many books called Vicar Markwood: a sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
Then it is a story of Georgiana Darcy and her many suitors or several suitors or fiance and a really annoying persistent politician. This is another book where the servants don't understand the phrase not at home. When Georgiana was staying in London she was introduced to Major Talbot, a colleague of Col. Fitzwilliam. Don't look for a lot of our dear Colonel in the book; first the author insults him by referring to his service him a “ceremonial commission ” then she sends him off to American where he marries a wealthy American woman and never returns. Meanwhile Georgie finds herself in love with the Major and is thrilled when he comes to Lambton to train his troops. He is often in company with the Darcys and is attentive to Georgiana.
Wickham is reintroduced to the story when it turns out that the vicar had thrashed him over a woman's reputation. During this story the Major reveals that Wickham is stationed with him in Lambton. So I ask where is Lydia? Was she following the drum? While they didn't want Wickham at the house I assume that Lizzy and Jane would like to visit with their sister. Almost immediately following this exchange Lizzy falls desperately ill and still no one mentions Lydia.
Truthfully most of P&P's original characters get short shrift. Kitty is married off poorly to the vicar's assistant and falls in society. This is just ridiculous. Both of her older sisters had married respectable wealthy men, with nary a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out of in Dowry terms. If she couldn't marry rich in society she certainly could have married rich in trade and not be relegated to an awful cottage between Pemberley and Lambton. Seriously she could have remained single and lived with the Darcys or the Bingleys or the Gardiners. And this guy wants to 'improve her' F you very much dude.
The author breaks the fourth wall to speak directly to the reader. The first time it happened I found it amusing but it began to get annoying and dare I say farcical at one point she wrote “Had there been time enough for Miss Darcy's infatuation to evolve into something deeper, something more like love? Only she herself could know that, and I daresay it was a question she had failed to ask.” Which for some reason started to remind me of the criminologist / narrator in The Rocky Horror Picture show “So, by some extraordinary coincidence, fate it seemed, had decided that Brad and Janet should keep their appointment with their friend, Dr. Everett Scott. But it was to be in a situation which none of them could have possibly foreseen. And just a few hours after announcing their engagement, Brad and Janet had both tasted forbidden fruit. This in itself was proof that their host was a man of little morals and some persuasion. What further indignities were they to be subjected to?” Am I right?
Then there are the errors
Hetrfordshire
Ms. Annsely (So progressive )
He had first earned her attention that afternoon in Lambton
(they met in London)
a cry form
and a horse's reigns
Here's a bit of truth about me. When I am enjoying a book I can ignore errors but when I am unhappy they leap at me like the Lords in the 12 days of Christmas.
And with this book I was mucho unhappy. These are 3 begrudgingly given stars.
April 5, 2010
The wealthy and accomplished Georgiana Darcy has made her debut into society and has attracted quite an abundance of suitors. Some of these suitors are mostly attracted to her fortune and connections while others find her sweet and innocent disposition the main attraction. Under Mr. Darcy's watchful and protective eye, Georgiana is courted by a variety of men, from politicians and abolitionists, to clergymen and soldiers. Mr. Darcy better be on his guard because Georgiana seems to have blossomed under the attention and admiration from one gentleman in particular, but is he the right man for her?
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Ms. Burris's Georgiana Darcy flourishes! She truly becomes a heroine that readers cannot help but admire. She emerges out of her shy and demure shell and under the influence of her sister-in-law, Elizabeth Darcy, gains some courage and confidence. I greatly enjoyed the relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana in this novel, as I always believed that they would become close sisters. Georgiana is portrayed with a strong inner spirit, a keen and independent mind, and a romantic heart. She desires to find a love than is not just based on attraction and esteem, but based on a true meeting of minds and souls. I just simply adore her!
In the Introduction to “Conviction” Ms. Burris asserts that since she cannot “hope to imitate sufficiently Jane Austen's unique and superbly subtle wit,” she wrote in her own writing style instead. Furthermore, Ms. Burris acknowledges that she included more extensive political and historical background in her writing than Jane Austen would have done. I truly do appreciate and admire Ms. Burris for her honesty and perception. True, there were some political elements in her novel, but that was partly because some of the characters were abolitionists. Moreover, these elements were not too prominent or too heavily focused upon and were a pleasant addition. It in no way felt like a history textbook. In addition, while Ms. Burris disclaims being able to imitate Jane Austen's wonderful wit, I was surprised to discover that she possesses a very clever and cunning wit of her own. As the narrator, Ms. Burris often employed a satirical and sardonic voice that frequently made me laugh out loud.
