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A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice #3
Holidays at Pemberley or Third Encounters: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice Concludes
"Charlotte smiled from across the room at the man's obvious devotion to her friend. Such attachment was very charming, undoubtedly, and when it came to an end, as it was most certain to do, they would have abundant good fortune to keep the inevitable aggravations with each other to a minimum. "
Both a Christmas celebration and conclusion to Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice, Holidays at Pemberley begins where First Impressions ends, with the marriage Fitzwilliam Darcy to Elizabeth Bennet, and spans the course of Second Glances to conclude their story. As the Darcys enjoy their first years of marriage, Charlotte Lucas is often invited to join them. Watching as the Bennet sisters, one by one, marry to both outrageous advantage and with great affection, her only ambition remains independence and respectability, stubbornly blind to the virtues of a love match. Miss Lucas thinks she has found an acceptable husband in David Westover, rector of Kympton and determined bachelor, but he remains oblivious to the implications of befriending a Miss Lucas. It may mean some heartbreak, but if Mrs. Darcy's pragmatic friend will only surrender to Cupid, she may find wild fantasies do come true, even for ladies dangerously close to thirty.
Both a Christmas celebration and conclusion to Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice, Holidays at Pemberley begins where First Impressions ends, with the marriage Fitzwilliam Darcy to Elizabeth Bennet, and spans the course of Second Glances to conclude their story. As the Darcys enjoy their first years of marriage, Charlotte Lucas is often invited to join them. Watching as the Bennet sisters, one by one, marry to both outrageous advantage and with great affection, her only ambition remains independence and respectability, stubbornly blind to the virtues of a love match. Miss Lucas thinks she has found an acceptable husband in David Westover, rector of Kympton and determined bachelor, but he remains oblivious to the implications of befriending a Miss Lucas. It may mean some heartbreak, but if Mrs. Darcy's pragmatic friend will only surrender to Cupid, she may find wild fantasies do come true, even for ladies dangerously close to thirty.
- GenresHolidayRegencyHistorical
186 pages, Paperback
Published September 22, 2013
16 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Adams
18 books107 followersA devoted reader of Jane Austen since her childhood, Alexa Adams is the author of several Austenesque novels and short stories including Being, Mrs. Bennet, Darcy in Wonderland, The Madness of Mr. Darcy, and Tales of Less Pride and Prejudice. Alexa is an American residing in Switzerland with her husband, daughter, and son. She blogs about Austen and Austenesque literature at alexaadams.blogspot.com and a founding member of the Jane Austen Society of Switzerland.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 15, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
December 13, 2016
Final chapter of the series “A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice” written by Alexa Adams, “Holidays at Pemberley or Third Encounters” has Charlotte Lucas as a protagonist. Elizabeth Bennet’s dear friend is now close to thirty years of age and has a few hopes of finding a man that asks for her hand. Quite envious of the happiness that has blessed the eldest Bennet sisters, Charlotte starts to reconsider her ideas about marriage and to hope that someday she, too, can find her perfect match!
We are used to knowing Charlotte Lucas as a practical girl, absolutely against romanticism and aware of the fact that the real happiness, the true love whom her friend Elizabeth longs for does not exist. Marriage is another thing for Charlotte and she is ready to marry even a man whom she does not love as long as he is respectable and gives her a comfortable house and a certain amount of independence.
We find the same Charlotte in this book as well, at least in the first part of it. Yes, because the pragmatic and cold Miss Lucas will soon understand that all her opinions about love and men are completely wrong! Elizabeth’s best friend will experience the joys and pains of an enamoured heart that will be excited and broken in just a few pages. Mr. Westover is, on paper, the best match for a woman -not so young anymore for that time period- like Charlotte: he is Mr. Darcy’s friend, rector nearby Pemberley and he grew up in a wealthy family. David Westover is the perfect man according to many people and when everybody’s hopes are destroyed because nothing happens between him and Charlotte, all of those people will suffer a lot.
What made me think the most was the reaction of the Lucas family to the events where the girl is the protagonist. Instead of worrying about Charlotte’s pain after a new refusal and the natural loss of hopes in having a chance to find a husband, everybody -even the little siblings- rebuked and teased Charlotte because she was not able -again- of catching a man. It was sad to read how necessary and humiliating was (when it came to a woman no longer “young”) to be part of a sort of “custom” to be ready and win a man’s heart: hoping to meet a refined group of people, buying new gowns for that purpose only, chatting and trying to catch the most eligible bachelors’ attention. Things that a fervent Regency admirer knows very well but, seeing them through Charlotte’s eyes, a girl with no hope and resigned to a future alone, seemed even sadder.
As for the other characters, it was lovely to meet Darcy and Elizabeth again -but this time as a married couple- and read about their life together. Also, I really liked that Kitty and Georgiana got their longed-for happy ending as well. The character that surprised me the most, though, was Lady Catherine; haughty and proud as usual but kind and loving with Elizabeth and other members of the Bennet family! Surprising but pleasant!
In this novel, as in the previous two of the series (First Impressions: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice and Second Glances: A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice Continues), I liked the author’s style a lot: engaging, funny and in some moments very “austenesque”. We also find a little bit of irony and that wit that I so love in Jane Austen’s work.
Though this is not my favourite book in the series (I wanted more scenes Charlotte/David), I really loved this Charlotte and I recommend this story to those who want to know better the apparently aloof and indifferent to any emotions Miss Lucas. This is a romantic and surprising tale that I am sure will captivate many Janeites!
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
We are used to knowing Charlotte Lucas as a practical girl, absolutely against romanticism and aware of the fact that the real happiness, the true love whom her friend Elizabeth longs for does not exist. Marriage is another thing for Charlotte and she is ready to marry even a man whom she does not love as long as he is respectable and gives her a comfortable house and a certain amount of independence.
We find the same Charlotte in this book as well, at least in the first part of it. Yes, because the pragmatic and cold Miss Lucas will soon understand that all her opinions about love and men are completely wrong! Elizabeth’s best friend will experience the joys and pains of an enamoured heart that will be excited and broken in just a few pages. Mr. Westover is, on paper, the best match for a woman -not so young anymore for that time period- like Charlotte: he is Mr. Darcy’s friend, rector nearby Pemberley and he grew up in a wealthy family. David Westover is the perfect man according to many people and when everybody’s hopes are destroyed because nothing happens between him and Charlotte, all of those people will suffer a lot.
What made me think the most was the reaction of the Lucas family to the events where the girl is the protagonist. Instead of worrying about Charlotte’s pain after a new refusal and the natural loss of hopes in having a chance to find a husband, everybody -even the little siblings- rebuked and teased Charlotte because she was not able -again- of catching a man. It was sad to read how necessary and humiliating was (when it came to a woman no longer “young”) to be part of a sort of “custom” to be ready and win a man’s heart: hoping to meet a refined group of people, buying new gowns for that purpose only, chatting and trying to catch the most eligible bachelors’ attention. Things that a fervent Regency admirer knows very well but, seeing them through Charlotte’s eyes, a girl with no hope and resigned to a future alone, seemed even sadder.
As for the other characters, it was lovely to meet Darcy and Elizabeth again -but this time as a married couple- and read about their life together. Also, I really liked that Kitty and Georgiana got their longed-for happy ending as well. The character that surprised me the most, though, was Lady Catherine; haughty and proud as usual but kind and loving with Elizabeth and other members of the Bennet family! Surprising but pleasant!
In this novel, as in the previous two of the series (First Impressions: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice and Second Glances: A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice Continues), I liked the author’s style a lot: engaging, funny and in some moments very “austenesque”. We also find a little bit of irony and that wit that I so love in Jane Austen’s work.
Though this is not my favourite book in the series (I wanted more scenes Charlotte/David), I really loved this Charlotte and I recommend this story to those who want to know better the apparently aloof and indifferent to any emotions Miss Lucas. This is a romantic and surprising tale that I am sure will captivate many Janeites!
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
December 6, 2013
For those unfamiliar with this light-hearted and elegant Austenesque trilogy, A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice, it begins with First Impressions, a Pride and Prejudice variation that asks the question: What if Darcy danced with Elizabeth at the Meryton Assembly rather than insult her? And proceeds to take our beloved couple on a much smoother course to true love, one with a bit less pride and prejudice.
