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Master of Longbourn
Mr Thomas Bennet is the reluctant Master of Longbourn. He despises rural life and would prefer the halls of academia. In an effort for congenial conversation and to allow him to indulge in his laziness, he educated his second daughter in his own duties and made her a foil for his sarcastic wit.
Mrs Fanny Bennet is nervous about the entail on Longbourn as she has been unable to produce a male heir. She is terrified that the heir presumptive, Mr Collins, will evict her and her daughters from her home as soon as Mr Bennet passes away.
Shortly before Jane reaches her majority, William Collins, the son of the dreaded Mr Collins comes for a visit.
Mr Bennet expects to be vastly amused as he assumes William Collins to be much like his father.
What might happen when it turns out that Collins is a sensible young man?
Not only that, but he has known the de Bourgh family for many years.
On top of that, he is friends with Fitzwilliam Darcy and Richard Fitzwilliam.
How will everyone’s story change?
This is a gentle, low angst story...
Mrs Fanny Bennet is nervous about the entail on Longbourn as she has been unable to produce a male heir. She is terrified that the heir presumptive, Mr Collins, will evict her and her daughters from her home as soon as Mr Bennet passes away.
Shortly before Jane reaches her majority, William Collins, the son of the dreaded Mr Collins comes for a visit.
Mr Bennet expects to be vastly amused as he assumes William Collins to be much like his father.
What might happen when it turns out that Collins is a sensible young man?
Not only that, but he has known the de Bourgh family for many years.
On top of that, he is friends with Fitzwilliam Darcy and Richard Fitzwilliam.
How will everyone’s story change?
This is a gentle, low angst story...
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2024
177 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 26, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
April 1, 2024
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature teen: it contains smarmy comments, sexual innuendo, and a mention of a m/m relationship… nothing graphic. The death of a character was a bit shocking. Violence to and mistreatment of a child: the results were described; however, the action happened off the page.
>>Angst Level: no danger angst, laughter, and slight distress at times.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [2-24-24]: I volunteered to leave a review. I first read this in installments as it was posted on the forums. I loved the twists and turns that were so different from the usual JAFF. Yeah, there were errors, but I didn’t care. [4.5 stars round to 5 stars]
>>Trope: [1] A not-so-nice [NSN] Mr. Bennet [2] A nice Caroline Bingley, who knew? [3] An adorable Lady Catherine [am I dreaming?] [4] AU: Alternate Universe where things are VERY different
I adored this story. It was so different and such a unique twist to the fears of the hedgerows so prevalent at Longbourn. The author was so creative as flashbacks were interspersed with the current story to explain the backstory of Mr. William Collins. He was the dreaded cousin who would inherit Longbourn and toss the females to the hedgerows. Or, at least, that is what Mr. Bennet always crowed about when he teased [ah, heck, call it what it was] when he tormented his wife and daughters. Man, that guy was a pill. He was horrid and I despised him. NSN was not even close. You have to read it to get the real picture of what a cruel and hateful man he was.
Mr. Collins… OMG! I loved that guy. What? William Collins? Yep, that guy. Oh, my. He was amazing and… spoiler. Dang! I want to talk about him but don’t want to give it away. I may have to buy this so I can read it again. I first read this as a WIP and looked forward to reading it again when it was published. It is such a unique story. There were so many touching moments that made me tear up. His discussion with Mrs. Bennet caused her to cry. Not in a bad way as I nearly cried myself. However, I was too angry to cry. I wanted a damage report; I wanted blood drawn. Goodness. I was quite vicious as I directed my ire at the one person who deserved it… Mr. Bennet. OOH! That man was awful. Seriously, he was horrid.
Villains: Well, you can’t have a P&P story without Wickham sticking his nose where it doesn’t belong. Well, let’s just say, he was at Rosings when he created his mischief. Only this time, Mr. Darcy and Lady Anne were in London and Wickham came up against Anne de Bourgh’s father. His outcome was the biggest twist I’ve EVER read. OMG! I hate to say I loved it but I did. What can I say? My bloodlust was up and I wanted blood drawn. His actions were cruel and could have been deadly… just saying.
Two characters that we normally dislike, were better than what we read in most JAFF stories:
Caroline Bingley, that terror in orange, had [as we say here in the south] a ‘Come to Jesus’ moment. She was hit with a reality check she never knew and was stunned off her haughty high-horse. Miss Bingley had a hard lesson when Mrs. Bennet listed all the duties of the mistress of an estate. Longbourn was tiny compared to Pemberley and Caroline was overwhelmed at the magnitude of what could face her if she was mistress. She later made a comment to her sister that made me laugh. It was too bad their mother was already dead. Caroline wanted to berate her for sending her to the wrong school. Most of what she needed was not taught at that ‘exclusive’ seminary. It was assumed the girls had already been taught mistress duties at home so they didn’t focus on it. She grudgingly admitted that she hated living in the country. Mrs. Bennet was willing to teach her what she knew. However, both soon decided Caroline would be best suited to a man who enjoyed living in town.
Lady Catherine: Oh, she was still a force to be reckoned with but she loved her daughter and only wanted the best for her. She and Collins were so good for each other. That was so touching. You didn’t want to get on her bad side. She had a fiery determination like that of a steam-roller when in force. However, she also had a soft side that only a few ever saw. I liked her. She was a pistol. I think I bit my tongue when I said that.
I highly recommend this as something different. The pairings were so sweet and fun to read.
>>Rating: mature teen: it contains smarmy comments, sexual innuendo, and a mention of a m/m relationship… nothing graphic. The death of a character was a bit shocking. Violence to and mistreatment of a child: the results were described; however, the action happened off the page.