“Conviction” not only touches upon themes of abolitionism and slavery, but also themes of faith and God. This was a pleasant surprise! At times I felt this novel was not only a “Pride and Prejudice” Sequel, but a Christian Fiction/Inspirational novel as well. These themes were woven in beautifully and meaningfully into the novel and stressed the point: whatever your calling in life is, you must possess the conviction to answer that call with all your heart.
If you are looking for a “Pride and Prejudice” sequel that tells the fate of Georgiana Darcy, “Conviction” is a novel you should not miss. Because Georgiana is in the forefront of this novel, it does mean that there isn't as much about Darcy and Elizabeth. Don't worry though, they are still present; readers will be satisfied to see not only do Darcy and Elizabeth still engage in their battles of wit and wills, but they also share some of the most loving and tender moments together.
“Conviction” is a beautifully original and well-rounded sequel for our beloved “Pride and Prejudice.” I highly recommend it!
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Ms. Burris's Georgiana Darcy flourishes! She truly becomes a heroine that readers cannot help but admire. She emerges out of her shy and demure shell and under the influence of her sister-in-law, Elizabeth Darcy, gains some courage and confidence. I greatly enjoyed the relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana in this novel, as I always believed that they would become close sisters. Georgiana is portrayed with a strong inner spirit, a keen and independent mind, and a romantic heart. She desires to find a love than is not just based on attraction and esteem, but based on a true meeting of minds and souls. I just simply adore her!
In the Introduction to “Conviction” Ms. Burris asserts that since she cannot “hope to imitate sufficiently Jane Austen's unique and superbly subtle wit,” she wrote in her own writing style instead. Furthermore, Ms. Burris acknowledges that she included more extensive political and historical background in her writing than Jane Austen would have done. I truly do appreciate and admire Ms. Burris for her honesty and perception. True, there were some political elements in her novel, but that was partly because some of the characters were abolitionists. Moreover, these elements were not too prominent or too heavily focused upon and were a pleasant addition. It in no way felt like a history textbook. In addition, while Ms. Burris disclaims being able to imitate Jane Austen's wonderful wit, I was surprised to discover that she possesses a very clever and cunning wit of her own. As the narrator, Ms. Burris often employed a satirical and sardonic voice that frequently made me laugh out loud.
“Conviction” not only touches upon themes of abolitionism and slavery, but also themes of faith and God. This was a pleasant surprise! At times I felt this novel was not only a “Pride and Prejudice” Sequel, but a Christian Fiction/Inspirational novel as well. These themes were woven in beautifully and meaningfully into the novel and stressed the point: whatever your calling in life is, you must possess the conviction to answer that call with all your heart.
If you are looking for a “Pride and Prejudice” sequel that tells the fate of Georgiana Darcy, “Conviction” is a novel you should not miss. Because Georgiana is in the forefront of this novel, it does mean that there isn't as much about Darcy and Elizabeth. Don't worry though, they are still present; readers will be satisfied to see not only do Darcy and Elizabeth still engage in their battles of wit and wills, but they also share some of the most loving and tender moments together.
“Conviction” is a beautifully original and well-rounded sequel for our beloved “Pride and Prejudice.” I highly recommend it!
July 11, 2022
Mr. and Mrs. Darcy are happily married and enjoy every minute they are alone together, which isn't often with Lizzy's sister Kitty living with them part-time and of course Georgiana Darcy as well. The romance centers around Georgiana. She's maturing and growing but her brother still treats her like a child, prone to correct her behavior and jump in and rescue her when she's shy. He would prefer to be alone with his wife or his books but as master of Pemberley he knows his role. While Darcy and Lizzy are away visiting Jane and Bingley as Jane is confined with her first child, they meet a Mr. Markwood who is inspecting Netherfield with intent to lease. THIS Mr. Markwood is a clergyman and inspecting the estate on behalf of his brother who is a lawyer and the man who caught Kitty Bennet's eye in London. While Darcy and Lizzy are away, Georgi stays with Col. Fitzwilliam who runs into an old subordinate in Lambton. Major Talbot had a way of drawing Georgi into the conversation and bringing her out of her shell a bit. She's smitten! He sees her as precious, innocent and so lovely. Major Talbot also happens to be the friend of Mr. Markwood the vicar who is in need of a living. Mr. Darcy hires Mr. Markwood based on Jane's perception of him on their brief meeting.
