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Caroline Bingley
When Charles Bingley and Mr. Darcy made proposals of marriage to the Bennet sisters at the end of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Caroline Bingley was both distressed by her brother’s choice of bride and humiliated by Mr. Darcy’s rejection of her. And she made her objections known.
Now banished from her brother’s household, Caroline must return to her mother’s home in the north of England until she can make amends with both Bennet sisters. Desperate though Caroline may be to return to polite company, she absolutely refuses to apologize to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and instead, she seeks an alternative route back into society in the form of Mr. William Charlton, heir to a barony.
Through her connections with Mr. Charlton’s sister Lavinia, Caroline begins to infiltrate the household in the hopes of securing the gentleman and his title for herself. However, she must also contend with her vexing emotions regarding Mr. Patrick Rushton, a once-wealthy landowner, and the meddlesome opinions of Mrs. Rosemary Pickersgill, the companion sent by her brother.
When all that Caroline has ever dreamed of attaining—an ancient family name, a title, and a home of her own—is finally within her reach, will she grasp for it even if it means disregarding the workings of her own heart? Or will she cast off the trappings of society and give herself to true love?
Features
* Formatted for ebook
* Linked table of contents
* 78,000 words
* Bonus deleted scenes from Caroline Bingley
* Bonus excerpt from A Walk in the Meadows at Rosings Park by Mary Lydon Simonsen
Now banished from her brother’s household, Caroline must return to her mother’s home in the north of England until she can make amends with both Bennet sisters. Desperate though Caroline may be to return to polite company, she absolutely refuses to apologize to Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and instead, she seeks an alternative route back into society in the form of Mr. William Charlton, heir to a barony.
Through her connections with Mr. Charlton’s sister Lavinia, Caroline begins to infiltrate the household in the hopes of securing the gentleman and his title for herself. However, she must also contend with her vexing emotions regarding Mr. Patrick Rushton, a once-wealthy landowner, and the meddlesome opinions of Mrs. Rosemary Pickersgill, the companion sent by her brother.
When all that Caroline has ever dreamed of attaining—an ancient family name, a title, and a home of her own—is finally within her reach, will she grasp for it even if it means disregarding the workings of her own heart? Or will she cast off the trappings of society and give herself to true love?
Features
* Formatted for ebook
* Linked table of contents
* 78,000 words
* Bonus deleted scenes from Caroline Bingley
* Bonus excerpt from A Walk in the Meadows at Rosings Park by Mary Lydon Simonsen
372 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 16, 2011
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829 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
February 13, 2012
I was drawn to this book because secretly, I've always sympathized with Caroline Bingley. Afterall, she saw Darcy first, she was friends with him first, and her brother was his best friend...didn't she have a right to feel she could be considered the obvious choice for his wife?
I thought Darcy's leaving her in the cold was a bit heartless. And, Jane Austen's treatment of poor Caroline as a villianous, hateful creature seemed harsh. She was the jilted maiden, wasn't she?
Thus, Jennifer Becton's book, "Caroline Bingley" gave me hope that someone else held that sneaking suspicion that she wasn't all bad, but was only acting like "a woman scorned." A young woman whose social pressures got the best of her.
Ms Becton employs a wonderful, descriptive hand with her book. Caroline is very much in character as Austen presents her in the beginning, and she then grows into a more sane and understandable character as love and opportunity finally flow her way. At least, I think she does!!
Filled with a touch of the ironic and the forgiving spirit, this book will help you understand and, perhaps, learn to tolerate poor, grasping Caroline better. I, for one, had a great treat in reading the book! I'll never see Miss Bingley the same again!
Highly recommended as a continuation of "Pride and Prejudice" by a very talented writer.
I thought Darcy's leaving her in the cold was a bit heartless. And, Jane Austen's treatment of poor Caroline as a villianous, hateful creature seemed harsh. She was the jilted maiden, wasn't she?
Thus, Jennifer Becton's book, "Caroline Bingley" gave me hope that someone else held that sneaking suspicion that she wasn't all bad, but was only acting like "a woman scorned." A young woman whose social pressures got the best of her.
Ms Becton employs a wonderful, descriptive hand with her book. Caroline is very much in character as Austen presents her in the beginning, and she then grows into a more sane and understandable character as love and opportunity finally flow her way. At least, I think she does!!
Filled with a touch of the ironic and the forgiving spirit, this book will help you understand and, perhaps, learn to tolerate poor, grasping Caroline better. I, for one, had a great treat in reading the book! I'll never see Miss Bingley the same again!
Highly recommended as a continuation of "Pride and Prejudice" by a very talented writer.
March 28, 2017
“I have learned from my mistakes, and I am sure I can repeat them exactly.” Peter Cook
Banished by her brother and in a carriage headed toward the north, we are in her head as she reflected on just what brought her to this situation in her life. Charles had learned about her machinations toward and against the Bennet sisters, and in his anger, had demanded she apologize not only to Jane, but also to Elizabeth Bennet. Thus, her travels to the north and to her mother [loved this lady]. Until she could apologize, she was barred not only from the company of her brother, but denied any access to the Darcy properties.
She reflected on her shock and surprise at her brother’s engagement to Jane Bennet. However, it was nothing to the shock and grief when she learned of the engagement of her Mr. Darcy to that woman. Caroline didn’t love him, but what was love in a marriage of social convenience? The ton did not approve of a love match, let alone one of unequal status. Her suffering was acute at the loss of not only Mr. Darcy himself, but of all that a connection with him encompassed… Pemberley, a higher circle of society, unimagined wealth, mistress of all his properties. This was not to be borne.
“Disgrace does not consist in the punishment, but in the crime.” Vittorio Alfieri
Caroline was having trouble understanding just where everything had gone so terribly wrong. Her feelings ran the gamut from anger to hurt and embarrassed. She was aghast at the outcome of all her plans. First, her attempt to separate Charles from Jane. That was reasonable; she would never believe Jane was anything but a fortune hunter. Why no one else could see that, she simply did not understand.
Second, her arts at securing Darcy as a husband. They were perfect for each other. She was everything he needed in a wife and she would be the perfect hostess as they became the center of his social circle. From their first acquaintance, she had always pictured herself on his arm as his wife.
And lastly, her infuriation and humiliation at his choosing that country chit over her. She should have been mistress of Pemberley not that little nobody with no sense of fashion, no awareness of social status, ignorant to the expectations of the ton, good society and… and… she was at a loss of words to describe the deficits of Elizabeth Bennet. She refused to acknowledge her as Mrs. Darcy, and as far as an apology to her, that would never happen.
“When you challenge other people’s ideas of who or how you should be, they may try to diminish and disgrace you. It can happen in small ways in hidden places, or in big ways on a world stage. You can spend a lifetime resenting the tests, angry about the slights and the injustices. Or, you can rise above it.” Carly Fiorina
This was a tough read. There were many subtle layers that needed to be peeled back in order to reveal the motives of the story. Caroline was a very convoluted character. Social issues were addressed, society was changing, social status and social order was challenged. Caroline struggled with the stench/label of trade associated with her family. The concept of a marriage for love was foreign to her. The very fabric of her belief system was being challenged and she did not like it one bit. Also, life seemed to be constantly putting a mirror in front of her and she did not like the reflection. She struggled against the restraints society placed on women and their subjugation to the control of men over their freedoms, their wealth, and their independence.
On one hand, I did not like her as she held on to her anger, bias, and disdain like a dog with a bone. Just try to take it from her and she would bite your hand off. She was vicious in her exalted opinions and schemes to rise on the social ladder. On the other I felt for her as she was a product of the opinions and influence of others on her life. As a young lady, she was sent from her family to a seminary for girls. There she met those above her in station and social status. And there she learned to be a social climber and thus began her downfall.
Although we had limited E&D page time, their presence was a constant salt being poured into the wounds of Caroline Bingley. Their marriage was the driving force in her attempt to rise above them in society and it propelled her to take risks that put her reputation into jeopardy. It was painful watching her crash and burn as she had to discover for herself what was really important in life.
I’m having a hard time rationalizing just what this story was really about. Yeah, on the surface we had Caroline and her snarky responses and treatment of those she felt were inferior. However, I felt it went a little deeper than that. Caroline was disconcerted with the subtle changes being infused into the fabric of English society and her concept of the ‘social order’ of things. The gap between the aristocracy and the ‘middle class’ [as we would call them] was diminishing.
I was deeply troubled as to her way of thinking. Where did that come from? At the end of the story, there were two deleted scenes that provided additional information; however, they didn’t make the final cut of the book. It had Darcy speaking of the Bingley sisters when they were younger, before they went to seminary. From this, I deduced that their schooling had taught out of them the Bingley sweetness and instilled social hauteur. That made me sad.
“No one can disgrace us but ourselves.” Josh Billings
We watched Caroline continue [crash and burn] in the same vein as she always had and amazed that she was still aghast when presented with the same outcome. The whole purpose of making mistakes was to learn from them. However, Caroline simply refused to learn that if the results were negative the first time… why would the outcome be any different the second time around, especially if you are using the same strategies?