>>Angst Level: no danger angst, laughter, and slight distress at times.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [2-24-24]: I volunteered to leave a review. I first read this in installments as it was posted on the forums. I loved the twists and turns that were so different from the usual JAFF. Yeah, there were errors, but I didn’t care. [4.5 stars round to 5 stars]
>>Trope: [1] A not-so-nice [NSN] Mr. Bennet [2] A nice Caroline Bingley, who knew? [3] An adorable Lady Catherine [am I dreaming?] [4] AU: Alternate Universe where things are VERY different
I adored this story. It was so different and such a unique twist to the fears of the hedgerows so prevalent at Longbourn. The author was so creative as flashbacks were interspersed with the current story to explain the backstory of Mr. William Collins. He was the dreaded cousin who would inherit Longbourn and toss the females to the hedgerows. Or, at least, that is what Mr. Bennet always crowed about when he teased [ah, heck, call it what it was] when he tormented his wife and daughters. Man, that guy was a pill. He was horrid and I despised him. NSN was not even close. You have to read it to get the real picture of what a cruel and hateful man he was.
Mr. Collins… OMG! I loved that guy. What? William Collins? Yep, that guy. Oh, my. He was amazing and… spoiler. Dang! I want to talk about him but don’t want to give it away. I may have to buy this so I can read it again. I first read this as a WIP and looked forward to reading it again when it was published. It is such a unique story. There were so many touching moments that made me tear up. His discussion with Mrs. Bennet caused her to cry. Not in a bad way as I nearly cried myself. However, I was too angry to cry. I wanted a damage report; I wanted blood drawn. Goodness. I was quite vicious as I directed my ire at the one person who deserved it… Mr. Bennet. OOH! That man was awful. Seriously, he was horrid.
Villains: Well, you can’t have a P&P story without Wickham sticking his nose where it doesn’t belong. Well, let’s just say, he was at Rosings when he created his mischief. Only this time, Mr. Darcy and Lady Anne were in London and Wickham came up against Anne de Bourgh’s father. His outcome was the biggest twist I’ve EVER read. OMG! I hate to say I loved it but I did. What can I say? My bloodlust was up and I wanted blood drawn. His actions were cruel and could have been deadly… just saying.
Two characters that we normally dislike, were better than what we read in most JAFF stories:
Caroline Bingley, that terror in orange, had [as we say here in the south] a ‘Come to Jesus’ moment. She was hit with a reality check she never knew and was stunned off her haughty high-horse. Miss Bingley had a hard lesson when Mrs. Bennet listed all the duties of the mistress of an estate. Longbourn was tiny compared to Pemberley and Caroline was overwhelmed at the magnitude of what could face her if she was mistress. She later made a comment to her sister that made me laugh. It was too bad their mother was already dead. Caroline wanted to berate her for sending her to the wrong school. Most of what she needed was not taught at that ‘exclusive’ seminary. It was assumed the girls had already been taught mistress duties at home so they didn’t focus on it. She grudgingly admitted that she hated living in the country. Mrs. Bennet was willing to teach her what she knew. However, both soon decided Caroline would be best suited to a man who enjoyed living in town.
Lady Catherine: Oh, she was still a force to be reckoned with but she loved her daughter and only wanted the best for her. She and Collins were so good for each other. That was so touching. You didn’t want to get on her bad side. She had a fiery determination like that of a steam-roller when in force. However, she also had a soft side that only a few ever saw. I liked her. She was a pistol. I think I bit my tongue when I said that.
I highly recommend this as something different. The pairings were so sweet and fun to read.
February 7, 2024
Good Read
This variation is centric to the life of Mr. Collins, but his gentle portrayal is very different than the sycophant Collins we know from canon. He is introduced to the reader as an abused boy, and how a certain event involving Fitzwilliam Darcy and George Wickham leads to him being supported by Sir Lewis de Bourgh and Lady Catherine. He will be educated and become a curate, and with encouragement from Lady Catherine goes to Longbourn to extend his olive branch. Eventually, he will become the master of Longbourn. How he accomplishes that, and the good things that result, are a great and satisfying part of the plot.
This is primarily a feel-good story and everyone is nice and gets a happy ending, with the exception of Wickham and Mr. Bennet. Happy to recommend it.
Kisses only.
This variation is centric to the life of Mr. Collins, but his gentle portrayal is very different than the sycophant Collins we know from canon. He is introduced to the reader as an abused boy, and how a certain event involving Fitzwilliam Darcy and George Wickham leads to him being supported by Sir Lewis de Bourgh and Lady Catherine. He will be educated and become a curate, and with encouragement from Lady Catherine goes to Longbourn to extend his olive branch. Eventually, he will become the master of Longbourn. How he accomplishes that, and the good things that result, are a great and satisfying part of the plot.
This is primarily a feel-good story and everyone is nice and gets a happy ending, with the exception of Wickham and Mr. Bennet. Happy to recommend it.
Kisses only.
February 9, 2024
Wonderful
This is a Mr Collins "what if" story. At eight years old, a dramatic event occurs in William Collins' life. The ripple effect of this is vast, and he grows up to be an intelligent and sensible man with some important connections. As per usual, he becomes the rector at Hunsford parsonage, and visits the Bennetts. It becomes immediately obvious to Collins that Mr Bennett is running Longbourn into the ground, and that without intervention, he won't have anything worth inheriting when Bennett dies. With the help of Mr Phillips, he persuades Bennett to turn over the management of Longbourn to him, as well as guardianship of the family, so that Bennett can return to academia as he has always wanted. Collins immediately institutes dramatic changes to the family, and things start improving for everyone.
