Against Every Expectation: A Pride & Prejudice Variation

by Paige Badgett, Sarah Groarke (Narrator)

Amid the groves of Rosings Park, with Elizabeth by his side, Darcy had begun to hope for something different for his future than he had previously allowed himself to believe was possible—a partnership, a love match….

Elizabeth Bennet travels to Kent to escape her mother’s histrionics, hopeful to find respite in visiting her oldest friend, Charlotte Collins. Instead of the reprieve she desired, she finds herself trapped and miserable—a direct reflection of Mr. Collins’ peculiar sense of hospitality, justice, and duty. The tension in the parsonage is significant, and her friend is much changed. Elizabeth’s only relief is derived from her morning rambles, where she finds great solace in the strangest of places—walking with Mr. Darcy. His steadiness, kindness, and dependability greatly oppose her previous perceptions of the man, and yet she cannot help but continue to compare his character in Kent with the man she had supposed him to be during their previous acquaintance in Hertfordshire. Could it be that he was now showing his truest self to her?

Just when it seems felicity is near, however, insidious jealousy arises and the betrayal of one close to the two couples threatens their nascent happiness. Elizabeth is pulled away too soon, and Darcy is left to wonder if she ever had feelings for him at all. Can the truth be untangled in time for their course of love to reach its completion?

Genres: Regency, Romance, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Fiction

Audible Audio

Published June 2, 2022

About the author

Paige Badgett is a historical romance author of Austen-inspired fiction. Her debut novel, AGAINST EVERY EXPECTATION, published in 2022. Her short story, THE HEART’S CONSENT, was published in the 2022 anthology, AN INDUCEMENT INTO MATRIMONY, which includes nine short stories inspired by PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. THE MAKING OF LADY CATHERINE DE BOURGH is her second novel.

Reviews

[Sam H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be careful what you wish for.

While there is a beautiful story of ODC falling in love, despite their original misunderstandings, it almost takes a back seat to the 3rd POV driving this tale - Charlotte Collins.

The story starts out in Hunsford a couple of months after the wedding between Charlotte and Collins. Things are not what Charlotte had anticipated. Her old adage of- best to know as little of your future life partner -did not serve her well. The Collins she is now living with is not the man every one met in Meryton. He lives and breathes for Lady C. who controls every aspect of her new life. Even worse are all the many, little ways he belittles Charlotte and while not violent (yet), has a temper he does nothing to control. She turns from fearful, to angry, to bitter very quickly and all her bitterness finds one target - Elizabeth.

Elizabeth had the misfortune of being allowed to visit and finds very quickly that things are not right and her dear friend is not whom she remembers. At first she tries to be of assistance, then she simply tries to stay out of their way. Especially when she realizes Collins will control all aspects of her as well.

Darcy visits Rosings for easter with Col. F as he does every year. He is still taken with the memory of Elizabeth yet has decided to put her out of his mind. When he realizes she is in the area he can't help but seek her out to be in her company. (Refreshingly, we are not subjected to D's monologue of lament on why he can't have E, yet can't stop having disturbing lustful dreams of her every night. Yay!)

A subdued Elizabeth is at first perturbed when Darcy joins her morning walks, yet he brings a kind of solace to her troubled mind with his quiet companionship. Slowly they become friendly, then friendship grows and ultimately they fall in love. Although we do get a scene in which misunderstandings are cleared up, they are never given the opportunity to reveal their new true feelings to each other.

Charlotte in all her bitterness takes steps to make sure E does not find a happy ending and E is removed to the Gardiners early. E has a true crisis of consciousness not knowing who she can trust, not even herself. Much drama follows, some heartbreak for ODC, Jane and Charlotte and perhaps a little romance for Anne de Burgh. Very well done is no Wickham/Lydia drama. Yes Lydia has a moment, or two, but it is subtle and fits seamlessly with the story line.

We do not get to meet many of the supporting characters in this story, we barely even hear them mentioned. Bingley has a small role and is a doodoo head. Yet at the same time, is another small organic part that leads to Jane's happier ending.

It took me a while to get into the feel of this author's writing style. Yet there was something nuanced in the way she wove ODC finding their HEA together with Charlotte's Big Mistake. Even her epilogue is different than the standard list of how each main character ends up. The intensity of her storytelling starts with the prologue and does not let up.

A wonderful book from this first time author.
4.5*

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say that this story paints a rather evil and manipulative version of one who is usually considered a supporting friend to Elizabeth Bennet.

Charlotte finds that she cannot bend her husband to her way as she thought she might. In fact, not only does she find that the only woman who has any influence with him is not only Lady Catherine but in wanting Charlotte to run their household only as his patroness orders, he shows a cold and even angry, at times, side to her. She soon learns to kowtow to everything Lady Catherine and, thus, her husband, says. And who does she blame for the sad life she now lives: Elizabeth. If Elizabeth had done her duty and married Mr. Collins as she was supposed to, he would not have turned to her and offered for her!

Collins' control of the women in his household includes reading letters...those coming in and going out, forcing Elizabeth to sit for a spiritual education every evening and not allowing her to join them when they are invited to Rosings for dinner.