The HEA was hard won, I was an emotional wreck wondering if she was simply not fit for love or marriage. I was grieved and a little off put at the meeting between her and Elizabeth. I felt this was a cop-out. Perhaps it was ‘truth’ as the author attempted to bring about peace. I suppose it will have to stand. The author has the final say.
I gave this 3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars because I adored the male lead in this story. I won’t spoil it by mentioning his name. I am sorry the author didn’t give us any additional page time with them together. I wanted that very badly. I liked knowing the final outcome with the other characters. That was a great reveal and good to know. Hints were given throughout the story that you just knew there was more to the plot than was presented.
It was a clean read, although perhaps PG-13 due to scenes at Vauxhall Gardens… yeah, the Pleasure Gardens… were a bit racy in suggestion only, no vivid descriptions.
Banished by her brother and in a carriage headed toward the north, we are in her head as she reflected on just what brought her to this situation in her life. Charles had learned about her machinations toward and against the Bennet sisters, and in his anger, had demanded she apologize not only to Jane, but also to Elizabeth Bennet. Thus, her travels to the north and to her mother [loved this lady]. Until she could apologize, she was barred not only from the company of her brother, but denied any access to the Darcy properties.
She reflected on her shock and surprise at her brother’s engagement to Jane Bennet. However, it was nothing to the shock and grief when she learned of the engagement of her Mr. Darcy to that woman. Caroline didn’t love him, but what was love in a marriage of social convenience? The ton did not approve of a love match, let alone one of unequal status. Her suffering was acute at the loss of not only Mr. Darcy himself, but of all that a connection with him encompassed… Pemberley, a higher circle of society, unimagined wealth, mistress of all his properties. This was not to be borne.
“Disgrace does not consist in the punishment, but in the crime.” Vittorio Alfieri
Caroline was having trouble understanding just where everything had gone so terribly wrong. Her feelings ran the gamut from anger to hurt and embarrassed. She was aghast at the outcome of all her plans. First, her attempt to separate Charles from Jane. That was reasonable; she would never believe Jane was anything but a fortune hunter. Why no one else could see that, she simply did not understand.
Second, her arts at securing Darcy as a husband. They were perfect for each other. She was everything he needed in a wife and she would be the perfect hostess as they became the center of his social circle. From their first acquaintance, she had always pictured herself on his arm as his wife.
And lastly, her infuriation and humiliation at his choosing that country chit over her. She should have been mistress of Pemberley not that little nobody with no sense of fashion, no awareness of social status, ignorant to the expectations of the ton, good society and… and… she was at a loss of words to describe the deficits of Elizabeth Bennet. She refused to acknowledge her as Mrs. Darcy, and as far as an apology to her, that would never happen.
“When you challenge other people’s ideas of who or how you should be, they may try to diminish and disgrace you. It can happen in small ways in hidden places, or in big ways on a world stage. You can spend a lifetime resenting the tests, angry about the slights and the injustices. Or, you can rise above it.” Carly Fiorina
This was a tough read. There were many subtle layers that needed to be peeled back in order to reveal the motives of the story. Caroline was a very convoluted character. Social issues were addressed, society was changing, social status and social order was challenged. Caroline struggled with the stench/label of trade associated with her family. The concept of a marriage for love was foreign to her. The very fabric of her belief system was being challenged and she did not like it one bit. Also, life seemed to be constantly putting a mirror in front of her and she did not like the reflection. She struggled against the restraints society placed on women and their subjugation to the control of men over their freedoms, their wealth, and their independence.
On one hand, I did not like her as she held on to her anger, bias, and disdain like a dog with a bone. Just try to take it from her and she would bite your hand off. She was vicious in her exalted opinions and schemes to rise on the social ladder. On the other I felt for her as she was a product of the opinions and influence of others on her life. As a young lady, she was sent from her family to a seminary for girls. There she met those above her in station and social status. And there she learned to be a social climber and thus began her downfall.
Although we had limited E&D page time, their presence was a constant salt being poured into the wounds of Caroline Bingley. Their marriage was the driving force in her attempt to rise above them in society and it propelled her to take risks that put her reputation into jeopardy. It was painful watching her crash and burn as she had to discover for herself what was really important in life.
I’m having a hard time rationalizing just what this story was really about. Yeah, on the surface we had Caroline and her snarky responses and treatment of those she felt were inferior. However, I felt it went a little deeper than that. Caroline was disconcerted with the subtle changes being infused into the fabric of English society and her concept of the ‘social order’ of things. The gap between the aristocracy and the ‘middle class’ [as we would call them] was diminishing.
I was deeply troubled as to her way of thinking. Where did that come from? At the end of the story, there were two deleted scenes that provided additional information; however, they didn’t make the final cut of the book. It had Darcy speaking of the Bingley sisters when they were younger, before they went to seminary. From this, I deduced that their schooling had taught out of them the Bingley sweetness and instilled social hauteur. That made me sad.
“No one can disgrace us but ourselves.” Josh Billings
We watched Caroline continue [crash and burn] in the same vein as she always had and amazed that she was still aghast when presented with the same outcome. The whole purpose of making mistakes was to learn from them. However, Caroline simply refused to learn that if the results were negative the first time… why would the outcome be any different the second time around, especially if you are using the same strategies?
The HEA was hard won, I was an emotional wreck wondering if she was simply not fit for love or marriage. I was grieved and a little off put at the meeting between her and Elizabeth. I felt this was a cop-out. Perhaps it was ‘truth’ as the author attempted to bring about peace. I suppose it will have to stand. The author has the final say.
I gave this 3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars because I adored the male lead in this story. I won’t spoil it by mentioning his name. I am sorry the author didn’t give us any additional page time with them together. I wanted that very badly. I liked knowing the final outcome with the other characters. That was a great reveal and good to know. Hints were given throughout the story that you just knew there was more to the plot than was presented.
It was a clean read, although perhaps PG-13 due to scenes at Vauxhall Gardens… yeah, the Pleasure Gardens… were a bit racy in suggestion only, no vivid descriptions.
March 5, 2019
We love to vilify the social climbing, snobby sister who broke up her brother's budding romance and sought to hook herself a wealthy, well-connected husband. And, in truth, our modern sensibilities struggle to see anything in her to appreciate or favor.
I went into this book hoping for the author to do a rather neat job of showing me a Caroline Bingley who was true to Austen's portrayal, but somehow making me see her with empathy and understanding if not actual admiration (that would be setting my expectations too high).
In this continuation of Austen's P&P, Caroline is sent away in disgrace. She is angry and her pride is bruised, but she is utterly convinced that she is the put upon person in all this. She was only trying to secure what was best for her family in all her actions (well okay, she might have been angling for her own happiness as well, she thought). Being sent north to stay with her mother who is married to a wealthy man in trade and associating with her step-father's clever and knowing young partner along with a paid companion her brother saddled her with while hiding the truth of her banishment from her gentle mother, grinds at her.
But, all is not lost, the neighborhood has quite the catch in a Baron's heir and already an acquaintance with the family. She will show everyone when she meets her brother and the Darcy's as a titled wife. And, she will if only near miss circumstances along with the amused, knowing glances of Mr. Rushton weren't distracting her so much.
Yes, I wanted a Caroline true to herself and I got her. The author first reveals Caroline as a fully fleshed out person and not a cookie cutter cliche. Then she starts the slow growth of awareness inside Caroline who learns to know herself and other people better. This personal journey was painful and necessarily slow. In the end, she is still Caroline, but one, as a reader, I was rooting on wholeheartedly. And, Mr. Rushton. Yes, go Mr. R!
This is the third of the author's books and novellas that tackle minor Austen P&P female characters and gives them a lush, well-developed story beyond P&P. I can definitely recommend them. I liked this one even more than Charlotte Collins and I did like Charlotte's tale.
I went into this book hoping for the author to do a rather neat job of showing me a Caroline Bingley who was true to Austen's portrayal, but somehow making me see her with empathy and understanding if not actual admiration (that would be setting my expectations too high).
In this continuation of Austen's P&P, Caroline is sent away in disgrace. She is angry and her pride is bruised, but she is utterly convinced that she is the put upon person in all this. She was only trying to secure what was best for her family in all her actions (well okay, she might have been angling for her own happiness as well, she thought). Being sent north to stay with her mother who is married to a wealthy man in trade and associating with her step-father's clever and knowing young partner along with a paid companion her brother saddled her with while hiding the truth of her banishment from her gentle mother, grinds at her.
But, all is not lost, the neighborhood has quite the catch in a Baron's heir and already an acquaintance with the family. She will show everyone when she meets her brother and the Darcy's as a titled wife. And, she will if only near miss circumstances along with the amused, knowing glances of Mr. Rushton weren't distracting her so much.