Darcy and Lizzy are too caught up in each other to see Georgi is growing up and falling in love. Georgi is determined to do the right thing but is marriage based on affection, esteem and friendship enough? Or should she marry the pompous bore of a politician because he's most suitable? I really like Georgiana's character development. She's quiet and a little shy but once she gets to know someone and trust them, she comes out of her shell. She's blossoming into a young woman with a thirst for knowledge and a longing for a purpose in life. Her main suitor, Mr. Niles Davidson, is a pompous politician. He's so full of his own self-importance he can't read a room or accept no for an answer. He thinks he knows what's best for everyone. Georgi can't bring herself to be rude to him, that wouldn't be acceptable, but this man will NOT take a hint. Georgi knows her own mind well enough to know she wouldn't be happy as a politician's wife living in London. She's happiest at Pemberley where she belongs. She knows what she wants- a quiet life in the country and makes sure she's going to get it in spite of her brother trying to scare away her suitors.
Georgi starts to come alive with Major Talbot. He's very kind and chivalrous. Until now he's spent his entire adulthood in the military on the battlefield. Now he's stuck training soldiers in Lambton for a battle they'll never see. (It's early 1814 and Napoleon is safe on Elba). He is soon to receive an inheritance from an uncle and thinks perhaps it's time he settle down. He's drawn to the quiet Georgiana because she represents all that is great and good about English womanhood. She represents the reason he fights. She's sweet, lovely, innocent and kind. However, Major Talbot doesn't see below the surface. Georgi has a deep mind and is eager to have someone to talk to discuss what she's reading, someone to debate issues with.
Enter Mr. Jacob Marwood. He's a bit too much for me to take. The novel takes a dramatically religious turn with the introduction of the vicar. He's a very serious young man, drawn to the church through a calling and not because of the usual reasons. Certainly he comes from a good family, new money from the West Indies, but money. Currently estranged from his father, a wannabe politicians, for personal reasons, Mr. Marwood comes to Pemberley to preach his own brand of Christianity. Mr. Markwood is truly drawn to his calling and leans evangelical which shocks some of the parish. Darcy enjoys debating and discussing with the vicar and they become friends as Mr. Markwood helps Darcy through a very tough time. Mr. Markwood is very preachy. He means well and he says some things that are incredibly important and relevant even today like how people use the Bible to justify how they are living instead of looking to the Bible to learn how to live. Mr. Markwood is a little reserved but with those who are eager to listen and discuss things with him, he's very open and sincere. He feels comfortable with the Darcys and accepted at Pemberley. He has new friends and feels at peace. Yet there's a part of him that is still troubled- his heart. Broken in the past, he's resolved to overcome it and move forward with his life. I'm not sure he knows what earthly love IS when he sees it. He is completely blind to what is happening in front of him until it's almost too late and then he's too honorable to do anything. I like him and feel bad for him that he just can't catch a break.