Darcy and the Colonel come to Rosings, and Elizabeth finds a friend (and learns how wrong she was about him) in the former as they meet "by accident" on their walks. However, when Charlotte and her husband learn about these meetings Elizabeth finds herself facing social ostracism as they twist the facts to look as if Elizabeth has become Darcy's mistress. (There's a lot behind this event, which I will not spoil for you by hinting further.) Even Mr. Bennet comes to believe Elizabeth is a fallen woman. Then Lydia accompanies Sir William and Maria on a visit to the Hunsford parsonage. (Gotta love the Lydia in this story!)

Lady Catherine's confrontation is not with Elizabeth, and we do hear more of Anne's life in this story. Jane's part ends happily but not at all as it did in canon.

There are happenings which have not been used in other stories to help make things right and we do have an epilogue. But will Charlotte ever have a friend like the one she used to have in Elizabeth? I especially enjoyed the angst in this story and highly recommend this tale.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Resentment is often a woman’s inner signal that she has been ignoring an important God-given responsibility — that of making choices. ~ Brenda Waggoner

Before marriage, Charlotte Collins believed “it is better to know as little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life.”

Now Mrs. Collins can see what a grave error she has made.

Quote from the book: Alas, the long list of things she was required to give up for the sake of her marriage had only compounded as the weeks went on: her dignity, her pride, and her patience, to name a few.

Her fear and anger are gifts from her husband and his beloved patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

Her resentment is directed toward her childhood friend, Elizabeth Bennet.

Quote from the book: If Elizabeth had not been so self-interested, so painfully self-centred, as to refuse an offer of marriage that would have secured a certain future for her family, Charlotte would not now be living with this loathsome man. The isolation and submission which would often subdue her spirits were instead creating a raging ferocity.

Those who are critical don’t like being criticized, and those who are insensitive have a deficiency in their senses. ~ Suzy Kassem

The story opens with Charlotte Collins at Rosings with Lady Catherine roundly criticizing Charlotte. Mr. Collins agrees, and Charlotte cannot respond.

At the parsonage, Charlotte’s husband controls her every action. She is not allowed to read letters from family or friends. He dictates the letters she sends. The servants were chosen by Lady Catherine and report Charlotte’s every action.

Collins has read a letter from Elizabeth Bennet detailing her plans to visit. Charlotte no longer desires the visit, but Collins makes arrangements and soon Elizabeth arrives in Hunsford.

Quote from the book: Charlotte had paid a dear price for the privilege of having her own home, and Elizabeth shuddered to imagine how near she might have been to finding herself in her friend’s position. Did Charlotte resent her for it? Surely not.

At the heart of all anger, all grudges, and all resentment, you’ll always find a fear that hopes to stay anonymous. ~ Donald Hicks

Quote from the book: To be betrayed by a friend was surely one of life’s greatest pains.

Elizabeth is already feeling the effects of Collins’ controls. He reads her letters — coming and going — and confines her to the house, or even to her bedchamber. Even worse, Charlotte agrees with her husband! Elizabeth begins walking on eggshells to keep the peace. She is ready to return home but cannot contact her father or the Gardiners.

Into this state of affairs, Fitzwilliam Darcy and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, arrive at Rosings for their usual Easter visit.

So, this is the story: Elizabeth and Darcy grow closer as Elizabeth and Charlotte grow apart.

Quote from the book: “It appears Mrs. Collins has married well,” he said hesitantly, as if to offer it as a question.
She considered that for a moment. Had Charlotte married well? Perhaps Mr. Darcy would consider this a well-suited match per Charlotte’s station in life. Had not Charlotte inferred she married for comfort? Was this the comfort she once desired?
She answered, “On her wedding day, she was prepared to be perfectly happy.”
“And how do you consider her now?” he asked.
It was a heavy question whose answer was laden with Elizabeth’s deep regrets for her friend. Charlotte seemed now to be everything but happy, but that was a bit more information than propriety would allow she answer to him.
“Now? Now I would consider her ... comfortable.”

Resentment is a union of sorrow and malignity. ~ Samuel Johnson

Quote from the book: And with that, the goddesses of humility aligned their powers for a perfect moment of revenge.

Although Charles Bingley and his sisters are mentioned occasionally, they don’t play a major part in the story. Elizabeth gets the opportunity for a Caroline Bingley set-down. Loved it!

Amid all this chaos, Lydia still manages to create her own turmoil.

Bitterness and resentment make it hard even for the people who love you to be around you. ~ Martha Bodyfelt

Quote from the book: She felt beyond herself — unlike herself— as if she was watching her person from the outside but was not within her own power.

A broken life; a reaction to abuse; a betrayal of an old friend. My emotions ran the gamut: I felt sorry for Elizabeth. I truly grieved for Charlotte. In the past, I have been the victim of others’ resentments. I have also held resentment against someone who was not responsible for my pain. I identified strongly with Charlotte.

This was not always an easy story; not always a pretty story. It was always a worthwhile story.

Bitterness is like cancer. It eats upon the host. But anger is like fire. It burns it all clean. ~ Maya Angelou

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ stars!