Yes, I wanted a Caroline true to herself and I got her. The author first reveals Caroline as a fully fleshed out person and not a cookie cutter cliche. Then she starts the slow growth of awareness inside Caroline who learns to know herself and other people better. This personal journey was painful and necessarily slow. In the end, she is still Caroline, but one, as a reader, I was rooting on wholeheartedly. And, Mr. Rushton. Yes, go Mr. R!
This is the third of the author's books and novellas that tackle minor Austen P&P female characters and gives them a lush, well-developed story beyond P&P. I can definitely recommend them. I liked this one even more than Charlotte Collins and I did like Charlotte's tale.
November 18, 2011
Caroline Bingley, “handsome, clever, and rich,” with no home of her own and an unpleasant disposition, seemed to desire nothing more than to be accepted into the upper echelons of society; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very much to distress and vex her. Because of her humiliating and unsuccessful pursuit of Mr. Darcy, and her refusal to apologize for her part in separating Jane and Bingley, Caroline loses her brother's good opinion and is banished from his home and care. Forced to leave all the fashionable and elite society she adores, Caroline is sent far north to Cumbria to live with her mother and step-father. Will Caroline finally learn that there are more important things in life than wealth and titles? Will she apologize to Elizabeth Darcy and reunify her family? Or will she find herself embroiled in yet another scheme to ensnare a wealthy husband?
Well, it just so happens that there are two eligible bachelors in Cumbria... One will inherit a title and owns an ancestral home, the other works in trade and owns a crumbling mansion (according to Caroline). One loves Caroline's “impudence and independent spirit,” the other loves her inheritance. Who do you think Caroline is chasing? Who do you think will claim her heart?
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
Well, it just so happens that there are two eligible bachelors in Cumbria... One will inherit a title and owns an ancestral home, the other works in trade and owns a crumbling mansion (according to Caroline). One loves Caroline's “impudence and independent spirit,” the other loves her inheritance. Who do you think Caroline is chasing? Who do you think will claim her heart?
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
February 7, 2019
Caroline Bingley's perfect life plan is dramatically upset when her brother marries Miss Jane Bennet and Mr. Darcy marries Jane's impudent sister, Miss Elizabeth. Charles, knowing what Caroline did to prevent his happily ever after, is furious. While Jane may accept Caroline's platitudes with good grace, Elizabeth is not so quick to forgive. Charles demands Caroline apologize to Elizabeth or be banished forever from travel with the Darcys and visits to Pemberley. Caroline would rather die than apologize for not doing anything wrong. She was merely trying to protect her brother from an improper alliance. Wouldn't any other lady do the same? Banished to her mother's home in Cumbia, Caroline must bring along a companion, a Rosemary Pickersgill, whom Caroline regards as a nobody. Back in her old neighborhood, Caroline has the opportunity to socialize with the neighboring gentry. Her old school friend Lavinia's eldest brother has recently passed away and her next brother is now in line for a Barony. Caroline sees the chance she needs to escape her brother and finally have a home of her own and sets out to make William propose. Her plan has a few hitches along the way- a Rosemary's disapproval (as if Caroline cares for that) and the pesky business partner of her stepfather who manages to see underneath Caroline's perfectly perfected facade.
I have one sentence to sum up this book. It's a spoiler so read at your own risk:
This is one of the best Austenesque stories I have ever read. I would have rated it higher but for numerous historical errors. Those could be corrected and the story would still essentially be the same. Unless Caroline is over 100 years old, there is no way she attended a ladies' equivalent of Eton. She attended finishing school not an academic prep school. Finishing school makes far more sense for her behavior and actions. If she had attended an academically rigorous school learning Latin and mathematics like boys do, her personality might be different. The other major error is that unless the patent for the title can pass through the female line, Lavinia's son can not inherit the Barony. He can inherit from his father only.
The story is somewhat predictable in parts, however, it was still delightful. I loved seeing what happened to Caroline! Needless to say she gets her just desserts. The romance is SO swoony! There is incredible chemistry between Caroline and her love interest. The ending made me swoon a bit. The author is skilled enough to convey sexual tension and romance without resorting to overly descriptive adjectives or heaving body parts. It's all in the dialogue and the way the scene is set. Any touching is entirely era appropriate, aside from kissing, which does not occur anywhere in Austen's original works but I let that slide because this is a sequel and it's romantic!
Caroline is a complicated character. She's the one everyone loves to hate in Pride and Prejudice. The mean girl who strives to separate the lovers and nearly succeeds. She's a spiteful cat, a *itch and a mean girl- YET- as she is quick to point out, she is only doing what she's been taught. As an unmarried woman she is powerless, without control over her own life. She needs a husband with status and status comes from wealth and wealth comes from land. That is the only way a woman can have power in this society. In that way I do really feel very bad for her. I completely understand and sympathize with her motive. The author has done an incredible job conveying the powerlessness of woman at this time. She really understands the deeper nuances of Austen's novels and for that I am grateful. I want Caroline to have agency but her actions are not that of a true gentlewoman. She is told again and again- less artifice. Her obviousness becomes her downfall.
It was such a delight to see but by the end of the novel I felt sad for Caroline. She tried and tried to get what she thought she wanted. Is what she thought she wanted what she really wants? Is is what she needs? Is it what she deserves? Look at Charlotte Lucas. She did the right thing but ended up unhappy. Lydia got what she thought she wanted and now she's stuck with Wickham forever until he is undoubtedly killed by a jealous rival.
Everyone else in this novel is a new character and they are all realistic and interesting characters. First is Caroline's companion, Rosemary. She's a bit hard on Caroline at times but rightfully so. Caroline is supremely awful to her. Rosemary behaves as a gentlewoman ought, showing up Caroline with her superior manners. I guessed her backstory was something similar but the exact story was still a mystery when all was revealed. I'm not sure how historically accurate it is though. Next we meet Caroline's mother, Mrs. Elthea Knowles Bingley Newton, described as the "very best of women, always kind, generous, and self-effacing." Mrs. Newton is very kind and loving. She longs to have her family around her but is a simple, homebody who does not like to leave her comfort zone. Caroline turns her nose up at her mother. She loves her mother but despises her mother's country manners and unpolished behavior. Caroline also despises her mother's husband. Mr. Newton is a good man. He's an engineer by trade and as such, Caroline sneers at him and doesn't understand why he's so wealthy. What's so hard about building bridges? Mr. Newton is always kind and welcoming to her though. Mr. Newton's business partner, Mr. Patrick Rushton, is the opposite of Mr. Newton. Mr. Rushton is from a landed gentry family fallen on hard times. Since his father sold as much of their estate as possible, Mr. Rushton used his brains to find some way to make money. Caroline can not comprehend this. I have mixed feelings about Mr. Rushton. I would not like the way he teases if I were Caroline but he has a pure heart and understands Caroline better than anyone else. I grew to appreciate his sincerity and warmth.
Caroline's childhood friend, Mrs. Ralph Winton, formerly The Honorable Miss Lavinia Charlton, has also returned to her childhood home for very different reasons. She has been mourning her late eldest brother and running her father's estate for her wayward younger brother. Lavinia is everything Caroline aspires to be and admires. Caroline counts on her friendship and support to carry off her grand plan. Lavinia is just like Caroline. It is obvious what she is up to but yet she is more subtle than Caroline. Lavinia's brother William was raised as a second son. He has heretofore enjoyed a life of pleasure and indulged in his rakish habits. Now, as the heir, he must sober up and become a true gentleman. William chafes as the restrictions his new role brings and longs for his old life. Can Caroline reform him? William is just as obvious as his sister. The question is, whether Caroline can see that and if she is willing to accept it?
I truly appreciate how the author has taken a closer look at the questions Jane Austen raises in Pride and Prejudice. These Pride and Prejudice spin-offs will really give readers a better insight into the life and times of a Regency woman more than the fun, frothy novels of Georgette Heyer. (Not that I don't LOVE Heyer... but her books are mostly pure escapism). Janeites should read this novel and fans of the Regency period who want to know more about the lives of more ordinary women than those Heyer writes about will enjoy the social commentary.
I have one sentence to sum up this book. It's a spoiler so read at your own risk:
This is one of the best Austenesque stories I have ever read. I would have rated it higher but for numerous historical errors. Those could be corrected and the story would still essentially be the same. Unless Caroline is over 100 years old, there is no way she attended a ladies' equivalent of Eton. She attended finishing school not an academic prep school. Finishing school makes far more sense for her behavior and actions. If she had attended an academically rigorous school learning Latin and mathematics like boys do, her personality might be different. The other major error is that unless the patent for the title can pass through the female line, Lavinia's son can not inherit the Barony. He can inherit from his father only.
The story is somewhat predictable in parts, however, it was still delightful. I loved seeing what happened to Caroline! Needless to say she gets her just desserts. The romance is SO swoony! There is incredible chemistry between Caroline and her love interest. The ending made me swoon a bit. The author is skilled enough to convey sexual tension and romance without resorting to overly descriptive adjectives or heaving body parts. It's all in the dialogue and the way the scene is set. Any touching is entirely era appropriate, aside from kissing, which does not occur anywhere in Austen's original works but I let that slide because this is a sequel and it's romantic!
