Pemberley is haunted! Never fear, though; this book's atmosphere is less gothic and more like a ghost story/comedic romance.
It begins with Elizabeth and Darcy both heading to Pemberley. Despite a warning at the inn in Lambton that a ghost has been seen around the estate's pond, Elizabeth tours the estate with the Gardiners as in the original Pride and Prejudice. She becomes separated from the rest of the party, who have gone outside. Trying to find her way out through the unfamiliar labyrinth of hallways and rooms, she finds herself in the master's study, where she sees a portrait of his deceased parents. She's had Darcy on her mind, reflecting upon all her encounters with him as well as the letter he'd given her after she refused his marriage proposal. Wondering what his parents would have thought of her as their son's choice, she receives what could be interpreted as an answer to her question when the family Bible falls to the floor with its pages opened to an appropriate verse.
Meanwhile, Darcy's dog, Freddy, enthusiastically greets his early-returning master at the stables, prompting Darcy to take him for a walk. When they get to the pond, the pooch jumps in, and Darcy feels inspired to follow suit. The playful Great Dane finds Elizabeth, who has now made her way outside looking for the others and has wandered by the pond. Her attentions to the pup cause her to linger a bit by the water's edge. A muddy, leaf-strewn, soggy figure suddenly emerges from the water, startling her into losing her balance and falling when she momentarily believes she's seeing Pemberley's ghost.
She's not, of course, and her interaction with Darcy becomes doubly embarrassing because her skirts have gotten snagged on a tree branch and she needs his help to get to her feet - and then her aunt and uncle show up with Mrs. Reynolds when the two of them are in a decidedly awkward position.
This sets the lighthearted tone that fills the entire story. Paranormal shenanigans help bring the couple together and repeatedly thwart Caroline Bingley, who makes pathetic attempts to separate them, or to entice Mr. Darcy, or to set up a compromise situation that will force him to marry her.
The book is beautifully written and edited. The chemistry in every scene between Darcy and Elizabeth is palpable. There are many imaginative plot elements, with Freddy the Great Dane being my personal favorite.
Overall, it's an entertaining story that I recommend - and the Epilogue sets the stage for the second book in this series.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.