This is a spectacular debut novel. When Elizabeth goes to Kent to visit her dear friend Charlotte at Easter (alone - no Maria or Sir William Lucas), she is happy to be escaping Longbourn and her mother's histrionics. However, instead of a haven, she finds the Hunsford parsonage is filled with tension. Mr. Collins bullies his wife, blames her for his own shortcomings, and obsesses over Lady Catherine's perceived approval or displeasure. Elizabeth, like Mrs. Collins, suffers a lack of privacy with her correspondence, which Mr. Collins feels entitled to screen. All of the servants were placed in the household by his patroness, who is informed of everything that goes on there. Only the cook seems trustworthy. And poor Charlotte is a changed creature, meekly humoring her husband regardless of how nonsensical his behavior is.

Charlotte has built up some bitterness toward Elizabeth, who should have had the sense to accept Mr. Collins to keep Longbourn in her family - and thus would have prevented Charlotte from her unhappy position. She is on pins and needles trying to keep Elizabeth's impertinence from arousing her husband's volcanic temper. When Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy come to call, Charlotte senses and resents the apparent attraction between the latter and her friend, believing that Elizabeth is aware of his interest and is reaching too high.

Elizabeth considers leaving early but stays, hoping she might help her friend, even though Charlotte doesn't confide in her. It doesn't take long before Elizabeth and Mr. Collins are at odds. As his cousin's guardian during her stay with them, he believes he has the right to discipline her, limiting her freedom during the days and insisting that she study only religious works in the evenings. He forbids her to attend Lady Catherine at Rosings.

Despite his edicts, she escapes for a walk most mornings and regularly comes across Mr. Darcy, who also is remarkably different from the man she knew in Hertfordshire, but in a good way. With things so unpleasant at the parsonage, he becomes her lifeline to normalcy and, surprisingly, she finds he has a similar sense of humor. The chemistry between the two builds nicely.

There are several inspired twists and turns to the plot. As a reader, I salivated in anticipation when we learn that Lydia is headed to Hunsford for a surprise visit in the company of Sir William Lucas and her friend Maria. If Mr. Collins believed Elizabeth was defiant, what would happen when he had to deal with Lydia?

The writing is as excellent as the plot, presenting well-rounded characters and painting vivid word pictures. Highly recommend. Content is steamy but clean.

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend.” –William Blake

>>Rating: PG17: nothing sexually graphic, just adult themes discussed. Trigger alert due to discussions of an accident that was rather graphic.
>>Angst Level: Medium-to-high: It was full of frustrations, disappointments, betrayals, and shocking lies.
>>Cover Art: Oh, those colors, that setting. I wanted to have tea on the veranda and just look out over that amazing scene.
>>Source: I received an ARC via Booksprout: the views and opinions expressed are my own. Beautifully written. [4.5-stars] I highly recommend this for those who love angst and high tensions. The shock and awe alone will give you nightmares. But then, that might be my fever talking.

SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***

“Trust is earned, respect is given, and loyalty is demonstrated. Betrayal of any one of those is to lose all three.” –Ziad K. Abdelnour, Economic Warfare: Secrets of Wealth Creation in the Age of Welfare Politics

I had read the prologue for this new work as it was introduced on one of the blog sites. I knew going in that it was going to be a tough read. I had no idea just how hard that would be. Maybe I felt it so strongly due to the fact I was ill and feverish at the time I read it. I’ve always liked Charlotte and her friendship with Elizabeth. This story took a dark turn that just about broke my heart.

We all know Charlotte’s thoughts prior to her marriage to Mr. Collins. She was thinking how bad could it be. Her marriage would help her family. She’d have her own home to manage and surely… surely, she could manage Mr. Collins. Once Charlotte arrived at Hunsford, things took a decided turn. The life she had envisioned at Kent was gone and what replaced it was a nightmare from which she could not wake. Nothing in all her years at Lucas Lodge prepared her for her new life at Hunsford Parsonage. Charlotte was horrified when even the residents of Hunsford Village shunned her for her marriage to Collins. When you receive the cut direct at church, you know it has to be bad.

This was hard reading. I have read where life at the Parsonage was bad but this was really bad. Poor Charlotte. Our author was very creative as she described a life Charlotte never imagined. It was disheartening to discover that Mr. Collins only had allegiance for one woman and one woman only and it was not his wife. No, Lady Catherine ruled every angle of his life and that of his household. Nothing was done without her ladyship’s approval. Even the arranging of the furniture in Charlotte’s bed-chamber came under her ladyship’s purview.

Collins was horrid and demanding. Lady Catherine was horrid and dictatorial. She was an entitled nuisance, an interfering tyrant that Mr. Collins fairly worshiped. Her word was law and he, nor anyone in his house, would dare defy her. Every servant answered to… not the mistress of Hunsford Parsonage but to the Mistress of Rosings Park and to her alone. Nothing… nothing was private and everything was reported.