Caroline is a complicated character. She's the one everyone loves to hate in Pride and Prejudice. The mean girl who strives to separate the lovers and nearly succeeds. She's a spiteful cat, a *itch and a mean girl- YET- as she is quick to point out, she is only doing what she's been taught. As an unmarried woman she is powerless, without control over her own life. She needs a husband with status and status comes from wealth and wealth comes from land. That is the only way a woman can have power in this society. In that way I do really feel very bad for her. I completely understand and sympathize with her motive. The author has done an incredible job conveying the powerlessness of woman at this time. She really understands the deeper nuances of Austen's novels and for that I am grateful. I want Caroline to have agency but her actions are not that of a true gentlewoman. She is told again and again- less artifice. Her obviousness becomes her downfall.
It was such a delight to see but by the end of the novel I felt sad for Caroline. She tried and tried to get what she thought she wanted. Is what she thought she wanted what she really wants? Is is what she needs? Is it what she deserves? Look at Charlotte Lucas. She did the right thing but ended up unhappy. Lydia got what she thought she wanted and now she's stuck with Wickham forever until he is undoubtedly killed by a jealous rival.
Everyone else in this novel is a new character and they are all realistic and interesting characters. First is Caroline's companion, Rosemary. She's a bit hard on Caroline at times but rightfully so. Caroline is supremely awful to her. Rosemary behaves as a gentlewoman ought, showing up Caroline with her superior manners. I guessed her backstory was something similar but the exact story was still a mystery when all was revealed. I'm not sure how historically accurate it is though. Next we meet Caroline's mother, Mrs. Elthea Knowles Bingley Newton, described as the "very best of women, always kind, generous, and self-effacing." Mrs. Newton is very kind and loving. She longs to have her family around her but is a simple, homebody who does not like to leave her comfort zone. Caroline turns her nose up at her mother. She loves her mother but despises her mother's country manners and unpolished behavior. Caroline also despises her mother's husband. Mr. Newton is a good man. He's an engineer by trade and as such, Caroline sneers at him and doesn't understand why he's so wealthy. What's so hard about building bridges? Mr. Newton is always kind and welcoming to her though. Mr. Newton's business partner, Mr. Patrick Rushton, is the opposite of Mr. Newton. Mr. Rushton is from a landed gentry family fallen on hard times. Since his father sold as much of their estate as possible, Mr. Rushton used his brains to find some way to make money. Caroline can not comprehend this. I have mixed feelings about Mr. Rushton. I would not like the way he teases if I were Caroline but he has a pure heart and understands Caroline better than anyone else. I grew to appreciate his sincerity and warmth.
Caroline's childhood friend, Mrs. Ralph Winton, formerly The Honorable Miss Lavinia Charlton, has also returned to her childhood home for very different reasons. She has been mourning her late eldest brother and running her father's estate for her wayward younger brother. Lavinia is everything Caroline aspires to be and admires. Caroline counts on her friendship and support to carry off her grand plan. Lavinia is just like Caroline. It is obvious what she is up to but yet she is more subtle than Caroline. Lavinia's brother William was raised as a second son. He has heretofore enjoyed a life of pleasure and indulged in his rakish habits. Now, as the heir, he must sober up and become a true gentleman. William chafes as the restrictions his new role brings and longs for his old life. Can Caroline reform him? William is just as obvious as his sister. The question is, whether Caroline can see that and if she is willing to accept it?
I truly appreciate how the author has taken a closer look at the questions Jane Austen raises in Pride and Prejudice. These Pride and Prejudice spin-offs will really give readers a better insight into the life and times of a Regency woman more than the fun, frothy novels of Georgette Heyer. (Not that I don't LOVE Heyer... but her books are mostly pure escapism). Janeites should read this novel and fans of the Regency period who want to know more about the lives of more ordinary women than those Heyer writes about will enjoy the social commentary.
September 18, 2021
It ought to be so simple. The titled were wealthy, and the poor were poor. That is how it used to be, but now trade and title were blurring, a most confounding condition. Caroline sighed. She simply could not understand the way of the world.
In this better than average spin-off to Jane Austen's Pride and PrejudiceCaroline Bingley retreats to her mother's home to lick her wounds and strategize how to return to the Darcy/Pemberley circle without apologizing to Elizabeth Bennett. It was brave to take on Caroline Bingley. It keeps her snobbish character intact while making her a little more relatable and her mean-girl actions foiling Jane's romance with Charles Bingley a little more understandable. A.) She loves her mother. B.) Her family comes from middle-class roots. Her father made his fortune "in Trade" and she lives in fear of being looked down on and excluded because of that.
The writing was competent. Although, and this seems picky, the author seemed to really really like the word "smirk". It was distracting. Caroline's motivation for trying to make a noble marriage in order to still have access to Pemberly made no sense. Why would Darcy or her brother care whom Caroline married after her behavior to Jane? Given the Authors background and qualifications, I expected better.
I do give Jennifer Becton credit for exploring the unjust way women were treated and making the slow changes in society and the rise of the middle-class part important themes in her novel. it was entertaining. I did enjoy her relationships and interactions with Lavinia, the love interest, Rosemary, and her family. I was glad that she brought in Elizabeth, Darcy, Jane, and Charles in a believable way.
https://rebekahsreadingsandwatchings....
October 26, 2022
Maybe a surprising character to get her own book, but she would have loved it.
She's not a very likeable character, kind of a "mean girl", and she is very much herself in this, but she does get some development and growth in this book.
This was very well written, it kept the Jane Austen vibe (maybe not as humorous), and was very hard to put down - I basically read it in one sitting.
She's not a very likeable character, kind of a "mean girl", and she is very much herself in this, but she does get some development and growth in this book.
This was very well written, it kept the Jane Austen vibe (maybe not as humorous), and was very hard to put down - I basically read it in one sitting.
October 7, 2011
Caroline Bingley. For Austen fans, even hearing the name can bring up feelings varying from annoyance to revulsion. For me, the feeling I get is kind of the same as the one that shimmies up your spine when someone scrapes their nails down a chalkboard. That “Oh my gosh, why? Make it stooooop” feeling. Caroline is one of the best examples of what I call “Austen’s smack-able characters,” and she could write some pretty darn smack worthy characters (pretty much everyone in Sense and Sensibility for example)! You love to hate Caroline.
So what is Jennifer Becton thinking centering a whole entire Pride and Prejudice continuation on this smack-able, nails-down-the-chalkboard, crazy girl? I have been wondering that every since I heard Caroline Bingley was coming out. I loved Jennifer Becton’s other Personages of Pride and Prejudice novel, Charlotte Collins. I really, really loved it. I also really enjoyed her thriller Absolute Liability. I mean the woman can write . . . but CAROLINE BINGLEY? Surely, you jest.
I don’t know quite how she did it, but at the end of this book I like Caroline. Not only do I LIKE Caroline, I totally get her. I sympathize with her. I want her to succeed. I want her to be happy. Up is down . . . wrong is right . . . “Dogs and cats living together . . . MASS HYSTERIA!”
The story picks up right after the end of Pride and Prejudice with Caroline being banished to her mother’s home in the north by her brother Charles for her interference in his romance with Jane Bennet (and her refusal to apologize to Elizabeth). To Caroline, who wants only to help further her families connections in society and to find her own home, this is a truly harsh punishment.
While in the north Caroline continues to try to advance her standing in society, but her best-laid plans seem to come to naught. To make matters worse for Caroline, her brother has saddled her with a paid companion, Rosemary, a woman she cannot stand. Caroline desires to distance her family from their roots in trade, but her mother’s husband doesn’t seem to be ashamed of his trade as a bridge designer at all, and his partner, the young and handsome Mr. Rushton, has the audacity not only to not be ashamed of his trade, but to find Caroline and her machinations amusing.
Can Caroline let go of her fear long enough to find her own home? Could it be be possible that Caroline will find a true friend where she least expects? Could Mr. Rushton be any more hot? The answer to that last one is no. If he was anymore hot readers everywhere would be spontaneously combusting, and I can’t imagine Ms. Becton wants that on her conscious, so she wisely went with an appropriate level of hotness.
So here I am, all confused and feeling slightly like I’ve cheated on Lizzy Bennet by ending up liking Caroline Bingley as a character. We often forget that Caroline is so very young, that was one of the first things that struck me while I was reading this book. She tried so hard to present a sophisticated and urbane front that, I, at least, forget she was the same age as Lizzy. Also, as the reader comes to learn more about Caroline’s history as Becton presents it, and the pressure put on her by her father (intentionally or not), and how she internalized that pressure, she becomes a much more understandable and sympathetic character. I’m not saying that she is easy to love, but there is something about the difficulty in getting past those prickles that makes the reward worthwhile.
Did I mention Mr. Rushton is hot?