In Second Glances, a sequel to First Impressions, the story continues with the adventures and
marriages of Kitty, Lydia, and Georgiana, while also illustrating life of all the newly married Darcys and Bingleys.
The third book in this series, Holidays at Pemberley concludes with a happily ever after for Charlotte Lucasa as well as glimpses of some holiday seasons celebrated with the Darcys at Pemberley.
If you have yet to read First Impressions, you may be surprised to learn that unromantic and pragmatic Charlotte is saved from marriage Mr. Collins! (What happy a notion!) While we may rejoice in Charlotte’s fate, she does not perhaps share the same opinion. With the clock ticking and an older brother about to marry, finding a husband at Pemberley is Charlotte’s only chance to escape a life as a spinster and live-in companion to her brother and his unfriendly wife.
If you read my reviews of First Impressions and Second Glances, then you already know that I found Alexa Adams to be quite adroit at capturing Jane Austen’s narrative style and emulating the tone of her characters. That most definitely did not change with this novel! I most especially enjoyed how Ms. Adams portrayed some of Jane Austen’s most eccentric characters – Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. What fun it was to see Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet infuriate and contradict each other over the proper care of grandchildren!
How lovely it was to witness practical Charlotte have a change of heart! After living with Elizabeth and Darcy and seeing their everyday devotion towards each other, she begins to rethink her theories on happiness in marriage. I loved seeing Charlotte transform and spend time contemplating marriage with Mr. Westover, the rector of Kympton. I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters – it was a bit atypical and unlikely, and quite cute!
While I do love catching up with Darcys, Bingleys, and Bennets, part of me wanted more Charlotte and Mr. Westover in this novel. I know that there were a lot of loose ends to tie up, but I kind of felt Charlotte and Mr. Westover needed a little more development and page-time. And I must admit that I was “most seriously displeased” to see the odious Wickhams show up at Pemberley! Mr. Bennet’s scheme with them seemed a little farfetched and the Wickhams felt like a terrible intrusion on the joyous holiday festivities. The best part about their storyline was witnessing them receive their just desserts courtesy of Lady C! (Oh-ho-ho! and it was GOOD!)
Written with humor, reverence, and dexterity the A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice series by Alexa Adams is an ideal choice for readers wanting a low-angst, charming, and clever Austenesque read! Looking forward to reading more by Alexa Adams in the future!
In Second Glances, a sequel to First Impressions, the story continues with the adventures and
marriages of Kitty, Lydia, and Georgiana, while also illustrating life of all the newly married Darcys and Bingleys.
The third book in this series, Holidays at Pemberley concludes with a happily ever after for Charlotte Lucasa as well as glimpses of some holiday seasons celebrated with the Darcys at Pemberley.
If you have yet to read First Impressions, you may be surprised to learn that unromantic and pragmatic Charlotte is saved from marriage Mr. Collins! (What happy a notion!) While we may rejoice in Charlotte’s fate, she does not perhaps share the same opinion. With the clock ticking and an older brother about to marry, finding a husband at Pemberley is Charlotte’s only chance to escape a life as a spinster and live-in companion to her brother and his unfriendly wife.
If you read my reviews of First Impressions and Second Glances, then you already know that I found Alexa Adams to be quite adroit at capturing Jane Austen’s narrative style and emulating the tone of her characters. That most definitely did not change with this novel! I most especially enjoyed how Ms. Adams portrayed some of Jane Austen’s most eccentric characters – Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. What fun it was to see Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet infuriate and contradict each other over the proper care of grandchildren!
How lovely it was to witness practical Charlotte have a change of heart! After living with Elizabeth and Darcy and seeing their everyday devotion towards each other, she begins to rethink her theories on happiness in marriage. I loved seeing Charlotte transform and spend time contemplating marriage with Mr. Westover, the rector of Kympton. I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters – it was a bit atypical and unlikely, and quite cute!
While I do love catching up with Darcys, Bingleys, and Bennets, part of me wanted more Charlotte and Mr. Westover in this novel. I know that there were a lot of loose ends to tie up, but I kind of felt Charlotte and Mr. Westover needed a little more development and page-time. And I must admit that I was “most seriously displeased” to see the odious Wickhams show up at Pemberley! Mr. Bennet’s scheme with them seemed a little farfetched and the Wickhams felt like a terrible intrusion on the joyous holiday festivities. The best part about their storyline was witnessing them receive their just desserts courtesy of Lady C! (Oh-ho-ho! and it was GOOD!)
Written with humor, reverence, and dexterity the A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice series by Alexa Adams is an ideal choice for readers wanting a low-angst, charming, and clever Austenesque read! Looking forward to reading more by Alexa Adams in the future!
October 4, 2020
This third in a series deals mostly with Charlotte and a Mr. David Westover, a rector with 2 livings, one being Kympton.
Charlotte visits Pemberley due to her friendship with Elizabeth Darcy. There she develops an interest in the geology of the area after being introduced to the subject by Mr. Westover. He asks for her advice in his attempts to draw pictures of the minerals he finds. When he seeks an audience with her she mistakes that to mean he is going to propose; only to be embarrassed when that was not his reason. She avoids visiting Pemberley when next invited, about a year later, but when Elizabeth wants her there for the birth of her first child, Charlotte knows she will just have to work to avoid the man. Later in the story Mr. Westover's sister who lived with him for many years until she married, decides to get involved when she learns of the mess the man has made of making his intentions clear.
In this story Mr. Bennet becomes a matchmaker and also stirs things up behind the scene at times. Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet butt heads, especially when Mary Collins has her first child. There is something about Lydia being involved in a potential scandal (again) but I could not find that matter cleared up in this story. Caroline has married Wickham and then is chagrined to learn that her husband was the son of the steward NOT at all related to old Mr. Darcy.
The story concludes with the holiday season at Pemberley to which a number of guests show up: some invited and other definitely not invited and not wanted.
The story needs a lot of spellchecking. I marked many of those but am sure I missed some.
Charlotte visits Pemberley due to her friendship with Elizabeth Darcy. There she develops an interest in the geology of the area after being introduced to the subject by Mr. Westover. He asks for her advice in his attempts to draw pictures of the minerals he finds. When he seeks an audience with her she mistakes that to mean he is going to propose; only to be embarrassed when that was not his reason. She avoids visiting Pemberley when next invited, about a year later, but when Elizabeth wants her there for the birth of her first child, Charlotte knows she will just have to work to avoid the man. Later in the story Mr. Westover's sister who lived with him for many years until she married, decides to get involved when she learns of the mess the man has made of making his intentions clear.
In this story Mr. Bennet becomes a matchmaker and also stirs things up behind the scene at times. Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet butt heads, especially when Mary Collins has her first child. There is something about Lydia being involved in a potential scandal (again) but I could not find that matter cleared up in this story. Caroline has married Wickham and then is chagrined to learn that her husband was the son of the steward NOT at all related to old Mr. Darcy.
The story concludes with the holiday season at Pemberley to which a number of guests show up: some invited and other definitely not invited and not wanted.
The story needs a lot of spellchecking. I marked many of those but am sure I missed some.
March 6, 2019
I love the author but the romance of C and Mr W did not capture my attention though I tried. Written well but dull to me. I ended up skipping huge sections.
July 15, 2020
This is really beautifully written. I was so impressed within the first few pages. It does need to be read along with parts 1 and 2 of the series, because if you give it a huge gap like I did, I forgot parts!
It's a sweet story about Charlotte, and the rector who I feel doesn't completely deserve her. Our whole cast of characters is present, and I love how the what ifs in this series played out. I was especially impressed with Lady Catherine, she might be one of my favourite Lady Catherine's ever.
My one quibble is the cover! It creeps me out! LOL!
It's a sweet story about Charlotte, and the rector who I feel doesn't completely deserve her. Our whole cast of characters is present, and I love how the what ifs in this series played out. I was especially impressed with Lady Catherine, she might be one of my favourite Lady Catherine's ever.
My one quibble is the cover! It creeps me out! LOL!