I actually had trouble liking Elizabeth at the beginning of this story. She was horrid at times. Mr. Bennet was horrid. I still can’t believe she would beg Charlotte [a newly-wed] to let her come to Kent in order to escape Longbourn. Well… how did that work out for you, princess? Elizabeth had her own bushel of surprises waiting for her in Kent. She found Lady Catherine extremely vexing. However, there were rays of sunshine in spite of the darkness. Anne de Bourgh and her cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam were wonderful. Elizabeth even discovered that she enjoyed being in Mr. Darcy’s company. Their relationship was just taking off when something happened and it all fell to worms.

“Her only way home was to betray her friend.” –Scott Westerfeld, Uglies

This was NOT the kind of marriage that Charlotte had agreed to? And this was where she began to resent Elizabeth for her predicament. If Elizabeth had done her duty to her family, she and not Charlotte would be married to the officious Mr. Collins. But no, Elizabeth had to be selfish and demand her own way. And now, she was making eyes at Mr. Darcy which would disrupt the plans Lady Catherine had where he would marry her daughter. No… that could not stand. Elizabeth didn’t deserve to be happy while Charlotte was so miserable. Elizabeth should not be allowed to step out of her sphere. She should know better. Charlotte would make plans that would send Elizabeth out of Kent in disgrace and back to London. In the meantime, Lady Catherine pulled a coup de grace that forced Darcy into abandoning Elizabeth and hieing off to Pemberley to lick his wounds. Her ladyship was… as I said… horrid. OMG! Oh-My-Gosh! I wanted to pull my hair out. Maybe that was the fever talking.

“Et tu, Brute?” –William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Betrayed
Charlotte Collins, determined to have a home of her own, hastily and freely accepted the marriage proposal of Mr. Collins very soon after Elizabeth Bennet refused him. She had hoped for contentment and security at the least. Instead, her every expectation turns into the unhappy day-to-day abusive existence of a marriage to Mr. Collins. In her disappointed hopes, she becomes resentful, bitter and spiteful, blaming Elizabeth because she never married him.

“If Elizabeth had not been so self-interested, so painfully self-centred, as to refuse an offer of marriage that would have secured a certain future for her family, Charlotte would not now be living with this loathsome man.”—quote from book

Charlotte! Pot meet kettle! Self-interest indeed. Look into the mirror my girl.

The Charlotte Elizabeth visits at the parsonage is a changed woman—almost a stranger to the dearest friend she once knew in Hertfordshire.

“It appeared Charlotte, once her most reasonable and sensible friend, had been reduced to a bitter woman full of spite.”—quote from book

To escape the Collinses, Elizabeth enjoys her walks and when she and Darcy encounter one another in Rosings woods they renew their acquaintance and become interested in one another even more. The gentle, yet still unacknowledged (between them) courtship was well done with past misunderstandings quickly resolved, allowing them to form a closer attachment. Their private and tender moments were very endearing. I loved this Darcy. However, with the combination of Charlotte’s spitefulness, the hateful, odious, abominable and totally reprehensible man that is Mr. Collins and, a vindictive and controlling Lady Catherine, our dear couple can barely catch a break, especially Elizabeth, who is almost ruined. Her close relationship with Mr. Bennet is also jeopardized. Will it be a friend who ultimately betrays them?

As the story developed, I began to loathe this Charlotte. Yet, by the end of the book I cried with her without condoning her actions. The abuse she endures was mostly the mental/emotional kind, but later in the book physical abuse is also implied (nothing graphic, just mentioned).

This is a very good read and, quite a different character portrayal for our beloved Charlotte which makes it an interesting and somewhat unique storyline. Here, I expected more of a fight from Elizabeth, being the girl whose “courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate“ her, but the loving, loyal and protective Elizabeth came forth instead. She does eventually have her say.

The writing style of this debut writer leans on the narrative side and I have to say I would have enjoyed a bit more dialogue. However, the narrative prose is very good, with situations and events described well. That’s not to say there is no dialogue and the conversations that were had were well articulated. I was immediately drawn into the story because of the atypical premise and felt a medium sense of angst for ODC throughout the book until the HEA. Don’t skip the epilogue.

I highly recommend this full-length novel and look forward to more from the author—with a bit more dialogue, please.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

August 8,2022 - Audiobook
Excellent narration and performance by Sarah Groarke. She performs the male voices without extreme exaggeration which provides a more natural execution in the conversations of the characters, yet the fact the character is male is clear to the listener. I really enjoyed her.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Choice: an act of selecting or making a decision when faced with two or more possibilities.

During the Regency time period, many marriages within the 'ton' were arranged for connections, wealth and power without either truly knowing much about their respective spouse-to-be. Charlotte Lucas, having none of those factors to concern herself with, chose to escape spinsterhood and from being a burden on her family in order to have her own home. For Charlotte believes: "Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance. If the dispositions of the parties are ever so well known to each other, or ever so similar beforehand, it does not advance their felicity in the least. They always continue to grow sufficiently unlike afterwards to have their share of vexation; and it is better to know a little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life." (P&P by Jane Austen)

"In all her memories she found a steadfast friend - fortification for dull parties and a confidante for her heart's inner workings. Theirs had always been a friendship reliant on honesty." (quote from the book)

Charlotte, therefore, makes the choice of marrying Mr. Collins shortly after his proposal to Elizabeth Bennet has been refused, and he subsequently offers for her. Under the control and directives of her husband and Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Charlotte's new life as the wife of Mr. Collins goes against every expectation she was hoping for. So it is into this unknown that Elizabeth Bennet begs her friend for a visit.