So what is Jennifer Becton thinking centering a whole entire Pride and Prejudice continuation on this smack-able, nails-down-the-chalkboard, crazy girl? I have been wondering that every since I heard Caroline Bingley was coming out. I loved Jennifer Becton’s other Personages of Pride and Prejudice novel, Charlotte Collins. I really, really loved it. I also really enjoyed her thriller Absolute Liability. I mean the woman can write . . . but CAROLINE BINGLEY? Surely, you jest.
I don’t know quite how she did it, but at the end of this book I like Caroline. Not only do I LIKE Caroline, I totally get her. I sympathize with her. I want her to succeed. I want her to be happy. Up is down . . . wrong is right . . . “Dogs and cats living together . . . MASS HYSTERIA!”
The story picks up right after the end of Pride and Prejudice with Caroline being banished to her mother’s home in the north by her brother Charles for her interference in his romance with Jane Bennet (and her refusal to apologize to Elizabeth). To Caroline, who wants only to help further her families connections in society and to find her own home, this is a truly harsh punishment.
While in the north Caroline continues to try to advance her standing in society, but her best-laid plans seem to come to naught. To make matters worse for Caroline, her brother has saddled her with a paid companion, Rosemary, a woman she cannot stand. Caroline desires to distance her family from their roots in trade, but her mother’s husband doesn’t seem to be ashamed of his trade as a bridge designer at all, and his partner, the young and handsome Mr. Rushton, has the audacity not only to not be ashamed of his trade, but to find Caroline and her machinations amusing.
Can Caroline let go of her fear long enough to find her own home? Could it be be possible that Caroline will find a true friend where she least expects? Could Mr. Rushton be any more hot? The answer to that last one is no. If he was anymore hot readers everywhere would be spontaneously combusting, and I can’t imagine Ms. Becton wants that on her conscious, so she wisely went with an appropriate level of hotness.
So here I am, all confused and feeling slightly like I’ve cheated on Lizzy Bennet by ending up liking Caroline Bingley as a character. We often forget that Caroline is so very young, that was one of the first things that struck me while I was reading this book. She tried so hard to present a sophisticated and urbane front that, I, at least, forget she was the same age as Lizzy. Also, as the reader comes to learn more about Caroline’s history as Becton presents it, and the pressure put on her by her father (intentionally or not), and how she internalized that pressure, she becomes a much more understandable and sympathetic character. I’m not saying that she is easy to love, but there is something about the difficulty in getting past those prickles that makes the reward worthwhile.
Did I mention Mr. Rushton is hot?
February 6, 2017
Caroline Bingley, one very proud woman without any sensitivity for the plight of others. In short, the embodiment of the polite society of England of the day.
Becton has stayed true to the portrayal of Caroline that was sketched by Jane Austen. Not only that but as I read it, the prose is styled in a way that you can't point it and say that the story has been penned in the 21st, century and it is a mere historical. It feels to have been written in the time it was written.
While reading Pride and Prejudice I fall in the category of people who could never ever sympathise with Caroline Bingley for her devious actions as pertain to her brother. Jennifer Becton, I would add, has humaised this character for me. Who was previously an extra now has more dimensions to her. Her character and her psyche is probed into.
Till the end, she remains the woman of pride and looking down at others but along the way she not only realises the wrongs she have done (however much they were done with good intentions), she also finds herself (let me again emphasise thatshe is not a changed person per se, just a better version of her pwn self).
Seeing that Austen had not given her any other attributes apart from being jealous of Elizabeth Bennet as the other secured Mr Darcy's softer sentiments, it had left a huge playing field to develop this character into much more. I must add, it was done beautifully. Not once did I not think that the author is not talking about the Caroline I have read about in Pride and Prejudice.
She remains a woman full of pride but in all that cloak of vanity, there resides a woman who could not shed the morals of a class she spent her youth in.
It also highlights audience's prejudice as well in forgiving Mr Darcy for the same thing no one could forgive Caroline Bingley for. And added to that, Mr Darcy has been hailed as the perfect image for the Right Man for more than a century!
Recommended to all Pride and Prejudice fans.
Becton has stayed true to the portrayal of Caroline that was sketched by Jane Austen. Not only that but as I read it, the prose is styled in a way that you can't point it and say that the story has been penned in the 21st, century and it is a mere historical. It feels to have been written in the time it was written.
While reading Pride and Prejudice I fall in the category of people who could never ever sympathise with Caroline Bingley for her devious actions as pertain to her brother. Jennifer Becton, I would add, has humaised this character for me. Who was previously an extra now has more dimensions to her. Her character and her psyche is probed into.
Till the end, she remains the woman of pride and looking down at others but along the way she not only realises the wrongs she have done (however much they were done with good intentions), she also finds herself (let me again emphasise thatshe is not a changed person per se, just a better version of her pwn self).
Seeing that Austen had not given her any other attributes apart from being jealous of Elizabeth Bennet as the other secured Mr Darcy's softer sentiments, it had left a huge playing field to develop this character into much more. I must add, it was done beautifully. Not once did I not think that the author is not talking about the Caroline I have read about in Pride and Prejudice.
She remains a woman full of pride but in all that cloak of vanity, there resides a woman who could not shed the morals of a class she spent her youth in.
It also highlights audience's prejudice as well in forgiving Mr Darcy for the same thing no one could forgive Caroline Bingley for. And added to that, Mr Darcy has been hailed as the perfect image for the Right Man for more than a century!
Recommended to all Pride and Prejudice fans.
November 27, 2018
In this P&P variation it is now December 1812, and Bingley and Darcy are married to the Bennet sisters. Refusing to apologise for her part in separating Bingley and Jane, and her attitude towards Elizabeth, Caroline is sent with a companion - Rosemary - to her mother and step-father's home in Kendal, Cumbria. This is the story of how Caroline tries to get back into the society she craves.
A very enjoyable well-written story.
A very enjoyable well-written story.
February 11, 2018
I was initially excited to read this as it is set in the town I grew up in, but I just can't finish it. The writing is annoying and Cumbria didn't exist at the time!
May 20, 2021
Réussit l'exploit de rendre sympathique l'un des personnages les plus exécrables de Orgueil et Préjugés ! L'auteure s'amuse à placer Caroline Bingley dans une position ironique puisqu'elle tombe amoureuse d'un homme de condition inférieure. Ah ah. Un scénario inversé mais truffé de faux-semblants.
Tout bon ! Car parmi toutes les Austeneries lues dernièrement, celui-ci a été le plus convaincant. Il m'est en effet arrivé de lire des choses insensées. 🤨
Tout bon ! Car parmi toutes les Austeneries lues dernièrement, celui-ci a été le plus convaincant. Il m'est en effet arrivé de lire des choses insensées. 🤨
April 21, 2012
Caroline Bingley comes into her own--
Caroline Bingley retains all the often misguided feistiness she deployed in Pride and Prejudice, and yet author Jennifer Becton has for the most part convincingly pulled off an enchanting miracle by turning her into a sympathetic and worthy heroine. In P&P, Caroline did everything she could to keep her brother Charles from marrying Jane Bennet, who she considered unworthy of him, and she hoped to finesse a marriage proposal out of the proud and wealthy Darcy, but her disastrous efforts to discourage his growing attachment to Elizabeth Bennet are some of the funniest parts of the book.
By the time this sequel opens, Charles has married Jane and gained some backbone. Since Caroline is unwilling to apologize for her actions to Jane and her sister Elizabeth, Charles banishes her from his house and effectively from society, which for her is a fate almost worse than death. He sends Caroline to stay with their mother, and this is where we start to see the better side of her because Caroline loves her mother in spite of her rustic manners. It was Caroline’s now deceased father who was interested in raising his family’s social profile, but he didn’t inherit his wealth like a proper gentleman, he earned it in trade, an embarrassing deficit in the Bingley family pedigree that Caroline hopes to offset by marrying well.
Being forced into country life doesn’t crush her ambitions. Caroline is not a quitter and she develops a plan to marry the heir to a local barony, who is fortunately the brother of a friend she’s had since childhood. But why is that friend behaving so strangely towards her, how is it that her attraction to the future Baron is so tepid, and who does her step-father’s business partner think he is when he acts in such infuriatingly forward and presumptuous ways? With her goal of an elevated place in society tantalizingly close at hand, Caroline is forced to decide what she really wants.
Caroline Bingley retains all the often misguided feistiness she deployed in Pride and Prejudice, and yet author Jennifer Becton has for the most part convincingly pulled off an enchanting miracle by turning her into a sympathetic and worthy heroine. In P&P, Caroline did everything she could to keep her brother Charles from marrying Jane Bennet, who she considered unworthy of him, and she hoped to finesse a marriage proposal out of the proud and wealthy Darcy, but her disastrous efforts to discourage his growing attachment to Elizabeth Bennet are some of the funniest parts of the book.
By the time this sequel opens, Charles has married Jane and gained some backbone. Since Caroline is unwilling to apologize for her actions to Jane and her sister Elizabeth, Charles banishes her from his house and effectively from society, which for her is a fate almost worse than death. He sends Caroline to stay with their mother, and this is where we start to see the better side of her because Caroline loves her mother in spite of her rustic manners. It was Caroline’s now deceased father who was interested in raising his family’s social profile, but he didn’t inherit his wealth like a proper gentleman, he earned it in trade, an embarrassing deficit in the Bingley family pedigree that Caroline hopes to offset by marrying well.