Read
November 3, 2017The trilogy began with the love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in First Impressions: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice, where Mr. Darcy never slighted Elizabeth but still had to overcome the obstacle that was the rest of the Bennet family, and continued in Second Glances: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice Continues with the courtship of the more refined Kitty Bennet by the dashing and reckless Sir James Stratton.
In the final novel, Holidays at Pemberley, or Third Encounters: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice Concludes, Adams turns her attention to Elizabeth’s best friend, Charlotte Lucas, who thankfully has been spared a lifetime of putting up with Mr. Collins but still longs for the independence and security afforded by marriage. This novel goes back to where First Impressions leaves off and continues beyond the events in Second Glances, with a focus on Charlotte’s visits to Pemberley, where Elizabeth hopes she will hit it off with David Westover, the rector of Kympton and a man from Charlotte’s past.
Charlotte doesn’t expect to marry for love. As she nears 30, she just hopes to get married. But the more she sees the love between the Darcys, the more she laments the lack of it in her own life. Her family has nearly lost all hope of Charlotte ever finding a husband, especially when she returns home without having secured Mr. Westover’s affections. Mr. Westover has never entertained the idea of marriage, as he is too focused on his scientific research and his parish duties, but a misunderstanding involving Charlotte and some meddling by his sister may change his mind.
I loved spending Christmas with the Darcys and their family and friends in Holidays at Pemberley. Adams’ story is told in the tone and spirit of Austen, and her original characters are so charming and seamlessly integrated, I had to remind myself that they weren’t Austen’s creations. Every time I read Pride and Prejudice, I feel bad that Charlotte thought Mr. Collins was the best she was going to get, so I like when these Austenesque novels reimagine a happier life for her. I didn’t know what to think about Mr. Westover at first — he’s not a Mr. Darcy or a Sir James Stratton — but he grew on me in the end.
Adams keeps the romance to a minimum, focusing instead on the misunderstandings, the humor, and the diversions so enjoyed by Mr. Bennet. I read these books with a smile on my face (how could I not, when Mr. Bennet and Lady Catherine forge an odd friendship?), and as predicted, I was sad when they came to an end. I highly recommend this trilogy for Austen fans who prefer their reimaginings to be witty and charming, free of sex scenes, and reminiscent of Austen herself.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
I received a free copy of this book for review.
In the final novel, Holidays at Pemberley, or Third Encounters: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice Concludes, Adams turns her attention to Elizabeth’s best friend, Charlotte Lucas, who thankfully has been spared a lifetime of putting up with Mr. Collins but still longs for the independence and security afforded by marriage. This novel goes back to where First Impressions leaves off and continues beyond the events in Second Glances, with a focus on Charlotte’s visits to Pemberley, where Elizabeth hopes she will hit it off with David Westover, the rector of Kympton and a man from Charlotte’s past.
Charlotte doesn’t expect to marry for love. As she nears 30, she just hopes to get married. But the more she sees the love between the Darcys, the more she laments the lack of it in her own life. Her family has nearly lost all hope of Charlotte ever finding a husband, especially when she returns home without having secured Mr. Westover’s affections. Mr. Westover has never entertained the idea of marriage, as he is too focused on his scientific research and his parish duties, but a misunderstanding involving Charlotte and some meddling by his sister may change his mind.
I loved spending Christmas with the Darcys and their family and friends in Holidays at Pemberley. Adams’ story is told in the tone and spirit of Austen, and her original characters are so charming and seamlessly integrated, I had to remind myself that they weren’t Austen’s creations. Every time I read Pride and Prejudice, I feel bad that Charlotte thought Mr. Collins was the best she was going to get, so I like when these Austenesque novels reimagine a happier life for her. I didn’t know what to think about Mr. Westover at first — he’s not a Mr. Darcy or a Sir James Stratton — but he grew on me in the end.
Adams keeps the romance to a minimum, focusing instead on the misunderstandings, the humor, and the diversions so enjoyed by Mr. Bennet. I read these books with a smile on my face (how could I not, when Mr. Bennet and Lady Catherine forge an odd friendship?), and as predicted, I was sad when they came to an end. I highly recommend this trilogy for Austen fans who prefer their reimaginings to be witty and charming, free of sex scenes, and reminiscent of Austen herself.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
I received a free copy of this book for review.
December 7, 2017
Fate has a way of coming full circle...
I so enjoy reading holiday stories that gives us a glimpse of 'happily ever after' with our favourite couple. I also love seeing what has transpired with the rest of the Bennet family and friends. This tale gives us both.
Charlotte Lucas has been invited to Pemberley for the Twelfth Night celebrations at Pemberley. She has not married Mr. Collins and is feeling this will be her last chance to meet someone eligible. Practical as ever, she is not looking for a love match but one that will give her more independence.
Mr. David Westover is the rector of Kympton. However, his true passion are his geological studies. A determined bachelor, he sees no need for a wife as he is so consumed with his studies when not dealing with the parish.
How do these two 'practical' individuals come together, let alone change their views? With meddlesome friends and relatives and seeing for themselves that true love is not just for other people.
I do recommend reading the first two books in this trilogy to be able to appreciate and understand all the events within this book.
I so enjoy reading holiday stories that gives us a glimpse of 'happily ever after' with our favourite couple. I also love seeing what has transpired with the rest of the Bennet family and friends. This tale gives us both.
Charlotte Lucas has been invited to Pemberley for the Twelfth Night celebrations at Pemberley. She has not married Mr. Collins and is feeling this will be her last chance to meet someone eligible. Practical as ever, she is not looking for a love match but one that will give her more independence.
Mr. David Westover is the rector of Kympton. However, his true passion are his geological studies. A determined bachelor, he sees no need for a wife as he is so consumed with his studies when not dealing with the parish.
How do these two 'practical' individuals come together, let alone change their views? With meddlesome friends and relatives and seeing for themselves that true love is not just for other people.
I do recommend reading the first two books in this trilogy to be able to appreciate and understand all the events within this book.
October 12, 2013
I like these books cos they feel real, more austenuesque in the way they are written :)
And this book is Charlotte's book (even if we see all the rest and they get plenty of room too). In this re-telling Charlotte did not marry Collins, no Mary did that (and she was so the better fit). Charlotte is not spoken for and spends time at Pemberley and meets a gentleman. But of course we need a bit of drama and things take a long time to work out.
I liked what she did in the book. First impressions (book 1) is here were Charlotte meets David. Second Glances is their second chance (and was Kitty, Georgiana and Lydia's book) and the last part is the Third encounters and will Charlotte finally get a HEA?
There is also Lizzy and Darcy as they settle into their home, The Wickhams, Bingley's and the best Aunt Catherine there is, she is actually nice.
A sweet sequel and re-telling of what could have happened if other choices had been made.
And this book is Charlotte's book (even if we see all the rest and they get plenty of room too). In this re-telling Charlotte did not marry Collins, no Mary did that (and she was so the better fit). Charlotte is not spoken for and spends time at Pemberley and meets a gentleman. But of course we need a bit of drama and things take a long time to work out.
I liked what she did in the book. First impressions (book 1) is here were Charlotte meets David. Second Glances is their second chance (and was Kitty, Georgiana and Lydia's book) and the last part is the Third encounters and will Charlotte finally get a HEA?
There is also Lizzy and Darcy as they settle into their home, The Wickhams, Bingley's and the best Aunt Catherine there is, she is actually nice.
A sweet sequel and re-telling of what could have happened if other choices had been made.
March 25, 2015
Received this novel as a gift from the author in a contest and thoroughly enjoyed it. A continuation to the series we catch a glimpse in the lives of Darcy and Elizabeth (now Mrs Darcy) over the course of 2 years (or 2 holidays). I love the relationship with the Darcy's and almost seems too good to be true so we have to throw Mr and Mrs Wickham into the mix and some sadness for the Bingleys. However, one of my favorite aspects of this novel was the story Charlotte gets. I was thrilled to see her get her happy ending despite all her protests against love in a marriage! Lots of quick weddings in this novel which surprised me but contributed to the feel-good tone of the novel. Enjoyed it for a quick read.