Collins is the hero of this story, and you just have to love this guy. It's so refreshing to read how widespread his good influence is. This is an evil Mr Bennett version, and it's satisfying the way that he is handled. Romance is in the air, and not just for ODC. But don't look for all the usual pairings. The author has shuffled the deck and mixed things up nicely. This is one of those tales where our hero just deals with one problem after another, and it makes you want to cheer his courage and determination.
I love this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. Can't wait for the next one! The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly. So much fun to read.
This is a Mr Collins "what if" story. At eight years old, a dramatic event occurs in William Collins' life. The ripple effect of this is vast, and he grows up to be an intelligent and sensible man with some important connections. As per usual, he becomes the rector at Hunsford parsonage, and visits the Bennetts. It becomes immediately obvious to Collins that Mr Bennett is running Longbourn into the ground, and that without intervention, he won't have anything worth inheriting when Bennett dies. With the help of Mr Phillips, he persuades Bennett to turn over the management of Longbourn to him, as well as guardianship of the family, so that Bennett can return to academia as he has always wanted. Collins immediately institutes dramatic changes to the family, and things start improving for everyone.
Collins is the hero of this story, and you just have to love this guy. It's so refreshing to read how widespread his good influence is. This is an evil Mr Bennett version, and it's satisfying the way that he is handled. Romance is in the air, and not just for ODC. But don't look for all the usual pairings. The author has shuffled the deck and mixed things up nicely. This is one of those tales where our hero just deals with one problem after another, and it makes you want to cheer his courage and determination.
I love this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. Can't wait for the next one! The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly. So much fun to read.
January 28, 2024
Collins steps up
Overall, this is a pretty good read, although my interest level varied.
The beginning- It held my interest. I loved the setup and the changes at Longbourn and Rosings. I appreciate the author isn't afraid to show Elizabeth in a less-than-perfect role.
The middle(ish)- Darcy and Elizabeth are introduced, and friendships are formed.
The end- I'm indifferent at this point. Bennet made a brief appearance; I liked that part. Other than that, there wasn't much going on besides bland discussions, the normal group outing to London, the modiste, and the theatre.
- Collins was my favorite character.
- There wasn't anyone I disliked.
- The Bennet storyline was my favorite. I wish there were more insight into what went on during those years away from the family.
Overall, this is a pretty good read, although my interest level varied.
The beginning- It held my interest. I loved the setup and the changes at Longbourn and Rosings. I appreciate the author isn't afraid to show Elizabeth in a less-than-perfect role.
The middle(ish)- Darcy and Elizabeth are introduced, and friendships are formed.
The end- I'm indifferent at this point. Bennet made a brief appearance; I liked that part. Other than that, there wasn't much going on besides bland discussions, the normal group outing to London, the modiste, and the theatre.
- Collins was my favorite character.
- There wasn't anyone I disliked.
- The Bennet storyline was my favorite. I wish there were more insight into what went on during those years away from the family.
January 31, 2024
Absolutely Loved This!!
A Very Happy Five Stars for the way this story takes canon and tosses it out a window! I love a wonderful Lady Catherine! An intelligent Mr Collins with integrity! A Mrs Bennet who calms down and gets to be a mother worthy of respect! Evil Wickham getting his due while Darcy Sr has his eyes opened to how awful his god son really is!!! & that is just the beginning of what makes this book awesome!
A Very Happy Five Stars for the way this story takes canon and tosses it out a window! I love a wonderful Lady Catherine! An intelligent Mr Collins with integrity! A Mrs Bennet who calms down and gets to be a mother worthy of respect! Evil Wickham getting his due while Darcy Sr has his eyes opened to how awful his god son really is!!! & that is just the beginning of what makes this book awesome!
January 31, 2024
This book has a very unique Mr C. I loved that Mrs B was so well respected and cared for.
August 12, 2024
After enjoying the first book in the Ripples collection and my first encounter with the writing of Sydney Salier, I was pleased to pick up this newer standalone, low-angst P&P variation tale.
In Master of Longbourn, Ms Salier tackled a corker of a 'what if' situation. What if Mr. Collins was sensible, kind, and, like Mary Poppins' "practically perfect in every way"? Yes, one must sit down from the shock of it all. But, this really piqued my curiosity and I enjoyed the refreshing change in the Collins' character- after all, a smarmy, greasy, dullard or lecher as the villain is good, but not too surprising for this character in variations.
So yes, Mr. Collins is the true hero of the story and at the center of great change that comes to Longbourn and changes all the lives he touches including the great Fitzwilliam Darcy and the vibrant Miss Elizabeth.
As I said earlier, this is low-angst. There is conflict and character growth, but not much drama. Not that I was bored. No, I had a good time seeing what came after the alteration to William Collins' character and a change to Mr. Bennet that made him more lazy and more selfish so the premise of him handing over Longbourn into his cousin's care was doable.
I enjoyed the family saga-style storytelling that focused on a few main storylines, but didn't neglect any of the primary players including all the sisters and some of the extended family. A lovely slow-burn romance and mingling of family and friends.
In Master of Longbourn, Ms Salier tackled a corker of a 'what if' situation. What if Mr. Collins was sensible, kind, and, like Mary Poppins' "practically perfect in every way"? Yes, one must sit down from the shock of it all. But, this really piqued my curiosity and I enjoyed the refreshing change in the Collins' character- after all, a smarmy, greasy, dullard or lecher as the villain is good, but not too surprising for this character in variations.
So yes, Mr. Collins is the true hero of the story and at the center of great change that comes to Longbourn and changes all the lives he touches including the great Fitzwilliam Darcy and the vibrant Miss Elizabeth.