Being forced into country life doesn’t crush her ambitions. Caroline is not a quitter and she develops a plan to marry the heir to a local barony, who is fortunately the brother of a friend she’s had since childhood. But why is that friend behaving so strangely towards her, how is it that her attraction to the future Baron is so tepid, and who does her step-father’s business partner think he is when he acts in such infuriatingly forward and presumptuous ways? With her goal of an elevated place in society tantalizingly close at hand, Caroline is forced to decide what she really wants.
July 1, 2016
I loved this book. When Bingley finally puts his foot down with Caroline's ill behavior and ships her off to their mother's with a companion. Caroline continues her snobbish ways looking down upon her mother, step father, his business partner and companion. We get some insight into Caroline's upbringing and childhood. She gets a taste of her own medicine so to speak and learns that you can't judge a book by its cover. She makes a peace of sorts with Mrs. Darcy & finds her true love isn't who she was expecting.
Not a great deal of Bingleys, Darcys or Hursts but a good clean read.
Not a great deal of Bingleys, Darcys or Hursts but a good clean read.
October 27, 2011
While I absolutely loved Charlotte Collins by Jennifer Becton, I enjoyed Caroline Bingley’s story. Jennifer stayed true to Caroline’s character from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. You still wanted to smack Caroline and tell her to grow up, but she has to find her own way, and Ms. Becton did a very nice job.
To continue this review, please visit Musings of a Book Lover.
To continue this review, please visit Musings of a Book Lover.
October 31, 2011
Loved this book. I really felt like I was reading a novel by Jane Austen. Jennifer Becton really knows how to write. I was a little nervous reading a book about Caroline Bingley, I truly hated her in Pride and Prejudice. But this book really gave me a good understanding of her. And I know Jane Austen has to approve. Also, loved loved loved Mr. Rushton. He is definitely on par with Mr. Darcy. And he doesn't have the pride thing getting in his way. Good book, I highly recommend it.
February 22, 2016
Only Austen can do Austen
July 25, 2021
This is one of those "I enjoyed it more than I had any right to" books, LOL. Not because it's bad, but because there are a couple of elements I normally really don't like that just didn't bother me here.
I really loved the concept and plot of this book. I've always thought that Caroline Bingley (though a pretty awful person!) was at least a tiny bit sympathetic: basically I feel slightly bad for her given her feelings for a character in P&P. So I really liked the exploration of her story here, and I loved the premise of Caroline being faced with the choice of following her heart or her head when she was actually confronted with them in her own life.
Also, the book just felt so plausible, in a way? The extra backstory we get on Caroline not only hangs together, it seems to fit right in with her behavior in P&P. Her snobbery absolutely feels like it could have come from feelings of inadequacy and the origins of her family's fortune in trade.
And we have some great side characters, too. I really liked Caroline's mother, and her companion, Rosemary.
My only complaints are that the writing felt a little overdone in some places (though I mostly really enjoyed it, and there are some great moments of humor) and a little too intent on contradicting all the misunderstandings we have about Caroline right at the beginning of the book rather than letting that unfold naturally, and also the romance angle. This is the part that I shouldn't have liked but I did - the love interest was a little more smug and cocky than I usually like and I do wish Caroline had won a few more of their arguments, but...something about it just worked for me?? Maybe because Caroline does almost nothing but give set-downs in the original novel so it felt more fair here, lol.
ALSO, I did have some issues with the ending of the book but that was pretty much completely fixed by the epilogue, which also went a long way to improving my opinion of that character.
Overall, a fun and creative entry in the JAFF genre!
CW: Grief, bullying (flashback)
I really loved the concept and plot of this book. I've always thought that Caroline Bingley (though a pretty awful person!) was at least a tiny bit sympathetic: basically I feel slightly bad for her given her feelings for a character in P&P. So I really liked the exploration of her story here, and I loved the premise of Caroline being faced with the choice of following her heart or her head when she was actually confronted with them in her own life.
Also, the book just felt so plausible, in a way? The extra backstory we get on Caroline not only hangs together, it seems to fit right in with her behavior in P&P. Her snobbery absolutely feels like it could have come from feelings of inadequacy and the origins of her family's fortune in trade.
And we have some great side characters, too. I really liked Caroline's mother, and her companion, Rosemary.
My only complaints are that the writing felt a little overdone in some places (though I mostly really enjoyed it, and there are some great moments of humor) and a little too intent on contradicting all the misunderstandings we have about Caroline right at the beginning of the book rather than letting that unfold naturally, and also the romance angle. This is the part that I shouldn't have liked but I did - the love interest was a little more smug and cocky than I usually like and I do wish Caroline had won a few more of their arguments, but...something about it just worked for me?? Maybe because Caroline does almost nothing but give set-downs in the original novel so it felt more fair here, lol.
ALSO, I did have some issues with the ending of the book but that was pretty much completely fixed by the epilogue, which also went a long way to improving my opinion of that character.
Overall, a fun and creative entry in the JAFF genre!
CW: Grief, bullying (flashback)
February 13, 2019
Well written sequel to P&P. I actually liked Caroline! 3.5 stars
January 23, 2025
Caroline is redeemed
Yet still maintains her own special personality. The author did a great job creating a beau who can both handle and stand up to her.
Took me a while to get in to. The beginning was kind of like kicking a dog while it's down. But pushing through gets the reader to the good stuff!
Yet still maintains her own special personality. The author did a great job creating a beau who can both handle and stand up to her.
Took me a while to get in to. The beginning was kind of like kicking a dog while it's down. But pushing through gets the reader to the good stuff!
October 4, 2011
Caroline Bingley. The name stirs up intense emotions in anyone who loves Pride and Prejudice. Caroline is the closest thing that story has to an antagonist. She partnered with Darcy in separating Bingley and Jane Bennet, “involving them both in misery of the acutest kind,” and she constantly belittled Elizabeth to Darcy.
I admit I was surprised then to learn that Caroline was to be the subject of Jennifer Becton’s second Personages of Pride and Prejudice novel. Why would she choose to write about someone so… unlikable? How much would she have to change Miss Bingley to make her sympathetic?
The answer is not at all. Much as what happens between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, it is not Caroline that changes, but rather our understanding of her increases.
This enlightenment starts on the very first page. Displeased with her duplicitous and unapologetic attempts to separate himself from Jane and Elizabeth from Mr. Darcy, Bingley has sent Caroline to live with their mother and her second husband, Mr. Newton, in the north of England. In other words, she is banished.
In this scene, we learn what it is she’s been striving so hard for: a home, someplace where she will truly belong. Since her father’s wealth raised them to a higher social class, she’s been on the outside looking in. The titled class will not look past her father’s involvement in trade, something she is aware of even if no one else in her family realizes it or seems to care. She doesn’t belong among those with whom her fortune places her, but she is desperate to leave behind those in “the middling classes.”
This quest for a home and security leads her to seek out the attention of Mr. Charlton, the brother of her oldest friend. Mr. Charlton is to inherit a barony, which is enough status even for Caroline.
However, another gentleman watches her attempts at snaring Mr. Charlton from the sidelines. Mr. Rushton is her step-father’s business partner. They build bridges together, something Caroline thinks far too vulgar for a gentleman to spend his time doing.
Mr. Rushton however proves to understand her when others–even Caroline herself–do not. The question becomes, will she accept his view of her, or will she try to be the woman she has presented to the world all these years?
Much to my surprise, I found Caroline to be an absolutely understandable and sympathetic heroine. I confess, I prefer her way of taking action in the face of difficulty far more than Charlotte Lucas’ method of simply taking the first available out.
But the moment she truly became a real, vulnerable woman happened about halfway through the book. Caroline was forced to do something she was petrified of. As I read her reaction, I found there were sympathetic tears in my eyes–was I crying for Caro??
Caroline Bingley is a superlative story in every way. As usual, Becton’s character and plot are well-researched and engaging. The pacing shows her recent experience in writing mysteries, with major turning points falling right when they should. Every scene either informs character or advances the plot; there is no fat to be trimmed.
Put simply, Jennifer Becton works Austenesque magic.
Five stars
FTC Disclaimer: Review copy provided by author.
I admit I was surprised then to learn that Caroline was to be the subject of Jennifer Becton’s second Personages of Pride and Prejudice novel. Why would she choose to write about someone so… unlikable? How much would she have to change Miss Bingley to make her sympathetic?
The answer is not at all. Much as what happens between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, it is not Caroline that changes, but rather our understanding of her increases.
This enlightenment starts on the very first page. Displeased with her duplicitous and unapologetic attempts to separate himself from Jane and Elizabeth from Mr. Darcy, Bingley has sent Caroline to live with their mother and her second husband, Mr. Newton, in the north of England. In other words, she is banished.