November 10, 2013
At this time of the year, I love picking up books that are centered around the holidays with a warm, cozy, family-feel to them. Combine that with one of my favorite classical stories and I just can't resist. Holiday at Pemberley is a gentle, sweet telling of two people who fall in love in spite of their belief that love will never come to them and it is the telling of what comes next for the rest of the characters from the previous books.
This is the third and final book in the Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice series that began as an alternative telling of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. It asks the question 'what if Darcy wasn't so proud and what if Lizzy wasn't so prejudice?' Then the second book brought out several of the minor characters from the original story in a sequel to the first book giving them their own happily ever afters. This final book begins where the first one leaves off, parallels the events in the second book chronologically though it tells a separate story line and finally ties both the previous stories up nicely while including the happily ever after for yet another minor character in the first story. Did I confuse you yet? Well, what I meant to say essentially is to read the other two first and know that this is the final book which wraps it all up neatly in a bow.
I find this one hard to summarize because so much is going on in this story since it is winding things up and has a few different story paths. The time frame begins with the final preparations for the first holidays that a soon to be married Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth along with her family and friends spend at Darcy's estate of Pemberley. His family and hers come together for sometimes interesting and humorous results.
Against this dually joyous occasion of the holidays and a wedding, Charlotte Lucas, Lizzy's friend, is there in the role of bridesmaid and she meets the vicar of Kympton who is a welcome and frequent visitor to Pemberley. They connect over shared interests, but Mr. Westover considers himself a confirmed bachelor and Charlotte fears she will end up a spinster because she has little too offer someone to tempt them into marriage. Everyone is heartened when a friendship develops and Charlotte and David are a daily thing. She starts to hope a little that maybe what Lizzy has with Mr. Darcy and the affectionate matches she has seen amongst Lizzy's sisters might be something she will enjoy too. That is until one mistaken comment dashes her hopes to the side.
Unfortunately for Charlotte and those who would see her happy with David Westover, he doesn't pop the question and she returns to her dreary home to be the butt of her younger siblings jokes, the frustration of her brother who doesn't want an old-maid sister on his hands just when he plans to marry and the disappointment of parents who want her to be married almost as much as she does.
After the grave misunderstanding with Charlotte about the direction of their friendship and having to walk away from what they had, David Westover goes back to his normal routines only to find the life has gone out of his once eager and exciting pursuits. It takes him some time to realize the truth and even longer to determine what he really wants, but by now much time has passed and he might have waited too long.
But the holiday season is once again upon them and the old Christmas magic has a way of working on even the most hopeless situations- well that and the fact that several willing people who want to see these two happy get involved to bring them together.
This book was very much a wrap-up installment. There is so much going on. Alongside the storyline with Charlotte and David, equal amounts of the story are devoted to the continuing romance of Darcy and Lizzy as they adjust to married life and there are bits and pieces from the others too. There is a final reckoning for the plotting Wickhams that left me a little piteous for them, but just a little. It was a touching story that was sweet and humorous and a little sad at times- just like the season of most lives. The focus is very much divided so that it switches scenes and narrators constantly. I had no trouble following this as the story was familiar to me from reading the other books, but anyone trying to jump in with this one would be hopelessly lost. Pacing is gentle as is the action. There are several times when the reader is aware of things going on off-scene and it is assumed the reader already has prior knowledge of these activities because they are told in the earlier books.
The backdrop is Jane Austen's P&P world, but it is not necessary to have read the original story to appreciate this series. The characters bare the same names and have slightly familiar characteristics, but they are new and different- very much Alexa Adams' characters- which takes them in alternate directions. The historical backdrop of Regency times and holiday celebrations was a treat. I would love to participate in a Twelfth Night party after reading this story. I was pleased with the feeling of the historical time period without it overtaking the story.
The characters are the strength of the stories no doubt. Darcy and Lizzy are a tender couple who it was a pleasure to follow as they come into their own. Lady Catherine and Mr. Bennett are softer versions of themselves and hilarious the way they move about and manipulate their families. The Wickhams offer the closest things to villains with their conniving social climbing and greed. The pairings for Lizzy's sisters and Darcy's sister, Georgiana took place in the last book and they make brief appearances here too.
But I have to admit that the characters who really captured me along with their story was Charlotte and David. I love this autumn romance- or at least that's how it feels to me. The depth of Charlotte's character and her background had me in sympathy and pulling for her all the way. She isn't pretty, witty, connected to wealth or power or talented in ways that will capture a gentleman's eyes. She is just plain, sensible Charlotte who has secret longings to fall in love and have a happy home like her friend, but takes a practical approach to settling for any situation that will provide for her comfortably and take her off her father and brother's hands. Her family are not hateful people, but they still can't help wishing to get Charlotte off their hands and make this clear to her. I admired her so much because she really is the average woman like most of us.
David is this brilliant, scholarly sort who comes from a moderately wealthy background, but is content with his humble church work. He really cares for what he does, but at the same time, he likes that it gives him vast amounts of time to study and research. He thinks he is protecting Charlotte and any other woman by refusing them since he doesn't see himself as very good husband material.
So watching these two fumble along toward their chance at happiness together was a real treat. In fact, the only grouse I have with this story is that I wanted more page time with these two. I felt that there could have been so much more. Truthfully, I would have cut out most of the catching up that was done with the Bennetts and Darcys to get that more with Charlotte and David (I know I just shocked all the Darcy and Lizzy lovers out there of which I am one).
In the end, I loved the story- the whole trio of books for that matter. It was a fun, engaging and sweet retelling of a timeless story and it is perfect for this time of the year with its holiday backdrop. I definitely recommend this for Austenesque fans, but also for those who enjoy sweet Historical Romances.
My thanks to Alexa Adams who provided my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third and final book in the Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice series that began as an alternative telling of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. It asks the question 'what if Darcy wasn't so proud and what if Lizzy wasn't so prejudice?' Then the second book brought out several of the minor characters from the original story in a sequel to the first book giving them their own happily ever afters. This final book begins where the first one leaves off, parallels the events in the second book chronologically though it tells a separate story line and finally ties both the previous stories up nicely while including the happily ever after for yet another minor character in the first story. Did I confuse you yet? Well, what I meant to say essentially is to read the other two first and know that this is the final book which wraps it all up neatly in a bow.
I find this one hard to summarize because so much is going on in this story since it is winding things up and has a few different story paths. The time frame begins with the final preparations for the first holidays that a soon to be married Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth along with her family and friends spend at Darcy's estate of Pemberley. His family and hers come together for sometimes interesting and humorous results.
Against this dually joyous occasion of the holidays and a wedding, Charlotte Lucas, Lizzy's friend, is there in the role of bridesmaid and she meets the vicar of Kympton who is a welcome and frequent visitor to Pemberley. They connect over shared interests, but Mr. Westover considers himself a confirmed bachelor and Charlotte fears she will end up a spinster because she has little too offer someone to tempt them into marriage. Everyone is heartened when a friendship develops and Charlotte and David are a daily thing. She starts to hope a little that maybe what Lizzy has with Mr. Darcy and the affectionate matches she has seen amongst Lizzy's sisters might be something she will enjoy too. That is until one mistaken comment dashes her hopes to the side.
Unfortunately for Charlotte and those who would see her happy with David Westover, he doesn't pop the question and she returns to her dreary home to be the butt of her younger siblings jokes, the frustration of her brother who doesn't want an old-maid sister on his hands just when he plans to marry and the disappointment of parents who want her to be married almost as much as she does.
After the grave misunderstanding with Charlotte about the direction of their friendship and having to walk away from what they had, David Westover goes back to his normal routines only to find the life has gone out of his once eager and exciting pursuits. It takes him some time to realize the truth and even longer to determine what he really wants, but by now much time has passed and he might have waited too long.
But the holiday season is once again upon them and the old Christmas magic has a way of working on even the most hopeless situations- well that and the fact that several willing people who want to see these two happy get involved to bring them together.