A sublot revolves around Kitty Bennet. What to do about Kitty? What kind of husband should she aim for? The wealthy barrister Mr. Aaron Markwood or the lowly curate Peter Bailee who actually has more money than she does! Mr. Bailee is nice, devoted to his job enough to do what is asked of him when he's asked but it is not a true calling. He lacks ambition and drive and moons over Kitty. He's nice enough and some people believe an appropriate suitor and others think he's beneath her. What does Kitty think? Kitty is still shallow and a bit silly. Her mind is yet unformed and she isn't a deep thinker. She's getting an education, thanks to her brothers-in-law, and learning from Jane and Lizzy how to behave properly. She's still a work in progress. Kitty is young and flirtatious and when she meets the firebrand lawyer, Mr. Aaron Markwood, she's intrigued. He's flirtatious too and fun to be with. He seems to like Kitty but has a deep secret he can't share with her that will probably mean the end of their relationship. Aaron is a young man who knows his own mind and Kitty is not there yet. Aaron is devoted firmly to one subject, much like another character, and can't easily bring someone new into his life. Does Mr. Aaron Markwood dare to ask of Kitty all that joining him in marriage would entail? Should he be selfish and ask or let her go? Personally I think he should ASK and let her know what he's thinking and feeling. Explain to her what he's thinking, explain to Darcy and Lizzy and let them help Kitty figure it out. See what Jane and Bingley think. (I say, from a modern perspective, yes please and BRING IT ON! I'll join you )
The romance is slow moving but it's more about Georgiana coming into her own and the men who appreciate her for different reasons.
So what does one base a marriage on? Mutual affection and esteem? Friendship? Passion? All of the above? This novel asks that big question of the two young ladies. This story looks at marriage much in the same way as Austen did in P&P. Some characters may choose romance/passion, while others may settle similarly to Charlotte Lucas but not quite as drastic.
Mr. Wickham turns up again worse than a bad penny and the Darcys have to deal with the consequences of his actions yet again. Should they speak up this time or stay silent and protect Lydia and her daughter?
This novel is good but not for everyone. It has a lot of history and political references. It's not a romcom. It was well-written but rather dull and preachy in spots. It's definitely for the history buff and not the casual reader. I appreciate how the author took the time to do research and explained how she couldn't write in Jane's voice and wouldn't try but attempted to maintain the formality of speech of the time. No "we're worse than exes- we're friends!" here thankfully!
It does look at more through a modern lens
It illuminates the hypocrisy of the clergy at the time in a less subtle and funny way than Jane does with Mr. Collins and Mr. Elton. The archdeacon is funny but a really awful person. He's too petty, jealous and barely knows who said what in the Bible. He can't bear to be upstaged by young Mr. Markwood who has a sincere conviction. The bishop has become jaded but is aware of the faults of many of the clergy.
There's very little of our beloved characters. Colonel Fitzwilliam is mentioned in passing. Jane and Bingley are present in a few scenes but barely and Darcy and Lizzy are always trying to be alone. They're eager for a baby and practicing is a lot of fun. I think Darcy is portrayed as too antisocial though. He's always sticking his nose in a book unless he's interrogating his sister's suitors. He's supposed to lighten up with Lizzy's help and become more of a brother to Georgi and less of a father. Miss Bingley becomes Mary Crawford but without the elegance of manners. She's just plain rude.
The back of the book features a timeline of historic events and a list of the books mentioned in this novel.
Read this if you want a thoughtful novel set in Jane Austen's time, if you want to think about the characters as real people and what their lives might be like after the events of Pride and Prejudice. This novel will never wind up on the New York Times bestseller list or become a movie/TV miniseries. It's too cerebral for the casual fan.
Darcy and Lizzy are too caught up in each other to see Georgi is growing up and falling in love. Georgi is determined to do the right thing but is marriage based on affection, esteem and friendship enough? Or should she marry the pompous bore of a politician because he's most suitable? I really like Georgiana's character development. She's quiet and a little shy but once she gets to know someone and trust them, she comes out of her shell. She's blossoming into a young woman with a thirst for knowledge and a longing for a purpose in life. Her main suitor, Mr. Niles Davidson, is a pompous politician. He's so full of his own self-importance he can't read a room or accept no for an answer. He thinks he knows what's best for everyone. Georgi can't bring herself to be rude to him, that wouldn't be acceptable, but this man will NOT take a hint. Georgi knows her own mind well enough to know she wouldn't be happy as a politician's wife living in London. She's happiest at Pemberley where she belongs. She knows what she wants- a quiet life in the country and makes sure she's going to get it in spite of her brother trying to scare away her suitors.