As I said earlier, this is low-angst. There is conflict and character growth, but not much drama. Not that I was bored. No, I had a good time seeing what came after the alteration to William Collins' character and a change to Mr. Bennet that made him more lazy and more selfish so the premise of him handing over Longbourn into his cousin's care was doable.
I enjoyed the family saga-style storytelling that focused on a few main storylines, but didn't neglect any of the primary players including all the sisters and some of the extended family. A lovely slow-burn romance and mingling of family and friends.
April 18, 2024
You have to forget everything you know about Mr. Collins from canon and/or other variations in reading this. We first meet him as a young boy, whose mother has died and whose father is a drunken abuser. When Collins saves Anne de Bourgh's life his life is also changed. There is quite a little story here, which I won't spoil for you.
Lady Catherine and her husband, Lewis, help sort Collins out. He is sent to Longbourn at Lady's C.'s urging and finds his cousin, Bennet, even more neglectful and self-centered than in canon Bottom line: Collins makes a contract with Bennet who returns to academia while Collins takes over managing Longbourn. Bennet has sadly chosen a path away from his family and we hear only a little about his.
This story has matches-ups different from canon, also. We have all the Matlock offspring involved and the parents also take a role. Mrs. Bennet changes her tune when Collins takes over and even helps in matchmaking.
I have to say I liked this Collins. Elizabeth and Darcy are a couple and his proposal was amusing...both versions.
There is a need to do some proofreading, however. I do recommend this story, despite that.
Lady Catherine and her husband, Lewis, help sort Collins out. He is sent to Longbourn at Lady's C.'s urging and finds his cousin, Bennet, even more neglectful and self-centered than in canon Bottom line: Collins makes a contract with Bennet who returns to academia while Collins takes over managing Longbourn. Bennet has sadly chosen a path away from his family and we hear only a little about his.
This story has matches-ups different from canon, also. We have all the Matlock offspring involved and the parents also take a role. Mrs. Bennet changes her tune when Collins takes over and even helps in matchmaking.
I have to say I liked this Collins. Elizabeth and Darcy are a couple and his proposal was amusing...both versions.
There is a need to do some proofreading, however. I do recommend this story, despite that.
February 16, 2024
In this Pride and Prejudice variation the useless Mr Bennet gets his wish and goes back to university, meanwhile Mr Collins is the new lease owner of Longbourn. How will this affect the rest of the Bennet family and their futures.
An enjoyable and well-written variation with its likeable Collins.
An enjoyable and well-written variation with its likeable Collins.
April 3, 2024
What if Mr Collins was brought up kind, intelligent, educated, with good connections and had the Bennet ladies best interests at heart? I loved the evolution of characters where William Collins is the lynchpin and there are many different versions of happily ever after.
February 23, 2024
Another unique story from this author.
When it comes to variations we often speak of the ‘one thread pulled’ idea as the beginning of the story that sets the tone or results in a major difference from the original. This story has a lot of threads pulled at the beginning which changes the arc of the plot in a very different way but the characters we recognize are all there, as well as the locations and even the timeline for the most part. I really love this kind of story. It’s an alternate universe. The biggest thing I had to get over until I eventually just went with it was that Mr Collins turned out to be a completely different person due to a twist of fate in his childhood. His influence changed the Bennet family’s lives in a profound way. Lady Catherine was much different and not the harridan we’re used to.
The villain of this story was Mr Bennet. I really hate a bad Mr Bennet but that won’t stop me from reading the book. He was less a villain and more of a selfish donkey’s behind with a hateful attitude towards his wife and children, including Elizabeth which was devastating. When he left his life at Longbourn behind to retreat back to Oxford and the quiet life of the intellectual, books, food, and port, he was only missed by Elizabeth briefly and painfully until she realized she had just been a pawn he educated enough to do his work for him. Not his favorite as she’d thought. I really hurt for her.
When Collins comes to visit Longbourn at the behest of Lady Catherine, (different motivations than in canon,) he finds none of the daughters marriageable due to lack of accomplishments and manners, the state of the estate in appalling financial conditions and with nothing to look forward to as the future estate owner…unless he does something about it soon. Through a clever move meant to be of good for all concerned an idea comes about with the advice and help of Mr Phillips the Bennet girls’ uncle and small town attorney. Make Mr Bennet an offer he can’t refuse.
It takes Collins several years of work on the estate, and making changes in a lot of how things are done at Longbourn before we get the next big part of the story. And that is where the events of the original story of Pride and Prejudice show up on the timeline. Mr Bingley leases Netherfield Park, the assembly, Bingley’s guests. But there’s quite a difference here too. All the variations in characters are interconnected. On one hand the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth has a chance to grow without the usual pride and misunderstandings, on the other hand Bingley is Darcy’s rakish cousin’s best friend not his, and been influenced by his cousin.
It’s very cleverly written and I never lost interest in the story as it twisted around because it moved on and didn’t get bogged down except for one or two minor moments towards the end when the engagement between one of the couples was coming to fruition while interested parties around them were trying to hint them along. It was cute.
Sydney Salier is always an entertaining read, and I love her stories. For the new reader to her work, she doesn’t strictly follow Regency word usage so if that bothers you be forewarned. Highly recommended.
When it comes to variations we often speak of the ‘one thread pulled’ idea as the beginning of the story that sets the tone or results in a major difference from the original. This story has a lot of threads pulled at the beginning which changes the arc of the plot in a very different way but the characters we recognize are all there, as well as the locations and even the timeline for the most part. I really love this kind of story. It’s an alternate universe. The biggest thing I had to get over until I eventually just went with it was that Mr Collins turned out to be a completely different person due to a twist of fate in his childhood. His influence changed the Bennet family’s lives in a profound way. Lady Catherine was much different and not the harridan we’re used to.