This book was very much a wrap-up installment. There is so much going on. Alongside the storyline with Charlotte and David, equal amounts of the story are devoted to the continuing romance of Darcy and Lizzy as they adjust to married life and there are bits and pieces from the others too. There is a final reckoning for the plotting Wickhams that left me a little piteous for them, but just a little. It was a touching story that was sweet and humorous and a little sad at times- just like the season of most lives. The focus is very much divided so that it switches scenes and narrators constantly. I had no trouble following this as the story was familiar to me from reading the other books, but anyone trying to jump in with this one would be hopelessly lost. Pacing is gentle as is the action. There are several times when the reader is aware of things going on off-scene and it is assumed the reader already has prior knowledge of these activities because they are told in the earlier books.
The backdrop is Jane Austen's P&P world, but it is not necessary to have read the original story to appreciate this series. The characters bare the same names and have slightly familiar characteristics, but they are new and different- very much Alexa Adams' characters- which takes them in alternate directions. The historical backdrop of Regency times and holiday celebrations was a treat. I would love to participate in a Twelfth Night party after reading this story. I was pleased with the feeling of the historical time period without it overtaking the story.
The characters are the strength of the stories no doubt. Darcy and Lizzy are a tender couple who it was a pleasure to follow as they come into their own. Lady Catherine and Mr. Bennett are softer versions of themselves and hilarious the way they move about and manipulate their families. The Wickhams offer the closest things to villains with their conniving social climbing and greed. The pairings for Lizzy's sisters and Darcy's sister, Georgiana took place in the last book and they make brief appearances here too.
But I have to admit that the characters who really captured me along with their story was Charlotte and David. I love this autumn romance- or at least that's how it feels to me. The depth of Charlotte's character and her background had me in sympathy and pulling for her all the way. She isn't pretty, witty, connected to wealth or power or talented in ways that will capture a gentleman's eyes. She is just plain, sensible Charlotte who has secret longings to fall in love and have a happy home like her friend, but takes a practical approach to settling for any situation that will provide for her comfortably and take her off her father and brother's hands. Her family are not hateful people, but they still can't help wishing to get Charlotte off their hands and make this clear to her. I admired her so much because she really is the average woman like most of us.
David is this brilliant, scholarly sort who comes from a moderately wealthy background, but is content with his humble church work. He really cares for what he does, but at the same time, he likes that it gives him vast amounts of time to study and research. He thinks he is protecting Charlotte and any other woman by refusing them since he doesn't see himself as very good husband material.
So watching these two fumble along toward their chance at happiness together was a real treat. In fact, the only grouse I have with this story is that I wanted more page time with these two. I felt that there could have been so much more. Truthfully, I would have cut out most of the catching up that was done with the Bennetts and Darcys to get that more with Charlotte and David (I know I just shocked all the Darcy and Lizzy lovers out there of which I am one).
In the end, I loved the story- the whole trio of books for that matter. It was a fun, engaging and sweet retelling of a timeless story and it is perfect for this time of the year with its holiday backdrop. I definitely recommend this for Austenesque fans, but also for those who enjoy sweet Historical Romances.
My thanks to Alexa Adams who provided my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2014
4.5 out of 5 stars
Holidays at Pemberley is the third book and conclusion of the Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice Series. Alexa Adams has stayed consistent throughout these books with her clever wit and lovely Regency language. As I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books, her style and tone of writing is so near Jane Austen that it is a pleasure to read the stories.
This novel opens with a brief account of an incident that took place when Charlotte Lucas was a small child. Charlotte was able to help a young boy that had just experienced a traumatic incident. This was a touching and significant scene. It was nice to learn something about the early Lucas family and their goodness.
Fast forward to Christmas right before Darcy and Lizzy marry. Netherfield Hall is the scene for a ball to honor Charles Bingley’s future wife, Jane. The newly married Wickham’s are making their intrusion as if the ball was for them. Typical behavior for them now and later, but I did so enjoy when Caroline paled at the discovery that her husband had misrepresented some very significant facts. That was a priceless moment.
Charlotte Lucas has the main storyline and it is nice to see her find happiness and yes, even love. During her visits to Pemberley, she has the opportunity to witness true love between her dear friend and Mr. Darcy. Charlotte's path to love is not easy and her feelings are exposed. Her discovery that she too, can marry for love, is very nicely done. Her gradual change and her eventual courtship are gratifying to read. I like this Charlotte and enjoyed her story very much.
There were many amusing scenes between Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine, who is still quite likable. Each lady claims success for the Collins’s birth of a male child. Next is their constant bickering over his proper rearing. This squabbling was quite comical.
I was displeased with Mr. Bennet when he invited the Wickham’s to Pemberley for Twelfth Night without informing Elizabeth and Darcy. That did not set well and seemed unlike him. I guess the saying, ‘All’s well that ends well,’ fits here. The outcome proved beneficial to Lady Catherine and I did enjoy how she handled the situation. Happily, Caroline and George will never be the same!
Even though the main plot is about Charlotte Lucas, the book covers several holidays and balls at the beginning of the Darcy’s marriage, allowing the reader to spend time with them. The narrative also gives some additional details from plots in the first two books, details that give more meat to those stories. With all the same characters from the first two books, Holidays at Pemberley could stand alone but would possibly raise a few questions. I recommend reading First Impressions and Second Glances beforehand. They are excellent books that are not to be missed! Thank you Alexa Adams.
Holidays at Pemberley is the third book and conclusion of the Tales of Less Pride & Prejudice Series. Alexa Adams has stayed consistent throughout these books with her clever wit and lovely Regency language. As I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books, her style and tone of writing is so near Jane Austen that it is a pleasure to read the stories.
This novel opens with a brief account of an incident that took place when Charlotte Lucas was a small child. Charlotte was able to help a young boy that had just experienced a traumatic incident. This was a touching and significant scene. It was nice to learn something about the early Lucas family and their goodness.
Fast forward to Christmas right before Darcy and Lizzy marry. Netherfield Hall is the scene for a ball to honor Charles Bingley’s future wife, Jane. The newly married Wickham’s are making their intrusion as if the ball was for them. Typical behavior for them now and later, but I did so enjoy when Caroline paled at the discovery that her husband had misrepresented some very significant facts. That was a priceless moment.
Charlotte Lucas has the main storyline and it is nice to see her find happiness and yes, even love. During her visits to Pemberley, she has the opportunity to witness true love between her dear friend and Mr. Darcy. Charlotte's path to love is not easy and her feelings are exposed. Her discovery that she too, can marry for love, is very nicely done. Her gradual change and her eventual courtship are gratifying to read. I like this Charlotte and enjoyed her story very much.
There were many amusing scenes between Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine, who is still quite likable. Each lady claims success for the Collins’s birth of a male child. Next is their constant bickering over his proper rearing. This squabbling was quite comical.
I was displeased with Mr. Bennet when he invited the Wickham’s to Pemberley for Twelfth Night without informing Elizabeth and Darcy. That did not set well and seemed unlike him. I guess the saying, ‘All’s well that ends well,’ fits here. The outcome proved beneficial to Lady Catherine and I did enjoy how she handled the situation. Happily, Caroline and George will never be the same!
Even though the main plot is about Charlotte Lucas, the book covers several holidays and balls at the beginning of the Darcy’s marriage, allowing the reader to spend time with them. The narrative also gives some additional details from plots in the first two books, details that give more meat to those stories. With all the same characters from the first two books, Holidays at Pemberley could stand alone but would possibly raise a few questions. I recommend reading First Impressions and Second Glances beforehand. They are excellent books that are not to be missed! Thank you Alexa Adams.
August 24, 2014
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Enfrentando el desafío de ser feliz
Este tercer libro fue diferente a sus antecesores, por su estructura y cómo enlaza al primer y segundo libro. Se inicia con más de veinte años atrás en Hertfordshire en casa de los Lucas y la llegada de nuevos personajes en la historia. Luego vuelve al momento que Elizabeth y Darcy están recién casados y cómo se desarrollan sus vidas.
Al estar este tercer libro dedicado a la vida de Charlotte Lucas, se ve como ella es invitada a Pemberley y trancurre su vida con los Darcys y sus vecinos. Allí conoce a cierto caballero bastante excéntrico por su particular forma de pensar, gustos e intereses.