Georgi starts to come alive with Major Talbot. He's very kind and chivalrous. Until now he's spent his entire adulthood in the military on the battlefield. Now he's stuck training soldiers in Lambton for a battle they'll never see. (It's early 1814 and Napoleon is safe on Elba). He is soon to receive an inheritance from an uncle and thinks perhaps it's time he settle down. He's drawn to the quiet Georgiana because she represents all that is great and good about English womanhood. She represents the reason he fights. She's sweet, lovely, innocent and kind. However, Major Talbot doesn't see below the surface. Georgi has a deep mind and is eager to have someone to talk to discuss what she's reading, someone to debate issues with.
Enter Mr. Jacob Marwood. He's a bit too much for me to take. The novel takes a dramatically religious turn with the introduction of the vicar. He's a very serious young man, drawn to the church through a calling and not because of the usual reasons. Certainly he comes from a good family, new money from the West Indies, but money. Currently estranged from his father, a wannabe politicians, for personal reasons, Mr. Marwood comes to Pemberley to preach his own brand of Christianity. Mr. Markwood is truly drawn to his calling and leans evangelical which shocks some of the parish. Darcy enjoys debating and discussing with the vicar and they become friends as Mr. Markwood helps Darcy through a very tough time. Mr. Markwood is very preachy. He means well and he says some things that are incredibly important and relevant even today like how people use the Bible to justify how they are living instead of looking to the Bible to learn how to live. Mr. Markwood is a little reserved but with those who are eager to listen and discuss things with him, he's very open and sincere. He feels comfortable with the Darcys and accepted at Pemberley. He has new friends and feels at peace. Yet there's a part of him that is still troubled- his heart. Broken in the past, he's resolved to overcome it and move forward with his life. I'm not sure he knows what earthly love IS when he sees it. He is completely blind to what is happening in front of him until it's almost too late and then he's too honorable to do anything. I like him and feel bad for him that he just can't catch a break.
A sublot revolves around Kitty Bennet. What to do about Kitty? What kind of husband should she aim for? The wealthy barrister Mr. Aaron Markwood or the lowly curate Peter Bailee who actually has more money than she does! Mr. Bailee is nice, devoted to his job enough to do what is asked of him when he's asked but it is not a true calling. He lacks ambition and drive and moons over Kitty. He's nice enough and some people believe an appropriate suitor and others think he's beneath her. What does Kitty think? Kitty is still shallow and a bit silly. Her mind is yet unformed and she isn't a deep thinker. She's getting an education, thanks to her brothers-in-law, and learning from Jane and Lizzy how to behave properly. She's still a work in progress. Kitty is young and flirtatious and when she meets the firebrand lawyer, Mr. Aaron Markwood, she's intrigued. He's flirtatious too and fun to be with. He seems to like Kitty but has a deep secret he can't share with her that will probably mean the end of their relationship. Aaron is a young man who knows his own mind and Kitty is not there yet. Aaron is devoted firmly to one subject, much like another character, and can't easily bring someone new into his life. Does Mr. Aaron Markwood dare to ask of Kitty all that joining him in marriage would entail? Should he be selfish and ask or let her go? Personally I think he should ASK and let her know what he's thinking and feeling. Explain to her what he's thinking, explain to Darcy and Lizzy and let them help Kitty figure it out. See what Jane and Bingley think. (I say, from a modern perspective, yes please and BRING IT ON! I'll join you )
The romance is slow moving but it's more about Georgiana coming into her own and the men who appreciate her for different reasons.
So what does one base a marriage on? Mutual affection and esteem? Friendship? Passion? All of the above? This novel asks that big question of the two young ladies. This story looks at marriage much in the same way as Austen did in P&P. Some characters may choose romance/passion, while others may settle similarly to Charlotte Lucas but not quite as drastic.
Mr. Wickham turns up again worse than a bad penny and the Darcys have to deal with the consequences of his actions yet again. Should they speak up this time or stay silent and protect Lydia and her daughter?
This novel is good but not for everyone. It has a lot of history and political references. It's not a romcom. It was well-written but rather dull and preachy in spots. It's definitely for the history buff and not the casual reader. I appreciate how the author took the time to do research and explained how she couldn't write in Jane's voice and wouldn't try but attempted to maintain the formality of speech of the time. No "we're worse than exes- we're friends!" here thankfully!