"I shall be living with Mr. Collins long after you have returned to Hertfordshire, Eliza." (quote from the book)

I loved the unique twist of this variation. Whose to say this couldn't have happened in real life? It probably did. The stark reality of the situation added a higher level of angst to the story that held me in its grip. Elizabeth's compassion for her friend had her trying to minimize her own impact on the situation. However, betrayal of the cruelest kind leaves Elizabeth stunned.

"What had happened in this house to so alter her friend?" (quote from the book)

Thank goodness for Mr. Darcy! He was steadfast in his pursuit as far as he was able. The scenes of their walking the paths and glades at Rosings held such a simmering chemistry. Each learning about the other without interference from anyone. I loved it!

"She was slowly learning he was prideful, but not to a fault...There was a great deal to be proud of, and his self-importance may have been more a mask than arrogance." (quote from the book)

Placed in a situation of great difficulty one can either fight or fold depending on the strength of one's own character. Charlotte Collins is finding the fight too difficult. She looses herself in bitterness and envy. The tortuous path to love for Elizabeth and Darcy engaged all my emotions. The alternate paths for other characters added further dimensions to this well written story.

"Charlotte had paid a dear price for the privilege of having her own home..." (quote from the book)

This is the debut novel of Ms. Badgett and I highly recommend it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gill M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review also posted on my blog

https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...

Wow! What a wonderful book ❤️
Mrs Bennet was determined that her daughter Elizabeth, would marry Mr Collins.

He is her cousin and heir to their entailed estate. Marrying him would ensure her family’s security, when her father died. Unfortunately, Collins is an obnoxious and repellent creature. Elizabeth refuses to have anything to do with him.

He then offers marriage to Charlotte Lucas, spinster and Elizabeth’s best friend.
Charlotte is pragmatic about marriage, just happy to have her own home in the parsonage at Hunsford in Kent.

Mrs Bennet is outraged at Elizabeth’s refusal and berates her ceaselessly. Elizabeth arranges an escape from her mother, by visiting Charlotte, a few months after her marriage.

Hoping for respite, she is shocked to find the Parsonage is a strange and unpleasant place.
Mr Collins is controlling and vindictive.
She finds Charlotte is changed beyond all recognition.

Charlotte has sadly realised that accepting Mr Collins proposal was a huge mistake. Her response to her distress, is to blame Elizabeth. She thinks that, if Elizabeth had done her duty and married Mr Collins, Charlotte would not be in this situation! This makes her progressively more and more unkind.

The only bright spot for Elizabeth, is the one walk she is allowed each day. She is surprised to meet Mr Darcy, a man she had met previously and disliked due to his haughty behaviour.
Darcy is in love with Elizabeth and behaves in a much more amiable manner.
They meet on daily walks and Darcy realises how changed Elizabeth is. When she confesses how awful life at the Parsonage is, he provides friendship and support.

The story follows their developing love for each other, against a backdrop of malice and betrayal.

This is such a stunning book!
Darcy is the embodiment of friendship and kindness. The solace of his support provides Elizabeth with an anchor in a sea of sadness and isolation.

The atmosphere at the parsonage is so well conveyed. A claustrophobic mix of fear, loneliness and enraged helplessness.

While Charlotte is of course in distress, her appalling betrayal of Elizabeth is quite shocking.

Collins is a bitter, vindictive man. His irrational hatred of Elizabeth continues to the end of his life.

Best part of the book - Darcys return to Hertfordshire which was such a perfect scene.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.

[James S · Rating 5 out of 5]

our dear couple at Rosings

Very good story and the writing was also very good. You have to pay attention while you read. The story “shows” the reader instead of always “telling” the reader so you may miss parts of the story if you’re used to skimming.

I think this is a reread-able story.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A friendship betrayed and an abusive man set on bitter revenge make Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice story become a tension-wrought, dramatic new tale. I have had my eye on this debut story and was enthralled when I finally had the chance to pick it up.

Against Every Expectation is the story of two friends after one rejects the man that the other accepts thinking this is her only chance. Charlotte Collins nee Lucas is no sooner installed at Hunsford when she is made to realize her new life of home of her own and coming to a new neighborhood as a respected matron is a fool's dream. Mr. Collins is a senseless, boorish, bully and his patroness is the only woman he cares about while she insists on running the Collins household from afar. Into this miserable environment, Charlotte reluctantly welcomes her friend Elizabeth to see her misery and humiliation. She wished she hadn't been so insistent before she married for the visit.

For her part, Elizabeth needs away from her complaining mother who won't let it go that the Bingleys are gone from Netherfield leaving her sister without a proposal and Elizabeth is a traitor daughter for rejecting Collins who is the heir to the estate. Her arrival doesn't find a content Charlotte, but a stony, silent woman she barely recognizes and a cousin who is scary in his dominating behavior toward both women. Only her early morning walks with Mr. Darcy are a relief from the pressure of the Collins household. Yes, the man she thought odious is a friend and confidante that she slowly realizes she maligned with her prejudiced assumptions. But, betrayal awaits right when it seems they might find happiness.

