Darcy family pressures leave ODC lovelorn.
With Darcy’s help, the Bennet family has avoided ruin following Lydia’s elopement. Leaving Elizabeth at Longbourn, he promises to return to her, fully expecting to propose, but their happiness is threatened by unforeseen circumstances awaiting him in London, no thanks to Lady Catherine’s interference, and her malicious manipulation on matters which will undermine his plans.
Georgiana’s well-being remains fragile, deeply scarred emotionally following the Ramsgate affair. In this variation, the Fitzwilliam family is aware of her failed elopement with Wickham, and the mental health issues that plague her. While she likes Elizabeth, she fears that a marriage to her brother would place her in company with the man who abused her. Despite his deep love for Elizabeth, for the sake of his sister’s health, Darcy gives in to the overwhelming pressure placed upon him by his family.
“And so, for his sister’s sake, Darcy gave up Elizabeth.”—quote from book
Elizabeth and Darcy are tragically torn apart by his family’s disapproval. Despite everything they feel for each other, each face their private torment—Elizabeth with her shattered hopes and Darcy in his duty-bound sacrifice. The story leaves our dear couple lovelorn, with the stark realization that sometimes love is not enough to overcome all obstacles.
“Part of Elizabeth’s anger was because she felt as though she was being punished for Lydia’s reckless actions. It was not a new sentiment, but it returned stronger than ever. She suffered for her sister’s thoughtless deeds and would in one fashion or another for the rest of her life because, distressingly, knowing how much Mr Darcy had given up for his sister, how far he would go to protect her well-being, Elizabeth loved him more than ever.”—quote from book
A couple of character portrayals provide a surprising contrast—Colonel Fitzwilliam disappoints with an unusual lack of support, while his older brother Viscount Bramwell becomes the only supportive family member—at least for a time. As to Bingley, while ignorant of some of the events taking place, his character is improved and faithfully exhibits a strong brotherly portrayal for his new and ‘favourite’ sister, Elizabeth.
Framed within a love story of broken promises, Lucy Marin has presented an emotional and well-written narrative that gently brings to light the challenges of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) within the conservative bounds of Regency society. While this retelling reaches into the more somber aspects of mental health, I love that she beautifully preserves the all-important romance that lies at the heart of ‘Pride and Prejudice’.
Highly recommend. Have some tissues handy.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
June 6, 2024 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman gives her listeners yet another outstanding performance with His Family Objects. She and Lucy Marin made my eyes leak multiple times. Definitely recommend the audiobook version of this book.