It does look at more through a modern lens
It illuminates the hypocrisy of the clergy at the time in a less subtle and funny way than Jane does with Mr. Collins and Mr. Elton. The archdeacon is funny but a really awful person. He's too petty, jealous and barely knows who said what in the Bible. He can't bear to be upstaged by young Mr. Markwood who has a sincere conviction. The bishop has become jaded but is aware of the faults of many of the clergy.
There's very little of our beloved characters. Colonel Fitzwilliam is mentioned in passing. Jane and Bingley are present in a few scenes but barely and Darcy and Lizzy are always trying to be alone. They're eager for a baby and practicing is a lot of fun. I think Darcy is portrayed as too antisocial though. He's always sticking his nose in a book unless he's interrogating his sister's suitors. He's supposed to lighten up with Lizzy's help and become more of a brother to Georgi and less of a father. Miss Bingley becomes Mary Crawford but without the elegance of manners. She's just plain rude.
The back of the book features a timeline of historic events and a list of the books mentioned in this novel.
Read this if you want a thoughtful novel set in Jane Austen's time, if you want to think about the characters as real people and what their lives might be like after the events of Pride and Prejudice. This novel will never wind up on the New York Times bestseller list or become a movie/TV miniseries. It's too cerebral for the casual fan.
April 2, 2018
This book earned 5-stars because I had to read it all in one sitting. Yes, I was a little miffed that poor Colonel Fitzwilliam was shuffled aside in favor of new characters to Jane Austen's world, but I thoroughly enjoyed the vicar Jacob Markwood, his abolitionist brother Aaron Markwood, though I think Major Talbot could just have easily been named Colonel Fitzwilliam, no offense to the author.
The book closely follows the story of how does Georgiana find her happiness after Darcy and Elizabeth find theirs. The new characters were very well fleshed out, and I enjoyed reading all about a full-developed Georgiana. ******POSSIBLE SPOILER******I DO wish in these kinds of stories that poor Elizabeth Darcy could have a little more luck with her first pregnancies. It seems like in EVERY continuation, there must be a miscarriage. Yet Jane always gives birth to perfectly healthy little Bingley. Just saying. :) ********END SPOILER******
Overall, Darcy and Elizabeth are mostly shuffled to the background, so I wouldn't necessarily call this a continuation of their story, but it is a rich and enjoyable tale centering on Georgiana. I found the direct addressing of the reader a little off-putting, but it is very brief. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
The book closely follows the story of how does Georgiana find her happiness after Darcy and Elizabeth find theirs. The new characters were very well fleshed out, and I enjoyed reading all about a full-developed Georgiana. ******POSSIBLE SPOILER******I DO wish in these kinds of stories that poor Elizabeth Darcy could have a little more luck with her first pregnancies. It seems like in EVERY continuation, there must be a miscarriage. Yet Jane always gives birth to perfectly healthy little Bingley. Just saying. :) ********END SPOILER******
Overall, Darcy and Elizabeth are mostly shuffled to the background, so I wouldn't necessarily call this a continuation of their story, but it is a rich and enjoyable tale centering on Georgiana. I found the direct addressing of the reader a little off-putting, but it is very brief. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
June 24, 2014
This P&P continuation centers mostly on Georgina Darcy. Georgina makes her debut in society and attracts a number of suitors. Some suitors are mostly attracted to her fortune and connections while others find her sweet and innocent disposition the main attraction.
The novel was well written and very original. Ms. Burris uses a satirical and sardonic voice in her writing.
The novel was well written and very original. Ms. Burris uses a satirical and sardonic voice in her writing.
June 20, 2012
While this book isn't the same quality as Pride and Prejudice, it's still a good read. You have several new characters to enjoy. Including Major Talbot, the vicar, Mr. Markwood, and his younger brother. There's even a curate.
The romance centers around Georgiana Darcy. She has a bevvy of suitors to choose from. Her shyness prevents her from really becoming engaged with any one gentleman though.
Ultimately she does become engaged to someone after a short engagement after a short courtship. The question is, is she really in love with him?
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the vicars character the most. I thought he was the most interesting. He becomes estranged from his father and ends up with the Pemberly living through the compassion of the Bennett sisters, now Mrs. Bingely and Mrs. Darcy. His passion as a man of God is stirring, not that I'm particularly religious. There's a lot of religion in this book though. It's not particularly preachy, it's more theology.