The villain of this story was Mr Bennet. I really hate a bad Mr Bennet but that won’t stop me from reading the book. He was less a villain and more of a selfish donkey’s behind with a hateful attitude towards his wife and children, including Elizabeth which was devastating. When he left his life at Longbourn behind to retreat back to Oxford and the quiet life of the intellectual, books, food, and port, he was only missed by Elizabeth briefly and painfully until she realized she had just been a pawn he educated enough to do his work for him. Not his favorite as she’d thought. I really hurt for her.
When Collins comes to visit Longbourn at the behest of Lady Catherine, (different motivations than in canon,) he finds none of the daughters marriageable due to lack of accomplishments and manners, the state of the estate in appalling financial conditions and with nothing to look forward to as the future estate owner…unless he does something about it soon. Through a clever move meant to be of good for all concerned an idea comes about with the advice and help of Mr Phillips the Bennet girls’ uncle and small town attorney. Make Mr Bennet an offer he can’t refuse.
It takes Collins several years of work on the estate, and making changes in a lot of how things are done at Longbourn before we get the next big part of the story. And that is where the events of the original story of Pride and Prejudice show up on the timeline. Mr Bingley leases Netherfield Park, the assembly, Bingley’s guests. But there’s quite a difference here too. All the variations in characters are interconnected. On one hand the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth has a chance to grow without the usual pride and misunderstandings, on the other hand Bingley is Darcy’s rakish cousin’s best friend not his, and been influenced by his cousin.
It’s very cleverly written and I never lost interest in the story as it twisted around because it moved on and didn’t get bogged down except for one or two minor moments towards the end when the engagement between one of the couples was coming to fruition while interested parties around them were trying to hint them along. It was cute.
Sydney Salier is always an entertaining read, and I love her stories. For the new reader to her work, she doesn’t strictly follow Regency word usage so if that bothers you be forewarned. Highly recommended.
July 22, 2024
I am surprised to see so many good reviews.
The book is extremely boring, with no long worthy dialogs and every character is dull, simple, and, frankly, unbelievable.
People are complex and don't change drastically into perfectly behaved best versions of human kind. All the good characters in the book were basically the same people.
Last but not the least. In the beginning of the book, we have a child sent for execution? Even if it was a psychopath, it was a child. This was bizarre. Especially because after that everyone suddenly became perfect.
The book is extremely boring, with no long worthy dialogs and every character is dull, simple, and, frankly, unbelievable.
People are complex and don't change drastically into perfectly behaved best versions of human kind. All the good characters in the book were basically the same people.
Last but not the least. In the beginning of the book, we have a child sent for execution? Even if it was a psychopath, it was a child. This was bizarre. Especially because after that everyone suddenly became perfect.
June 7, 2024
What changes can be done with a little effort
In the story, you will find a very lovable Mr. Collins. This starts many years prior to Canon to give background on all the characters and help explain their life choices. Wickham is there but only as a boy and his bad behavior is taken seriously. There are a few characters who later on display certain aspects of the canon Wickham. I enjoyed hearing many canon phrases that are said by other characters that fit very well in the story on how it’s presented. Mr Collins is the hero of this story and his presence in the life of many in the story makes dramatic differences immediately. Mr Bennet clearly was not a good husband or father and thankfully Mr Collins filled the role of brother and guardian that all needed. Yep, this will be a read again!
In the story, you will find a very lovable Mr. Collins. This starts many years prior to Canon to give background on all the characters and help explain their life choices. Wickham is there but only as a boy and his bad behavior is taken seriously. There are a few characters who later on display certain aspects of the canon Wickham. I enjoyed hearing many canon phrases that are said by other characters that fit very well in the story on how it’s presented. Mr Collins is the hero of this story and his presence in the life of many in the story makes dramatic differences immediately. Mr Bennet clearly was not a good husband or father and thankfully Mr Collins filled the role of brother and guardian that all needed. Yep, this will be a read again!
May 11, 2024
DNF at 72% cuz I’m bored.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2024
I loved it!
This variation is centric to the life of Mr. Collins, but his gentle portrayal is very different than the sycophant Collins we know from canon. He is introduced to the reader as an abused boy, and how a certain event involving Fitzwilliam Darcy and George Wickham leads to him being supported by Sir Lewis de Bourgh and Lady Catherine. He will be educated and become a curate, and with encouragement from Lady Catherine goes to Longbourn to extend his olive branch. Eventually, he will become the master of Longbourn. How he accomplishes that, and the good things that result, are a great and satisfying part of the plot. What a difference nurture can make! There’s no real “villain “. Mr. Bennet, maybe, but he never wanted to be a landowner, it was by default. He loved Oxford more than his family and this almost caused ruination. Never fear, Mr Collins comes to the rescue. I don’t think I would be able to see Mr Collins the same way again. At first, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy this book, but I got totally engrossed in the lives and changes that Mr. Collins managed to change. Mr. Bennet made good his escape and left his family to pursue his own interests. Life itself has enough angst. There were some slight roadblocks which were interestingly done away with. Yes, Elizabeth still has her HEA. Darcy was more tongue tied than usual, but he managed to find the one person who could help him. It was thoroughly enjoyable. I recommend this for people we are tired of reading heavy, angst filled stories. This is primarily a feel-good story and everyone is nice and gets a happy ending, with the exception of Wickham and Mr. Bennet. Too bad there was not a longer epilogue about Jane and Mary. The title at the end 1812, The End should instead be 1812, The Beginning for that is what it really is. Thanks for another great read that’s not mind numbingly boring, not at all. Very creative and well done. Happy to recommend it to everyone.