In this scene, we learn what it is she’s been striving so hard for: a home, someplace where she will truly belong. Since her father’s wealth raised them to a higher social class, she’s been on the outside looking in. The titled class will not look past her father’s involvement in trade, something she is aware of even if no one else in her family realizes it or seems to care. She doesn’t belong among those with whom her fortune places her, but she is desperate to leave behind those in “the middling classes.”
This quest for a home and security leads her to seek out the attention of Mr. Charlton, the brother of her oldest friend. Mr. Charlton is to inherit a barony, which is enough status even for Caroline.
However, another gentleman watches her attempts at snaring Mr. Charlton from the sidelines. Mr. Rushton is her step-father’s business partner. They build bridges together, something Caroline thinks far too vulgar for a gentleman to spend his time doing.
Mr. Rushton however proves to understand her when others–even Caroline herself–do not. The question becomes, will she accept his view of her, or will she try to be the woman she has presented to the world all these years?
Much to my surprise, I found Caroline to be an absolutely understandable and sympathetic heroine. I confess, I prefer her way of taking action in the face of difficulty far more than Charlotte Lucas’ method of simply taking the first available out.
But the moment she truly became a real, vulnerable woman happened about halfway through the book. Caroline was forced to do something she was petrified of. As I read her reaction, I found there were sympathetic tears in my eyes–was I crying for Caro??
Caroline Bingley is a superlative story in every way. As usual, Becton’s character and plot are well-researched and engaging. The pacing shows her recent experience in writing mysteries, with major turning points falling right when they should. Every scene either informs character or advances the plot; there is no fat to be trimmed.
Put simply, Jennifer Becton works Austenesque magic.
Five stars
FTC Disclaimer: Review copy provided by author.
October 23, 2011
Last year I read Jennifer Becton's debut novel, Charlotte Collins and I fell in-love. This was one of my favorite books last year. Then Becton released the short story, Maria Lucas and once again I enjoyed it thoroughly. So when Jennifer Becton announced she was writing a novel about Caroline Bingley I was thrilled. For those who are not familiar with Caroline Bingley, she is the sister of Mr. Bingley who spends most of Pride and Prejudice pining for Jane Bennett, Elizabeth Bennett's older sister. Caroline does everything in her power to separate Mr. Bingley and Jane, not to mention trash Elizabeth at every opportunity and snag Mr. Darcy for herself. Caroline Bingley is a social climber, a spoiled brat, and at times a witch with a capital B.
So why on earth would someone want to read a novel devoted to such a 'loveable' character? For me it's because I wanted to see what Jennifer Becton could do with this character that is a huge handful. Does Caroline get her comeuppance? Does she have another side to her that we've never seen? Will she ever find someone that will love her? All these questions and more are answered. The story starts off with Mr. Bingley sending Caroline away for her behavior. Caroline is forced to go into the country to visit her mother, Elthea Knowles Bingley Newton, with a companion she doesn't like, Rosemary Pickersgill. However Caroline plans to make the best of her situation. She intends to renew her friendship with her childhood friend Lavina and marry Lavina's younger brother Mr. Charlton, and get everything she's ever wanted. A few obstacles and people stand in her way. Mr. Patrick Rushton has had his share of problems and Caroline doesn't want anything to do with him but he keeps getting in her way. Rosemary is intelligent and kind. She also has a mysterious past. She tries her best to offer Caroline good advice but Caroline being Caroline thwarts every attempt. Soon Caroline finds herself way over her head with problems.
One of the things I like most about this novel is that Jennifer Becton didn't change Caroline's overall personality. She stayed true to Jane Austen's vision. The only difference is this story is told from Caroline's point of view so we get to see the motivation and reasoning in the decisions that she makes. I think the author did a fantastic job of portraying the hardships for women in regency times. I also like the new characters that the author introduces. I love Caroline's mother, Elthea. She's more like Mr. Bingley personality wise and was a joy to read about. Mr. Rushton is swoon worthy. He's not afraid to stand up to Caroline. Mr. Charlton is also swoon worthy but he's a bit of a cad. Which personally, I like.
This is another fantastic book by Jennifer Becton. I love how Becton takes the supporting characters from Pride and Prejudice and gives them their own story. She filled this novel with humor, wit, and retribution. Caroline Bingley is a feisty character that is fun to read about. Jennifer Becton didn't really change Caroline Bingley but she did change the way I feel about her.
So why on earth would someone want to read a novel devoted to such a 'loveable' character? For me it's because I wanted to see what Jennifer Becton could do with this character that is a huge handful. Does Caroline get her comeuppance? Does she have another side to her that we've never seen? Will she ever find someone that will love her? All these questions and more are answered. The story starts off with Mr. Bingley sending Caroline away for her behavior. Caroline is forced to go into the country to visit her mother, Elthea Knowles Bingley Newton, with a companion she doesn't like, Rosemary Pickersgill. However Caroline plans to make the best of her situation. She intends to renew her friendship with her childhood friend Lavina and marry Lavina's younger brother Mr. Charlton, and get everything she's ever wanted. A few obstacles and people stand in her way. Mr. Patrick Rushton has had his share of problems and Caroline doesn't want anything to do with him but he keeps getting in her way. Rosemary is intelligent and kind. She also has a mysterious past. She tries her best to offer Caroline good advice but Caroline being Caroline thwarts every attempt. Soon Caroline finds herself way over her head with problems.
One of the things I like most about this novel is that Jennifer Becton didn't change Caroline's overall personality. She stayed true to Jane Austen's vision. The only difference is this story is told from Caroline's point of view so we get to see the motivation and reasoning in the decisions that she makes. I think the author did a fantastic job of portraying the hardships for women in regency times. I also like the new characters that the author introduces. I love Caroline's mother, Elthea. She's more like Mr. Bingley personality wise and was a joy to read about. Mr. Rushton is swoon worthy. He's not afraid to stand up to Caroline. Mr. Charlton is also swoon worthy but he's a bit of a cad. Which personally, I like.
This is another fantastic book by Jennifer Becton. I love how Becton takes the supporting characters from Pride and Prejudice and gives them their own story. She filled this novel with humor, wit, and retribution. Caroline Bingley is a feisty character that is fun to read about. Jennifer Becton didn't really change Caroline Bingley but she did change the way I feel about her.
July 2, 2013
Caroline Bingley is obviously the character you'd love to hate. She's stuck-up and hypocritical (you'd think being 'new money' she'll be nicer to Jane and Elizabeth). And worst of all, she was the competitor for Darcy's attention. You'd think that with all these negative traits, major character surgery will be required to make her likable.
Well, this book convinced me otherwise. Caroline doesn't have to be likable to be the protagonist of an insanely addictive Pride and Prejudice sequel. This is seriously the poster book on how to write a sequel, starting with the step of Not Changing The Characters (yes, I still remember that terrible one with Lydia that I could not finish).
Now, since Blingley got married, he grew a spine and more or less banished Caroline to her mother's house until she apologises/makes peace with Jane and Elisabeth (ok, you can't help but make peace with Jane, but Elizabeth is another matter). So away she goes in disgrace, forced to "suffer" with a companion she dislikes and none of the high company she requires.
And then the tables are turned on her. If you've always wanted to see Caroline get her comeuppance, you really have to read this book. At least halfway. She gets a happy ending, so you may just want to read till the part where she's miserable (although you probably won't be able to help yourself from reading everything).
The end of the book had some "deleted scenes" that didn't make it into the novel. And I'm so glad they were deleted. I didn't read all of them, but the one or two I skimmed convinced me that those scenes were telling rather than showing. You may or may not want to read them, but trust me, you're not missing anything if you don't.
This is easily one of the best Pride and Prejudice sequels out there!
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Well, this book convinced me otherwise. Caroline doesn't have to be likable to be the protagonist of an insanely addictive Pride and Prejudice sequel. This is seriously the poster book on how to write a sequel, starting with the step of Not Changing The Characters (yes, I still remember that terrible one with Lydia that I could not finish).
Now, since Blingley got married, he grew a spine and more or less banished Caroline to her mother's house until she apologises/makes peace with Jane and Elisabeth (ok, you can't help but make peace with Jane, but Elizabeth is another matter). So away she goes in disgrace, forced to "suffer" with a companion she dislikes and none of the high company she requires.
And then the tables are turned on her. If you've always wanted to see Caroline get her comeuppance, you really have to read this book. At least halfway. She gets a happy ending, so you may just want to read till the part where she's miserable (although you probably won't be able to help yourself from reading everything).
The end of the book had some "deleted scenes" that didn't make it into the novel. And I'm so glad they were deleted. I didn't read all of them, but the one or two I skimmed convinced me that those scenes were telling rather than showing. You may or may not want to read them, but trust me, you're not missing anything if you don't.
This is easily one of the best Pride and Prejudice sequels out there!