Georgiana Darcy's character in this book was also likable and very true to Austen's Georgiana. Although Austen's was more reserved, more stilted. Still, this Georgiana showed a liveliness of mind and spirit that I came to admire when she showed it to those she was comfortable with.
So even though this book isn't on par with P&P, it still holds its own. If you don't mind reading past the religion.
The romance centers around Georgiana Darcy. She has a bevvy of suitors to choose from. Her shyness prevents her from really becoming engaged with any one gentleman though.
Ultimately she does become engaged to someone after a short engagement after a short courtship. The question is, is she really in love with him?
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the vicars character the most. I thought he was the most interesting. He becomes estranged from his father and ends up with the Pemberly living through the compassion of the Bennett sisters, now Mrs. Bingely and Mrs. Darcy. His passion as a man of God is stirring, not that I'm particularly religious. There's a lot of religion in this book though. It's not particularly preachy, it's more theology.
Georgiana Darcy's character in this book was also likable and very true to Austen's Georgiana. Although Austen's was more reserved, more stilted. Still, this Georgiana showed a liveliness of mind and spirit that I came to admire when she showed it to those she was comfortable with.
So even though this book isn't on par with P&P, it still holds its own. If you don't mind reading past the religion.
March 23, 2019
This is by far my favorite sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The style might not be exactly like Austen's (I mean, whose could be) but the events, characters, and general style fit with Pride and Prejudice so well! The characters have depth and while Mr. Markwood does go on religious tangents now and then I find them very enjoyable, never too lengthy, and that they reveal a lot about his character. Overall, I love love love this book!
October 9, 2019
An amusing tale
Overall this book was enjoyable. I didn't like the portrayal of Kitty. She seems to grow yet her husband is still in his station at the end of the story. I guess the story just reflect life. One of my favorite hymn is quoted here. Again Mr Wickham doesn't seem to grow, nor does Caroline Bingley. Again this is reflective of real life.
Overall this book was enjoyable. I didn't like the portrayal of Kitty. She seems to grow yet her husband is still in his station at the end of the story. I guess the story just reflect life. One of my favorite hymn is quoted here. Again Mr Wickham doesn't seem to grow, nor does Caroline Bingley. Again this is reflective of real life.
August 1, 2021
As P&P fan fiction goes, this was okay. It takes place mostly at Pemberley after the Darcys are married. Georgiana is the main focus, but the Bingleys and Kitty Bennet also appear. Although Lydia and Wickham are alluded to, Mary is not mentioned. Mr and Mrs Bennet are also absent. I found this disappointing as they are two of my favorite characters from P&P.
February 6, 2018
Burris has written a delightful story about Georgiana, Kitty and a cast of new characters that draws the reader in and creates more depth to the beloved classic Pride and Prejudice. One of my favorites that I re-read often.
November 18, 2008
Probably closer to 3 1/2 stars, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt. One thing that's not clear from the blurb on the back cover is that most of the book is mostly about Georgiana Darcy, but it's well done. I think Burris represents the characters well and obviously admires them. Her dialogue is fairly good and shows the kind of relationship I imagine for Darcy and Elizabeth. I think she also did a good job of showing both society at that time and her new characters in a good light. It is certainly one of the better depictions of Georgiana Darcy I've seen recently. I couldn't quite decide if I liked how she showed Caroline Bingley as getting rather desperate, but I did think it was at least plausible. A few of the conversations that Mr. Markwood had seemed to go on more as an exercise in religion than part of the book, but I liked his true belief all the same. All in all, not too bad a read.
May 12, 2008
Anyone who's ever written fanfic, and especially Jane Austen fanfic, will be interested to know that fanfic CAN get published. I read this when it was originally posted on a fan site, and it was so exciting to see it in print! It's the story of Georgiana's choice to marry a minister over a more "connected" suitor, and it really is a rated G romance. Because he's a minister, there are Christian references, but they're done in moderation. As a Jew, I appreciated the modest approach, and I just glossed over the Christian parts. Georgiana picked a charmer, so Jane Austen fans will enjoy themselves.
April 12, 2015
An interesting spin off. As far as the original characters few play any lead role. Much of the story is born from that moment when the new Vicker comes to Pemberly. This is an interesting story of misbegotten love, broken hearts, guileless admiration masked as love and many other fashions and passions of love.