This variation is centric to the life of Mr. Collins, but his gentle portrayal is very different than the sycophant Collins we know from canon. He is introduced to the reader as an abused boy, and how a certain event involving Fitzwilliam Darcy and George Wickham leads to him being supported by Sir Lewis de Bourgh and Lady Catherine. He will be educated and become a curate, and with encouragement from Lady Catherine goes to Longbourn to extend his olive branch. Eventually, he will become the master of Longbourn. How he accomplishes that, and the good things that result, are a great and satisfying part of the plot. What a difference nurture can make! There’s no real “villain “. Mr. Bennet, maybe, but he never wanted to be a landowner, it was by default. He loved Oxford more than his family and this almost caused ruination. Never fear, Mr Collins comes to the rescue. I don’t think I would be able to see Mr Collins the same way again. At first, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy this book, but I got totally engrossed in the lives and changes that Mr. Collins managed to change. Mr. Bennet made good his escape and left his family to pursue his own interests. Life itself has enough angst. There were some slight roadblocks which were interestingly done away with. Yes, Elizabeth still has her HEA. Darcy was more tongue tied than usual, but he managed to find the one person who could help him. It was thoroughly enjoyable. I recommend this for people we are tired of reading heavy, angst filled stories. This is primarily a feel-good story and everyone is nice and gets a happy ending, with the exception of Wickham and Mr. Bennet. Too bad there was not a longer epilogue about Jane and Mary. The title at the end 1812, The End should instead be 1812, The Beginning for that is what it really is. Thanks for another great read that’s not mind numbingly boring, not at all. Very creative and well done. Happy to recommend it to everyone.
June 8, 2025
Well…shuffle the deck and re-deal the cards for a fascinating new hand of P&P variation rummy. We meet a refined Collins, an amoral Mr Bennet, a nasty-tempered Elizabeth, a rakish Bingley, a reasonable Caroline Bingley, a kind Lady Catherine, and an (eventually) sensible Mrs Bennet. Just wow.
Start out with a very indolent, selfish and totally uncaring Mr Bennet who has taught his (normally favorite) daughter, Elizabeth, to be as snarky and rude as himself. Due to his disinclination for his family and duties, Longbourn is falling more and more into ruination. Add his flighty wife and (seemingly) unaccomplished daughters and we have a Bennet family in disarray.
Next we have a young boy, Collins, who saves the daughter of Sir Lewis de Bourgh and is taken in by the family, rescued from his abusive father. Educated and growing up alongside Darcy and the three Fitzwilliam brothers he becomes a refined gentleman who is a favorite of the entire Fitzwilliam, Darcy, and de Bourgh clan. (You will not even believe what happens to young Wickham during this time period, but it’s really something!)
When Collins comes to visit his Bennet family he is moved to intervene for the welfare of his young cousins, their mother and the estate. He gets Bennet to sign over his interest in the estate for a stipend as well as his guardianship of his family. Bennet is only too happy to cede his responsibilities to his cousin (at least initially) and hies off to Oxford to read in peace.
Collins must now begin to manage his out of control family, not least the bitter termagant that is Elizabeth. When matters are more settled two rakes enter the neighborhood (Bingley and the youngest Fitzwilliam brother who are friends) and Darcy, who has been coerced by his young cousin to assist the young Bingley with his leased estate.
Just gotta say, this book was some amazing fun!
Start out with a very indolent, selfish and totally uncaring Mr Bennet who has taught his (normally favorite) daughter, Elizabeth, to be as snarky and rude as himself. Due to his disinclination for his family and duties, Longbourn is falling more and more into ruination. Add his flighty wife and (seemingly) unaccomplished daughters and we have a Bennet family in disarray.
Next we have a young boy, Collins, who saves the daughter of Sir Lewis de Bourgh and is taken in by the family, rescued from his abusive father. Educated and growing up alongside Darcy and the three Fitzwilliam brothers he becomes a refined gentleman who is a favorite of the entire Fitzwilliam, Darcy, and de Bourgh clan. (You will not even believe what happens to young Wickham during this time period, but it’s really something!)
When Collins comes to visit his Bennet family he is moved to intervene for the welfare of his young cousins, their mother and the estate. He gets Bennet to sign over his interest in the estate for a stipend as well as his guardianship of his family. Bennet is only too happy to cede his responsibilities to his cousin (at least initially) and hies off to Oxford to read in peace.
Collins must now begin to manage his out of control family, not least the bitter termagant that is Elizabeth. When matters are more settled two rakes enter the neighborhood (Bingley and the youngest Fitzwilliam brother who are friends) and Darcy, who has been coerced by his young cousin to assist the young Bingley with his leased estate.
Just gotta say, this book was some amazing fun!
February 17, 2024
Inspiration is the perfect description
I downgraded my stars by one because Salier penned less of a variation than most P&P affectioned authors. Although fun, easy to read, and inviting, it's as though the author thought, " Like the locations, like the names and nobility, like the contrasts in social standing; however, the status of women, the flippency of Mrs. Bennett, the dismissal of Mary, the idiocy of Collins the condemnation of Caroline, the wishyness of Bingley, the stoickness of Darcy and the superiority of Elizabeth just won't go over read with with modern readers. So, I'll keep the names and rewrite it using 21st century standards.
As usual in these books, the postlogue rushes getting rid of negative characters, and making all the favored's lives bursting with blessings.
Author was lucky to not be dinged with plagiarism accusations.
Too predictable, too obvious.