Charlotte Lucas es conocida como la pragmática esposa del señor Collins, siendo olvidada y dejada al destino que ella eligió, en Orgullo y Prejuicio de Jane Austen. Y aquí es donde Adams redime a este maravilloso personaje extrapolando sus características manifestadas en la obra original, Adams va más allá, permite que Charlotte traspase esa coraza auto impuesta para ser como cualquier mujer ilusionada para econtrar el amor. Pero no es una tarea fácil. Desde su posición como digna representante de su época, no cree en romanticismos, es una pragmática mujer en busca de un hogar propio e independizarse de sus padres y hermanos, para quitarse esa etiqueta de "solterona" tan mal visto en esa época y huir de tan insulso futuro.
Fue un deleite ver el crecimiento de este personaje muy querido para Elizabeth, la autora nos proporciona muchos momentos de las dos amigas compartiendo su estrecha amistad. Charlotte era testigo del amor tan devoto que se prodigaban Darcy y Elizabeth, ¿lograría tales ejemplos de amor el milagro de cambiar a esta práctica mujer por una más romántica?
Mucha narrativa exenta de extrema angustia pero no de ingenio, ironía y sobriedad entre los diálogos y pensamientos de los distintos personajes, y es justo en esta tercera entrega donde fluye más extensamente el estilo de esta autora.
December 10, 2013
Title: “Holidays at Pemberley”
Author: Alexa Adams
Publication date: September 22, 2013
Type of book: Fiction/A Pride and Prejudice tale
Is this a part of a series, If yes, which number? Yes, this is book #3. #1 is First impressions and #2 is Second glances.
Summary: With the Bennet sisters happily married and settled Charlotte Lucas is unsure what direction her life will take. Charlotte wants only to be able to take care of herself and to remain respectable. When she meets David Westover she has no idea what the future has in store for her and with a little luck she may just find a love of her own.
Characters: This book has all of our favorites from Jane Austen’s world. I really love the way that Alexa portrays them.
Favorite bits: I love that Charlotte has her own story and her own happily ever after. Pride and Prejudice is my very favorite book and I always felt so bad for Charlotte. I believed that she could have done better for herself and it is wonderful to see it finally happen for her in this lovely book. Alexa’s books are quick and charming reads that will make your heart smile.
Problematic bits: For me, I don’t really have anything negative to say about this series. If I had to say one thing it would be that I wish they were a bit longer.
*A wonderful addition to my Austen collection!
Author: Alexa Adams
Publication date: September 22, 2013
Type of book: Fiction/A Pride and Prejudice tale
Is this a part of a series, If yes, which number? Yes, this is book #3. #1 is First impressions and #2 is Second glances.
Summary: With the Bennet sisters happily married and settled Charlotte Lucas is unsure what direction her life will take. Charlotte wants only to be able to take care of herself and to remain respectable. When she meets David Westover she has no idea what the future has in store for her and with a little luck she may just find a love of her own.
Characters: This book has all of our favorites from Jane Austen’s world. I really love the way that Alexa portrays them.
Favorite bits: I love that Charlotte has her own story and her own happily ever after. Pride and Prejudice is my very favorite book and I always felt so bad for Charlotte. I believed that she could have done better for herself and it is wonderful to see it finally happen for her in this lovely book. Alexa’s books are quick and charming reads that will make your heart smile.
Problematic bits: For me, I don’t really have anything negative to say about this series. If I had to say one thing it would be that I wish they were a bit longer.
*A wonderful addition to my Austen collection!
March 20, 2014
I love Pride and Prejudice so when I came across this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway I had to enter. I was therefore really happy when I won a copy to read and review!
This story is part of a series of books which are a kind of re-telling of Pride and Prejudice. Due to this I was worried that because I hadn't read the other two books I would be confused. I think it would be a good idea to read the other books but I don't think it is an absolute necessity.
Holidays at Pemberley follows Charlotte Lucas and it shows how her opinions on love and marriage alter after spending time with the now married Elizabeth and Darcy. In this book Charlotte never married Mr Collins which in itself is an interesting idea. The characters of Charlotte and David are very likeable with you wishing them a happy ever after.
The story moves along at a good pace and it was lovely to read about all the characters from Pride and Prejudice once again but in a different way.
Well worth a read!
Thank you for my Goodreads First Reads copy!
This story is part of a series of books which are a kind of re-telling of Pride and Prejudice. Due to this I was worried that because I hadn't read the other two books I would be confused. I think it would be a good idea to read the other books but I don't think it is an absolute necessity.
Holidays at Pemberley follows Charlotte Lucas and it shows how her opinions on love and marriage alter after spending time with the now married Elizabeth and Darcy. In this book Charlotte never married Mr Collins which in itself is an interesting idea. The characters of Charlotte and David are very likeable with you wishing them a happy ever after.
The story moves along at a good pace and it was lovely to read about all the characters from Pride and Prejudice once again but in a different way.
Well worth a read!
Thank you for my Goodreads First Reads copy!
November 6, 2017
maryann
3.0 out of 5
November 4, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
I read the whole novel but I had to keep putting it down and then some how lost interest in the novel. At times I felt that it was fragmented. (These are just my thoughts and maybe I was just having a bad day.) I did like the fact that Elizabeth stayed in close contact with Charlotte as her dear friend and that she did find love in the end. However, Charlotte mostly has been reserved and in this novel she was so forward with her declaration and then got embarrassed. Also I thought it was fragmented about marriages of Kitty and Georgiana and their spouses.
However, I have read other novels from Ms. Adams and loved them.
3.0 out of 5
November 4, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
I read the whole novel but I had to keep putting it down and then some how lost interest in the novel. At times I felt that it was fragmented. (These are just my thoughts and maybe I was just having a bad day.) I did like the fact that Elizabeth stayed in close contact with Charlotte as her dear friend and that she did find love in the end. However, Charlotte mostly has been reserved and in this novel she was so forward with her declaration and then got embarrassed. Also I thought it was fragmented about marriages of Kitty and Georgiana and their spouses.
However, I have read other novels from Ms. Adams and loved them.
January 4, 2015
Holidays at Pemberley, or Third Encounters: A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice Concludes
This third variation focuses on Charlotte's return to Pemberley, and her hopes for a proposal of marriage to the vicar of Kympton, Mr. David Westover. Interesting story between these two that makes their marriage ideal. A must read. Errors throughout the book, while aggravating, do not hinder the story. Still found it hard to believe that the Wickhams were allowed to come to Pemberley. Too many characters would not have allowed them to stay regardless of the circumstances for being there uninvited. Quick read.
This third variation focuses on Charlotte's return to Pemberley, and her hopes for a proposal of marriage to the vicar of Kympton, Mr. David Westover. Interesting story between these two that makes their marriage ideal. A must read. Errors throughout the book, while aggravating, do not hinder the story. Still found it hard to believe that the Wickhams were allowed to come to Pemberley. Too many characters would not have allowed them to stay regardless of the circumstances for being there uninvited. Quick read.
November 9, 2013
I enjoyed this book, which I received a free copy of via the Goodreads giveaway. The conversations were lively and witty. The characters' commentary was as particular as that in the original author's tome. Without doubt, it offered a match of the style of Miss Austen's lovely story.
A likely pleasure for those who like to indulge in the language and perspective of such period pieces.
A likely pleasure for those who like to indulge in the language and perspective of such period pieces.
June 3, 2015
received a free copy of via the Goodreads giveaway. so far this is a cute book , great characters and love the holiday theme esp at this time of year. thanks for the "giveaways" or i may not have been able to get the book!
November 15, 2013
I couldn't put it down! I love anything Austen related, and this one is at the top of the list. I can't wait to get my hands on more of Mrs. Adams novels.
November 10, 2017
Un ultime tome lu plusieurs années après les 2 premiers ce qui explique que j'ai eu un peu de mal à me remettre dans cette version où Caroline Bingley a épousé Wickham, où Lady Catherine est un supporter de Lizzy et où Mary est fiancée à Mr Collins !
Le livre commence avec le mariage de Mary et met en scène la plupart des personnages qui nous sont connus. J'avoue que la perspective d'une Mary Collins est plus plaisante à mes yeux que celle de Charlotte ... Mais du coup que devient cette pauvre Charlotte ? Va-t-elle demeurer vieille fille vivant au crochet du foyer de son frère (fiancé à la fameuse Mary King) ou trouver son "match" ?