This period was well reliant on the word of the clergy to steer the flock and the new Vicker sets a fresh trend for his flock (both rich and poor). As the story tends to revolve a bit around him the story does trend toward sermonising the nature of love. This is done artfully and with good graces.
This period was well reliant on the word of the clergy to steer the flock and the new Vicker sets a fresh trend for his flock (both rich and poor). As the story tends to revolve a bit around him the story does trend toward sermonising the nature of love. This is done artfully and with good graces.
Want to read
January 4, 2009Can't wait to order this! It sounds so good. I like the cover on this one better than the color illustrated cover. For Christmas My hubby & I ordered my 12 year old daughter "The Complete Novels of Jane Austen" (The Wordsworth Library Collection- hard back) She has been devouring her books, and we've been watching the movies together-sweet!I want to add this to her collection, and of course read it myself!!!
April 18, 2013
This was like most of the other Jane Austen-inspired books I've read, clean and free of supernatural elements. I'd give it a little better than a 3 because there was some sparkle to it. It's right about the midway mark of all the Jane Austen fanfiction I've read. It ends after Georgiana's marriage, but doesn't leave out the romance still clinging to her brother's marriage. There are bedroom scenes with both married couples, but no open-door sex.
January 13, 2013
I like this P&P sequel more than I have enjoyed others. This one tells the story of Georgiana Darcy's attempts to find love, but still features plenty of Lizzie and Darcy, with whom she lives. I liked the love triangle that Burris created, and was happy with Georgiana's eventual choice of the thoughtful, sensitive, intelligent minister for her husband.
September 11, 2013
This is much more than a sequel to P & P. Great story and with the characters and some new. This book is P & P with God to me. Its a great story and involves each character's relationship with God also. I like how Darcy's sister is portrayed in this.
I just bought other books by this author today. Can't wait to read!!!
I just bought other books by this author today. Can't wait to read!!!
October 20, 2015
Unsatisfying for some characters
The ending was uncharacteristic with the entire theme of the book, true love can find everyone. It was disappointing that one character, for no other reason than being immature, must marry below her expectations and "learn to love" her husband. I was very unsatisfied with this ending.
The ending was uncharacteristic with the entire theme of the book, true love can find everyone. It was disappointing that one character, for no other reason than being immature, must marry below her expectations and "learn to love" her husband. I was very unsatisfied with this ending.
August 28, 2008
This was actually a nice sequel to Pride and Prejudice if you're as into Jane Austen as I am, but can still get over the fact that it's so not Jane Austen. An enjoyable book, but nothing spectacular.
October 28, 2009
This is a sequel to Pride & Prejudice and all about Georgiana. I rather enjoyed the book. Some of the characters are in the book and we learn about more as we go along. There are some very funny parts that makes the whole book wonderful. I am glad I read it.
June 29, 2010
I enjoyed this book. Not amazing...but still fun to read. It is one of the few Pride and Prejudice spin-offs that I could actually finish reading, although it is pretty much a separate story from P&P--almost no focus on the original characters.
July 23, 2012
Burris did quite well by not trying to change the relationships of the Darcy's, the Bingley's or even the Wickham's
I for one appreciated the take on Gorgianna's and Kitty's characters
Good read for the P&P nuts :)
I for one appreciated the take on Gorgianna's and Kitty's characters
Good read for the P&P nuts :)
October 21, 2012
As with many of the self-published e-books, this had a number of formatting errors that were somewhat frustrating. As a Pride & Prejudice sequel, it was OK, although I would recommend a number which are freely available on various websites ahead of this.
March 11, 2008
Not as good as Pride and Prejudice, but worth reading.
June 13, 2012
The story focuses on the maturing process of Georgiana Darcy and her ensuing suitors with various personalities and intentions.
August 14, 2010
Interesting with the historical background, but rather disappointing in the 'acceptance' of what women had to accept as their lot. Have to admit to a lot of descriptive skimming.
December 15, 2011
Did not do P&P justice at all.
June 14, 2012
I liked this sequel. I think it was good and possibly what Georgiana would have done had Jane written it.
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