Remember, I did say I enjoyed the read. I think Col. Fitzwilliam (one of my favorite characters, got shoved off to the "also ran" division of participants.
I downgraded my stars by one because Salier penned less of a variation than most P&P affectioned authors. Although fun, easy to read, and inviting, it's as though the author thought, " Like the locations, like the names and nobility, like the contrasts in social standing; however, the status of women, the flippency of Mrs. Bennett, the dismissal of Mary, the idiocy of Collins the condemnation of Caroline, the wishyness of Bingley, the stoickness of Darcy and the superiority of Elizabeth just won't go over read with with modern readers. So, I'll keep the names and rewrite it using 21st century standards.
As usual in these books, the postlogue rushes getting rid of negative characters, and making all the favored's lives bursting with blessings.
Author was lucky to not be dinged with plagiarism accusations.
Too predictable, too obvious.
Remember, I did say I enjoyed the read. I think Col. Fitzwilliam (one of my favorite characters, got shoved off to the "also ran" division of participants.
February 6, 2024
Mr. Collins as a good guardian
The premise for the book is that Collins had a better upbringing due to his kindness and a fortunate circumstance. He thus was a much better man when he showed up at Longbourn earlier than in canon. In contrast, Mr. Bennet is worse and wants nothing to do with his family - the result being Bennet leaves and Collins remains, taking control of the estate and guardianship of the women. This leads to a great number of changes for the household and their futures.
You really like Collins, Mr. Phillip's, and Mrs. Bennet (in my opinion) in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, even though I wasn't a fan of the Elizabeth in this book for a decent part of it. I thought it was well done and the storyline moved well with a few mildly surprising twists.
I highly recommend it if you like P &P fan fiction that differs greatly from canon.
The premise for the book is that Collins had a better upbringing due to his kindness and a fortunate circumstance. He thus was a much better man when he showed up at Longbourn earlier than in canon. In contrast, Mr. Bennet is worse and wants nothing to do with his family - the result being Bennet leaves and Collins remains, taking control of the estate and guardianship of the women. This leads to a great number of changes for the household and their futures.
You really like Collins, Mr. Phillip's, and Mrs. Bennet (in my opinion) in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, even though I wasn't a fan of the Elizabeth in this book for a decent part of it. I thought it was well done and the storyline moved well with a few mildly surprising twists.
I highly recommend it if you like P &P fan fiction that differs greatly from canon.
February 6, 2024
an completely enjoyable, low angst Regency novel
I originally read this book as a KU, but ended up,buying it. Although this book has all the story the usual characters found in all the P&P variations, most of them turn out to be very pleasant additions to the story. To begin with, the one truly villainous character, George Wickham s dispatched quickly and at an early age. Mr. Bennet is a complete jerk, but he is dealt with as well, and William Collins is an honorable, lovely character. I hated the character of Elizabeth until she has her epiphany and becomes the character we all love. Even Lady de Bourgh is likable.
As usual for Ms. Salier’s books, it is enjoyable and charming.
I originally read this book as a KU, but ended up,buying it. Although this book has all the story the usual characters found in all the P&P variations, most of them turn out to be very pleasant additions to the story. To begin with, the one truly villainous character, George Wickham s dispatched quickly and at an early age. Mr. Bennet is a complete jerk, but he is dealt with as well, and William Collins is an honorable, lovely character. I hated the character of Elizabeth until she has her epiphany and becomes the character we all love. Even Lady de Bourgh is likable.
As usual for Ms. Salier’s books, it is enjoyable and charming.
February 5, 2024
Happy endings
Lots of happy endings for almost everyone, including Mrs Bennet. Mr Bennet gets a comeuppance several times over. Wickham meets a bad end much earlier than canon. Other characters are less impedimental than usual, but add to the whole through more, rather than less goodness. A decent Mr Collins makes a world of difference as he becomes the de facto Master of Longbourn. There are a few editorial oversights. PLEASE, authors, learn the difference between “discrete” and “discreet”, one of my pet peeves. A really glaring one in the opening of ch. 11 that must make the author cringe!
Lots of happy endings for almost everyone, including Mrs Bennet. Mr Bennet gets a comeuppance several times over. Wickham meets a bad end much earlier than canon. Other characters are less impedimental than usual, but add to the whole through more, rather than less goodness. A decent Mr Collins makes a world of difference as he becomes the de facto Master of Longbourn. There are a few editorial oversights. PLEASE, authors, learn the difference between “discrete” and “discreet”, one of my pet peeves. A really glaring one in the opening of ch. 11 that must make the author cringe!
February 9, 2024
Surprised
I was so surprised at this variation. While I wished Bennett would have changed it made the storyline proceed. While this was not an Elizabeth and Darcy story it still maintained Austen’s transformation of characters. This was a Collins and Bennett storyline with surprises that were not predictable.
This was a changed version where Wickham was dealt with at an early age. Lady Catherine was a blessing and even Caroline made remarkable decisions. Our villains were not who we suspected and these changes made the story flow.
I highly recommend this variation for all ages.
I was so surprised at this variation. While I wished Bennett would have changed it made the storyline proceed. While this was not an Elizabeth and Darcy story it still maintained Austen’s transformation of characters. This was a Collins and Bennett storyline with surprises that were not predictable.
This was a changed version where Wickham was dealt with at an early age. Lady Catherine was a blessing and even Caroline made remarkable decisions. Our villains were not who we suspected and these changes made the story flow.
I highly recommend this variation for all ages.
May 5, 2024
Another great story!