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
September 28, 2013
Alors... Déjà je me dois d'être honnête et d'avouer que Caroline Bingley est l'un de mes personnages favoris dans P&P. Donc j'ai aimé l'histoire. Alors oui, c'est cousu de fil blanc et la fin est prévisible dès les dix premières pages, c'est aussi moraliste que romantique mais le personnage de Caroline est bien traité, attachant, sans toutefois montrer une complaisance sans objectivité de l'auteure. Caroline y est aussi pédante, intéressée et froide que dans P&P mais a une face vulnérable que je trouve très cohérente et qui ne trahit pas le personnage. J'ai aimé le coup de l'arroseur arrosé et le fait que Caro ne trahisse pas ce qu'elle est dans P&P et apprenne peu à peu. Jennifer Becton nous fait aussi découvrir la famille Bingley mais également l'hypocrisie de la bonne société (et le côté moins reluisant de l'aristocratie). J'ai aussi apprécié le fait que l'on voit peu les autres personnages de P&P (ce qui est toujours facile), Caroline suit son propre chemin et c'est intéressant. Cependant, les passages entre Caroline et les personnages originaux étaient réussis (j'aime surtout celui avec Mrs Darcy ^^) La fin est jolie même si elle est convenue
Ce que j'ai aimé : La psychologie de Caroline, son entretien avec Mrs Darcy, sa relation avec Rushton et Lavinia. La réaction de Louisa.
Ce que j'ai moins aimé : Le côté attendu du scénario, les libertés que prend l'auteure avec les usages ou le vocabulaire de l'époque par moment. Le fait que Caro n'ait jamais rien ressenti pour Darcy (je suis peut-être fleur bleue, mais j'ai toujours pensé qu'il l'attirait au moins physiquement...)
En bref : Sur le fond.... ça a tout pour me déplaire, l'histoire est attendue, sans surprise et on devine les étapes par lesquelles Caro va devoir passer. Mais... c'est bien écrit, crédible et le personnage de Caroline est vraiment bien creusé, dans ses forces et dans ses faiblesses. Bref j'ai adoré ce roman ^^
Ma note : 8,5/10
Ce que j'ai aimé : La psychologie de Caroline, son entretien avec Mrs Darcy, sa relation avec Rushton et Lavinia. La réaction de Louisa.
Ce que j'ai moins aimé : Le côté attendu du scénario, les libertés que prend l'auteure avec les usages ou le vocabulaire de l'époque par moment. Le fait que Caro n'ait jamais rien ressenti pour Darcy (je suis peut-être fleur bleue, mais j'ai toujours pensé qu'il l'attirait au moins physiquement...)
En bref : Sur le fond.... ça a tout pour me déplaire, l'histoire est attendue, sans surprise et on devine les étapes par lesquelles Caro va devoir passer. Mais... c'est bien écrit, crédible et le personnage de Caroline est vraiment bien creusé, dans ses forces et dans ses faiblesses. Bref j'ai adoré ce roman ^^
Ma note : 8,5/10
October 23, 2012
I must say that I am very impressed with Jennifer Becton as a writer! I ordered “Caroline Bingley” because I really liked “Charlotte Collins”. (Both books extend the P&P characters into their own stories.) I gave Caroline 4 stars but in my review I will give it a little more, so make it 4 ½ stars.
In P&P Caroline Bingley was definitely not a character we have no love lost for. She was a conniving snob from the beginning and remained so throughout the whole story. (Standard procedure for at least one character in pretty much every story.)
In her “Continuation…” story by Jennifer Becton, I still thought Caroline was a conniving snob, even up to the bitter end. Including the very last pages I still wanted to smack her! Come on, woman – humble yourself and change into a better person so I can say I’ve come around to actually liking!!
Love the characters of Mr. Rushton and Rosemary! Caroline learns a lot from them both – she just refuses to admit it. That’s just her personality and I think J. Becton kept Caroline’s sting to keep the story interesting for us readers. It did it for me! All the smiles it brought me to hear Caroline challenged and reprimanded for her conniving plans. She can’t see her own transparency and is challenged at every turn by these two “lower class” people. Funny stuff!
In the end, I really didn’t like Caroline any better. She’s still a conniving snob – fortunately with less edge on the conniving part. But I am happy she found true love at the end. I liked this story and would recommend to P&P fans.
And Jennifer Becton, I am a devoted fan! May you pick another P&P character to “continue….”
In P&P Caroline Bingley was definitely not a character we have no love lost for. She was a conniving snob from the beginning and remained so throughout the whole story. (Standard procedure for at least one character in pretty much every story.)
In her “Continuation…” story by Jennifer Becton, I still thought Caroline was a conniving snob, even up to the bitter end. Including the very last pages I still wanted to smack her! Come on, woman – humble yourself and change into a better person so I can say I’ve come around to actually liking!!
Love the characters of Mr. Rushton and Rosemary! Caroline learns a lot from them both – she just refuses to admit it. That’s just her personality and I think J. Becton kept Caroline’s sting to keep the story interesting for us readers. It did it for me! All the smiles it brought me to hear Caroline challenged and reprimanded for her conniving plans. She can’t see her own transparency and is challenged at every turn by these two “lower class” people. Funny stuff!
In the end, I really didn’t like Caroline any better. She’s still a conniving snob – fortunately with less edge on the conniving part. But I am happy she found true love at the end. I liked this story and would recommend to P&P fans.
And Jennifer Becton, I am a devoted fan! May you pick another P&P character to “continue….”
October 11, 2011
Caroline Bingley is a woman most people care little about...okay, dislike a lot. So why write a story about her? Why indeed! Jennifer Becton did a marvelous job writing this story. We see Caroline for who she really is. We see her struggle to get back what she lost or what she had hoped to gain, without having to admit doing anything wrong.
The story starts when Caroline is banished, by her brother Mr. Bingley, to the home of her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Newton, in Northern England. While in Kendal, Caroline forms a plan to get into the upper society, a place she has always wanted to be. An old school friend is back in the area with her brother, William Charlton, who, with the passing of his father, will become a baronet. If she can marry him she can come back to London and not apologize for anything! Of course, every good plan has a few flaws.
Then there is Mr. Rushton, a person Caroline wants nothing to do with, but he is someone who stirs something inside her.
Before leaving London, Mr. Bingley has hires a companion for Caroline, Mrs. Rosemary Pickersgill. I love Mrs. Pickersgill! She takes all of Caroline’s rude behavior with such dignity and in the end proves to be a great value.
Mrs. Pickersgill and Mr. Rushton were my favorites! They didn’t let Caroline get away with much and they helped her see things clearer.
Amazing! I actually came to care for Caroline Bingley! This is a great story!
The story starts when Caroline is banished, by her brother Mr. Bingley, to the home of her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Newton, in Northern England. While in Kendal, Caroline forms a plan to get into the upper society, a place she has always wanted to be. An old school friend is back in the area with her brother, William Charlton, who, with the passing of his father, will become a baronet. If she can marry him she can come back to London and not apologize for anything! Of course, every good plan has a few flaws.
Then there is Mr. Rushton, a person Caroline wants nothing to do with, but he is someone who stirs something inside her.
Before leaving London, Mr. Bingley has hires a companion for Caroline, Mrs. Rosemary Pickersgill. I love Mrs. Pickersgill! She takes all of Caroline’s rude behavior with such dignity and in the end proves to be a great value.
Mrs. Pickersgill and Mr. Rushton were my favorites! They didn’t let Caroline get away with much and they helped her see things clearer.
Amazing! I actually came to care for Caroline Bingley! This is a great story!
May 5, 2012
Spoiler Alert! This book started out ok and devolved rapidly. The styling of the text was very much in line with the original work in the beginning and very clever. From that, I can deduce that the author holds promise. However, I give this book 2 stars for that merit and entertainment factor and nothing else. The book's transgressions are as follows: 1) Caroline's problem turns out to be all to similar to Jane's in the original. Nothing original in the plot there. 2) At one point, the author goes so far as to translate what the characters actually mean in a conversation. Part of the fun of P&P was trying to decipher just that. Here it was ruined. 3) Many of the characters speak far too openly and even have outbursts. That would be uncouth in the era's proper society. 4) An epilogue is meant to tie up loose ends and should be a few pages at most. There should not be several more chapters of plot advancing dialogue therein.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2011
Do we really know the real Caroline Bingley? Well this story gives us insight to Miss Bingley and the understanding of what makes her so hautie to the Bennets. Ms Becton truely does a great service to dipicting her character. What makes her tic and though we all love to hate Miss Bingley she is very much understood. A lot of books make her character out to be extremely evil and mad! This story I feel is more a true rendering of the Character Jane Austen created. She is not sugar coated nor is she evil. I loved this story and recommend it to all those true Jane Austen fans. Definitely a must read!!!
July 31, 2016
I am a fan of Jane Austin's work and so enjoy reading other authors ideas as to what happened after Pride and Prejuice. This one is obviously about Caroline and although although I never warm up to the character she does a good job of showing us the struggle women had during that time period.
July 7, 2017
Thoroughly predictable, and while some other readers report have acquired some sympathy towards Miss Bingley, I find her as unlikable as ever.
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