Bon bah ce tome vise justement à marier Charlotte... Bon, j'avoue que des obstacles aussi inutiles que prévisibles se dressent devant les amoureux ce qui permet à l'auteure de faire faire une fausse couche à Jane, de marier Kitty, Georgiana et Lydia, d'instaurer une amitié plus qu'improbable entre Mr Bennet et Lady Catherine, de donner un héritier à Mr Collins et bien entendu à Mr Darcy... Mais finalement tout fini pour le mieux...
Alors bon, certes, ce n'est pas désagréable à lire mais les personnages ne ressemblent pas aux originaux et c'est à mon sens inutilement long
Ce que j'aime : le couple Caroline/Wickham, le fait que les Bingley ne soient pas parfaitement heureux tout de suite, le personnage de Charlotte bien développé et ressemblant
Ce que j'aime moins : certains personnages ne "se ressemblent pas" et le livre est inutilement long
En bref : Un conclusion plaisante à lire et qui reprend la version de l'auteure mais qui s'éloigne vraiment des personnages originaux
Ma note
5,5/10
Le livre commence avec le mariage de Mary et met en scène la plupart des personnages qui nous sont connus. J'avoue que la perspective d'une Mary Collins est plus plaisante à mes yeux que celle de Charlotte ... Mais du coup que devient cette pauvre Charlotte ? Va-t-elle demeurer vieille fille vivant au crochet du foyer de son frère (fiancé à la fameuse Mary King) ou trouver son "match" ?
Bon bah ce tome vise justement à marier Charlotte... Bon, j'avoue que des obstacles aussi inutiles que prévisibles se dressent devant les amoureux ce qui permet à l'auteure de faire faire une fausse couche à Jane, de marier Kitty, Georgiana et Lydia, d'instaurer une amitié plus qu'improbable entre Mr Bennet et Lady Catherine, de donner un héritier à Mr Collins et bien entendu à Mr Darcy... Mais finalement tout fini pour le mieux...
Alors bon, certes, ce n'est pas désagréable à lire mais les personnages ne ressemblent pas aux originaux et c'est à mon sens inutilement long
Ce que j'aime : le couple Caroline/Wickham, le fait que les Bingley ne soient pas parfaitement heureux tout de suite, le personnage de Charlotte bien développé et ressemblant
Ce que j'aime moins : certains personnages ne "se ressemblent pas" et le livre est inutilement long
En bref : Un conclusion plaisante à lire et qui reprend la version de l'auteure mais qui s'éloigne vraiment des personnages originaux
Ma note
5,5/10
December 28, 2013
I have greatly enjoyed the previous two books in this series and so I had no doubts that I would not love the final story - and I did! I had loved seeing Darcy and Lizzy's path to their happily ever after with a lot less misunderstandings and problems (First Impressions), and then seeing the road to true love for Kitty with her Sir James Stratton which was full of misunderstandings and problems (Second Glances) and I was excited to read this final tale about Charlotte Lucas' journey to happiness (in this series she never married Mr Collins) and I was not disappointed.
From the first few words the humour and wit of the author is apparent. She really has a very Jane Austen-y style of writing and the subtle sarcasm and witty remarks are brilliantly clever.
As in the preceding two books, the jumping between the thoughts of all the different characters was brilliant and very insightful. It was carried out very skilfully and cleverly indeed and the narrative was perfect. The story flowed well and never dragged.
Charlotte has always been a practical character when it came to marriage - she is not a romantic, you know - and it is sad to hear her inner thoughts as her practical side and disbelief in love in very evident. However, staying with the very happily married Darcys begins to test her beliefs and she even begins to envy her friend as 'To be confronted by a real-life prince charming was intolerable'. But still her practical nature shows through, strengthened by the fact that she was now thirty, and so 'Charlotte was left to contend with the possibility that dreams really do come true, at least for others.' Her journey to discovery of love and what it is like to experience the emotion is very touching; seeing the views of one who never believed she would feel such a thing, even doubted it existed, alter so through the story.
David Westover is a very fun character. He has been looked after all his life as a result of an accident when he was a young boy which killed his mother, meaning his sister has always looked after him and so, of course, he could not possibly look after himself well enough let alone consider taking on the role of husband, or so his sister tell hims. Consequently, he has hung onto his bachelorhood for many years and doesn't plan to give it up.
But then Charlotte and Westover meet. Through a shared love of drawing the two grow close and for Charlotte her heart begins to be touched. However, Westover is rather oblivious to his own feelings - men know nothing about their hearts you understand. There are ups and downs, trials and tribulations, misunderstandings and miscommunications for these two but the relationship, eventually, reaches its happy conclusion! (No that was not a spoiler as we are told Charlotte Lucas becomes Charlotte Westover in the conclusion of book one, and besides, there has to be a happy ending doesn't there!) I will not give away anything about how the inevitable ending is reached!
Back to the Darcys! Darcy and Lizzy are extremely happy and their marriage prospers through this book, as we would expect it to! In this story we begin with their marriage, then see into their first year as a married couple and even get a glimpse of the Darcys facing parenthood!
Darcy is, of course, still the perfect gentleman and you will envy Lizzy when you read just how perfect a husband Mr Darcy makes - I certainly envied her!
It was enjoyable to see more of the relationship between Georgiana and Kitty, and then the success of the subsequent marriages of those two girls (which was the focus of Second Glances.)
In this trilogy lots of the characters we know and love are a bit different to how you might expect them to be - it is tales of less pride and prejudice after all - and so some characters needed to change a little! I have grown accustomed to this by now and so the nice Lady Catherine - to Lizzy anyway - no longer takes me by surprise nor the calmer Mrs Bennet and the matching-making Mr Bennet! All the secondary characters were great in this story and all had an interesting role. The Wickhams, George and Caroline (yes Caroline Bingley!) obviously still come along to cause problems for Darcy, but they also provide a lot of amusement, especially at the hands of Lady Catherine! But I will say no more!
The ending of the story, and consequently the trilogy, was perfect; all the characters being brought together from all three stories in a very neat and tidy way and all lose ends are tied up nicely!
I have greatly enjoyed this entire trilogy and it has been really nice seeing how the marriages of all the Bennet daughters come about, as well as a few others like Caroline Bingley, Georgiana Darcy and Charlotte Lucas. It was a very unique take on the original with some wonderful story lines, all which flowed smoothly. The humorous and witty style of writing this autho has was very enjoyable to read! For a hopeless romantic like myself, the lack of romantic scenes, kisses and such surprisingly didn't bother me - the writing was so good (and I love my romance so that is saying something!) I understand the romance was not the focus and yet, even for me, it didn't feel lacking - anyway, there were still a few sweet scenes every now and then!
This is great as a trilogy as it does contain running themes, but it would be equally as good if taken as three separate stories - you don't have to have read the first one to enjoy the second one, the second one to enjoy the third... You get the idea!
This was refreshingly different and put an interesting spin on the story we know and it was definitely Tales of Less and Pride and Prejudice (especially for Darcy and Lizzy!) If you want books which show the stories of not just one or two characters but many, where the romance is not the only thing going on in the book (as can be the case with some), and where the narrative flows and captures the sarcastic and witty tone of Jane Austen, then these are the books to read - any book from the trilogy! (Although I say read all three!)
From the first few words the humour and wit of the author is apparent. She really has a very Jane Austen-y style of writing and the subtle sarcasm and witty remarks are brilliantly clever.
As in the preceding two books, the jumping between the thoughts of all the different characters was brilliant and very insightful. It was carried out very skilfully and cleverly indeed and the narrative was perfect. The story flowed well and never dragged.
Charlotte has always been a practical character when it came to marriage - she is not a romantic, you know - and it is sad to hear her inner thoughts as her practical side and disbelief in love in very evident. However, staying with the very happily married Darcys begins to test her beliefs and she even begins to envy her friend as 'To be confronted by a real-life prince charming was intolerable'. But still her practical nature shows through, strengthened by the fact that she was now thirty, and so 'Charlotte was left to contend with the possibility that dreams really do come true, at least for others.' Her journey to discovery of love and what it is like to experience the emotion is very touching; seeing the views of one who never believed she would feel such a thing, even doubted it existed, alter so through the story.