I adore this writer and the stories are always perfect! In this Mr Collins is nice and convinced Mr Bennet to sign over Longbourne and the guardianship of the girls which allows him to return to Oxford and teaching. Collins and Lizzie are quite successful in increasing the earnings of Longbourne to over 3,000£ and the girls get a better education and begin to act appropriately. Mrs Bennet learns how to be a mistress of the estate and a dower house is set up for her future so the nerves go away!
Its an enjoyable story and well worth the time to read it..
I adore this writer and the stories are always perfect! In this Mr Collins is nice and convinced Mr Bennet to sign over Longbourne and the guardianship of the girls which allows him to return to Oxford and teaching. Collins and Lizzie are quite successful in increasing the earnings of Longbourne to over 3,000£ and the girls get a better education and begin to act appropriately. Mrs Bennet learns how to be a mistress of the estate and a dower house is set up for her future so the nerves go away!
Its an enjoyable story and well worth the time to read it..
February 9, 2024
New Twist
What I liked: Collins was not portrayed as a fool or bad guy, it was refreshing to see him as sensible and intelligent; Mr Bennet’s indolent attitude awarded him little and he was not a part of the lives of his daughters which allowed them to grow up with a positive male guardian; and Mrs Bennet was perceptive, aware and caring; very little Lydia, Jane not interested in Bingley, Charlotte not characterized as the ugly duckling, barely a mention of Wickham and extended family on Darcy’s side to add more character layers.
What I liked: Collins was not portrayed as a fool or bad guy, it was refreshing to see him as sensible and intelligent; Mr Bennet’s indolent attitude awarded him little and he was not a part of the lives of his daughters which allowed them to grow up with a positive male guardian; and Mrs Bennet was perceptive, aware and caring; very little Lydia, Jane not interested in Bingley, Charlotte not characterized as the ugly duckling, barely a mention of Wickham and extended family on Darcy’s side to add more character layers.
February 26, 2024
Surprisingly Different
At first, one would assume the Master of Longbourn was Mr Bennet. One would be wrong. Or if it turned out to be Mr Collins, Mr Bennet would have died. Nope! Mr Collins would be stu...ahh obsequious and difficult, zero for three.
No, the usual characteristics of our cast of characters are altered by various circumstances, to very wonderful results... Except for Mr Bennet, that is.
The character arcs are beneficial and very well written. This is becoming my favorite P&P author! Brava!
At first, one would assume the Master of Longbourn was Mr Bennet. One would be wrong. Or if it turned out to be Mr Collins, Mr Bennet would have died. Nope! Mr Collins would be stu...ahh obsequious and difficult, zero for three.
No, the usual characteristics of our cast of characters are altered by various circumstances, to very wonderful results... Except for Mr Bennet, that is.
The character arcs are beneficial and very well written. This is becoming my favorite P&P author! Brava!
February 4, 2024
Turns canon Mr. Collins into a wonderful hero
A very amusing and romantic "what-if" as William Collins is mentored by good men and, in turn, mentors others and helps create a different happy-ever-after for most of our favorite characters. Excellent commentary on building and valuing good character, both in men and in women. Plenty of laughs and sweet moments. This author never disappoints.
A very amusing and romantic "what-if" as William Collins is mentored by good men and, in turn, mentors others and helps create a different happy-ever-after for most of our favorite characters. Excellent commentary on building and valuing good character, both in men and in women. Plenty of laughs and sweet moments. This author never disappoints.
February 15, 2024
Another good book By this author
A really good read, if not a while slow at the beginning nutrient as the story progressed that is what he reason for 4 stars . Mr Collins in this book is not the sniveling sycophant as in many books he is completely different and I like this Collins. There is no Mr Wickham as he gets his comeuppance early in the story and Lady V is lamentable too the only person who is not likeable is. Mr B he sticks and leaves home.
A really good read, if not a while slow at the beginning nutrient as the story progressed that is what he reason for 4 stars . Mr Collins in this book is not the sniveling sycophant as in many books he is completely different and I like this Collins. There is no Mr Wickham as he gets his comeuppance early in the story and Lady V is lamentable too the only person who is not likeable is. Mr B he sticks and leaves home.
February 17, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Definitely an interesting premise; I love it when authors lean into a “what if”
There were definitely some points where you had to just go along with things but a light read overall, which is what I was looking for.
One part wasn’t very realistic given the changes made, but I would read more by this author
Definitely an interesting premise; I love it when authors lean into a “what if”
There were definitely some points where you had to just go along with things but a light read overall, which is what I was looking for.
One part wasn’t very realistic given the changes made, but I would read more by this author
February 18, 2024
Enjoyable
Entertaining variation. A unique twist on the Bennet family with Mr Bennet choosing a different path, Mr Collins portrayed in a different light, leading to a different outcome for many. Darcy and Elizabeth enjoyed a low angst love affair and the Bingley's let's were unexpectedly different.
Entertaining variation. A unique twist on the Bennet family with Mr Bennet choosing a different path, Mr Collins portrayed in a different light, leading to a different outcome for many. Darcy and Elizabeth enjoyed a low angst love affair and the Bingley's let's were unexpectedly different.
February 18, 2024
Oh my, a wonderful Collins....
First he was raised differently. You feel sad for him at first, then horror, then joy. And then, he proves he is honorable.
You feel disgust and disappointment, when you hear of Mr. Bennet. Collins rescues all of the Bennet ladies....
You do have scum, Wickham and .... But they are nicely dealt with.
Recommend.
First he was raised differently. You feel sad for him at first, then horror, then joy. And then, he proves he is honorable.
You feel disgust and disappointment, when you hear of Mr. Bennet. Collins rescues all of the Bennet ladies....
You do have scum, Wickham and .... But they are nicely dealt with.
Recommend.
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