Against Every Expectation was pointed out to me as a unique variation in that Charlotte and Collins play the major antagonist roles. This is true and was an interesting line to explore. But, there's more, this is also Charlotte's darker story going along beside Elizabeth's tough, but yet lighter tale. This was the complex, depth that elevated the story from a simple historical romance. I relished this surprise and found the book deeply emotional and immersing as a result. For those who want something dramatic and angsty, but more than an Austen-themed romance, I recommend this one.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Collins is having a very rough start to her marriage. She feels oppressed by an unaffectionate husband who does not respect her and faithfully follows all the guidelines imposed by her patroness. Lady Catherine de Bourgh interferes with friendships, choices of servants and even the arrangement of furniture in the house.
Oblivious to all this, Elizabeth Bennet, asks to visit her in Kent, remembering a request made by her friend when they were both single.
At first, everything seems fine, but Mr. Collins' authoritarian posture puts him in conflict with Elizabeth and she changes her behavior so as not to cause problems for her friend. Mr. Darcy arrives for his annual visit to his aunt and he realizes that something is wrong with finding a more reserved and saddened Elizabeth.
One of Elizabeth's few consolations is her walkings in the mornings, and in one of them she happens to meet Mr. Darcy. Initially, she is not very happy to meet him, but the feeling of loneliness is greater than the dislike generated by his behavior in Hertfordshire. Gradually, she begins to understand a little of his reserved temperament and starts to admire his qualities.
New problems arise at the rectory and Charlotte ostensibly takes her husband's side. Darcy then finds an Elizabeth hurt and without confidence in her ability to judge and believe in people. She confronts Darcy about his past actions and the answers show her that she too had made mistakes, which shakes her confidence. After consoling her, they finally kiss but are unable to meet afterwards to talk about the future.
Elizabeth is then betrayed by those who least expect it, by those who know her perhaps better than she does.
Elizabeth and Darcy then need to show intelligence and perseverance to overcome the various obstacles and be able to to stay together

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What If Mr. Collins was Cruel and Charlotte was Jealous?

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Publisher

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

THE PREMISE: Marriage to Mr. Collins is proving to be very different from what Charlotte expected, and the last thing she wants to do is have her friend come witness her husband’s cruel tirades and her lack of happiness. But Elizabeth Bennet travels to Hunsford for six weeks, and she is quick to observe Mr. Collins dictatorial strictures and Charlotte’s quiet complacency. What happens when this couple become suspicious of Elizabeth’s relationship with one of Lady Catherine’s nephews…

MY THOUGHTS:

I was intrigued by the idea of the Collinses being the cause of drama and conflict in this story, and I was eager to explore a relationship between Elizabeth and Charlotte that is turbulent and tense. The characterizations of Mr. Collins being controlling and cruel and Charlotte being bitter and resentful were very plausible.

I enjoyed the dynamics of the relationships explored in this story – Charlotte’s limitations and her powerlessness in her own household was troubling to witness. It served as a reminder of women’s lack of rights and recourses during Jane Austen’s time. It was interesting to observe how Charlotte felt her only option was to fall in line with her husband’s dictates, and how she allowed his behavior and principles conform her own. As you might imagine, Charlotte’s behavior is bewildering and disappointing to Elizabeth. She feels like she lost a treasured relationship and a trustworthy friend. Elizabeth especially starts to feel betrayed when Charlotte’s actions turn more cold and a little vindictive.

While theses two relationships are troubling and poignant, one that is more light and bright is the relationship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. I loved seeing these two in their stolen moments together. I loved how Elizabeth found solace and support with Mr. Darcy, and I love how he delighted in her presence and playfulness. Seeing them become secret friends of sorts provided a cheering balance for this otherwise grimmer tale. Although, I will admit, I was a little disappointed with Mr. Darcy’s polite habit of waiting and not persevering when it comes to Elizabeth. What does he do in P&P when Elizabeth doesn’t show up for dinner? He pays her a visit against the rules of propriety. Both times Elizabeth precipitously left the vicinity without word, he took no action. I prefer a Mr. Darcy that seeks out his own answers, take risks, and is a “man of action.”

While I enjoyed the divergent takes on both Mr. and Mrs. Collins’s characters, I think there needed to be a little more dimension to both of their personalities. Were they evil just for the sake of being evil? There was never any explanation or backstory for Mr. Collins’s drastic change – why is he cruel? Is it religious fervor, misogynist convictions, or mistreatment in past relationships? And as for Charlotte, while we see some of her thoughts and feelings regarding her marriage, I was craving more. Did she ever have internal debates about what to do? Did she have remorse or doubts about abandoning her own principles and submitting to her husband’s? Charlotte’s thoughts remained pretty private through some parts, and it almost seemed that she was able to find peace with her circumstances, no matter the path they took.