David Westover is a very fun character. He has been looked after all his life as a result of an accident when he was a young boy which killed his mother, meaning his sister has always looked after him and so, of course, he could not possibly look after himself well enough let alone consider taking on the role of husband, or so his sister tell hims. Consequently, he has hung onto his bachelorhood for many years and doesn't plan to give it up.
But then Charlotte and Westover meet. Through a shared love of drawing the two grow close and for Charlotte her heart begins to be touched. However, Westover is rather oblivious to his own feelings - men know nothing about their hearts you understand. There are ups and downs, trials and tribulations, misunderstandings and miscommunications for these two but the relationship, eventually, reaches its happy conclusion! (No that was not a spoiler as we are told Charlotte Lucas becomes Charlotte Westover in the conclusion of book one, and besides, there has to be a happy ending doesn't there!) I will not give away anything about how the inevitable ending is reached!
Back to the Darcys! Darcy and Lizzy are extremely happy and their marriage prospers through this book, as we would expect it to! In this story we begin with their marriage, then see into their first year as a married couple and even get a glimpse of the Darcys facing parenthood!
Darcy is, of course, still the perfect gentleman and you will envy Lizzy when you read just how perfect a husband Mr Darcy makes - I certainly envied her!
It was enjoyable to see more of the relationship between Georgiana and Kitty, and then the success of the subsequent marriages of those two girls (which was the focus of Second Glances.)
In this trilogy lots of the characters we know and love are a bit different to how you might expect them to be - it is tales of less pride and prejudice after all - and so some characters needed to change a little! I have grown accustomed to this by now and so the nice Lady Catherine - to Lizzy anyway - no longer takes me by surprise nor the calmer Mrs Bennet and the matching-making Mr Bennet! All the secondary characters were great in this story and all had an interesting role. The Wickhams, George and Caroline (yes Caroline Bingley!) obviously still come along to cause problems for Darcy, but they also provide a lot of amusement, especially at the hands of Lady Catherine! But I will say no more!
The ending of the story, and consequently the trilogy, was perfect; all the characters being brought together from all three stories in a very neat and tidy way and all lose ends are tied up nicely!
I have greatly enjoyed this entire trilogy and it has been really nice seeing how the marriages of all the Bennet daughters come about, as well as a few others like Caroline Bingley, Georgiana Darcy and Charlotte Lucas. It was a very unique take on the original with some wonderful story lines, all which flowed smoothly. The humorous and witty style of writing this autho has was very enjoyable to read! For a hopeless romantic like myself, the lack of romantic scenes, kisses and such surprisingly didn't bother me - the writing was so good (and I love my romance so that is saying something!) I understand the romance was not the focus and yet, even for me, it didn't feel lacking - anyway, there were still a few sweet scenes every now and then!
This is great as a trilogy as it does contain running themes, but it would be equally as good if taken as three separate stories - you don't have to have read the first one to enjoy the second one, the second one to enjoy the third... You get the idea!
This was refreshingly different and put an interesting spin on the story we know and it was definitely Tales of Less and Pride and Prejudice (especially for Darcy and Lizzy!) If you want books which show the stories of not just one or two characters but many, where the romance is not the only thing going on in the book (as can be the case with some), and where the narrative flows and captures the sarcastic and witty tone of Jane Austen, then these are the books to read - any book from the trilogy! (Although I say read all three!)
July 14, 2018
I think the second book was my fav of this series. I like JAFF that are about secondary characters and this was Charlotte's story. She learns that perhaps love has more to do with marriage than she initially thought. I was glad to let Charlotte have her HEA but found some of the other story lines confusing. I never did really understand why Mr. Bennett thought it a good idea to bring the Wickhams to Pemberley or why things played out as they did once there. Maybe if I reread it....
April 22, 2018
Avid Reader
I have read the trilogy and an quite delighted with the last book. There were some grammatical errors but not enough to make the book difficult to read. Mr.Bennett definitely stepped in it when he invited the Wickhams to Pemberly, but Lady Catherine took them in hand and permanently removed them Rosings. Charlotte got her happily ever after.
I have read the trilogy and an quite delighted with the last book. There were some grammatical errors but not enough to make the book difficult to read. Mr.Bennett definitely stepped in it when he invited the Wickhams to Pemberly, but Lady Catherine took them in hand and permanently removed them Rosings. Charlotte got her happily ever after.
October 10, 2020
Such a delight
Oh Ms Adams you have done it again. Such a perfect winding up of all the threads within the trilogy, and the satisfaction of an entirely happy ending for my dearest Charlotte ( how I do so love her) . The language has that sweet archness that we attribute to Jane herself, and the story flows. And so I say once more, well done indeed.
Oh Ms Adams you have done it again. Such a perfect winding up of all the threads within the trilogy, and the satisfaction of an entirely happy ending for my dearest Charlotte ( how I do so love her) . The language has that sweet archness that we attribute to Jane herself, and the story flows. And so I say once more, well done indeed.
June 25, 2016
This is the third volume of 'A Tale of Less Pride and Prejudice'. I very much enjoyed the first volumes and they both got 5 stars but for some reason I just did not enjoy this as much. It is the story of Charlotte Lucas and her path to marriage - in this version, she does not marry Mr Collins. In a prologue, it is explained that Charlotte had first encountered her love interest when they were both children and he and his family are involved in a serious carriage accident close to the Lucas home. I really see no point at all to this first part of the story because despite implying later that he had a romantic interest in Charlotte since that long-ago incident, there is no real indication within the body of the story that either of them really remember the accident.
The main problem I have with the content of this book is that Charlotte's love story is extremely boring, apart from one passage that is excruciatingly embarrassing, portraying Charlotte as desperate, undignified and really rather stupid. The parts of the plot involving Darcy/Lizzy and Jane/Bingley are more interesting but this is meant to be Charlotte's story. The end of the book just - happens. The other two volumes had a few paragraphs at the end which summed up what happens to the character - there is nothing like this here, it just stops. In all honesty it seems as if Ms Adams ran out of inspiration or she was just bored with the series, which is rather sad.
The main problem I have with the content of this book is that Charlotte's love story is extremely boring, apart from one passage that is excruciatingly embarrassing, portraying Charlotte as desperate, undignified and really rather stupid. The parts of the plot involving Darcy/Lizzy and Jane/Bingley are more interesting but this is meant to be Charlotte's story. The end of the book just - happens. The other two volumes had a few paragraphs at the end which summed up what happens to the character - there is nothing like this here, it just stops. In all honesty it seems as if Ms Adams ran out of inspiration or she was just bored with the series, which is rather sad.
February 4, 2014
This book came from Goodreads and although it was not marked as such I hope it was a proof copy as there were so many mistakes as to almost make the story unreadable. However, I then began to wonder whether these were accidental typos or just downright mistakes as the author's attempt to write a follow up from Pride and Prejudice in the style of Jane Austen was totally let down by the prose which was extremely complicated to follow in places and just so wrong in others such as the use of the word 'chat' which I cannot believe Jane or anyone of her generation would have used.
Once I got beyond my snobbishness, I am not one to give up on a book without due effort and perseverance,I did actually to begin to enjoy the story. I believe it would have been better written as a stand alone novel set in America with no reference to Miss Austen as the author obviously has the talent to write a good story.
Once I got beyond my snobbishness, I am not one to give up on a book without due effort and perseverance,I did actually to begin to enjoy the story. I believe it would have been better written as a stand alone novel set in America with no reference to Miss Austen as the author obviously has the talent to write a good story.
June 7, 2014
I received this as a Goodreads first reads prize and was looking forward to reading it as I love classics and certainly loved Pride and Prejudice. I really didn't enjoy this at all. The plot was weak, the characters boring. It was written in Austenesque style but was ruined by having American words and spellings and modern day words were thrown in. I asked the author if this was a draft copy because there were so many spelling and other mistakes in the text and she implied that it wasn't. This is the third in the series and I will certainly not be going out to get any more of them. I will be sticking to the originals in future.
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