With her debut novel, Paige Badgett tells a turbulent tale of difficult realities, damaged relationships, and love still finding a way. Against Every Expectation is an excellent choice for readers who love Elizabeth and Darcy centric novels and who want to see new avenues explored with Mr. and Mrs. Collins.

Austenesque Reviews

[Anna Fitzwilliam · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was a very interesting - and fresh - plot. I only deemed the epilogue unnecessary. But I don't like epilogues in general.

[Les · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely engrossing and addictive!!!

This is a Bad Charlotte and Creepy Collins story.

This is a twist on a twist on a twist P&P What if

We start at Hunsford where Charlotte Collins is utterly miserable. Turns out Mr. Collins has a few screws loose and is very good at getting his way

***This is a book that will make you so GLAD you don't live in the 19th Century Europe***

Into Charlotte's misery swoops Lizzy Bennet who is about to have all her perceptions turned on their ear.

Thanks to Collins's intolerance she finds herself with only one friend Mr. Darcy and they quickly resolve all their P&P issues but Bad Charlotte can't let that go on.

There is a lot in this book that you have you raging at the characters

Lots lots lots of OOC behavior but it a good way.
Mostly clean and chaste

[Rita Deodato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...

Marrying Mr. Collins gave Charlotte Lucas financial security, but it also brought her unforeseen difficulties that eventually changed her personality. Living with an abusive husband is proving to be a hardship, but Charlotte hopes that her friend Elizabeth’s visit will bring some comfort. Unfortunately, all her friend brings is the reminder that it could have been Elizabeth living in this situation and not Charlotte. The resentment she starts feeling however, is not towards her husband, but her friend who finds herself in the unlikely situation of being a houseguest mistreated by her hosts.

The only person who seems to be friendly to Elizabeth while she is visiting Kent is Mr. Darcy and during their daily walks, they develop stronger feelings for one another. Everything would have turned out perfectly were it not for the Collins’s meanness that comes in the way of a beautiful romance.

I loved the premise of Against Every Expectation, the changes in the story, and even in the characters. It is true that both Mr. Collins and Charlotte are a little out of character, and that may be a quibble for some people, but I liked that change because it was the driving force to an interesting story.

I also loved Lydia’s character and the sublime changes in her tale. It was remarkable to see how her actions are similar to the ones she has in Pride and Prejudice but for completely different reasons, and above all, it was very clever from the author to have her witness an unhappy marriage in which the man has all the power, as a means to teach her to revise her life goals. I believe this strategy was much more efficient then any conversation could have been and it was a detail I adored.

Despite having a clever and diverting premise, I thought that this book told me more what the characters were feeling instead of showing it to me and that was a bit down putting because I would have loved to witness all the intense moments Darcy and Elizabeth could have lived, instead of being told what they were feeling.

I do understand the causes that let Charlotte to become so vindictive and I appreciated the internal debates that we saw her having when she was about to commit any action that would be harmful towards Elizabeth, but I was expecting her to feel more consequences for her cruel actions. I liked the fact that Mr. Collins got what he deserved, but Charlotte was very easily let of the hook in my opinion.

Against Every Expectations uses the Collins’s to show us the sad reality of women’s dependence upon man in the 19th century, but at the same time, it uses Darcy and Elizabeth to show readers that true love based on respect exists and may conquer all. It is a Darcy and Elizabeth centric novel with the perfect length that I believe most readers will enjoy 🙂

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

A change, but not a stand-out

This books timeline and outcomes are different than the majority of books in the genre, but that doesn’t make it a stand-out. It’s an entertaining read, but nothing makes it particularly interesting. Bingley disappoints, and Mr. Collins is practically demonic by todays standards - borderline Capt. Queeg (alas, sans ball bearings and strawberries.)

[MichelleH H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I endured to the end. The last couple of chapters were wonderful. This story was extremely horrifically well-written. I won't read it again.

[abmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an angsty, troubling story! We have always encountered a sensible, practical Charlotte but what if her new circumstances were beyond her endurance? How far will it push her? How low will she fall? This story answers these questions. The story is well written and keeps you engaged till the end. The author has done her best to leave no loose ends. Interesting read.

[Barbara K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well-written variation - or I might almost call it a revision - of Pride and Prejudice, in which both Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins, but especially the latter, seem much more sinister and threatening than in the original. So, if you don't care for that in variations, be forewarned. I don't typically, but I found this to be well written. I adored the Darcy in this one, and I enjoyed this Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne de Bourgh. But I was a little shocked by how much Charlotte and Elizabeth would put up with, and disappointed in Mr. Bennet's reaction to accusations against his favorite daughter. The fourth star here is ambiguous and mostly given for the excellent writing and editing, and the smooth flow of the story.

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected

Taking place almost entirely in Kent, this is an original and entertaining tale involving disillusionment, betrayal, trust and a profound love.

[Anahi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it.

I loved it, from the beginning it grabbed me and I couldn't stop reading, it is the first publication of this author, I will be looking forward to her next work.
Highly recommended.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional

Such a good story, emotionally provoking in every way.
I found myself looking forward to reading on, yet dreading finishing the tale.
A truly rewarding journey.

[Lady Jl · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I don’t normally like stories about Charlotte and Mr. Collins I found this one interesting in the sense that they each had selfish motives in the story. Charlotte found marriage to man she barely knew to very stressful and not at all what she thought marriage would be even with the possibility of running her own home. That she was mistreated and Lady Catherine managed her home to the point she could not arrange her own furniture was more than she bargained for by getting married. Charlotte’s state of mind at being thus abused, turned her anger and disappointment in life toward her friend Elizabeth Bennet for if she “Elizabeth” had not turned down Mr. Collins, Charlotte would not be in this predicament. The unreasonable anger made Charlotte turn into a woman that would eventually cause many issues and problems. Mr. Collins was a brute, this did not come out until after his marriage, and when his cousin Elizabeth came for a visit, the real man began to show himself. The abuse heaped upon not only Charlotte but Elizabeth brings about story plot.
Elizabeth’s belief that Charlotte is still her dear friend and Charlotte’s actions made me feel sorry for her, that in self I thought masterful for the author because I always felt Charlotte deserved Mr. Collins and all his faults for rushing to secure him after Elizabeth denied his suit. If Elizabeth turned down the man, there must have serious reasons for he was the heir to the family estate. This story just brings those faults to a head.
I think the ending was fitting so I will not spoil that for anyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Valeria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique Twists

What I liked: a truly villainous Mr Collins; a bitter, conniving shrew in Charlotte Collins; a sensible Lydia; little to no Mrs. Bennet; Bingley not married to Jane but tied to one chosen by Caroline who makes his life miserable; Jane happily married; Anne deB married to Col Fitzwilliam in what seems a good match and a full house of scheming servants who add frustrating layers of interference during Elizabeth’s Rosings visit.

[D M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some people cannot accept, gracefully, the fact that they have been considered unsuitable.

Such is the case with the odious Mr. Collins. Spitefulness is taken to new heights in this tale portraying the plight of some women of the Regency Era. There's betrayal and outright cruelty in some cases as well as an abundance of misunderstandings. Some old friendships are broken while new onesareforged. What continues to shine through is the love of our favorite couple but not without trials. This story was so enjoyable I read it in two sittings. Have fun!

[Tina McCall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Badgett knocked it out of the hedgerows.

It has been a while since I have read a P&P variation this good. I will say it did require me to suspend some disbelief that Elizabeth would put up with this kind of treatment. Our Lizzy is made of tougher stuff but I have also read weaker portrayals of our heroine. Swoon worthy moments with Darcy gave it the fifth star for me. Ms. Badgett and Quills and Quartos knocked it out of the hedgerows.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good debut for this author including a scenario I’ve never seen in JAFF. I won’t say anything else because I don’t want to spoil it.

Well written and edited.

[lori huff · Rating 1 out of 5]

One star for decent writing

I really wanted to like this book. It started out fine, even though it quickly descended into a very depressing situation, but I thought I'd give it a chance to lighten up, and maybe indicate some hope. The story begins after Elizabeth refuses the marriage proposal of Mr Collins, after Charlotte Lucas marries him, after the entire party at Netherfield abandons Hertfordshire, Elizabeth seeks to flee Longbourn and her mother's wrath by begging Charlotte to let her visit Hunsford for a time. Elizabeth arrives at Hunsford to find that Mr Collins is a terrible husband, and Charlotte lives in fear of him and of Lady Catherine and has changed completely. Charlotte will now not hesitate to betray Elizabeth if it helps to keep peace in her home, and Charlotte also harbors strong resentment towards Elizabeth for refusing Mr Collins and leaving him available for her. In other words, Charlotte blames Elizabeth for her unhappiness.

As in the original P&P, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam come to Rosings for Easter, and encounter Elizabeth, and a nice series of morning walks begins for Darcy and Elizabeth during which they talk and come to know each other better, and eventually start to fall in love. Then people start acting irrationally, and it was more than I could endure. I made it through about 60% of the book, and then said "no more."

This is an "evil Mr Collins," and " evil Charlotte " story, which is icky enough. But when characters that are supposed to be rational and intelligent start acting stupid, I lose patience with a story. Elizabeth knows that something is wrong with Charlotte, and she's always known that Mr Collins is an idiot. Why, therefore, would she believe crazy claims that they made about Darcy that contradict what she's seen with her own eyes? Mr Bennett knows that Lady Catherine DeBourgh sounds like an insufferable meddler, and since she chose the idiot Collins for a rector she must be a laughable snob. Why, therefore, would be believe the lies told by that lady without hearing the account of his own daughter? Darcy, too, has his own moments of stupidity. It's too annoying, and I just gave up.

The book is well written and well edited. However, I can't recommend it.

[Dawn Timan · Rating 5 out of 5]

the collins

Interesting variation with both Collins being the villains. Bingley’s character was written well but was a minor character in this story. It was sad to see how Charlottes character was so altered but understandable based on Mr. Collins action. Enjoyed this story very much.

[Linda Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uniquely satisfying

Ms Badgett has created a unique Pride and Prejudice variation by altering the character of Charlotte somewhat, engendering a most satisfying yet true-to-canon series of events.